Waterton Lakes National Park July 14, 2026

Ever since I learned there were bingo cards for outdoor activities, I knew I wanted to play one day. Today was the day! My bingo card is ready for a hike to Forum Lake. I was out the door at seven for the short drive up the Akamina Parkway.  

I believe this is the family I had to stop to let cross the road yesterday afternoon. This morning I had to stop in the same area to let them cross back over in the opposite side.  This time the Mom was the last to cross.  You can see a baby in the grass to the left. 

at the trailhead

The display of wildflowers started from the get-go!

in my happy place but hot already

Note to self: Next year during June, sign up for a guided wildflower hike!  There are so many species!  My patience is not the best for plant identification. It reminds me when I started birding and all the Sparrows looked the same.  

crossing the border from Alberta to British Columbia

the Bear Grass is young here

along the steep section

This is my first view of Forum Lake as I exited the forest.

Chipmunk 

my destination selfie 

Before dropping my pack, I surveyed the area.  The coast appeared clear so I was game to settle in.  At one point I heard a shriek, it came from this!  I was too in awe of what was flying by, then snapped a photo at the last second.  This is a Golden Eagle!

It was a beautiful morning at Forum Lake.  It was warm with no wind.  The reflections were crystal clear.  I especially like the snow reflections. After capturing many photographs then having a snack, I geared up again and was off to hike back.

waterfalls 

more wildflowers 

Dark-eyed Junco with lunch

It was time for me to have lunch!  

Before hiking back, I continued to the Akamina Backcountry Campground to have lunch.

When I arrived back to the townsite, it was time for Beer and

BINGO!