Akamina Ridge Trail

Distance: 12.0mi

Elevation: 3,907ft

Time: 6 - 8 h

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Akamina Ridge is an incredible hike and a must-do when visiting Waterton Lakes National Park. It’s reserved for experienced hikers willing to go the distance for high alpine views. This hike is filled with crystal clear lakes and panoramic views. Leave the kids behind—this one is difficult.

Akamina Ridge Trail Scramble Map

Getting there

To get to the Akamina Ridge trailhead, you will need to travel roughly 9.9mi from the town of Waterton. Head northeast on Highway 5 and take a left turn onto Township Road 13A, which becomes the Akamina Parkway. Continue towards Cameron Lake, where the road ends, and look for signs that say Akamina. The trailhead will be on your right when you see the signs.

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About

When to do	July–September
Backcountry Campsites	Akamina Creek (BC)
Pets allowed	Yes - On Leash
Family friendly	No
Route Signage	Average
Crowd Levels	Moderate
Route Type	Circuit

Akamina Ridge Trail
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Akamina Ridge Trail Description

The Akamina Ridge hike begins in Alberta and quickly crosses into British Columbia after roughly 1.2mi. Most of the trail is within the Akamina Provincial Park boundary, despite starting in Waterton Lakes National Park. The trail will take you past Forum Lake on your way to Forum Peak before traversing Akamina Ridge and descending to Wall Lake.

From the trailhead, take the main trail and cross into British Columbia after 1.1mi. When you come to the junction at this point, take the trail to the left towards Forum Peak. It’s common for leisurely hikers to stay to the right and find their way to Forum Falls or Forum Lake without gaining elevation or covering much distance.

Continue along the Forum Peak Trail as you gain elevation. You’ll gain the ridge all the way to the peak, looking down at both Forum and Cameron Lakes. Some choose to take the Forum Lake Trail and bypass Forum Peak before gaining access to Akamina Ridge. Continuing from the peak, you’ll come to a junction where the trail from Forum Lake joins the ridge.

Cross Akamina Ridge and take in the breathtaking panoramic views from high above before descending to Wall Lake. You’ll join the Wall Lake Trail and circle back to a junction at Forum Falls, where you will find the Akamina Creek backcountry campground. Continue towards the main junction at the Alberta border, and make your way back to the parking area.