Athabasca Falls may not be the biggest waterfall in Jasper National Park, but few come close to the awe-inspiring force of its cascading water. Fed by the vast glaciers of the Columbia Icefield, the Athabasca River is channelled through a narrow gorge, before plunging down a sheer 23-metre drop. You’ll be amazed at the deafening roar as the water thunders into the river below.
Paved trails through pine forest and meadows lead to the falls. Look out for the many stunning views along the way, with the towering peak of Mount Kerkeslin in the background. Channels carved in the rock by ancient waterways have had steps added to them, allowing you to access both sides of the falls.
Up close, the foaming waters throw up a fine mist that catches the sunlight, creating beautiful rainbows. The falls flow over quartzite rocks, weight-for-weight as strong as steel, before hitting the softer limestone below, carving intricate features and deep potholes. However mesmerising the scene, always make sure you stay behind the safety barriers. The rocks around the waterfall are extremely slippery, and as the many memorials show, this area has already claimed too many victims.
The bridge that crosses the river downstream offers some of the best photo opportunities. You’ll be able to capture the entire drop of the falls, set against the mountains in the background. Depending on what time of year you visit, the water rushing below may appear blue, grey or even milky white.
The town of Jasper lies downstream of Athabasca Falls, and if you feel like a challenge, you can return to the town by riding the Class 2 rapids. White water rafting is extremely popular, so do make sure you book this in advance.
If you’re visiting in the summer months, try and arrive either early in the morning or in the evening to avoid the crowds.
Athabasca Falls are located approximately 30 kilometres south of Jasper, in the upper regions of the Athabasca River. The site is accessible from the Icefields Parkway.
