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Jasper National Park, Alberta

Looking for the best backpacking in Jasper National Park? We've got you covered with the top trails, trips, hiking, backpacking, camping and more around Jasper National Park. The detailed guides, photos, and reviews are all submitted by the Outbound community.

Top Backpacking Spots in and near Jasper National Park

  • Improvement District No. 12, Alberta

    Backpack the Watchtower Basin

    26.74 mi / 5135 ft gain
    The beginning of the trailhead descends down to the Maligne river where hikers have to rock hop due to the bridge being washed away in 2012. Soon after the river the elevation steadily climbs through dense forest. After about 20 minutes the forest opens into the charred aftermath of the Excelsior...
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  • Jasper, Alberta

    Hike the Saturday Night Loop

    4.0
    16.54 mi / 2326 ft gain
    The trail is split up into three types of terrain: one-third uphill, one-third rugged, and one-third downhill. Begin at Cabin Creek Rd parking lot and follow Trailhead #3. If you plan on mountain biking the trail, most people do it in a day. If you happen to want to take longer or are hiking it,...
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  • Jasper, Alberta

    Cross-Country Ski to HI-Mount Cavell Hostel

    14.4 mi / 1000 ft gain
    The trek is 11.6km one way to HI-Mount Cavell Hostel and can be done on classic or skate skis. Be ready for a workout as this breathtaking ski (in more ways than one) has an elevation gain of 1,000ft. Make sure you've done your homework on current avalanche conditions and have the proper gear pac...
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  • Jasper, Alberta

    Backpack the Tonquin Valley

    5.0
    43.5 mi / 1640.4 ft gain
    The Tonquin Valley is well known for its strong grizzly bear population. If you plan on tackling this hike check bear warnings prior to leaving and always keep a can of bear spray easily accessible.It also is recommended that hikers wait till late summer or early autumn to complete this hike. Ear...
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  • Improvement District No. 12, Alberta

    Snowshoe to Jaques Lake Campground

    16.2 mi / 147.6 ft gain
    The Jacques Lake trail is one of the best winter trails in Jasper National Park and allows for various activities including snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and camping. The trip to Jacques lake is 13km one-way through a narrow mountain valley and can be quite a strenuous, but rewarding hike in...
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  • Jasper, Alberta

    Hike to Geraldine Lakes

    7.7 mi / 1340 ft gain
    Geraldine Lakes is one of the more physically demanding half-day/day trails in Jasper National Park. However, this hike rewards you with everything that makes the Canadian Rockies wonderful, with views of pristine lakes, cascading waterfalls, and mountain vistas.The first 1.8km to Lower Geraldine...
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  • Improvement District No. 12, Alberta

    Backpack the Skyline Trail

    4.0
    28 mi
    This hike can be done from either end, but the most popular route is starting from south side (Malign Lake trailhead), and I would recommend starting it from this trailhead to avoid a long climb up the fire road at the other trailhead. If you don't have a car, you can take the Malign Shuttle from...
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  • Improvement District No. 12, Alberta

    Hike the Sulphur Skyline Trail

    4.7
    5 mi / 2296.6 ft gain
    Take Highway 16 to Pocahontas. Turn onto the Miette Hot Springs Road (Pocahontas). Drive to the Miette Hot Springs parking area.The trailhead is to the right and behind the hot springs building. Walk up the stairs to the hot springs and through the passenger drop off loop drive. Don't be confused...
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  • Jasper, Alberta

    Snowshoe to Big Bend Campground

    10.9 mi
    The Big Bend Trail is the first part of the greater Fortress Lake trail system. Situated in Jasper National Park, Canada, this hike is extremely quiet during the winter, so if you're looking for seclusion, this winter trail is for you. The trail is transformed into a wonderland during the winter ...
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