Goat Lick Viewpoint Kerkeslin
Breathtaking viewpoint on the Icefields Parkway offering stunning Athabasca River vistas and potential mountain goat sightings.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Better chances for wildlife
Goat Lick Viewpoint Kerkeslin
Best Time
Better chances for wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Breathtaking viewpoint on the Icefields Parkway offering stunning Athabasca River vistas and potential mountain goat sightings.
"The photos couldn’t express how these places are beautiful and breathtaking."
Goats are Shy!
Don't be discouraged if you don't see goats; they can be elusive. Enjoy the stunning scenery!
Easy Access
Just a minute's walk from the parking lot to the main viewpoint. Super convenient!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Athabasca River Panorama
Main viewpoint
Breathtaking views of the powerful Athabasca River winding through majestic mountains.
Potential Mountain Goat Encounters
Slopes near the viewpoint
Keep an eye out for elusive mountain goats grazing on the hillsides.
Unmarked South Pull-off
South of the main viewpoint
An alternative spot to walk down to the rocks when water levels are low.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for Goat Sightings
Accessibility and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Goats are Shy!
Don't be discouraged if you don't see goats; they can be elusive. Enjoy the stunning scenery!
Easy Access
Just a minute's walk from the parking lot to the main viewpoint. Super convenient!
Check Water Levels
The 'lick' area might be dry depending on the season. Visit the unmarked spot south for rock access.
Photos Don't Do Justice
The beauty is truly breathtaking in person; photos can't capture it all.
Tips
from all over the internet
Goats are Shy!
Don't be discouraged if you don't see goats; they can be elusive. Enjoy the stunning scenery!
Easy Access
Just a minute's walk from the parking lot to the main viewpoint. Super convenient!
Check Water Levels
The 'lick' area might be dry depending on the season. Visit the unmarked spot south for rock access.
Photos Don't Do Justice
The beauty is truly breathtaking in person; photos can't capture it all.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking views of the Athabasca River and surrounding mountains, noting the easy accessibility from the parking lot. While some are disappointed by the lack of visible goats or a dry 'lick' area, the stunning scenery makes it a worthwhile stop for most.
"Nice view, the area was dry of much of the water when we visited in May 2025 compared to 2023. Worth stopping for. Also, there is another unmarked pull off spot just south of this where you can walk down to the rocks when the water level is low (as shown)."
Caroline McKinney
"Visit June 28,2025
Although we didn’t manage to see any goats but the view of Anabasca river was amazing . The photos couldn’t express how these places are beautiful and breathtaking. Parking was spacious at the area and you walk for few minutes and you’re there."
Hassan Makhlouf
"Beautiful views from this lookout. However, saw just one goat.
From the parking lot to the viewpoint is about a minute of walking: super close)!"
Elske Heermans
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Goat Lick Viewpoint Kerkeslin is easily accessible via Highway 16 in Jasper National Park. There's a dedicated parking lot right next to the viewpoint, making it a very convenient stop. The walk from the car to the viewing area is minimal, often described as just a minute or two.
Yes, the parking area is generally spacious and can accommodate larger vehicles like RVs. It's a common stop for travelers on the Icefields Parkway.
Public transportation options directly to this specific viewpoint are limited. It's best accessed by private vehicle, tour bus, or rental car.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required to enter Jasper National Park. You can purchase passes online or at park gates.
No, there is no separate entrance fee for the viewpoint itself, beyond the required Jasper National Park pass.
The viewpoint is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, wildlife sightings are more probable during daylight hours.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the Athabasca River and the surrounding snow-capped mountains. While the primary draw is the scenery, you might also spot mountain goats on the slopes.
Most visitors spend about 15-30 minutes here, enjoying the views and taking photos. It's a quick and rewarding stop.
Restroom facilities are typically not available directly at this viewpoint. It's advisable to use facilities at nearby attractions or towns before or after your visit.
No, the walk from the parking lot to the main viewpoint is very short and easy, suitable for most visitors.
The 'goat lick' refers to areas where animals, like mountain goats, come to lick minerals from exposed rock or soil. However, this feature can be dry depending on the season and water levels.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, during sunrise and sunset, offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but the sheer scale of the mountains is still impressive.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain vistas and river. If you're hoping to photograph wildlife, a telephoto lens would be beneficial.
The main viewpoint offers the classic panorama. The unmarked pull-off to the south can provide different angles, especially when water levels are low.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great place to break up a longer drive along the Icefields Parkway. Encourage kids to look for goats on the hillsides – it turns into a fun scavenger hunt! The easy accessibility makes it a stress-free experience for parents, ensuring everyone gets to enjoy a taste of Jasper's incredible scenery.
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
It's an ideal spot for a quick photo opportunity or a moment of quiet reflection amidst the grandeur of Jasper National Park. Consider it a must-do on any road trip through the Canadian Rockies for its stunning views and ease of access.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the 'Goat Lick'
Despite the potential for the 'lick' itself to be dry, the location remains a popular stop due to its stunning natural beauty. The expansive views of the Athabasca River and the surrounding Canadian Rockies are consistently praised by visitors. It's a place where the grandeur of the landscape often overshadows the specific wildlife attraction, offering a rewarding experience regardless of goat sightings.
Wildlife Viewing Tips
Remember to always maintain a safe and respectful distance from any wildlife you encounter. Never feed the animals, as this can disrupt their natural behaviors and be harmful to their health. The slopes around the viewpoint are their habitat, so observe them from the designated viewing areas. Even if goats are not visible, the area offers a chance to see other local fauna and enjoy the pristine mountain environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit