9 routes · Hiking

Lower Sunwapta Falls
Jasper National Park
View an impressive waterfall in a tight gorge.
Hiking Easy
- Distance
- 2.8 km
- Ascent
- 109 m
- Descent
- 109 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 1.3 km
- High Point
- 1.4 km
- Gradient
- 5˚

Sunwapta Falls is a popular stop along the Icefields Parkway, the road between Banff and Jasper National Parks. Here, the Sunwapta River funnels through some narrow gorges on its way to join the Athabasca River. The Upper Sunwapta Falls is a roadside stop, very easily accessible and thus frequently visited. The Lower Falls, however, is less crowded because you must hike to get there. The trail is not too difficult or lengthy, however, so you can still complete as a quick jaunt, then be on your way to another destination in the national park.
Description
You can briefly visit the upper falls, then continue along the trail to the lower. You’ll hike through a forest that has naturally regrown following a wildfire, now with an abundance of young but tall trees and lush understory. The highlight is, of course, the waterfall, a two-tiered drop with a tumultuous pool between cascades. There are a few good viewpoints, elevated on the rim of the gorge and protected with fences.
Sources: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/itineraires-itineraries/sunwapta https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/activ-experience/sentiers-trails/glaciers-icefields
Difficulty
Easy
Walking along a well-kept trail that’s mostly flat. No obstacles are present.
Best time to visit
Features
- Picturesque
- Dog friendly
- Wild flowers
- Water features
- Family friendly
- Forestry or heavy vegetation