Fryatt Valley Backpacking Trail
Fryatt Valley is a 36.8 km out-and-back route that takes backpackers through an incredible and diverse alpine landscape. It is one of Jasper’s crown jewels and offers three camping options and an alpine hut. Groups of all abilities can customize this trip to meet their needs, making this an excellent trip for all.
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Route Description for Fryatt Valley Backpacking Trail
The Fryatt Valley backpacking route takes hikers through the incredible subalpine valley making a 47.8 km round trip. The total distance may seem long, but with three major campgrounds and an alpine hut along the route, it is easy to customize a trip that works for the whole family.
Leaving the trailhead, the trail follows an old fire road to Lower Fryatt campground, where you will spend your first night. This is an easy section of the trail, so don’t be too concerned about getting an early start. Catch views of the Athabasca River Valley as you make your way to the campground. This campground has four tent pads, and is located along Fryatt Creek near a footbridge below Mount Fryatt. This is where the bike access portion of the trail ends.
On day two, pack up camp and prepare for an uphill effort towards Headwall Campground. The route to your second campsite gains 500 m over 7.5 km. You will pass Brussels campground on your way to Headwall Campground, which is your destination for the night. After Brussels campground, travel 2.0 km along the shore of Fryatt Lake until you reach Headwall.
Set up camp and take the optional side trip up the headwall itself to the ACC hut. It is a steep trail that gains 900 m before reaching the Sydney Vallance Hut operated by the Alpine Club of Canada. Enjoy the views of the valley from high above and don’t forget to bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at the hut before returning to camp.
For your final day, enjoy the long descent back to the trailhead. Take in the stunning views with a new perspective as you make your way back to the parking area.
Sample Itinerary:
- Day 1
Trailhead to Lower Fryatt Campground
Distance: 10.9 km
Elevation gain: 153 m
Campground: Lower Fryatt Campground - Day 2
Lower Fryatt to Headwall Campground
Distance: 7.5 km
Elevation gain: 449 m
Campground: Headwall Campground - Day 3
Headwall Campground to Trailhead
Distance: 18.4 km
Elevation gain: 50 m
Campground: N/A
Getting to the Fryatt Valley Backpacking Trail Trailhead
To get to the Fryatt Valley trailhead, head south on Connaught Drive from the town of Jasper merging onto the 93N southbound. Turn onto Highway 93A, and continue until you come across Geraldine Road on your right. Follow this road for two kilometres and find the Fryatt Valley parking area on your left.
Route Information
Fryatt Valley Backpacking Trail Elevation Graph
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