Crypt FallsAbout Crypt Falls
Crypt Falls is a waterfall associated with Crypt Lake in Waterton Lakes National Park, Alberta, Canada. It is most commonly reached as the endpoint of the park’s Crypt Lake hike.
The route to the falls is known for its combination of a short lake boat shuttle, rocky hiking, a blasted rock tunnel and fixed ladders near the final approach. Hikers reach the lake outlet and scramble to viewpoints that overlook the cascade and surrounding cliffs.
The falls and lake form part of the park’s alpine and subalpine landscape and are accessed from the Waterton townsite on Upper Waterton Lake. The site lies within the boundaries of Waterton Lakes National Park in southwestern Alberta.
- Access: The trail access typically begins with a seasonal boat shuttle from the Waterton townsite; bookings are required during the summer high season.
- Trail conditions: The route includes exposed sections and a tunnel that require sure-footedness and headlamp or torch for the tunnel segment.
What to See#
- Crypt Lake Trail: A short but steep route that terminates at the lake outlet and waterfall; the trail includes a boat shuttle across Upper Waterton Lake followed by hiking, a short tunnel cut into the rock, and fixed ladders and stair sections near the falls.
Best Time to Visit Crypt Falls
Late spring to early autumn offers the most reliable access and best waterfall displays; winter visitation requires alpine experience.
Weather & Climate near Crypt Falls
Crypt Falls's climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -14°C to 19°C. Moderate rainfall (816 mm/year).
| Month | Comfort | Temp | Feels | Rain | Sky | Humidity | Wind | UV | Daylight |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | - | -14° - -4° | -16° | 54 mm | - | - | 5.7 m/s | - | - |
| February | - | -11° - -2° | -13° | 50 mm | - | - | 4.9 m/s | - | - |
| March | - | -9° - 0° | -11° | 64 mm | - | - | 5.0 m/s | - | - |
| April | - | -5° - 4° | -5° | 73 mm | - | - | 4.7 m/s | - | - |
| May | - | -1° - 9° | 1° | 100 mm | - | - | 4.6 m/s | - | - |
| June | - | 3° - 14° | 6° | 111 mm | - | - | 4.3 m/s | - | - |
| July | - | 6° - 19° | 12° | 56 mm | - | - | 3.8 m/s | - | - |
| August | - | 6° - 19° | 13° | 57 mm | - | - | 3.7 m/s | - | - |
| September | - | 2° - 14° | 5° | 64 mm | - | - | 4.1 m/s | - | - |
| October | - | -3° - 8° | -1° | 64 mm | - | - | 5.0 m/s | - | - |
| November | - | -8° - 0° | -10° | 70 mm | - | - | 5.5 m/s | - | - |
| December | - | -12° - -3° | -15° | 53 mm | - | - | 5.7 m/s | - | - |
How to Get to Crypt Falls
Reach the general area by driving on secondary and forest-service roads off Hwy 3 (Crowsnest Highway) or nearby local highways in southern Alberta; GPS will take visitors to the nearest trailhead, but expect unpaved roads and a short hike (variable, 1-5 km) to the falls. High-clearance vehicles recommended; local ranger offices in nearby towns (e.g., Pincher Creek, Blairmore) can provide up-to-date access conditions.
Tips for Visiting Crypt Falls
- Access is on rough forestry roads; a high-clearance vehicle brings fewer surprises.
- Bring a waterproof jacket-Alberta weather can flip rapidly, and the falls are most dramatic after spring melt.
- Watch for slippery rock slabs near viewing spots; there are few rails on informal approaches.