If you know me at all, you already know that Waterton Lakes National Park is one of my favorite places to explore. There’s just something special about it, the blend of mountains, prairies, and unpredictable weather creates a charm that never gets old.
On a trip to Waterton in October 2025, after the busy tourist season had ended, I decided to spend a day walking and soaking in the quiet beauty. It was one of those classic Waterton days, part snow, part rain, part sunshine, and a healthy dose of wind. But I didn’t mind; I wanted to get some steps in and maybe see a few of the park’s wilder residents.
Exploring the Prairie and the Waterton Plains Bison Paddock
If you’ve spent much time in Waterton Lakes National Park, you know the weather can change in a heartbeat. It might be snowing at Cameron Lake, pouring rain at Red Rock Canyon, and windy in the townsite, but out on the open prairie near the Waterton Plains Bison paddock, it’s often calm and sunny.
That’s where I decided to go, just west of the bison paddock, along the Horseshoe Trail. It’s a long hike (over 20 km with plenty of elevation change), but I wasn’t planning to conquer it. I simply wanted to wander, enjoy the crisp fall air, and take in the colors of the season.
I parked, grabbed my bear spray, and headed down the trail. Since I hadn’t brought my camera, I started singing as I walked, something I do when I’m out hiking alone. The trail wound gently along the edge of the winter bison enclosure, separated by a sturdy fence. At first, I didn’t see any bison, just a few birds, some massive mushrooms, and the sound of the prairie wind.
Meeting the Waterton Plains Bison
As I walked, the sky began to darken, and soon enough, a cold rain started to fall. Wearing only a light jacket and summer hat, I decided to head back to my van for warmer clothes. That’s when I noticed some large, dark shapes in the trees to the south, shapes that were definitely watching me.
It turns out, my “beautiful” singing had drawn a crowd, the Waterton Plains Bison herd had come to investigate! Whether they were curious or just mildly amused by my off-key tunes, they began moving toward the fence, following me as I made my way back.
Once I got to the van, I grabbed a heavier coat, hat, and of course my camera. If the bison were going to follow me, I wasn’t going to miss the chance for some photos.
Photographing the Waterton Plains Bison in Fall Colors
As I headed back onto the trail, I spotted several bison on a nearby hill, their massive forms outlined against the mountains and the misty rain. It felt like stepping back in time, seeing the Waterton Plains Bison roaming the same land their ancestors once did thousands of years ago.
I began taking photos, capturing the bison framed by the snow-dusted peaks. Before long, I realized more of the herd had appeared, silently emerging from the trees and following me along the fence line. Each step brought new photo opportunities, and I couldn’t help but stop every few steps to admire them.
The rain soon turned to snow, and the wet grass started soaking my legs and boots, but it didn’t matter. The sight of these incredible animals in their natural habitat made it all worth it. Eventually, though, I had to turn back. The herd watched quietly as I walked away, the snow swirling between us, a moment I won’t soon forget.
Closing Thoughts on the Waterton Plains Bison
Spending time near the Waterton Plains Bison reminded me just how powerful and peaceful nature can be. These animals are living symbols of the prairies’ past, resilient, calm, and deeply connected to the land.
As I drove away from the park, I couldn’t help but think about how lucky we are to have places like Waterton Lakes National Park, where the wild still feels truly wild.
I hope you enjoy the photos as much as I enjoyed taking them.