Maligne Canyon Loop

Maligne Canyon Loop is a short loop hike in Jasper National Park that follows both sides of a limestone gorge carved by water. The canyon is described as dramatic and deep, with moving water in summer and frozen cascades in winter.

The loop is defined by six different bridge crossings over the gorge, with the canyon getting more imposing closer to the first bridge area. Expect repeated pauses where the trail signage and bridge positions help you keep track of where you are along the descent-and-return pattern.

For an on-foot outing, plan roughly a half-day window: typical guidance puts the hike around 1.5–2.5 hours depending on pace and stops. The route length is commonly given around 3.7–4.4 km (loop) based on the exact variation you follow.

Elevation gain is listed in the low-hundreds of meters range (about 110–133 m) with an easy-to-moderate feel overall. That combination is why it’s often treated as accessible for a wide range of hikers, while still delivering heavy gorge-and-water payoff.

The trail is also run as winter “ice walk” terrain, with guidance emphasizing that winter footing can be icy and slippery. Use ice traction when conditions demand it, and be prepared for colder, wind-chill exposure in the canyon corridor.

Common start point is near the restaurant/wilderness kitchen by the First Bridge area, then you can work down toward the Fifth or Sixth Bridge and return via the upper rim portion of the loop. If you’re going specifically for shorter time, you can turn the loop early by stopping around an intermediate bridge (commonly the fourth) and hiking back.

More information: Best Hikes in Jasper National Park, Maligne Canyon: Hiking In Winter \u0026 Summer - Jasper National ..., The First-Time Hiker’s Guide to Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park...