Outbound Collective logo

Explore Maligne Canyon

Jasper, Alberta

4.6/5
based on 5 reviews

Description

Added by Jonathan Sinclair

Duration: 6km roundtrip from 6th Bridge. Maligne Canyon is one of the deepest river canyons found in the Canadian Rockies. Largest karst springs known in Canada.

This canyon, although spectacular during the spring and summer as water thrashes through the canyons, should be explored in the off-season (mid-fall to late spring) to avoid masses of tourists. In addition to it being quieter, when the water levels recede, unique geological formations can be seen like water seeping out of rock walls, alternating sections of running water and dry river bed, water that disappears underground.

To get to the trail head, from the Town of Jasper, travel on Highway 16 towards Edmonton 1.8 km past the east Jasper exit to the Maligne Lake Road. On the Maligne Lake road travel 2.1 km and then turn left at the Sixth Bridge sign. From the parking lot, which has toilets, and picnic areas, walk across the bridge and turn right on Maligne Canyon Trail (Trail #7). From this part of the hike, the elevation gain is approximately 110m, so allow around 3+ hours return, and more if you want to photograph and explore all the hidden areas. The trail runs upstream along the Maligne River towards the Canyon. Along the the trail you can see several underground creeks surface and enter into the Maligne River. Follow the trail until it starts heading downhill into the canyon and continue walking until the canyon narrows. At this part of the hike, the area is fenced with steel guards for safety. Do not climb over the guard rail as falling into the canyon can be fatal and the rocks are extremely slippery. The largest waterfalls are located above third bridge.

From first bridge, to return to the parking lot and get away from the crowded canyon areas, hike on Trail #7h for 1.6km until it reconnects with Trail #7. The hike is 6km return and brings you through forests, canyons, and hills sides, and offers spectacular sights.

Read More

Download the Outbound mobile app

Find adventures and camping on the go, share photos, use GPX tracks, and download maps for offline use.

Get the app

Features

Photography
Hiking
Bathrooms
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Picnic Area
River
Scenic
Waterfall
Wildlife

Explore Maligne Canyon Reviews

A great walk\hike for just about anyone. Super family friendly, and beautiful views. Super busy and popular place, come early to beat the crowds!

We hiked this while exploring Jasper, we hiked down along the canyon and then one of the higher trails back which also give some descent views.

My friends and I went to Malgine Canyon to walk/hike in it while it is frozen and let me tell you it was AMAZING! So neat being able to walk on a frozen river in a huge canyon. Do it if you can!

A fantastic walk around with a lot to see. Make sure you bring traction aids to navigate the blue ice in the canyon.

This was an incredible spot to photograph with mist coming up from the canyon and beams of light blasting through it.

Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Explore Edith Lake in Jasper National Park

Explore Lake Annette in Jasper National Park

Explore Pyramid Lake

Capture the Northern Lights at Patricia Lake

Kayak Patricia Lake

Fat Bike along the Athabasca River