Canada — Jasper
Walk the spine of the Canadian Rockies on Jasper's Skyline Trail, a 44km demanding multi-day route. Over 25km unfolds above the treeline, offering unparalleled alpine panoramas and sustained mountain exposure. This pristine wilderness traverse through the Maligne Range is a highlight for any serious hiker.
Distance: 44.0 km
Elevation Gain: 1450 m
Difficulty: Challenging
Duration: 2-4 days
The Skyline Trail is widely considered the crown jewel of Jasper National Park and one of the most spectacular multi-day backpacking routes in the Canadian Rockies. Stretching 44.0 kilometres across the Maligne Range, this trail is defined by its extraordinary elevation profile: more than 25 kilometres of the journey takes place above the treeline, offering hikers an unparalleled experience of walking along the "spine" of the mountains. This sustained high-altitude exposure provides constant, 360-degree panoramas of jagged limestone peaks, sprawling glacial valleys, and the turquoise shimmer of Maligne Lake far below. It is a journey through a landscape of extremes, where delicate alpine wildflowers bloom in the shadow of permanent snowfields and the weather can shift from summer heat to a winter blizzard in a matter of minutes.
Unlike many mountain trails that climb to a single pass before descending back into the forest, the Skyline Trail maintains its height, traversing three major mountain passes—Little Shovel, Big Shovel, and the formidable Notch. This unique geography creates a sense of immense scale and isolation, even though the trail is located within one of Canada's most famous national parks. The route is typically completed in two to four days, allowing walkers to immerse themselves in the silence of the high alpine. From the lush subalpine meadows of Snowbowl to the stark, lunar-like terrain of the Amber Mountain ridge, the Skyline Trail is a masterclass in Rocky Mountain ecology and geology. It is a challenging, rewarding, and deeply moving trek that demands careful preparation and a deep respect for the unpredictable nature of the Canadian wilderness.
The Skyline Trail is a high-altitude odyssey that captures the raw essence of the Canadian Rockies. While the total distance of 44 kilometres might seem manageable for experienced hikers, the challenge lies in the sustained elevation and the technical nature of the terrain. The trail begins at the world-famous Maligne Lake, at an elevation of approximately 1,690 metres, and climbs steadily into the alpine. The defining characteristic of the Skyline is its commitment to the heights; once you ascend Little Shovel Pass on the first day, you rarely drop back into the dense forest until the final descent on the last day. This makes the trail highly susceptible to weather, but also ensures that the views are constant and breathtaking.
The route is traditionally hiked from South to North, starting at Maligne Lake and ending at the Signal Mountain trailhead near the Jasper townsite. This direction is favoured because it begins at a higher elevation, meaning you do less total climbing than if you started from the Jasper side. The "crux" of the trail is a section known as The Notch, a narrow gap in the mountain ridge that requires a steep, often snow-covered scramble to reach the highest point of the trek at 2,510 metres. From here, the trail follows the ridgeline for several kilometres, providing what many consider the best views in all of Jasper National Park. To the west, the peaks of the Trident Range pierce the sky, while to the east, the vast Maligne Valley stretches toward the horizon.
The landscape is a tapestry of diverse ecosystems. You will traverse "Snowbowl," a wide subalpine basin famous for its vibrant displays of Indian Paintbrush, Western Anemone, and Arnica. You will cross high-altitude plateaus where the only residents are whistling marmots and the occasional herd of woodland caribou. The final leg of the journey involves a long, knee-testing descent down an old fire road, transitioning from the stark beauty of the alpine back into the thick Douglas fir and lodgepole pine forests of the Athabasca Valley. Because of its popularity and the fragility of the alpine environment, the trail is strictly managed by Parks Canada, with designated campsites that must be booked months in advance. This regulation preserves the sense of solitude that makes the Skyline Trail so special, ensuring that every hiker can experience the mountains in their purest form.
The history of the Skyline Trail is inextricably linked to the broader story of Jasper National Park and the exploration of the Canadian Rockies. Long before European surveyors arrived, the Maligne Range was part of the traditional territories of the Stoney Nakoda, Cree, and Métis peoples. These Indigenous groups used the valleys and passes for hunting, gathering, and travelling between the Athabasca and Saskatchewan River systems. The mountains were not merely physical barriers but spiritual landscapes, rich with oral histories and traditional knowledge. While the high ridges of the Skyline were not permanent settlement sites, the passes were vital corridors for seasonal movement.
The "modern" discovery of the route is often attributed to Mary Schäffer Warren, a Quaker explorer, artist, and photographer from Philadelphia. In 1911, Schäffer was commissioned by the Geological Survey of Canada to survey Maligne Lake, which she had "rediscovered" based on maps provided by Stoney guide Samson Beaver. During her explorations of the region, her party traversed sections of what would become the Skyline Trail. Schäffer’s writings and stunning photographs of the Maligne Range helped popularise the area, leading to the eventual establishment of Jasper National Park as a premier destination for mountain tourism. Her legacy is still felt today, with many landmarks in the area bearing names she bestowed upon them.
In the early 20th century, the trail was further developed by the Canadian National Railway (CNR) and the Brewster brothers, who saw the potential for high-altitude tourism. They established Shovel Pass Lodge in the 1920s, which remains the oldest backcountry lodge in Jasper National Park. The lodge was originally a tent camp used by horse-packing expeditions, allowing wealthy travellers to experience the "Skyline" without the hardships of traditional camping. Today, the trail remains a testament to the golden age of mountain exploration, maintained by Parks Canada to balance the high demand for access with the critical need to protect the delicate alpine tundra and the habitat of the endangered woodland caribou.
Want more background? Read extended notes on history and cultural context → Learn more
The Skyline Trail has a very short window of accessibility, typically from late July to mid-September. Because so much of the trail is above 2,100 metres, snow lingers long into the summer. It is not uncommon for Little Shovel Pass and The Notch to remain impassable to anyone without mountaineering equipment until the second or third week of July. Attempting the trail too early in the season often results in "post-holing" through deep, wet snow, which is both exhausting and dangerous. By late July, the meadows of Snowbowl erupt in a spectacular display of wildflowers, and the alpine lakes lose their icy crust, turning a brilliant, glacial turquoise.
August is the most popular month for the Skyline, offering the most stable weather and the warmest temperatures. However, "stable" is a relative term in the Rockies. Even in the height of summer, hikers must be prepared for freezing temperatures at night and sudden afternoon thunderstorms. Lightning is a significant hazard on the exposed ridges; if clouds begin to build, it is essential to get off the high ground as quickly as possible. September brings a different kind of beauty, as the subalpine larches turn a golden yellow and the first dustings of "termination dust" (early autumn snow) appear on the peaks. The air is crisper, the mosquitoes have finally vanished, and the light takes on a soft, ethereal quality perfect for photography.
Winter comes early to the Skyline. By late September, heavy snowfalls can obscure the trail and make navigation difficult. Outside of the summer season, the trail is an advanced winter mountaineering route. The risk of avalanches is extreme, particularly on the steep slopes leading up to The Notch. For the average hiker, the season ends when the first major autumn storm hits. Regardless of when you go, the "Skyline weather reality" is that you should expect four seasons in a single day. Always carry a high-quality waterproof jacket and warm layers, even if the forecast in the Jasper townsite predicts a heatwave.
Day 1: Maligne Lake to Snowbowl
Day 2: Snowbowl to Tekarra
Day 3: Tekarra to Signal Trailhead
Important Notes:
The Skyline Trail is not a walk to be taken lightly. Physical fitness is paramount, as you will be carrying a full multi-day pack over steep, rocky terrain at high altitudes where oxygen is thinner. Before booking, ensure you are comfortable with 15–20 km days and significant elevation changes. Logistics are the next major hurdle. Since the trail is point-to-point, you must arrange transport. Most hikers park at the Signal Mountain trailhead (the finish) and take a pre-booked shuttle to Maligne Lake (the start). This ensures your car is waiting for you when you finish. Companies like Maligne Adventures operate daily shuttles during the hiking season.
Jasper is the base town for this trail. It is a full-service mountain community with grocery stores, outdoor gear shops (for fuel and last-minute supplies), and a wide range of accommodation. It is highly recommended to spend at least one night in Jasper before your hike to acclimatise and double-check your gear. The Jasper Information Centre is the place to pick up your physical permit and get the latest updates on trail conditions, bear sightings, and weather warnings.
Accommodation on the Skyline Trail consists of designated backcountry campgrounds managed by Parks Canada. Wild camping is strictly prohibited to protect the fragile alpine environment. There is also one private lodge, Shovel Pass Lodge, which offers a more comfortable (and expensive) alternative.
Campground Facilities:
What Campgrounds Don't Provide:
Shovel Pass Lodge: This historic lodge offers catered meals and bunk-style accommodation. It must be booked separately and well in advance. It is located near the junction to Curator Campground and provides a roof over your head for those who prefer not to carry a tent and stove.
Securing a permit for the Skyline Trail is notoriously difficult. Parks Canada uses a centralised online reservation system, and spots for the entire summer season typically sell out within minutes of the system opening. For the 2025 season, reservations usually open in late January or early February. You must have a specific itinerary in mind, including which campgrounds you will stay at each night, before you log on to book.
Booking Strategy:
Permit Costs:
Cancellations: If you fail to get a permit during the initial rush, do not give up. Check the Parks Canada reservation website daily, especially in the weeks leading up to your desired dates. Cancellations do happen, and spots are immediately released back into the system. There are also third-party "cancellation tracker" websites that can alert you when a spot becomes available.
Detailed route notes, maps, logistics & tips for the Skyline Trail Jasper (PDF).
Precisely traced GPX for the Skyline Trail Jasper, ready for your GPS or favourite mapping app.
Jasper National Park is a vast wilderness with endless opportunities for adventure. Consider adding these experiences to your trip:
Wildlife Safety: Jasper is prime Grizzly and Black Bear habitat. The Skyline Trail passes through several "core" bear areas. You must carry bear spray in an accessible location (not inside your pack) and know how to use it. Make noise while hiking, especially in dense brush or near rushing water, to avoid surprising a bear. Store all food, toiletries, and trash in the provided bear lockers at every campground. Never eat inside your tent.
The Notch and Ridge Weather: The section between Curator and Tekarra is the most dangerous part of the trail. The Notch is a steep climb that can be covered in slick snow or ice even in August. High winds on the ridge can exceed 80 km/h, making it difficult to stand. If visibility is poor (fog or "whiteout"), navigation on the ridge becomes extremely difficult as there are few landmarks. If a storm is approaching, do not attempt The Notch; wait it out at Curator or descend to the safety of the trees.
Hypothermia: Even in July, temperatures can drop below freezing. Wet clothing combined with wind on the exposed ridges is a recipe for hypothermia. Always carry a dry set of base layers in a waterproof dry bag and put on your rain gear before you get wet, not after.
Water Safety: While water is plentiful in the valleys, it must be treated. Giardia (beaver fever) is present in the Canadian Rockies. Use a filter, UV purifier, or boiling method for all water collected from streams or lakes.
Emergency Communication: There is no cell phone service on 95% of the Skyline Trail. Carrying a satellite messenger (like a Garmin inReach or Zoleo) is highly recommended for summoning help in an emergency. Always leave a detailed trip plan with a trusted friend or family member.
Signal Mountain Lookout: On the final day, a short 1.5 km (return) detour from the main trail leads to the old Signal Mountain fire lookout. From here, you get a bird's-eye view of the Jasper townsite, the winding Athabasca River, and the massive peaks of the Victoria Cross Range. It is the perfect place to reflect on your journey before the final descent.
Wabasso Lake Trail: For those staying at Curator Campground, there is an option to exit the trail via the Wabasso Lake route instead of continuing to Signal Mountain. This is a steeper, more forested descent that ends at the Icefields Parkway. It is less scenic than the full Skyline but can be a useful "escape route" if weather on the ridge is too dangerous.
Watchtower Basin: A spectacular side valley located between Snowbowl and Curator. A side trail leads into this rugged basin, which is surrounded by towering limestone cliffs. It is a great spot for photography and often sees fewer people than the main Skyline route. Note that there is a separate campground in Watchtower if you wish to stay overnight.
Marmot and Pika Spotting: The rock piles (talus slopes) along the high ridges are home to Hoary Marmots and American Pikas. Listen for the high-pitched "whistle" of the marmot or the "eep" of the pika. These hardy alpine mammals are a highlight of the trail's fauna.
The alpine tundra of the Skyline Trail is one of the most fragile ecosystems on Earth. A single footprint off-trail can destroy plants that have taken decades to grow in the short summer season. As a visitor to this UNESCO World Heritage site, you have a responsibility to minimise your impact.
Core Principles for the Skyline:
