Tamarack Trail

Tamarack Trail is a difficult, 21.3-mile (34.3 km) point-to-point backcountry route from the Rowe-Tamarack Trailhead on Akamina Parkway to the Snowshoe Trailhead at Red Rock Canyon. The mapped line takes the Twin Lakes/Snowshoe exit; published distances range from 20 to 23 miles because connecting trails change the total. Allow two or three days and about 10–12 hours of walking altogether. This suits experienced backpackers looking for a full crossing through the high country, with long stretches between road access, a sustained climb and steep descents. Plan a ride between the two trailheads before you set out.

From the Rowe trailhead, the path follows Rowe Creek past mossy ledges and bright red argillite, then winds through forest and open slopes. A junction branches to Lower Rowe Lake; another route leads toward Upper Rowe Lake. The stored line follows the through trail and leaves both lake spurs as optional detours. Continue to Rowe Meadow, where a stream and wildflowers break up the climb. The through route leaves this open ground on steep switchbacks toward the ridge.

The long switchback ascent reaches an open high ridge above the chain of Lineham Lakes. This is the hardest-feeling stretch: the climb is steep and the upper slope is exposed to sun and changing weather. Stop to look back over Rowe Meadow and out across the prairie, south toward Glacier National Park and west into British Columbia. Lineham Lakes lie below Mount Lineham, Mount Blakiston and Mount Hawkins. The ridge is the signature view; include the lake basin or the switchbacks in a photo so the height of the route comes through.

Beyond the ridge, the trail crosses woods and meadows, rises again, then drops steeply toward Lone Lake. The lake can look close from above; the descent still takes you a long way down to its shore and campground. The route saved here continues through the Twin Lakes connection and follows Snowshoe Trail to Red Rock Canyon’s upper parking lot. Lower Twin Lake has a natural stone beach, and the upper lake sits by its backcountry campground. Snowshoe was formerly a fire road. The Blakiston Valley trail offers a different connection to Red Rock’s lower lot, and that connection changes the total distance. This line skips that alternative and the optional Upper Rowe Lake and Avion Ridge detours.

An overnight itinerary needs a Parks Canada backcountry use permit and reserved campsite. Lone Lake, Twin Lakes and Snowshoe campgrounds have tent pads, pit toilets, food storage bins and picnic tables; treat or boil water from campground sources. A separate overnight at Lineham Lakes is wilderness camping with no campground facilities. Dogs are allowed on Waterton trails when leashed and under control. The full through-hike is a substantial commitment, so sort out your campsite and end-to-end transport before starting.