Athabasca Falls hike
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Athabasca Falls hike
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A walk along Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park is a great family-friendly hike. See one of the most powerful and spectacular waterfalls in Jasper as well as get great views along the Athabasca River.
Getting there
Head south from Jasper on Highway 93 for just over 18.6mi and turn right onto the 93A, in the direction of the Athabasca Falls viewpoint. There is ample parking spread out over a large lot.
About
| When to do | May through October |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Toilets | Trailhead |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | High |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Athabasca Falls
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Route Description for Athabasca Falls
From the hiker’s left of the parking lot you will find the trailhead to the Athabasca Falls walk. There are many routes you can take to explore Athabasca Falls, all of which grant a unique view.
Start off along the path and come to a bridge. This bridge goes right over Athabasca Falls and give stunning views of Mt. Kerkeslin. Note that the rocks and railing along the trail can get a lot of mist, and subsequently be very slippery. Never climb on them.
From the other end of the bridge you can turn left and go up along the mighty Athabasca River or go right and get more views of the canyon. The trail going up to the river continues to boast excellent views of Brussels Peak and other mountains that extend beyond upriver.
Continuing down river experience the scenery of the stunning canyon that extends for 656ft beyond Athabasca Falls. There are several options on the trail. The scenic viewpoints include sights directly of the canyon, a neat inkpot, and down the river to the Watchtower and other peaks.
Insider Hints
Perhaps the best HI Wilderness hostel is HI Athabasca Falls. This new hostel has a wonderful common area and a couple of family rooms, which are private. Highly recommended.
While Athabasca Falls is just off of the 93N highway, we love the slow drive on the 93A. You’re more likely to see game and the slower speed limit means a more relaxing drive.
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DesireeD. 4 years ago
The hike is just an hour. You can see a powerful and nice waterfall.
RobCruz 4 years ago
Good trail to look around and taking it easy!
JohnCan 4 years ago
what a lovely trail! the falls was the cherry on top.
Tomcote 5 years ago
We felt so lucky to see not just one, but two rainbows in this hike. It was a colorful and bright day indeed!
romeoM 5 years ago
Words cannot describe the beauty of Athabasca Falls!
hannahthorns 5 years ago
Sensational! Love the scenery of the stunning canyons!
SebClyde 5 years ago
The views are unreal! I had to keep stopping to snap photos.
Theodore R. 5 years ago
No matter how much we say it will be less. Athabasca Falls is beautiful!
Diana C. 5 years ago
A truly beautiful place to visit and gasp at the mountains, meadows, waterfalls and trees.
NotMichaelScott 5 years ago
Very impressive falls, not much work to get up there. Bring a jacket!