The Best Hiking in Improvement District No. 12

Views of the Columbia Icefield from the Icefields Parkway pale in comparison with those achieved along this trail. Few trails anywhere are so instantly and extravagantly gratifying. That being said, be prepared to share the trail with a dozen other hikers as this premier scenery is no secret.Begi...

The Icefields Parkway is without a doubt one of the most beautiful drives in the world. Just off the road, you’ll find one of Jasper’s hidden gems where you can explore this stunning ice cave. Venture inside (with extreme caution) to marvel at the brilliant blue walls and admire epic views of the...

This is not an advertisement for the guided tour, but you will see so much more of the glacier than if you do a bus tour or just visit the roped off visitor area. Do you research and you can find a company that will take you up onto the glacier safely. It was amazing looking into the crevasses an...

While the drive from Banff to Jasper on the Icefields Parkway is astoundingly beautiful, it's long enough to make even the most seasoned roadwarrior crave the chance to stretch their legs.  At almost the exact halfway point on the lengthy drive lies Parker Ridge, a short but fairly steep hike rig...

The Saskatchewan Glacier is usually seen from above, on Parker's Ridge, but this much quieter trail will give you access to the very base of the glacier. Though much longer than the famous Parker's Ridge, this trail is easy and meanders through morraines and forest before reaching the toe of the ...

Hiking up Beauty Creek to Stanley Falls is a must do summer activity for all those who love waterfalls. In the winter, this canyon gets transformed into a magical winter wonderland full of interesting ice formations. The creek and falls freeze over, but open holes of flowing water are easily foun...

This is an amazing hike takes you through the beautiful Sunset Meadows to a towering scramble of Mount Coleman. The 10,000ft peak offers up a challenging scrambling section for a rewarding view of Banff National Park.The trailhead is at the Sunset Pass/Pinto Lake Trailhead. Follow Highway 93, Ice...

Trailhead Owen Creek located by the East Banff National Park Boundary on the David Thompson Highway (#11). There is no sign for Owen Creek so keep you eyes open for a pullout approximately 2kms east of the Banff National Park toll gate. You will find the trail to the right of the creek when facin...

Starting 105 miles (169kms) from Rocky Mountain House, the trailhead for this hike begins across the highway from Thompson Creek Campground. There is a grassy area to park and the path extends obviously on the east side of the creek. The initial 2.5 miles (4.2kms) meanders along the creek with 2...

This short, but steep hike includes a moderate scrambling section, leading to an open spine that becomes increasingly difficult. The views of Abraham Lake are well worth the uphill grind, however, and this makes for a great half-day or beautiful backcountry overnight trip. About one third of the...

The trail is steep from the very beginning, which offers rewarding views from the get go. There is moderate scrambling throughout the hike up, which requires the use of hands and some minor route finding at times. Once you reach the top of Windy Point Ridge, you can continue on northeast towards ...

Clearly visible from the highway, the Twin Peaks of Ernest Ross get their namesake from the man who first drove a 1930 Ford Roadster between Rocky Mountain House and Saskatchewan River Crossing.After a 5 minute walk along the north bank of Bridge Creek, the hike begins to pick up elevation. A str...

194km West of Rocky Mountain House, the trail head is marked by a small brown sign, with parking available across the highway on Abraham Lake. Very easy to follow the trail, no scramble sections but definitely a steady incline.  Near the lake there will be a fork in the trail, head left to hike d...

Approximately 93 miles (150kms) West of Rocky Mountain House along Highway 11, the trailhead begins at the Siffleur Falls Day Use Area. This spot offers restrooms and picnic tables to relax after your hike. Begin by following the trail along the North Saskatchewan River. Cross the very long susp...

Bald Hills is a destination that exudes what Jasper is all about. With views of Maligne Lake, the Queen Elizabeth Ranges, glaciers, forest and alpine meadowlands, it is a feast for the eyes.An early start is advisable to beat the heat and the tourist during the busy summer season. Bring plenty of...

Hike a beautiful, and very well used trail to the gorgeous Moose Lake, where Moose visit quite a bit, hence the name 'Moose Lake.' (Biking the Loop is not allowed.) The trail itself is about a 2.7 kilometer loop, and is accessed through driving to Maligne lake. To access the trail head, "pass by ...