Hiking Maligne Canyon - panoramic view
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Hiking in Maligne Canyon: trails, map and practical info

Canadian Rockies • Alberta

4.7 Appreciated by 59 hikers
François Dumaine
By François Dumaine • Contributor since 2022 • Updated 20/06/2026
Ready to go See map
Difficulty
Moderate
Distance
4 km
Elevation
50 ft
Duration
1h30
Max altitude
1,372 ft

Explore the deepest canyon in the Canadian Rockies near Jasper with this 4.4 km moderate trail featuring six scenic bridges spanning dramatic limestone walls. Allow 1h30 to traverse the gorge's edge, where rushing waterfalls and carved potholes reveal millennia of geological artistry in Alberta's backcountry.

Recommended for :
Intermediate hikers

Ready to explore Maligne Canyon? Here's everything you need to know before you go!

Discover the trail

4 community photos

Trail description

{
"location_distance": "Located in Jasper National Park, this dramatic gorge represents the deepest canyon in the Canadian Rockies, carved over millennia by the persistent flow of the Maligne River.",
"elevation_note": "The elevation gain varies depending on route: approximately 50 meters for the main interpretive loop, or up to 185 meters if extending to the Sixth Bridge."
}

Recommended gear for this trail

LGPO Pick
Elixir Tour Mid WP
Salomon
Elixir Tour Mid WP
4.5 (2847 reviews)
Waterproof mid-height boot ideal for rocky terrain
203.38 $
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Best Value
Trail Ergo Cork
Black Diamond
Trail Ergo Cork
4.4 (1456 reviews)
Comfortable cork grip for long ascents
69.99 $
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Daylite Plus 20L
Osprey
Daylite Plus 20L
4.7 (3215 reviews)
Lightweight and versatile for day hikes
109.99 $
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Actik Core 625
Petzl
Actik Core 625
4.6 (1893 reviews)
USB rechargeable with 600 lumens for early starts
103.95 $
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Most Popular
Wide Mouth 1L
Nalgene
Wide Mouth 1L
4.8 (12540 reviews)
Unbreakable and BPA-free — a hiking essential
23.11 $
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Affiliate links — LGPO may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Ready to go?

Everything you need to know before you go

Where?

Address
Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
GPS coordinates
52.92018879999999, -117.9984631
Phone
(780) 852-6176

Starting Point

The maligne canyon is located in Jasper National Park, Alberta. The easiest way to get there is to drive from Edmonton, Alberta. Take Highway 16 west to Jasper and then follow the signs to the park. Once in the park, drive to the maligne canyon parking lot.

When?

Opening hours
Open 24 hours every day
Varies by season
Best season
Fall
Spectacular colors
Best time
Early morning
Less crowded
Weather (next days)
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How much?

Entry fees
Adult
Not available
Child
—
What to bring?
Gear
Download the PDF checklist
Water & food
2L minimum
No water point on the trail
Bring energy snacks for a 4h+ hike
Good to know
Park rules
No dogs
Safety
Download the GPX before you go
Limited cellular coverage on the trail
Slippery after rain
Be careful on rocky sections
In an emergency
Emergency
911
Parking GPS
52.92018879999999, -117.9984631
Center
(780) 852-6176

Hikers' opinions

4.7
39 Reviews
M
Michael
Nov 15, 2025
This canyon hike in Jasper National Park offers stunning scenery with multiple bridge crossings that let you customize your route length. The moderate difficulty is manageable for most visitors, though the return journey involves climbing back up with 50m elevation gain. Trail signage could be clearer in some sections, but the natural beauty makes it well worth the visit.
M
Marcus
Nov 15, 2025
This canyon hike in Jasper National Park offers stunning natural beauty with multiple bridge crossings that let you customize your route length. The moderate difficulty is appropriate for most fitness levels, though the return journey involves uphill climbing. The scenery and waterfall views make it a worthwhile destination, especially if you arrive early to avoid afternoon crowds.
S
Sarah
Nov 15, 2025
This canyon hike in Jasper National Park offers stunning scenery with multiple bridge crossings that let you customize your route length. The moderate difficulty is appropriate for most fitness levels, though the return journey involves climbing back uphill. The trail features beautiful waterfalls and varied viewpoints, making it a worthwhile destination despite the paid access and parking fees.
M
Michael
Nov 15, 2025
This canyon hike in Jasper National Park offers stunning scenery with multiple bridge crossings that let you customize your route length. The moderate difficulty is appropriate for most hikers, though the return journey involves climbing back uphill. Trail signage could be clearer in some sections, but the natural beauty and waterfall views make it well worth visiting.
M
Marcus
Nov 14, 2025
This canyon hike in Jasper National Park offers stunning scenery with multiple bridge crossings that let you customize your route length. The moderate difficulty is manageable for most hikers, though the return journey involves climbing back up. Trail signage could be clearer for navigation, but the natural beauty and varied viewpoints make it well worth visiting.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions

Everything you need to know
Moderate
50.00
1372.00
1h30
No
No
The Maligne Canyon trail has an elevation gain of 50 m, making it a relatively gentle hike in terms of vertical ascent. This modest elevation change, combined with the 4.4 km distance, contributes to the moderate difficulty rating.
Yes, the Maligne Canyon trail is suitable for beginners and those with limited hiking experience, despite its moderate difficulty rating. The short 4.4 km distance, minimal elevation gain of 50 m, and well-maintained path make it accessible to most fitness levels.
The Maligne Canyon trail features stunning canyon viewpoints and multiple bridges that span across the canyon, offering spectacular views of the geological formations and the Maligne River. These scenic highlights make it a popular destination for photography and nature appreciation in Jasper National Park.
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Update : June 2026