Water activity restriction zones
Waterton Lakes National Park
Rules and regulations are in place to slow the spread of aquatic invasive species (AIS). AIS are non-native plants, animals, and diseases. Many AIS are harmful to freshwater ecosystems. AIS reproduce quickly, rarely have natural predators and often out-compete native freshwater species. Preventing aquatic invasive species from entering waterways is a Parks Canada priority. Once AIS are established, removal is next to impossible.
To strengthen the protection for lakes and rivers in Banff, Jasper, Kootenay, Yoho, and Waterton Lakes national parks, Parks Canada is advancing the next phase of adaptive management in AIS prevention strategies. Preventing the spread or introduction of aquatic invasive species is a shared responsibility. Lakes and rivers in the mountain national parks have been classified into zones, each with specific activities permitted.
This ensures a coordinated, regionally consistent approach, strengthening long-term protection for lakes and rivers. It is founded on an evidence-based, adaptive management approach providing ecosystem protections and supporting positive visitor experiences. Working together across parks ensures Parks Canada can adapt and respond effectively as risks change over time.
Lakes and rivers within Waterton Lakes National Park are now grouped into two zones, with different regulations for water activities in each zone.
It is your responsibility to know what activities are allowed in the places you plan to visit.
Preservation zone
Prioritized for protection of ecologically-sensitive lakes and rivers or areas with limited recreational use.
Waterbodies in this zone: Belly River and its tributaries
Allowed activities:
- Swimming
Prohibited activities:
- Fishing
- Paddling and large inflatables
- Playing with beach toys
- Motorized boating
Special tactics zone
High-use lakes and rivers where site-specific measures apply.
Waterbodies in this zone: Waterton lakes chain, Cameron Lake, all backcountry lakes
All watercraft are prohibited, with the exception of boats that remain within park boundaries and pass an inspection.
Allowed activities:
- Swimming
- Playing with beach toys
- Snorkeling
- Scuba diving
- Fishing without felt-soled waders
- Motorized boating (subject to the 90-day quarantine and sealing program)
- Non-motorized boating (only boats that remain with park boundaries. Inspection, tag, and seasonal permit required.)
Prohibited activities:
- Using watercraft from outside park boundaries
- Fishing with felt-soled waders
Fishing gear, scuba equipment and other water-related items must be clean, drained, dry, and certified with a self-certification permit.
These permits are found at many convenient locations throughout Waterton Lakes National Park.
Water recreation zone
There are no areas within Waterton Lakes National Park designated as a Water Recreation Zone.
Zoning map
Text description of map
This map identifies the areas within Waterton Lakes National Park classified into two distinct zones. Major roads and bodies of water within the boundaries of the park indicated on the map. The special tactics zone encompasses most of the park and popular water recreational areas. The water preservation zones include the Belly River and its tributaries in the southeast area of Waterton Lakes, and an area on the northern park boundary that includes waters such as Galwey Brook and Dungarvan Creek.Note: The northern Water Preservation Zone indicated on the map belongs to a separate watershed. This area does not contain lakes or rivers that are suitable for recreational use.
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