Waterfalls Route

Developed by NWT Parks, the Waterfalls Route offers a spectacular road trip starting at the 60th parallel, right on the Alberta/Northwest Territories border. Following the Mackenzie Highway (Highway 1) all the way to the Checkpoint junction, this scenic itinerary winds through wild landscapes packed with pristine rivers, sandy beaches, and roaring cascades. Built in 1942, this historic highway features route signs displaying a knife and a quill. The knife honors the hunting and trapping heritage of local Indigenous communities, while the quill symbolizes the first historical records penned by explorer Sir Alexander Mackenzie over two centuries ago.

The route showcases must-see natural gems on the way to Checkpoint, including Lady Evelyn Falls Territorial Park and Twin Falls Territorial Park, home to the famous Alexandra and Louise Falls just outside the hamlet of Enterprise.

Great news for road-trippers: the waterfalls themselves are open year-round. Whether roaring under the summer sun or frozen into dramatic ice sculptures in the winter, Mother Nature always puts on a show.
If you happen to be cruising through between May 15 and September 15, you can make a fun stop at the Louise Falls Campground. Nestled in a towering jack pine forest, it features fully serviced sites and a unique spiral staircase that leads to an incredible viewpoint right over the falls.

A quick heads-up before you head out: nature is powerful and ever-changing in the North. Riverbank erosion can sometimes impact local infrastructure, so it is always a good idea to check the NWT Parks website for trail conditions and closures before lacing up your hiking boots. Keeping an eye out for local signage will ensure you stay safe and out of closed viewing areas!