Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, so it is no surprise that there is plenty to explore.
The stunning and diverse landscape of Jasper National Park makes it a haven for explorers and adventurers. Here are the ten best hikes in Jasper National Park.
Home to thousands of kilometres of untouched natural beauty and a vast array of Canadian wildlife, a hike in Jasper National Park is the perfect way to get out in nature.
With walks suitable for all abilities, whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just fancy a walk in the great outdoors, you’re sure to find something that will take your fancy.
The World Bucket List’s top tips for the best hikes in Jasper National Park
- Use trails that are commensurate with your ability, fitness, and experience to get the most out of the hike.
- Bring all important equipment with you on your hike, including the likes of strong shoes, hiking gear, a map or GPS, first aid kit, food and water, extra socks, and more.
- Jasper is home to wild animals – keep a safe distance and respect their surroundings.
- Stayed hydrated and take regular breaks, too. This allows you to pace yourself, and it also gives you a chance to take in the views!
- To ensure your safety and to assist any potential emergency help, stick to specified trails to avoid getting lost and to allow you to be located.
10. Valley of the Five Lakes – for pristine blue waters
Coming in at 5.7 km (3.5 miles) in length, hiking the Valley of the Five Lakes is one of the easiest and best hikes in Jasper National Park.
As the name suggests, this hike will take you past five beautiful alpine lakes that are recognisable for their pristine blue waters. You will also wind your way through the lush forest at the foot of the surrounding mountain peaks.
9. Opal Hills – for gorgeous meadows
This 7.8 km (4.8 miles) hike takes approximately three to five hours to complete in full.
As you make your way through the unique beauty of this trail, you’ll get to enjoy views of the stunning green meadows that stretch up into the mountains above.
8. Sulphur Skyline – for hot springs
Coming in at 8.2 km (5.1 miles) in length, hiking the Sulphur Skyline is a moderately difficult feat.
Finishing at the Miette Hot Springs, a dip in this hot spring pool is the perfect way to end a challenging walk. Some of the highlights of this walk are the incredible mountaintop views over Jasper National Park.
7. Whistlers Mountain and Indian Ridge – a challenging hike
The Whistlers Mountain and Indian Ridge is an 8.8 km (5.5 miles) hike that is not for the fainthearted. With almost 800 metres (2624 ft) elevation gain, you’ll need to make sure you have a relatively good level of fitness before taking on this hike.
This challenging trail is well worth the extra effort, though, as you’ll get to enjoy some of the best views of Jasper National Park from above. Across continents into Europe, check out some of the best hikes in Switzerland.
6. Maligne Canyon – for an incredible limestone gorge
Maligne Canyon is a 3.7 km (2.3 miles) hike exploring one of the finest limestone gorges in Jasper National Park. This is only one of the things that make it one of the best Jasper hikes.
Perfect for hikers of all abilities and experience levels, walkers will get to enjoy incredible mountain views, as well as the unique canyon geology. This is a must add to your bucket list.
5. Path of the Angel Glacier – an easy and worthwhile walk
One of the best hikes in Jasper National Park is definitely the Path of the Angel Glacier. At just 1.6 km (0.99 miles) in length, this hike is family-friendly and suitable for walkers of all abilities and experience levels.
You will make your way along a well-maintained path and fantastic views of a glacier, icebergs, and a breathtaking lake.
4. The Skyline Trail – for fantastic views of Canada’s Rockies
The Skyline Trail comes in at an astounding 48 km (28.8 miles) in length, meaning it is not one for the fainthearted. Taking between two and four days to complete in full, you need to come prepared for this challenging (but worthwhile) walk.
One of the highlights that make this route one of the best Jasper hikes are the beautiful views of Canada’s Rockies that stretch into the U.S.A.
Related: For more things to do when here, check out WBL’s piece on the Top 10 things to do in Canada
3. Verdant Pass – for a full day hike
Verdant Pass is a 19.3 km (11.6 miles) hike that passes through some of the most beautiful natural landscape in Jasper National Park.
This challenging trail is a full day hike that should take between six and eight hours to complete. This gorgeous trail makes its way through alpine meadows and a breathtaking mountain pass that you will remember for a lifetime.
2. Athabasca Falls – for a beautiful waterfall
One of the best Jasper hikes is, without a doubt, the Athabasca Falls route. Coming in at a modest 1.5 km (0.9 miles), this loop walk is perfect for all abilities and experience levels.
The best thing about this stunning walk is the Athabasca Falls waterfall. Set on the gorgeous Athabasca River with Mount Kerkeslin rising above in the background, you’ll be in awe.
1. Bald Hills – for some of the best views in Jasper
Topping our list of the best hikes in Jasper National Park is the stunning Bald Hills hike. This 13.2 km (7.9 miles) loop walk should take around four to six hours to complete in full.
Offering fantastic views of Maligne Lake and the Rockie Mountains, your breath will be taken away on this incredible hike.
If you’re looking for incredible spots for hiking in Europe, there are plenty of options that are just as beautiful as these. From trekking through the Alps to exploring Eastern Europe, you’ll never be bored.
Your questions answered on the best hikes in Jasper National Park
We understand that you may still have some outstanding questions about this topic after reading our article. Not to worry, because we have you covered! In this section, we have compiled some of the most commonly asked questions about the best hikes in Jasper National Park.
Where is the best hike in Jasper with view?
Once you reach the summit of the Sulphur Skyline, you will have panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.
What is the hardest hike in Jasper?
Perhaps the hardest hike in Jasper would be the Skyline Trial, owing to its length and difficulty of terrain.
Do you need bear spray in Jasper?
Yes. There are bears in Jasper National Park and so it is recommended that you carry bear spray with you at all times during your hike.
How many days do you need at Jasper National Park?
To get the most out of Jasper National Park and the surrounding area, we would recommend around 3-5 days in total would suffice.
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