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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Very Hard
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
1,191 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
19.3 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
6 - 8 h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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Directions to Trailhead

Akamina Ridge Trail

Measurement:

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Table of contents

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.

Route Description for Akamina Ridge Trail

The Akamina Ridge hike begins in Alberta and quickly crosses into British Columbia after roughly 2.0 km. 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 1.8 km. 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.

Getting to the Akamina Ridge Trail Trailhead

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.

Route Information

  • 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 Elevation Graph

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