Athabasca Falls

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.
0.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
1.5 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.
25 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
9.7
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Views from the Athabasca Falls hike in Jasper National Park

A walk along Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park is a great family-friendly hike. See one of the most powerful and spectacular waterfalls in Jasper as well as get great views along the Athabasca River.

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Route Description for Athabasca Falls

From the hiker’s left of the parking lot you will find the trailhead to the Athabasca Falls walk. There are many routes you can take to explore Athabasca Falls, all of which grant a unique view.

Start off along the path and come to a bridge. This bridge goes right over Athabasca Falls and give stunning views of Mt. Kerkeslin. Note that the rocks and railing along the trail can get a lot of mist, and subsequently be very slippery. Never climb on them.

From the other end of the bridge you can turn left and go up along the mighty Athabasca River or go right and get more views of the canyon. The trail going up to the river continues to boast excellent views of Brussels Peak and other mountains that extend beyond upriver.

Continuing down river experience the scenery of the stunning canyon that extends for 200 m beyond Athabasca Falls. There are several options on the trail. The scenic viewpoints include sights directly of the canyon, a neat inkpot, and down the river to the Watchtower and other peaks.

Insider Hints for Athabasca Falls

  • Perhaps the best HI Wilderness hostel is HI Athabasca Falls.  This new hostel has a wonderful common area and a couple of family rooms, which are private.  Highly recommended.
  • While Athabasca Falls is just off of the 93N highway, we love the slow drive on the 93A.  You’re more likely to see game and the slower speed limit means a more relaxing drive.

Getting to the Athabasca Falls Trailhead

Head south from Jasper on Highway 93 for just over 30.0 km and turn right onto the 93A, in the direction of the Athabasca Falls viewpoint. There is ample parking spread out over a large lot.

Route Information

  • When to do

    May through October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Toilets

    Trailhead

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    High

  • Route Type

    Out and back

Athabasca Falls Elevation Graph

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Athabasca Falls Reviews

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