Blakiston Valley

Why hike it

Blakiston Valley is a classic Rocky Mountain valley walk: a waterfall warm‑up, then miles of big scenery along Blakiston Creek beneath Mount Blakiston, Lost Mountain, and Cloudy Peak. It’s one of Waterton’s quieter full‑day options once you pass the falls, with a true backcountry feel without brutal grades.

Trail description

Start at Red Rock Canyon and follow the well‑used path to Blakiston Falls, a 15–20 m cascade framed by modern viewing decks. This first bit is family‑friendly and busy—about 2 km round trip if you’re only here for the falls.

Beyond the falls the crowds drop. The trail continues up‑valley on a natural dirt-and-rock tread, alternating between forest, grassy avalanche paths, and open meadows with long views. Expect an out‑and‑back of roughly 12.5 miles/20.2 km total with about 350 m/1,148 ft of gain, taking most hikers around 7 hours at a steady pace. In the upper valley you’ll hit key junctions: north toward Twin Lakes, south to Lone Lake, and west to South Kootenay Pass—prime jumping‑off points if you’re extending into the backcountry.

What you’ll see

Glacially carved valley walls and layered sedimentary rock dominate the geology here. Wildflowers brighten the meadows in summer, and Blakiston Creek offers constant sound and scenery. This valley is known for bear activity—especially grizzlies—so stay alert.

Best time to hike

Late June through September is the sweet spot: generally snow‑free, good flowers, and longer days. Early summer can still hold snow patches higher up, and spring runoff can make minor creek crossings messy. The trail isn’t maintained for winter use.

Tips and tradeoffs

• If you only want a quick win, do the short falls walk and call it a day. For solitude and the real valley experience, keep going past the platforms.
• Carry bear spray, make noise, and hike in a group if you can. You’ll likely see bear sign in the forested sections.
• Weather turns fast in this wide valley—bring layers and rain gear. Snow can linger into early summer, and navigation is simpler with a GPS track once past the busy falls area.

A note of history

The valley, creek, and falls are named for 19th‑century naturalist Thomas Blakiston. There was even a brief copper claim here in the early 1900s along what’s now called Coppermine Creek.