Visiting Sunwapta Falls? Venture Beyond the Viewpoint
Just off the Icefields Parkway, Sunwapta Falls is one of Jasper National Park’s most photographed spots.
“Sunwapta” translates to “turbulent water” in the Stoney language.
The turquoise water from the Athabasca Glacier plunges dramatically through a deep canyon, surrounded by dense forest and jagged peaks. Most visitors stop at the Upper Falls, which are easily accessible from the parking area, but venturing farther reveals quieter, jaw-dropping scenery.
Key Info on Sunwapta Falls:
- From Jasper, it’s 35 miles south.
- There’s no fee to enter, aside from Jasper National Park entry.
- It’s one of the easiest-to-access spots on the Icefields Parkway, but can also be one of the most crowded.
- A lesser-traveled trail beyond the falls viewpoint leads to an even better view!
How to Get to Sunwapta Falls
Sunwapta Falls is located about 34 miles (55 km) south of the town of Jasper, along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93).
The turnoff is well-marked, and parking is available near the Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge, which also offers food, lodging, and restrooms during the summer months.
There are nicely-kept vaulted toilets in the parking lot.
What to Expect at Sunwapta Falls
The main (upper) falls are extremely easy to access. From the parking lot, you walk about 100m downhill to a viewing bridge right over the canyon.
The view from the bridge is stunning, as you look out and down below into the gorge.
The path to the Sunwapta Falls viewpoint is easy, and accessible to all visitors. During peak season, expect a crowd!
The cliffsides are lined with chainlink-style fencing. It’s ugly and obstructs the view, but is there (of course) with safety in mind.
The trail itself is easy to follow. It’s muddy in spring and snowy in winter (and fall).
Visitors have year-round access to Sunwapta, as long as the highway is plowed in the winter.
If you like spots like this, I’d also recommend Mistaya Canyon, farther south along the parkway.
Hike Beyond the Falls to Find Turquoise Water
Beyond the bridge, keep following the trail down the ridgeline.
Eventually, it’ll open up to a gorgeous view below the falls, with that iconic turquoise-colored glacial water.
If you choose the slightly longer option, you’ll encounter far fewer people.
It’s an excellent option if you want to stretch your legs after a long drive along the Icefields Parkway, or enjoy a quieter slice of Jasper’s natural beauty.
Wear sturdy shoes: the path is steep in spots. It can be muddy after rainfall and slick after it snows.
More Turquoise Lakes
If you’re enamoured by the color of the water here, head south toward Peyto Lake (famous for being shaped like a wolf’s head) and also Lake Louise in Banff, with its Big Beehive Trail.
Big Bend Trail
If you have the time, there’s a full-day hike option at Sunwapta, too.
- Distance: 9.7 miles (15.6 km) round trip
- Time: 4–5 hours
- Elevation gain/loss: 876 ft (267 m)
The Big Bend Trail follows an old fire road through forest and meadows to an overlook of the Athabasca Valley. The trail goes to a backcountry campground along the Athabasca River. This route can be hiked or mountain biked.
Weather by Season in the Sunwapta Falls Area
Winters are long, summers are short, and autumns are nearly perfect around Jasper National Park.
Here’s a general guide:
- Spring (April and May): Snow begins melting, and daytime highs range from 45 – 60°F.
- Summer (June through August): The busy season, with highs in the 60s and 70s.
- Fall (September and October): Crisp air and autumn colors create a perfect time to visit. Temperatures drop from the 60s in September to the 40s by late October. Expect at least a dusting of snow by mid-October in Jasper.
- Winter (November through March): The long Alberta winter begins in November, bringing freezing temperatures and plenty of snow. Frozen waterfalls are still beautiful! You’ll need winter tires or chains on your vehicle, and check road conditions before you head out.
Regardless of the season, it’s definitely worth taking the path beyond Sunwapta Falls, and spending some time enjoying the spectacular views of Jasper National Park.
