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    Hikes/Canada/Alberta/Banff National Park

    Mistaya Canyon

    Difficulty
    This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
    Very Easy
    Duration
    This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
    0.5-1h
    Distance
    This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
    1.8 km
    Elevation
    This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
    79 m
    User Ratings
    These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
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    Mistaya Canyon Hike

    Mistaya Canyon is a less frequented trail along the Icefields Parkway. Easily missed, this short yet unforgettable trail is a wonderful way to take a break when driving the scenic route between Banff and Jasper. It is an accessible and family-friendly loop that will make you feel like you are deep in the wilderness rather than steps from the car.

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    Route Description for Mistaya Canyon

    Mistaya Canyon is a very short and not often visited loop at the edge of Banff National Park. It is easily missed or completely ignored by those seeking grand viewpoints along the Icefields Parkway. Although it is slightly off the radar, it is worth the stop! It is the perfect place to stretch, enjoy some wilderness, and move your legs outside of the car.

    The Mistaya River flows out of Peyto Lake all the way to the canyon here before joining the Saskatchewan River. You’ll see signs of past water levels and swirling patterns that erode the limestone walls of the canyon into uniquely polished shapes.

    Leaving the parking lot, you will travel on a gravel path to the canyon and river. Follow the path to the bridge and enjoy breathtaking views while the power of the rushing water fills the canyon. There are many photo opportunities here, so bring your camera!

    Insider Hints for Mistaya Canyon

    • Watch for the parking lot, it is easy to miss
    • Don’t forget your camera!

    Getting to the Mistaya Canyon Trailhead

    From Banff, take the Trans-Canada Highway westbound until you reach the junction for the Icefields Parkway 93N Highway. Take this exit merging onto the 93 and continue. You will travel 130.0 km from Banff before reaching the Mistaya Canyon parking lot on the left side. From Jasper, travel 158.0 km south on the Icefields Parkway and take a right into the parking lot just after Saskatchewan Crossing.

    Route Information

    • When to do

      May-October

    • Backcountry Campsites

      No

    • Pets allowed

      Yes - On Leash

    • Family friendly

      Yes

    • Route Signage

      Average

    • Crowd Levels

      Moderate

    • Route Type

      Circuit

    Mistaya Canyon Elevation Graph

    Weather Forecast

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