Place · 1.3 mi away
Overview
Blakiston Falls is the classic short-and-scenic payoff in this corner of the park: a multi‑tiered cascade dropping into a rugged canyon, reached by an easy walk from the Red Rock Canyon parking area. The setting is striking—open slopes and silvered trunks from the 2017 Kenow Wildfire, with fresh green regrowth pushing through everywhere.
What You’ll See
- The falls: a powerful, 15–20 m drop into a narrow canyon, framed by mountains.
- Two viewpoints: sturdy platforms offer a head-on view and another right near the brink, so you get very different perspectives.
- Post-fire landscape: standing deadwood, wildflowers, and saplings showcase the park’s recovery.
- Big mountain backdrops, including views toward the Blakiston range as the trail opens up.
The Hike
- Distance/time: roughly 1.9–2.4 km round trip; plan 45–75 minutes with photo stops.
- Elevation: gentle (about 28–85 m gain depending on source), with a mostly packed-dirt path.
- Trailhead & facilities: start from Red Rock Canyon. There’s parking, toilets, and picnic benches at the trailhead. Dogs are allowed on leash.
- Infrastructure: metal walkways and modern viewing platforms make it easy to soak in the scenery.
Wildlife
This is grizzly country. People report signs of bears in the area—carry bear spray, make noise, and stay alert. The regenerating forest also draws deer and birds, though sightings vary.
Why It’s Worth Your Time
Few spots deliver this much drama for so little effort. The combination of canyon acoustics, big water, and the raw, evolving burn zone is a uniquely Waterton experience—and it’s an easy pairing with the famous red rock just down the trailhead.
Planning Notes
- Red Rock Parkway access can be seasonally restricted to vehicles in some years; when closed, reach the area by walking or biking the road.
- Skip very windy days—the burn area has standing dead trees that become a hazard in strong winds.
- Footing is generally easy, but can be muddy after rain; bring decent shoes.
Best Time to Visit
Summer brings the biggest crowds, thanks to the short distance and big views. Aim for calm-weather days (avoid high winds) and check current Red Rock Parkway access if you plan to drive. Pair it with Red Rock Canyon when you’re already parked for an efficient, high‑reward stop.
Pros
- Big waterfall views for a short, gentle hike
- Two well-built viewing platforms with different angles
- Easy add-on to Red Rock Canyon from the same parking area
Cons
- Busy in peak summer
- Active grizzly country—requires vigilance
Tips
- Combine it with the Red Rock Canyon walk from the same parking area.
- Carry bear spray and make noise—this is active grizzly habitat.
- Avoid very windy days due to falling-tree hazards in the burn area.
- If Red Rock Parkway is closed to vehicles, be ready to bike or walk the road.
- Hold onto phones on the metal viewing decks—there are gaps below.
