Tamarack Outdoors: Gear-Guides-Shuttles

I really wanted to hike Akamina ridge this fall but didn’t have anyone to go with, so I arranged for a personal hiking guide who had experience with the scramble section of the hike. What started out as a simple safety measure, turned into one of the best hiking experiences I’ve had in the last few years. Carey was not only patient and aware of the safest route to get up from Forum lake to Akamina ridge, but he was also incredibly knowledgeable about hiking, nature, and the area in general. As someone who grew up in Waterton, I was impressed with both his professionalism and personableness. I’m already planning another guided hike!

For all those would-be hikers thinking: “I’d go if I had someone to hike with”… STOP WAITING. Tamarack Outfitters can make it happen for you. Their services are excellent. Highly recommended!

Amazing store with a huge selection of hiking gear. Very friendly and helpful staff. Found an emergency pair of hiking pants for my 10yr old son in no time after realizing that I forgot to pack them. Saved the day for us!

Shout out to Tamarack staff for going above and beyond.
Because of poor planning on my part (what is that saying?), my daughter and I found ourselves in need of a shuttle service.
The entire staff was respectful and understanding with one in particular going out of his way to help us out.
Thank you SO much for your kindness, it was very generous and much appreciated!

Finally back in Nashville from our trip to Waterton, AB, and we wanted to say we can’t thank Tamarack Outdoors enough. Their great hiking lunches, particularly the homemade granola bar, made every hike even better. Their expert trail recommendations and thoughtful, encouraging words as we set out on the epic Carthew-Alderson trail set our adventures off on the right foot, and their shuttle ride is more than just a lift, it’s an orientation session with the day’s trail conditions and best wild flower locations (and more encouraging words). The staff at Tamarack made our week so much better than it already was. We will be back. I encourage you to engage with them and you will take your Waterton hiking vacation to the next level.

We used Tamarack to do the Carthew-Alderson hike as point to point. Very happy with the flexibility and service. We woke up to t-storms and were kindly able to switch to the following day. The shuttle service left on time, few moments early since everyone had checked in. Driver was pleasant and informative without being overbearing.

Booked a guided hike and lunch with this company. Our guide was great - friendly and knowledgeable!

Came into the store looking for a new sweater, left with a new friendship. I believe the tall guys name was kalem. He was the most helpful young man I’ve ever met. His expertise about all of the products was matched by none! Not only was I able to find a steezy new sweater and pair of shorts, but I was also able to feel comfortable and happy with a very friendly staff. They even went out of their way to help me exchange my American money into Canadian money and convert my smaller bills into larger ones. Definitely one of the best experiences I’ve ever had at not only an outdoor store but at any store!

Staff are knowledgeable about the gear and the area. This family has been local to Waterton for close to 100 years. If you need gear or want a guide or shuttle, or if you want some local information stop in!

I wanted to like this store, but vehemently disagree with their dog policy. I have never heard of an outdoor store with such an unwelcoming policy towards man’s best friend. I was asked to leave the store when I entered with my very well behaved vizsla, a moderately sized breed. I was told that the store only permits dogs small enough to be carried. When I asked why, I was told this policy is because many customers are allergic to dogs, dogs might pee in the store, and some customers are afraid of dogs. Last time I checked, all of these excuses would apply to both large and small dogs. The logic doesn’t add up. Period. When I proceeded to carry my dog in my arms after hearing all of this, I was given a look of utter disgust by an employee.

This "outdoor" store is an oxymoron. They do not allow dogs in the store unless the dog is small enough to be carried. I've been to many outdoor stores over the years and I've never witnessed such irony. I suggest not supporting outdoor establishments that do not have pet-friendly policies.

Great store front and good products in stock. Also being a family run business is awesome to see and support.

Unfortunately my few experiences this year have left me with a poor impression on customer service and management. They seldom have people at the information money exchange station which is a vital service they offer. Staff is short and quick to dismiss your concerns and questions. Also a lack of inventory knowledge and poor product recommendations leaves me with a bitter taste in my mouth and I've taken my business elsewhere. Wish i had more positive experiences so referring people there doesn't feel like I'm setting them up for disappointed.

A stop at the Tamarack is always on my list of things to do on every visit to Waterton. In addition to great products and merchandise, I would like to thank Aynsley for her helpful advice and addressing any concerns that I may have had.

Great place to shop in Waterton! Family run business that treats shoppers the same way. Great brands and wide selection

I stopped in, but didn't purchase anything, as they didn't have what I was looking for (kayaking gear that isn't a dry bag). However, they had a great array of clothing, though I did not check to see if it was size inclusive, as not every active person is under a size 10. Prices seemed reasonable. Staff didn't say hello or really interact at all, which I am definitely okay with, because I don't like to be harassed in a store, but I can see how people don't like that.
That said, seeing as it's a reason for poor reviews, I think it needs to be taken into consideration that staff in "vacation" towns aren't life long residents who want to be in retail forever. They are young kids having an experience for their summer. They aren't going to be the best out there. It's not at all going to be like going to Edmonton or Calgary and shopping at MEC and Atmosphere with middle aged people who have all the experience out there available to you. It's a tiny town, where people come to escape. Please keep in mind that workers in this town are gaining experience, and you don't have to be rude to any of them for it.

They have more Patagonia options than the actual Patagonia outlet! Quality stuff and all good looking options.