Maligne Canyon hike
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Maligne Canyon hike
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The Maligne Canyon walk explores the finest limestone gorge in Jasper National Park. This is a great family-friendly hike that provides great views of the mountains and the incredible canyon geology.
Getting there
Head north from Jasper on Highway 16 until you reach Maligne Lake Rd. Turn right on this road and continue until the turn off for Maligne Canyon. Park at the far end of the lot to access the trailhead.
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 |
Maligne Canyon
Elevation Graph
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Route Description for Maligne Canyon
There are several paths that lead all throughout Maligne Canyon, giving you many options to explore. All of the paths are extremely wide and are well signposted. There are several steps so taking a stroller could be very difficult, and is not recommended.
It is best to take the leftmost trailhead that leads directly to the canyons. These canyons have been carved out for years by glacier runoff, and are absolutely stunning. The photos do not do them justice. They are immensely deep and narrow, and have several magnificent waterfalls.
If you want to best view for the least effort, turn left before crossing the bridge and hike up towards the gift shop. You will come across the most majestic waterfall, and some smoothly sculpted rocks.
However, if you want a longer hike cross the bridge and turn right. This path (# 7) runs parallel to the river and crosses over several times. As stated, the views are beyond words. Towards the end of the path the river widens and neat rapids form.
At the end of the path cross over the fifth bridge and return along the 7F trail. This path is no longer paved and climbs up along a ridge above the river. From here you will see wonderful views down the valley and across to the single picturesque Pyramid Mountain. The 7F trail will reunite with the 7 trail at the first bridge you crossed. Return to the car the way you came.
The majestic Maligne Canyon was formed because of the Palliser Formation, a layer of limestone left some 365 million years ago by ancient plankton. Water constantly running over this stone has carved out the superb canyons that are seen along the hike. Panels located throughout the trail system explain in more detail the geological significance of the area.
2024 travel tips for Maligne Canyon
For hiking Maligne Canyon in Jasper in 2024, you can look forward to an early start to the season, thanks to lower-than-average snow levels. However, note that in 2024, Maligne Canyon will not have public transport services, so planning your visit with a personal vehicle or other arrangements is advisable.
Insider Hints
You can stop for snacks at the Maligne Canyon Tea House, which also has an adjacent gift shop.
You can stay near to Maligne Canyon at the HI Maligne Canyon Hostel, an older Hostel with 1960’s cabins.
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PeterHopkins 4 years ago
I admire the mountains and the majestic waterfalls.
DesireeD. 4 years ago
Amazing and easy hike. It is also good for a family trip.
RobCruz 4 years ago
Def'ly recommending the maligne canyon. My kids says why didn't we do this sooner.
JohnCan 4 years ago
What a relaxing hike not that challenging but hey! I'm not alone in this, taking it easy with my boys.
Giedre 4 years ago
Usually, visiting canyons and places like this that don't resemble hiking at all is not my cup of tea, but I've visited this one and I'm glad I did because I cannot explain how massive the waterfalls in the canyon are. If I had to show Jasper to my friends, I'd definitely go there again as this one is just astonishing. Also, I didn't do the whole route, just checked out the first two overlooks, but it was enough for me.
NotMichaelScott 4 years ago
Easy peasy. Chill way to enjoy a beautiful canyon without much effort to it.
akaneogawa 4 years ago
Outstanding natural beauty. Definitely go see this place.
LukeMc 5 years ago
It was a great place to visit. Just be careful because the steps could get slippery at times.
LaylaP. 5 years ago
A must visit in Jasper! I also recommend buying snacks from Malign CanyonTea House. Their sandwiches are the best!
Samuel P 5 years ago
It's an easy hike to experience this beautiful gorge. Amazing. I can recommend the Maligne Canyon, especially to families. The kids will remember this walk for a while, trust me.