Whirlpool Valley Fire Road Trail
View Photos
Whirlpool Valley Fire Road Trail
Difficulty Rating:
Taking the Whirlpool Valley Fire Road up towards the Whirlpool backcountry campground is a great day out that can be a combined bike and hike effort. Join backpackers as they begin their journey to Athabasca Pass for your day trip. You will wind up the Whirlpool River, gaining 1175ft in elevation.
Getting there
To get to the Whirlpool Valley Fire Road trail, merge onto the Icefields Parkway (93N) from the town of Jasper and head south. After the park gates, turn right onto Wabassa Road and continue along the road for 9.3mi. Turn right onto Moab Lake Road with signs for Whirlpool. Follow this unpaved road for 4.2mi until you reach the parking area at the end.
About
| When to do | June-September |
| Backcountry Campsites | Whirlpool Campground |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | Older Children only |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Moderate |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Whirlpool Valley Fire Road Trail
Elevation Graph
Weather
Whirlpool Valley Fire Road Hike Description
The Whirlpool Valley Fire Road is a straightforward trail that will take you to the Whirlpool Campground and back. This is the entry point for backpackers heading to Athabasca Pass which is a 60.9mi route. Athabasca Pass is a National Historic Site reserved for expert hikers.
Starting from the trailhead at the end of the unpaved road, you will merge onto the clearly marked and obvious trail. Follow this trail up the Whirlpool River Valley until you reach the Whirlpool Campground at 4.1mi. This is a great place for families and beginner backpackers to reserve as it is relatively easy to get to and only has two sites. Continue on for about 372.8mi where you will reach Simon Creek. This is your turnaround point.
Those who choose to bike this trail can bike all the way to Simon Creek, cutting their time in half while still enjoying the historic trail.
Similar hikes to the Whirlpool Valley Fire Road Trail hike
Dorothy and Christine Lakes Hike
The Dorothy and Christine Lakes trail is a beautiful forested trail west of Jasper. It features stunning lakes and has…
Mary Schaffer Loop Trail
The Mary Schaffer loop trail is a gentle circuit that explores the shores of Maligne Lake, offering interpretive signage and…
Wapiti Trail
The Wapiti Trail is a beautiful way to see the Athabasca River and connect the campground to town. If you…
Comments