Bald Hills

Jasper National Park

Hike from Maligne Lake to a panoramic ridge high above the treeline.

Hiking Moderate

Distance: 14 km
Ascent: 783 m
Descent: 783 m
Duration: 4-5 hrs

Low Point: 1.7 km
High Point: 2.4 km
Gradient: 13˚

This is a popular hike that starts from Maligne Lake and gets way above the trees for some epic views. Beginning on a fire road in thick forest, it isn’t very interesting at first, but keep going and eventually you’ll get to a huge panorama The fire road goes all the way to the ridgeline before turning to a trail, but there’s an opportunity to shorten the uneventful walk on this dirt road by taking a steep trail that goes directly to the ridgeline. This shortcut option is the route mapped here. If you come to the junction and the trail looks too steep, simply stay on the road. It will lengthen your hike by about 1 km each direction but the gradient remains moderate.

Looking over Maligne Lake from Bald Hills Photo: mzagerp

Nearing the timberline on Bald Hills Trail Photo: mzagerp

Steep final climb to the ridgeline Photo: mzagerp

Another view from the Bald Hills Photo: mzagerp

Description

The upper reaches of the hike are through sparse conifers on a carpet of vibrant moss, with views between the trees to Maligne Lake behind you. Soon the trees disappear altogether, and a footpath leads across the rocky, bald ridgeline. Be prepared to encounter snow up here unless it's midsummer. This section is the real reward of the hike, with views over the lake, surrounding peaks, and another valley on the other side. The trail continues all along the ridge, but one distinct summit makes a good turnaround point, where large rocks make good benches and windbreaks. Relax here and take in the view, then return the way you came.

Note that dogs are not allowed on this trail in order to protect caribou habitat.

Sources: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/activ-experience/sentiers-trails http://www.albertawow.com/hikes/BaldHillsHike/BaldHillsHike.htm