Valley of the Five Lakes
- Physical DifficultyThis 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.
- Technical DifficultyThis 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.
The Valley of the Five Lakes hike is an easy, enjoyable hike in Jasper that leads to five different stunning alpine lakes. The vibrant greens and blues of the water make each lake better than the next, and the whole family can enjoy the views without too much of a challenge.
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Route Description for Valley of the Five Lakes
The Valley of the Five Lakes hike is not especially challenging, but there are some steeper sections where holding the hands of young children may be required. Bears frequent the area in spring because of the berry bushes, so take all necessary precautions.
This beautiful hike features five pristine lakes in deep jade and blue, which are an awe-inspiring sight under the surrounding mountain peaks. You’ll begin from the parking lot, following the wide path that leads through the forest.
Continue through the forest on the obvious trail, eventually crossing over the Wabasso Creek Bridge. Shortly after, you’ll start to ascend switchbacks that were added to the trail in 2017 to make this section less steep. There are still sections where you’ll cross small to midsize boulders on the path, so watch your footing.
When you reach the junction, we recommend going clockwise. You’ll quickly reach the first lake. Note that the view is most limited here, so don’t feel like you need to linger before continuing along to the second lake. It gets better and better from here, as the third and fourth are considered to be the most beautiful. Have your camera ready!
The trail reaches the junction once again after the fifth lake. Follow the switchbacks down, cross the creek bridge, and continue through the forest until you reach the parking lot.
Insider Hints for Valley of the Five Lakes
- Bring a picnic and enjoy a meal on a grassy stretch by one of the lakes.
- Start early, as Valley of the Five Lakes is a very popular hike in Jasper.
Getting to the Valley of the Five Lakes Trailhead
From Jasper, take Highway 93 south for just under 9.0 km. The trailhead parking will be obvious on your left.
Route Information
Valley of the Five Lakes Elevation Graph
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