Sunwapta Falls hike
View PhotosSunwapta Falls hike
Difficulty Rating:
Sunwapta Falls is an easy, enjoyable hike to two sets of scenic waterfalls. The trail passes through a peaceful forest, and the falls are framed by pine trees and mountain peaks. The trail is family-friendly and great for all skill levels.
Getting there
From Jasper, take Highway 93 south for 33.2mi. Turn right at the lodge and continue along the road to the end, where there is plenty of parking.
Route Description for Sunwapta Falls
The Sunwapta Falls hike is an easy, scenic walk that takes you past two rushing waterfalls. The Upper Sunwapta Falls are next to the road and require very little effort to reach, but the lower Sunwapta Falls requires a short hike.
Past the Upper Falls, follow the signage to the lower falls trail. It passes through the forest, which is especially pretty in wildflower season. You can opt to cross the bridge over the canyon to explore the other side, but our trail follows the Sunwapta River on your left. After crossing the bridge, it’s about 1.2mi to the falls.
You won’t miss the Lower Falls- the sound of rushing water will be obvious! There’s a chain-link fence in place to prevent slips, so those with young children won’t need to worry too much. The trail fades away at the Lower Falls. Enjoy the view for as long as you like before returning to the parking lot the way you came.
Insider Hints
This is a great family friendly walk to use as a break if you are driving the Icefields Parkway.
The lodge sells snacks and gifts, and also offers public washrooms
Even if you don’t have time to hike, stopping in to see the Upper Sunwapta Falls is a great detour
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Clark Hermano 5 years ago
Lovely scenic walk. Particularly find the falls a bit disappointing but overall a great place to visit.
Rocco Ellysia 5 years ago
Incredible views of the falls. Nice short hike and weather. Very accessible too. I highly recommend it!
Joshua Zagreb 5 years ago
Stunning hike with a multitude of scenery and interesting trails. Great for short walks and quick morning jogs if you're nearby the area.
Jaina L. 5 years ago
Stunning views of the falls. The trail passes through a serene forest, and it was so peaceful.
Mildred G. 6 years ago
It's amazing how the falls were surrounded by pine trees and mountain peaks. Such nice scenery!
Shelly Winston 6 years ago
It's one of the best places for family bonding and leisure activities. Would recommend it to everyone.