The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Cardston County

The Carthew–Alderson Route is a beautiful and well-regarded point‑to‑point trek in Waterton Lakes National Park, part of Section A of the Great Divide Trail, which runs through high-alpine terrain between Cameron Lake and Waterton townsite. Known as one of Waterton’s signature hikes, shorter sections, including the climb to Alderson Lake from Watertown Township, also make for a memorable day hike, offering steady elevation gain and unforgettable scenery in a relatively shorter outing.

This beautiful lake sits at the foot of Mount Alderson’s dramatic cliffs, with noticeably turquoise water and surrounded by subalpine forest and rugged peaks. There is a backcountry campground and a pit toilet, and the lake feels genuinely remote, even though it sits along one of the park’s classic hiking corridors. It’s a natural place to rest during or after a long day of hiking, and is peaceful, open, and well worth the climb. You can also refill your water bottle here, just make sure to treat it before drinking.

This man-made lake forms the centrepiece of Nicholas Sheran Park and supports everything from trout and pike to whitefish, making it a popular local fishing spot. During the warmer months, kayakers and other non-motorised boaters are often seen on the water, while ducks and other waterfowl are regular visitors to the shoreline.

One of Lethbridge's largest parks, Nicholas Sheran Park centres around a man-made lake surrounded by 5.8 kilometres of paved and gravel pathways. The easy trails loop through open green space and around the shoreline, offering continuous views across the water. A floating bridge provides a unique way to cross part of the lake, while the park's history is reflected in its name, honouring Nicholas Sheran, who established Alberta's first coal mine.

This paved path takes you around the town of Waterton, along the lakeshore, and right by the famous Cameron Falls. The path never strays too far from town so you can grab a drink or snack if you feel the urge. The areas natural surroundings mean wildlife are often spotted on the trail, so keep your eyes open and camera handy.

This beautiful waterfall is easily reached from the Waterton Townsite and is a must see if you're in the area. While the best views are from the base of the falls there is a short side trail you can take to the top of the falls if you'd like to get a different perspective.

The Elizabeth Hall Wetlands are a protected urban nature area known for calm ponds, cattails, and excellent birdwatching. A network of easy trails and viewing platforms lets you wander through quiet habitat where ducks, herons, and songbirds are frequently seen. It’s one of the best places in Lethbridge to enjoy a walk surrounded by water, reeds, and shaded pathways.

Located within the Elizabeth Hall Wetlands, Beaver Pond is an oxbow-style pond formed from an old bend of the Oldman River. Its calm, still water makes it a dependable spot to see Canada geese and other waterfowl that frequent the wetlands.