Athabasca Falls

Athabasca Falls is a waterfall in Jasper National Park on the upper Athabasca River, 30 kilometers (19 miles) south of Jasper, Alberta, Canada, and immediately west of the Icefields Parkway. Athabasca Falls is a strong, gorgeous cascade recognized for its force more than its height, due to the massive amount of water cascading into the valley, which may be considerable even on a frigid morning in the fall, when river levels tend to be at their lowest. The river cuts a brief canyon and a number of potholes as it flows over a layer of hard quartzite and into the softer limestone below.

Athabasca Falls is without a doubt one of the most stunning waterfalls in Canada, and it is the crowning achievement of Alberta's famed Jasper National Park. Multiple pathways and bridges cut through rock and open into broad alpine panoramas, allowing for a diversity of viewpoints. You'll travel down the stunning limestone valley before reaching the falls, where rapid flowing water has chiseled away smooth rocks, creating charming tiny cracks and whirling whirlpools. The water's remarkable color fluctuates throughout the year, ranging from milky white to azure blue, yet it is always breathtaking.

The falls may be seen and photographed safely from different observation platforms and walking routes located surrounding the falls. Access is via a neighboring parking area along Highway 93A, immediately northeast of the falls. Highway 93A departs from the neighboring Icefields Parkway and traverses the falls on its route north to Jasper. Whitewater rafting frequently begins below the falls and continues downstream on the Athabasca River to Jasper.

Location: Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada