This Albertan Mountain Hike Winds Through Tunnels Carved Right Into The Rock
Are you a daredevil hiker who can't get enough of the adrenaline rush of looking over a steep drop? Then prepare to fall in love with this cave hike in Waterton. Between climbing metal ladders, trailing past four spectacular waterfalls, and exploring tunnels carved into the cliffs, this is the perfect adventure to add to your summer bucket list.
Crypt Lake Trail in Waterton is no walk in the park, and it doesn't pretend to be anything less than extraordinary.
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To get there in the first place, prospective adventurers will need to take a ferry from Waterton which departs once in the morning around 9 a.m. and returns to pick you up at 5:30 p.m.
Once you arrive, you'll be treated to a roughly 17 kilometre, six-hour-long round-trip trek over scenic mountains in Waterton Lakes National Park, according to Travel Alberta.
Fair warning though — the trail comes with a 700-metre elevation gain, so be warned if you're afraid of heights. If you're willing to work past that though, you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views.
As you navigate the first three-quarters of the hike, you'll find four separate waterfalls and sweeping views of forests below. In the last stretch of the adventure, things get a bit more interesting.
Around three-quarters of the way through, you'll be greeted by a metal ladder climb up a rock face.
Once you reach the top, you'll be entering the cave section of the hike, which is maybe one of the most memorable areas.
Hikers will have to squeeze through roughly 20 metres of tight rocky corridors taking you inside the mountain.
If you've got claustrophobia, this is a great opportunity to confront that fear. Victors will find a gorgeous lake on the other end.
Cool off in the vibrant waters of Crypt Lake as you reflect on all the adventures that led you there. When you feel ready, hike the downhill trail back to the ferry and bask in your accomplishments.
Not bad for a day's worth of walking.
Crypt Lake Trail
Price: $28.00 for ferry voyage
Address: Waterton, AB
Why You Need To Go: Get your adrenaline pumping on this thrilling mountain hike that's perfect for day trips.
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