North Boundary Trail

Dogs No Dogs

Features Birding · Fall Colors · River/Creek · Views

Some creek fords earlier in the season.

This trail breaks off of the Waterton Lake Trail just south of the US/Canada border. It starts out mostly in the forest as it roughly parallels the creek on the south side. Views are limited. It crosses the beautiful creek and spends time on the north side with more views. It also follows the creek more closely, which is great as it tumbles and splashes in short cascades and beautiful pools with red rock.

The trail eventually works its way away from the creek as the valley broadens again. The forest gets more dense. The solitary forest itself is pleasant, but lacks views. It crosses the occasional seasonal stream which is easily crossed over with rocks later in the year, but spring and early summer will involve fording the river.

After roughly following the creek at a distance, the trail turns north and gains some elevation as it heads up to the US/Canada border. You reach the end of the Glacier National Park section of trail at the border which is denoted by the huge, straight swath cut through the trees. The trail continues on to Cameron Lake and the Carthew-Alderson Trail in Waterton National Park in Canada. Please keep in mind that international travel is conditional, and you must arrange for the border crossing before setting out.

This content was created by Jake Bramante of Hike 734. Visit hike734.com for more expert Glacier content and maps that help you decide which trail to run.

Forest plants and birds. Occasional animals may be seen, but the forest obscures many.