TRAILMONKEY'S Alberta Hiking Trails

Backcountry opportunities in Jasper National Park are bountiful and vary from short day hikes to longer treks of 10 days or more. Day hiking opportunities are highlighted in the pamphlet titled "Day Hikers' Guide to Jasper National Park", while longer trips are described in the summary below.

SATURDAY NIGHT LAKE LOOP- 27.4 km. Elevation gain 540m. Maximum elevation 1700 m. A good novice trail on a plateau, beginning and ending in the Jasper townsite. The route is all below timberline making it a good selection for the novice or early season hiker. Campsites are at Saturday Night Lake, High Lakes and Minnow Lake. Seasonal fishing in all lakes except Cabin Lake. Map: Jasper 83D/16.

JACQUES LAKE - 12 km one way. Elevation gain 90 m. Maximum elevation 1555 m. A good choice for novice hikers. The trailhead is at the south end of Medicine Lake, 28 km from Jasper townsite. An easy hike, the trail begins with a walk along a fire road for 1.6 km to Beaver Lake. The remaining 10.4 km follow a well-defined trail to the campsite at the far end of Jacques Lake. Camping is not permitted at Beaver Lake. Seasonal fishing in all lakes. Map: Medicine Lake 83C/13.

SECOND GERALDINE LAKE - 6 km one way. Elevation gain 400 m. Maximum elevation 1875 m. Access to the trailhead is from the Geraldine fire road, just north of Athabasca Falls on Highway 93A. The parking area is 6 km up the fire road. The first 2 km of this trail are deceptively easy, travelling along a well defined path to the first of the Geraldine Lakes. Beyond this point, however, the work (and rewards) begin. The trail climbs steeply along a waterfall, across a large boulder field and skirts the edge of a tam (small glacial lake). It continues along an even steeper pitch to a viewpoint. You'll reach the only campsite at the far end of the second lake. Good hiking boots and endurance are absolute requirements for this trip. Map: Athabasca Falls 83C/12. Use of a stove is mandatory.

WATCHTOWER BASIN - 9.8 km one way. Elevation gain 985 m. Maximum elevation 2375 m. Trailhead about 18 km from Jasper townsite on Maligne Road. A relatively steep climb leads to an alpine meadow. Hikers must ford a small creek to reach the campsite. Access to the Skyline Trail is 3.5 km beyond the campsite. Map: Medicine Lake 83C/14.

FORTRESS LAKE - 24.2 km. Elevation gain nil. Maximum elevation 1400 m. Trailhead is at Sunwapta Falls, about 55 km south of the townsite on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). The trail travels along the valley bottom to a bridged crossing of the Athabasca River. Fording of the Chaba River is necessary and can be difficult when the river is high. Maps: Athabasca Falls 83C/12, Fortress Lake 83C/5.

MALIGNE PASS- 48 km. Elevation gain 700 m. Maximum elevation 2240 m. Trailheads are at Maligne Lake (50 km from Jasper townsite) and at km 72 on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). The trail tends to remain wet throughout the season but all major crossings are bridged. The pass area is a lovely alpine meadow, but the remainder of the trail lies in heavy timber. Some horse use. Maps: Sunwapta Peak 83C/6, Southesk Falls 83C/11, Athabasca Falls 83C/12.

SKYLINE - 45km. Elevation gain 1380 m. Maximum elevation 2490 m. Trailheads are at Maligne Lake (50 km from Jasper townsite) and just before Maligne Canyon (about 8 km from Jasper on the Maligne Road). Snow in higher areas may remain until mid-July. While the route passes through some wet and boggy areas, its entire length is very scenic. Since most of the trail is above treeline, firewood is unavailable and use of a stove is mandatory. Maps: Medicine Lake 83c/13, Athabasca Falls 83C/12.

TONQUIN VALLEY - 42 km. Elevation gain 700 m. Maximum elevation 2210 m. Trailheads are at km 12.7 on the Cavell Rd and at km 6.3 on the Marmot Basin Rd. This is a beautiful alpine region although in rainy seasons the trail gets muddy. Use of a stove is mandatory. There are several good day hikes in this area. Seasonal fishing is permitted in Amethyst and Moat Lakes. Regular horse use during July and August can make trails difficult for hikers. Maps: Amethyst Lakes 83D/9, Jasper 83D/16.

FRYATT VALLEY - 20 km one way. Elevation gain 760 m. Maximum elevation 1980 m. Access to the trailhead is via Highway 93A and the Geraldine fire road just north of Athabasca Falls. The trailhead is approximately 2 km up the fire road. The first 10 km are very flat with all of the elevation gain occurring after Fryatt Creek campsite. Camping is not allowed at Fryatt Lake and fishing is poor. Map: Athabasca Falls 83C/12.

FIDDLE RIVER - 25 km one way. Elevation gain 1025 m. Maximum elevation 2120 m. The trail begins behind the old pool building at Miette Hotsprings (60 km from the townsite). It is relatively primitive and has few bridged crossings. Some short sections of trail may be very muddy. Beyond Whitehorse Pass a well-defined trail continues down to a point near Cadomin on the forestry trunk road. Map: Miette 83F/4.

POBOKTAN-BRAZEAU-NIGEL - 80 km - Elevation gain 750 m. Max. elevation 1950 m. Trailheads are 72 km and 112 km south of Jasper townsite on the Icefields Parkway. The trail passes through extensive alpine meadows and two passes. Seasonal fishing may be good in Brazeau Lake. Snow levels may hinder travel until mid-July. Horse traffic. Maps: Sunwapta Peak 83C/6, Columbia Icefield 83C/3.

JONAS PASS - 53 km. Elevation gain 555 m. Maximum elevation 2470 m. Trailheads are the same as for Poboktan-Nigel-Brazeau. This is an impressive hike with over 13 km of travel above treeline. Good views and prime habitat for park wildlife including hoary marmot and mountain caribou. No camping is allowed in Jonas Pass. Campsites are located at the beginning and end of the 20 km pass section. Horse use prohibited. Maps: Sunwapta Peak 83C/6, Columbia Icefield 83C/3.

ATHABASCA PASS - 51 km one way. Elevation gain 560 m. Maximum elevation 1800 m. Access to the trailhead is via Highway 93A south, then follow Moab Lake fire road for 6.4 km. The trail follows the Whirlpool River valley, the traditional route of early fur traders. Large gravel flats and glaciers dominate the scenery in sections. All major crossings are bridged. Some horse traffic. Maps: Athabasca Falls 83C/12, Amethyst Lakes 83D/9, Athabasca Pass 83D/8.

NORTH BOUNDARY - 192 km. Elevation gain 1055 m. Maximum elevation 2019 m. Trailheads are at Celestine Lake parking lot (limited access), 53 km from Jasper townsite, and at Mount Robson, 88 km west on Highway 16. The trail is well marked and all major river crossings are bridged. A variety of side trips are possible. Some horse traffic. Maps: Snaring 83E/l, Rock Lake 83E/8, Blue Creek 83E/7, Twintree Lake 83E/6, Mt. Robson 83E/3.

SOUTH BOUNDARY - 176 km. Elevation gain 790 m. Maximum elevation 2255 m. Trailheads are at Medicine Lake (28 km from townsite) on the Maligne Rd and at Camp Parker (112 km from townsite) on the Icefields Parkway. The trail is well marked and most major crossings are bridged. A few side trips are possible. Maps: Columbia Icefield 83C/3, Sunwapta Peak 83C/6, Job Creek 83C/7, George Creek 83C/10, Southesk 83C/11, Mountain Park 83C/14, Medicine Lake 83C/13.

The following trails are all close to the town of Jasper. Most trailheads can be reached by walking, cycling or driving.

If you decide to hike the whole circuit, this trail is an overnight trip or a very long day hike. However, if you are looking for a short hike to a backcountry lake within walking distance of the townsite, you can travel a portion of this circuit in either direction.

Trailheads: There are two: The parking lot opposite the town pool (see B on map): or the parking lot in the west end of town just before the Cabin Creek West subdivision (see A on map).

Profile: (*From trailhead B) This trail loops through one of the lake districts on Pyramid Bench beginning with a climb to the left across a steep slope. It then widens and leads to the Cabin Lake Fireroad and up to Cabin Lake. The trail skirts the north shoreline of the lake, then passes a series of swamps in the valley below before reaching the Saturday Night Lake trail junction at km 8.8. The path to the lake is a moderate 0.5 km climb.

The main trail continues on through a number of small hills and valleys interspersed with low boggy areas. At the High Lakes junction (km13.4) a short path leads to the campsite at High Lakes.

The main trail continues along the plateau and then descends quite steeply to the Minnow Lake junction at km 17.6. The lake is 0.8 km northwest of the junction.

The remainder of the trail follows a gentle downhill grade, passing Caledonia Lake at 22.4, the junction to Hibernia Lake at km 24 and Marjorie Lake, just past km 24.6. Another 2.6 km brings you to the end of the trail beside the Cabin Creek West subdivision. Trail

Note: Camping is allowed only at primitive campsites at Saturday Night Lake, High Lakes, and Minnow Lake and a mandatory Park Use Permit is required. Check with the Trail Office. In season, trout fishing is possible in all lakes except Cabin, which is the source of the townsite's water supply.

Old Fort Point Loop # 1-1A (Old Fort Exit. Connaught Drive/93A; Not signed, look for controlled railway crossing at Hazel Ave.)

Trailhead: Use the Old Fort Exit and follow 93A crossing the railway tracks and Highway 16 (caution: uncontrolled intersection). Continue until you come to the Old Fort Point/Lac Beavuvert turnoff. Turn left and follow the road to the parking lot just beyond the bridge (Trailhead G on the map). Use the parking lot on the right. Total distance to trailhead: 1.6 km.

Profile: This short, moderately steep trail is ideal for hikers interested in both the human and the natural history of the park. The name "Old Fort" probably refers to "Henry House" a Northwest Company Trading Post which was located further downstream. One can imagine fur traders and Company men in the area climbing up the Old Fort Point for a bird's eye view of the valley. Just above lies the confluence of Miette and Athabasca Rivers: important routes during the fur trade era. From the parking lot, climb the steep staircase to your right, past the stone cairn to where the trail forks. The branch to the left climbs to the top of the knoll. (The right hand branch follows the Athabasca River and eventually joins the Valley of the Five lakes trail (#9) approximately 10 km away). The view from the top is a rewarding sweep from Mount Edith Cavell in the south, to Mount Bridgland, the Victoria Cross Range, the limestone front ranges, Jasper townsite, Jasper Park Lodge and the surrounding lakes. Bighorn sheep frequent this area. The trail descends gradually to the 1A junction. From this point, the left branch takes you back to the parking area along the north side of the hill. The right branch leads to the Valley of the Five Lakes trail.

The Whistlers #5(Connaught West, Connaught Drive/Icefields Parkway 93/Highway 16)

Trailhead: Use the Connaught West Exit and travel 1.8 km south on the Icefields Parkway, #93. Turn right onto Whistler Mountain Road and travel 2.8 km to a gravel access road just before the Whistler Hostel. Turn left to the trailhead parking area just beyond. Trailhead J on the map.

Profile: This is an uphill hike that requires good physical condition and stamina. The trail climbs approximately 1200 m vertical, but the effort is well rewarded by the panoramic views of the Miette and Athabasca River Valleys from the summit. Along the way the route passes through three major life zones of the park - mountain forest in the valley bottoms, subalpine forest on the mid-slopes and, near the summit alpine tundra. Each is characterized by its own plants and animals which are well represented along the trail.

The trail begins with a series of long switchbacks bordered by dense vegetation and, in season, beautiful summer flowers. It then turns toward the Tramway and crosses under the cable, downslope from the midpoint tower. Tree growth becomes sparse as the trail ascends into a large basin and eventually up to the Tramway's upper terminal. From there, a much wider, self-guiding interpretive trail continues on to the mountain's summit.

Trail Note: Drinking water may be scarce along this trail so carry a supply.

Valley of the Five Lakes #9 (Connaught West, Connaught Drive/Icefields Parkway 93/Highway 16)

Most people choose to hike just the Five Lakes portion of this lengthy trail. The description which follows covers this section only. If you are interested in more information on the section from the Old Fort Point trail #1 or the section connecting to Wabasso lake, check with the park staff at the Trail Office.

Trailhead: Use the Connaught West Exit and continue for 9 km on the Icefields Parkway to Trailhead K on map.

Profile: This trail offers a variety of features - rolling hills, forests, meadows, marshes, streams and five beautiful lakes. If you're observant and tread lightly, you will also detect signs of mule deer, elk, beaver, bear, coyote and squirrels. The lakes are the highlight however and the trail skirts all five. Look for picnic spots at lakeside; some equipped with firegrates and picnic tables.

The trail begins with a leisurely walk through lodgepole pine forest continuing across a boardwalk and, after crossing the trail leading to Old Fort Point, steadily climbing a ridge at km 1. The views from this ridge are surprisingly good with Mount Edith Cavell figuring prominently across the valley. The trail continues down into the lakes area from this point. Turn left at the first junction and continue along the trail as it leads between the first and second lakes.

Note: At the junction just beyond, turn right to complete the circuit. A left turn would lead you toward the town of Jasper via the Old Fort Point trail.

The Landscape

The mountains of Banff National Park exist as part of a greater region referred to as the Central Rockies Ecosystem which consist of the Western Ranges, the Main Ranges, the Front Ranges and the Foothills. It is primarily the Front and Main Ranges that are found in Banff. The mountains of the Front Ranges extend from BNP’s most eastern border until just east of Castle Mountain, they are typically characterized by jagged and broken rocks forming a shingle-like appearance as in the case of the Sawback Range. The Main Ranges, the highest in the Canadian Rockies, straddle the continental divide and extend from (and including) Castle Mountain from the east to the provincial border with British Columbia to the West. It is amongst these mountains typically, where most of the glaciers in the park are located.

The wildlife and vegetation carpeting this foundation is just as rich and varied. The three main ecozones that exist in the park are the montane, subalpine and alpine. The montane zone (smallest of the three) is found at lower elevations in valley bottoms or on dry southwest facing slopes at slightly higher elevations. Because of it’s abundance in vegetation an wildlife, it plays a crucial role in survival of many species. The subalpine zone (largest of the three) exists from valley bottoms to timberline. The alpine zone is found at higher elevations above timberline.

The Trail System

Although BNP covers a vast area, some parts of the park are more heavily used than others, including the backcountry. That is why the park is subdivided internally to better manage areas in terms of visitor use, and wildlife conservation. The trail system in this respect, varies from region to region within the park. For instance; in areas more heavily used, campers are required to stay at designated campgrounds, trails are better maintained, contain bridged river crossings, campgrounds contain; food storage cables, tables, privies, and fire rings (where fires are permitted). In remote regions, random camping is permitted (certain restrictions apply), no facilities are provided, and expert route finding skills are required.

The Season

Hiking and camping can normally be undertaken from mid-May to mid-October. From mid-May to late-June many passes are still snow-bound with most trails being accessible only at lower elevations. Water levels are also at their highest due to spring run-off. Beware of ticks in dry slopes where ungulates congregate. Trails generally tend to be muddier at this time with spring melt, and June being the month to receive the greatest volume of precipitation. Towards the middle of July passes should be open. Watch out for berry patches during August, particularly buffalo berry which is a major food source for bears. Extreme caution should be used when traveling through these areas. From September to mid-October although dryer, temperatures are lower with greater chances of snowfall occurring, particularly at higher elevation. Regardless of what time of year, prepare for all-season travel. You may just wake up to find yourself under a carpet of snow in mid-August!

Safety

Your safety is your personal responsibility. Caution and self-reliance are essential, along with a knowledge of natural hazards, experience in avoiding them and successfully dealing with them when they happen. Pick trips that reflect your level of ability, working towards more challenging expeditions gradually.

Although no one can completely know what to expect in the backcountry, following is a list of circumstances or hazards one should prepare for. It is meant as a guideline and further research into them and backcountry travel is strongly advised.

Preparation from Home

1) Research - Knowing what to expect while travelling in the backcountry will help you deal with situations calmly and intelligently. Choose several trails or routes in case you need to change your plans because of adverse trail conditions or closures. There are several guides specific to hiking in Banff National Park that are excellent resources for planning your trip.

2) Permits - You are required to have a Personal Use Permit, Wilderness Pass and any other permits required BEFORE you travel into the backcountry. The funds collected from the Wilderness Pass and other permits are crucial to the continued maintenance and provision of services associated with them.

3) Backcountry Regulations & Minimum Impact Camping - Regulations applying to backcountry use are designed to protect the park visitor as well as the park. Onus is placed upon the visitor to be familiar with these regulations.

4) Reservations - Although few in numbers, some backcountry campgrounds as well as the Egypt and Bryant Huts, operate on a quota system to help reduce the human impact on an area. Check to make sure if your route contains one so as to make appropriate arrangements and avoid disappointment.

5) Topographic Maps & Compass - Learn how to use these before arriving. Trail conditions can vary greatly from one area of the park to another. In more remote areas of the park trails are much less defined demanding expert route finding skills. Adverse weather conditions can also alter the landscape unexpectedly, requiring you to find your own way to safety, regardless of where you are in the backcountry. Purchase maps now from the Friends of Banff to give yourself plenty of time to plan your route.

6) Equipment - Having proper equipment is essential for comfort and safety. Be diligent with research for this list. If you don’t have all the gear or don’t want to bring all of it out, rentals are available in town for a number of items. Contact the Tourism Bureau for rental details.

7) Getting to Trailheads - Although the town of Banff is abundant with services, do not rely on having easy access to trailheads. Many visitors to the Information Centres have to delay departure because they have no readily available and/or affordable access to trailheads. Inquire with visitor centre staff as well as researching through guide books to help you make arrangements for this, and/or to work in extra costs.

8) Groceries - There are several large grocery shops in Banff to purchase supplies, a smaller shop in the town of Canmore (30 kms east of Banff) also sells bulk dry-goods.

9) Physical & Mental Conditioning - Get into shape, and build your endurance. If you’ve never carried a heavy pack before, you may want to look at short trips to build up experience and strength. Differences in elevation and climate can alter your performance, you may wish to take a day or two to acclimatize before heading out on the trail.

Once You Arrive

Upon arrival you will need to purchase your permits, adjust to elevation changes, pick-up any supplies, go over your plan, and update yourself on the latest conditions for backcountry travel.

1) Visitor Centre - There are two in Banff National Park, one in the townsite of Banff and the other in the village of Lake Louise. Check to find out hours of operation and exact location.

2) Weather Forecast - In the mountainous region of Banff National Park, weather changes quickly and is difficult to predict. Snow and freezing temperatures occur even in midsummer, particularly at higher elevations. Heavy rainfalls may make river crossings difficult etc. The forecast may severely alter your plans, make sure you get the latest update.

3) Trail Conditions - This factor will also influence your decision on whether to forge ahead with your current itinerary.

4) Warnings & Closures - Some trails are closed due to wildlife conservation, animal activity, or natural hazards like fire. Some trails may not be closed but have warnings placed upon them for similar reasons that require extra caution when traveling on them. Where Warnings are in effect, we strongly recommend choosing an alternate route.

5) Safety Registrations - If you do not have anyone to check-in with in the immediate area, you may want to make use of this service. The registration is voluntary and is available at no extra charge. What is required: Route plan and itinerary of campsites (and potential campsites), alternative routes, colour & style of tent and packs, colour/make & license plate number of vehicle at trailhead (if using one), departure & return dates, contact person(s) in case of emergency

Camping Banff National Park

Campgrounds in Banff National Park are on a first come, first serve basis. Check out time is 11 a.m., so drop by then and you will have a good chance at getting a site.

Tunnel Mountain Campground

2.4 km from Banff. Situated close to Banff on Tunnel Mountain, within walking distance (or trolly distance) of downtown Banff. Services, such as food, laundry and a waterslide are close by. There are 321 full service sites in the Trailer Court, 188 power only, sites in Village II, plus 618 non-serviced sites in Village I (4km from Banff). There is an unbelievable view of the valley, hoodoos, and the Banff Springs Golf course. Tunnel Mtn. Village II is open year round.

Two Jack Main Campground

12 km from Banff. Camp in the wilderness, beautiful wooded area, secluded campsites (381), lots of wildlife. Situated on the scenic Minnewanka Lake loop drive. Explore the ruins of Bankhead, sheep in the area may be on the roadways, so drive with care. Flush toilets, no showers. Kitchen shelters available.

Two Jack Lakeside Campground

Right across the road is a small (74) site campground. Awake to the sound of water flowing and birds cooing. Showers available.

Castle Mountain Campground

34 km from Banff. 43 sites in a beautifully wooded area. Close to a small store, gas bar and restaurant. Flush toilets, no showers, kitchen shelters.

Protection Mountain Campground

48 km from Banff. 89 sites, great area for hiking, lots of wildlife. No showers. Flush toilets.

Johnston's Canyon Campground

25 km from Banff. Across from Johnston's Canyon is a picturesque campground of 132 sites. A creek flows nearby and the scenery is awesome. Take a walk up Johnston Canyon, and view the two waterfalls. Lots of wildlife in the area. Take the scenic route from Banff for wildlife sightings. Showers available.

Lake Louise Campground

58 km. from Banff. 189 drive-thru R.V. sites with electric hook-up and 216 unserviced sites in the jewel of the Rockies. Try the scenic route from Banff, past Johnston Canyon on the Bow Valley Parkway. The Campground is 1 km. from Lake Louise village and 4 km. from the Lake. NO showers.

Mosquito Creek Campground

24 km North of Lake Louise. 32 sites, see the sandstone cliffs of Bow Peak. The rugged cliffs of Mount Hector dominate the southeast skyline. Pit toilets, no showers. Open all year.

Waterfowl Lake Campground

57 kn North of Lake Louise. 116 sites, the bubbling Mistaya River enters Waterfowl Lake. A trail leads to Cirque and Chephren lakes for great hiking. Flush toilets, no showers.

Rampart Creek

88 km North of Lake Louise. A small campground with 50 sites on the way to the Columbia Icefield. Great area for viewing wildlife, scenic grandeur. Pit toilets, no showers.

Campgrounds	Open	Power, Water, Sewage	Electric	Primitive	Shower	Fee * $3 Fire Permit
Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court	May 9 -Sept29	322			Shower	$22.00
Tunnel Mountain Village I	May 9 -Sept29				Shower	$16.00 *
Tunnel Mountain Village II	YEAR ROUND		189		Shower	$19.00
Two Jack Main	May16 -Sept 2					$13.00 *
Two Jack Lakeside	May16 -Sept 22				Shower	$16.00 *
Johnston Canyon	May30 -Sept22				Shower	$16.00 *
Castle Mountain	June20 -Sept 2					$13.00 *
Protection Mountain	June20 -Sept 2					$13.00 *
Lake Louise Trailer	YEAR ROUND		189			$18.00
Lake Louise Tent	May16 -Sept29					$14.00 *
Mosquito Creek	YEAR ROUND			32		$10.00 *
Waterfowl	June13 -Sept22					$13.00 *
Rampart Creek	June20 -Sept 2			50		$10.00 *

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