Explore Waterton: The Food

This is my final post in all things Waterton! You can read my previous posts on our blogger retreat here, here, here and here. Our weekend in Waterton was such an amazing experience and I really wanted to spread out the posts so that I could properly capture and document how we spent our weekend. The one thing I didn't talk about yet is the food. Now, you don't go to Waterton for the food, but there were definitely some highlights (and lowlights) to what and where we ate.

The town of Waterton is literally two streets. Everything is in walking distance and there are quite a few establishments to eat at. If you like to eat what you know, then there is a Subway and a Starbucks for you. Besides sit-down restaurants, there are also a few take-out places (which have a few bar stools to perch at with your food, or there are picnic tables outside) and then of course there is an ice-cream store and a candy and pie place.


Vimy's Lounge and Grill

Vimy's Lounge and Grill is located in the main building of the hotel we stayed at, The Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort. Upon arrival, a few of us had an early dinner there while we waited for the rest of the group to show up. I found the menu a little underwhelming and the prices were quite steep. I ended up ordering the chicken burger on a brioche bun with a side of fries. I devoured it because I was starving and while it tasted good, there was nothing about it that stands out for me. Good to know though that this is the only restaurant in Waterton that is open all year round.


Pearl's Cafe

We ate breakfast at Pearl's Cafe before our Shoreline Cruise. Nothing really jumped out at me off the menu and I had a hard time stomaching the prices for their breakfast items (there was nothing under eleven dollars). Not in the mood for a hearty breakfast, I opted for a plain bagel with plain cream cheese (not on the menu) and a coffee.  That bagel was the best bagel I have ever eaten. It was so warm and fluffy that I'm pretty sure they must bake them in house. The coffee was weak, but a free refill to take on the road with you was a nice perk!


Wieners of Waterton

This place was a group favourite and a few of us frequented it more than once. Wieners of Waterton is a gourmet hot dog place and their buns are baked fresh in house every morning and their hot dogs are grilled on order. You get to choose between some awesome toppings for your dogs and if you order fries (which you should!) they have some really unique dips for them. My only regret of the entire trip was that I didn't try their deep-fried pickles! On Sunday before I hit the road though, I popped back in and grabbed two of their homemade cinnamon buns to take home with me and a coffee for the road. The cinnamon buns got eaten before I could snap a photo and they were delicious and sticky and oh so flavourful.


Lakeside Chophouse

Our group ate at the Lakeside Chophouse, which is part of the Bayshore Inn, for dinner on Saturday night (there's also a lounge attached - The Fireside Lounge). The entire back wall is windows which gives diners a view of Waterton Lake while enjoying their meal. The prices are comparable to a steakhouse or other more premier restaurant. I ordered the Grilled Mexican Steak Tortillas, which are actually on the starter menu and I inhaled them before I could remember to take a photo. It's fair to note I was starving post Bertha Lake Hike, but they were also really, really delicious! I did remember to take a photo of my margarita which was both yummy and strong.


Trappers Mountain Grill

Our second and last breakfast happened at Trappers Mountain Grill, where I splurged and ordered the two egg and sausage with hash browns meal. This is generally my go-to breakfast when dining out and I'm so glad I went with my normal order. The sausages were delicious (I think they were bison?), the potatoes were cooked perfectly, but the real winner was the homemade Saskatoon berry jam that came in a little dish on the plate. I would return just for that jam. Prices were a little steep, but you start to expect that in a little tourist town.


Welch's Chocolate Shop & The Big Scoop Ice Cream Parlour

If you're looking for somewhere to satisfy your sweet tooth, Waterton has got you covered! Welch's Chocolate Shop is a candy store in the front and a pie and sweets store in the back. Before I headed home, I stopped in a grabbed two pieces of pie to take home with me. Buying a whole pie is much more value for your buck, but I knew my waistline didn't need it. And it's a good thing I demonstrated self-control, because the same cannot be said for when I got home - those two pieces of pie were devoured by Jim and I!

The Big Scoop Ice Cream Parlour was a necessary stop after dinner both nights for the kiddos with us. The scoop servings are very generous and while the ice cream is just Nestle's, there are lots of flavours to pick from and the waffle cones are handmade. You can also purchase homemade fudge there if your sweet tooth is really screaming! After grabbing a cone (and/or some fudge, you can cross the street and walk along the shore of Waterton Lake which is exactly what we did both nights.

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So there you have it! There's lots of options for grabbing something to eat while you visit Waterton, but remember, you didn't go to Waterton for the food (except for maybe Wieners!). Eating all your meals out will definitely get pricey and there's no grocery store, save for a small convenience store with some basic necessities. It's probably a good idea to pack some of your own food, especially if you have a fridge and a microwave in your hotel room (ours did!). Some of the suites at the Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort even come with a full kitchenette, so it's possible to make all your meals while there if you arrive prepared! And in case you're wondering…there's also a liquor store in town!

**The #ABBloggersRetreat was funded and sponsored by Chinook Country Tourism in partnership with the town of Waterton and Travel Alberta in exchange for posts sharing our stories. Accommodations, food, and actives were provided to the bloggers. A huge thank-you to Kris and Candace for organizing the trip! All opinions and writing are my own.

An InLinkz Link-up

Explore Waterton: Bear's Hump Hike

If you missed it, you can read my other Waterton recaps here, here and here. 

On our last day in Waterton, we all had breakfast together, and then our entire group (plus Rachel, but minus Ange), hiked to the top of Bear's Hump. The trail head to the hike is at the Waterton Information Centre, which is on your way out (or in) of town. The hike is a steady climb of numerous switchbacks all the way to the top, with stairs built into the trail at some of the steeper parts.

The entire hike is only a 2.8km return trip, with an elevation gain of 225m. The average hiker should be able to do the hike, round trip, in about an hour, which is roughly what it took our group. It's the perfect hike for both the hiker and the non-hiker as this one can easily be done in regular running shoes. The two (almost) three-year old's on our trip both did the hike with us, so this is a great one for young families as well.

You're sheltered by the trees on the hike up, but layers are still a good idea as you quickly work up a sweat. Once you come to the top, "the hump", you are greeted with a huge, flat open area and a million dollar view! Seriously, this is probably one of the shortest, but most rewarding hikes I have ever done. Unfortunately, it is very windy at the top so it's not enjoyable to be up there for too long, but you'll definitely want to stick around for 10-15 minutes to get some gorgeous photos.

Waterton is described as a place "where the mountains meet the prairies", and from the view, you can immediately see why. The Bear's Hump looks out over the entire Waterton Valley, and it's pretty breathtaking. You can see the town, both Middle and Lower Waterton Lakes, as well as Waterton Valley, and Mount Cleveland. If you aren't up for a more challenging hike like Bertha Lake, or don't have the time, then this hike is a must and I can't imagine anyone regretting it.

Hiking Bear's Hump was a fantastic end to our already amazing weekend and I'm so glad almost all of us were able to stick around on our last day for it. It is definitely a hike I look forward to doing again with my family when we return.

**The #ABBloggersRetreat was funded and sponsored by Chinook Country Tourism in partnership with the town of Waterton and Travel Alberta in exchange for posts sharing our stories. Accommodations, food, and activities were provided to the bloggers. A huge thank-you to Kris and Candace for organizing the trip! All opinions and writing are my own. 

An InLinkz Link-up

Explore Waterton: Bertha Lake Hike

Welcome to my third instalment of recapping all things Waterton! If you missed it, you can read my first post here and my second post here.

On the Saturday, after our Shoreline Cruise, myself, along with Jo, Ashley and Kris, hiked to Bertha Falls, and then on to Bertha Lake. The entire hike is approximately a 10.4 km return hike with a total of 500m elevation gain, and should take the average hiker around 4-5 hours depending on how often you stop to take photos, of course! It took our group just under 4 hours.

The trail head for Bertha Lake is a short walking distance from the town, on the southwest edge, or you can drive and park at the entrance. The hike immediately sets off into the trees and the incline is steady. Views of Waterton from the trail are few (there are lookout points though), but the surrounding nature and foliage make up for it, especially in the fall. As you continue to climb Bertha Mountain, you will come to Bertha Falls which is breathtaking, and I can't imagine anyone not wanting to stop for a photo opportunity. For a beginner hiker, or someone looking for a short hike, Bertha Falls would be a good place to turn back around at. Otherwise, the hike continues across the wooden bridge at the falls.

From here, the hike became more challenging for me as the steady elevation gain had my legs and lungs working hard! I like to think I'm in decent shape, but I always find hiking very humbling.

For the most part, we had the trails to ourselves, passing just a few groups of hikers on their descent. We experienced all types of weather on the hike - from feeling chilly, to being too warm, to rain, and even a bit of hail. Hiking in Alberta in the fall requires many layers as we all found ourselves undressing and then redressing depending on the weather at any given moment. I wore my hiking boots  for this hike, but it could be done in just running shoes if hiking boots or trail shoes aren't available to you. But I would recommend a shoe with grip as the incline and declines are steep so you will be happy for the extra grip!

After countless switchbacks up the mountain, we finally found ourselves at Lake Bertha after approximately two hours of hiking. I always find a lake at the top of a mountain so magical. Lake Bertha is incredibly beautiful and serene and you can't help but feel like time is standing still when you get there. Often, when you think about hiking, you think of the view you will be rewarded with, but in some ways, I find a lake much more breathtaking. Instead of a valley view, you are greeted with a calm, and majestic body of water nestled in the mountains and surrounded by trees. It leaves you a little speechless. I'm sure in the summer months some brave souls take an ice-cold plunge!

Once you've reached Bertha Lake, you have the option of hiking around it for another 4km. We opted out of that, but did explore the trail just a bit farther to where there is a campsite. I have no experience with back-country camping, but I must admit, I would consider camping there one day. There's also an outhouse near the campsite, although I can't comment on it's condition. Luckily, none of us needed to make use of it.

After reflecting on the beauty and stillness of our surroundings, Jo surprised us all by pulling out a bottle of red wine and suggested that a toast was necessary. How could we refuse! We gave cheers to not only our hike, but also to a wonderful weekend spent with some amazing women. Drinking a glass of wine, and warming our souls, all while surrounded by the beauty and sounds of nature, is a moment I won't soon forget. I highly recommend doing this the next time you you hike with a group of friends.

The hike down, which took us about an hour and a half was still somewhat challenging as the decline is steep and your knees and thighs really feel it. I will admit, my hips and legs were sore for a few days after this hike! Once we made it back down the mountain, we quickly zipped over to Cameron Falls which is just down the road from the Bertha Lake trail head. Cameron Falls is a very popular spot for tourists and a great photo opportunity!

Would I do this hike again? You bet! I cannot speak enough on how amazing, rejuvenating and magical this hike was. There were times when the girl talk was non-stop, and then other times where we hiked with just our thoughts and heaving breathing to keep us company. I felt so relaxed, mentally, after finishing this hike. Hiking is a powerful activity for me both emotionally and physically. There's something pretty awesome about clearing your head all while climbing a mountain. I will never underestimate the healing power of being in the mountains.


Want to read more about our blogger retreat in Waterton? Then be sure to check out the links from the other girls below!

**The #ABBloggersRetreat was funded and sponsored by Chinook Country Tourism in partnership with the Town of Waterton and Travel Alberta in exchange for posts sharing our stories. Accommodations, food, and activities were provided to the bloggers. A huge thank-you to Kris and Candace for organizing the trip! All opinions and writing are my own.

An InLinkz Link-up

Explore Waterton: A Shoreline Cruise

Welcome to my second instalment on recapping my amazing weekend in Waterton! You can check out my first post HERE, which gives you an overall snapshot of just what went down in that majestic little town.

On our second day in Waterton, we all embarked on a two hour cruise aboard the M.V. International, which took us from the marina in Waterton, Alberta to Goat Haunt, Montana, travelling the waters of the world's first International Peace Park. That's right, you actually get to cross over the border while on the ship (no passport required!). At the point where the two countries meet, the boat is actually stopped while you straddle the border. A huge cut line is visible in the mountains and on the other side of the lake, there are also markers marking the border. I love the whole idea of being in two places at once.

The M.V. International has been in service since 1927, but it definitely doesn't feel like an old boat. It is  a double-decker ship, so you can either sit up top (which isn't sheltered), or down below which is covered. On the bottom deck there is an area at the back that is covered but there are no windows. You are also able to move freely between the different areas. The weather wasn't ideal during our cruise as it was windy and spitting rain at times so it was great to be able seek shelter when you wanted or needed it.

The entire trip is a historical and educational journey, thanks to the awesome tour guide, Keith. While I didn't pay attention to him the entire ride, I was really impressed with his knowledge base, ability to remember facts, ease of speaking and overall friendliness. Keith even approached our group at one point, asking if the kids wanted a chance to steer the ship. It took all my power not to ask if I could steer the ship!

This weekend was actually the last weekend for the Shoreline Cruise in Waterton, before they parked her for the season, so we were very lucky for the opportunity. In the warmer months though, the boat actually docks at Goat Haunt, Montana, which is the Northern gateway to Glacier National Park. Passengers are welcome to disembark for approximately half an hour to explore the immediate area and the visitor centre.

You know how when you do something touristy and you often say you wouldn't need to do that again if you ever returned? Well the Shoreline Cruise is definitely something I would do again. Especially during the main season, which runs from May 30 to September 20, so that I could take advantage of getting off the boat at Goat Haunt. I already can't wait to go back with Jim and Sully and take this cruise.

And while I can't speak for everyone, I think it's fair to note that at no time did I ever feel sea sick or queasy, and I have a pretty sensitive stomach when it comes to motion sickness. In fact, no one in our group had any issues with motion sickness. Also of importance to note: there are no washrooms aboard the ship (except for a little porta-potty's for very dire situations), so make sure you take full advantage of the washroom at the marina. Two hours can be a very long time if you have to go!

If you ever find yourself in Waterton (and you really must!), then I highly recommend taking the Shoreline Cruise. It's a beautiful way to explore Upper Waterton Lake, perhaps spot some wildlife, and travel across the border! You won't be disappointed, I promise.

Don't forget to check out the other blogger's posts on our trip to Waterton in the link-up below!

**The #ABBloggersRetreat was funded and sponsored by Chinook Country Tourism in partnership with the Town of Waterton and Travel Alberta in exchanged for posts sharing our stories. Accommodations, food, and activities were provided to the bloggers. A huge thank-you to Kris and Candace for organizing the trip! All opinions and writing are my own. 

An InLinkz Link-up

Explore Waterton: A Weekend Getaway

This past weekend, I had the incredible opportunity to be included in a bloggers retreat to Waterton, Alberta. Myself, along with seven other amazing women, and two small kiddos, packed our bags and took over the small town for a weekend of adventure, food and some good ol' soul cleansing. There is something magical and healing about being in the mountains and my weekend in Waterton was no exception. We only had two full days there and while I could have easily stayed for a week, I arrived home Sunday evening feeling rejuvenated, grateful, lighter and happy.

My original plan had been to capture the trip and experience into three posts, one for each day we were there. But after I got home and started going through the hundreds of photos I had taken, I immediately felt overwhelmed at how to perfectly capture the magnificence of the retreat. Instead of rushing to get a post out for Monday, I decided to sleep on it, hoping to wake up with a clear head and heart on just how to execute my posts.

I've decided that the best way is to quickly recap the entire weekend in a 'snapshot', and then I will have specific posts dedicated to the main events: hiking, boat cruise and food. Get ready for a week of Waterton my friends! I promise you won't be disappointed. And if you don't find yourselves wanting to go to Waterton after I'm done, then my photos and words have failed you. Also, in the meantime, you can always check out my instagram feed to see the many photos I posted while in Waterton.

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Friday

On Friday, I packed up my car, kissed my boys goodbye, and headed south to Waterton around 2 p.m. I knew it was approximately a three hour drive from my house and I wanted to take my time getting there, arriving in the day light. Becky and I actually crossed paths in our vehicles en route to Waterton somewhere around Claresholm, Alberta and followed each other the rest of the way.

We arrived at our hotel, the Waterton Lakes Lodge Resort just after 5 p.m., ate dinner, checked into our rooms and then grabbed ice cream before heading down to the water to throw rocks and take selfies. 

By this time, all the bloggers had arrived so we all met up in town, wandered around a bit more, before heading back to the hotel. Our hotel was actually comprised of eleven separate buildings with approximately eight suites in each. Unfortunately, we were scattered about the different buildings, but luckily the walk between each wasn't too far. Danielle had the biggest suite, with a separate living room area, so we all congregated there for wine and girl talk before calling it a night at 10 p.m.

The rooms are older and the decor is outdated, but they were clean and well maintained. My bed was pretty comfy, but I regretted not bringing my own pillow. I liked the chalet style feel and that there was a door leading directly outside, rather than always having to go into a hallway to exit. Wifi was a bit of a nightmare, but first world problems. The coolest thing about our hotel was how the deer roamed freely all over the grounds, grazing on grass and leaves without a care in the world. 

Saturday

We woke up early on Saturday, met up for breakfast and then made our way down to the dock for our boat cruise which took us to Goats Haunt, Montana. It was a two-hour cruise, and even though the weather was less than desirable, it was an amazing experience and something I would highly recommend doing. 

After the boat ride, we ate lunch and then Jo, Kris, Ashley and I set out to hike to Bertha Falls. The hike took us about four hours and once we were done, we quickly freshened up so we could meet with the rest of the group for dinner. This was followed by more ice cream and another stroll down to the lake. We got in some more girl talk back at the hotel before calling it a night shortly after 9 p.m.

Sunday

We ate our last breakfast as a group and then hiked The Bear's Hump, kids in tow! A short, but challenging hike, with the most satisfying views at the top! After the hike, most of us said our goodbyes and headed our separate ways. I sat with Danielle and Kaella while they had lunch and then I wandered about the town on my own. I wanted to take some time to reflect on the weekend, and absorb as much of the positive energy and vibes the little mountain town was giving me. I missed my boys dearly, but I also wasn't ready to go home. Had it not been so windy on Sunday, I definitely would have enjoyed a book and a hot cup of coffee in one of the red Adirondack chairs by the water. 

On my drive home, about 13 km after you leave Waterton, I did the loop through the Bison Paddock. It's a short, 3 km loop through a large, scenic park, where, if you're lucky, you'll get a good view of the herd of bison living in there. The views of the mountains and grasslands looking back towards Waterton are worth the short detour. The bison were a little far from me to get a good look at them, but I still enjoyed the glimpse I got. It was definitely a beautiful end to my weekend. 

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So, in a nutshell, that's how my weekend went! I'll be spreading out my next posts over the following week, so be sure to check back for those! You can also catch the recaps from the other bloggers on the retreat from the link-up below. 

**The #ABBloggersRetreat was funded and sponsored by Chinook Country Tourism in partnership with the Town of Waterton and Travel Alberta in exchange for posts sharing our stories. Accommodations, food and activities were provided to the bloggers. A huge thank-you to Kris and Candace for organizing the trip! All opinions and writing are my own. 

An InLinkz Link-up