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The Whistlers Trail

Jasper National Park

The alternative to riding the SkyTram is hiking up Whistlers Peak.

Hiking Difficult

Distance
12 km
Ascent
1 km
Descent
1 km
Duration
4-5 hrs
Low Point
1.2 km
High Point
2.3 km
Gradient
15˚
The Whistlers Trail Map

The Jasper SkyTram takes paying passengers to the Summit Restaurant on Whistlers Peak, but the free alternative is hiking the trail from the bottom. The benefits are a great workout and truly earning your views at the top, and you can still enjoy a meal or drink at the restaurant once you reach it.

Description

The hike begins from a trailhead along the road that leads to the tram. The trail goes immediately uphill, maintaining a fairly steady climb with frequent switchbacks. It is mostly in the forest with a good amount of shade, but occasionally crosses rocky, open areas. The middle third of the trail is less steep, as it traverses the mountainside and passes beneath the tramline. It steepens again, though, to climb through an alpine basin where the trees thin out and views become quite spectacular. A final stretch of very steep switchbacks break above timberline and make the final push to the ridge, with the tram terminal and restaurant.

Once there, you’ll likely share the view with many other people. Despite the crowds, it’s definitely worth the extra distance to hike to the Whistlers Peak Summit, for a 360-degree panorama of Jasper National Park. To return, you can ride the tram instead of hiking down, but may still have to purchase the ticket.

Source: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/activ-experience/sentiers-trails/ouest-west

Difficulty

Difficult

Hiking trails where obstacles such as rocks or roots are prevalent. Some obstacles can require care to step over or around. At times, the trail can be worn and eroded. The grade of the trail is generally quite steep, and can often lead to strenuous hiking.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between June and September

Features

  • Alpine
  • Wildlife
  • Picturesque
  • Summit Hike
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Forestry or heavy vegetation

Similar routes nearby

Guidebooks in this area