Old Fort Point Trail Jasper National Park
A short, rewarding loop trail offering breathtaking panoramic views of Jasper's valley, river, and iconic mountains.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Old Fort Point Trail Jasper National Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, golden light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A short, rewarding loop trail offering breathtaking panoramic views of Jasper's valley, river, and iconic mountains.
"Still my favourite hike to this day, offering incredible views of the Canadian Rockies!"
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail has steep sections; wear good hiking shoes for better grip and comfort.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Carry bear spray and make noise. Wildlife can appear unexpectedly on any trail.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Panoramic Valley Views
Summit of Old Fort Point
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Jasper townsite, Athabasca River, and surrounding peaks.
Athabasca River Overlook
Trailside viewpoints
Dramatic perspectives of the powerful Athabasca River carving through the valley below.
Potential Wildlife Sightings
Throughout the trail
Keep an eye out for bighorn sheep and other local fauna in their natural habitat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Conditions & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail has steep sections; wear good hiking shoes for better grip and comfort.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Carry bear spray and make noise. Wildlife can appear unexpectedly on any trail.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Evening hikes offer stunning golden hour light and fewer people.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for incredible panoramic shots of the valley and mountains.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Sturdy Footwear Recommended
The trail has steep sections; wear good hiking shoes for better grip and comfort.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Carry bear spray and make noise. Wildlife can appear unexpectedly on any trail.
🌅 Sunset Magic
Evening hikes offer stunning golden hour light and fewer people.
📸 Capture the Views
Bring your camera for incredible panoramic shots of the valley and mountains.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Even short hikes require water, especially during warmer months.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views and the rewarding nature of this relatively short hike. It's praised as an accessible way to experience Jasper's iconic mountain scenery and the Athabasca River. Some note the steepness of certain sections and the ever-present possibility of wildlife encounters.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Old Fort Point Trail is conveniently located just a short drive or bike ride from Jasper townsite. You can park at the Old Fort Point day-use area. Many visitors find it an easy addition to their Jasper itinerary.
Yes, there is a dedicated parking area at the Old Fort Point day-use area, which is the trailhead. It can get busy during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.
While it's a bit of a walk, it's feasible to reach Old Fort Point Trail from Jasper townsite, especially if you enjoy longer strolls. It's a scenic route along the Athabasca River.
Public transport options directly to the trailhead are limited. Renting a bike or driving are the most common ways to access Old Fort Point Trail.
Many visitors enjoy hiking the loop trail for its varied scenery. Consider visiting in the late afternoon for beautiful light and potential wildlife sightings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Jasper National Park, which covers access to Old Fort Point Trail. You can purchase passes online or at park gates.
The trail itself is free to access, but you will need a valid Jasper National Park pass to be within the park boundaries.
Old Fort Point Trail is open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, access may be limited during extreme weather conditions.
No, tickets are not required for Old Fort Point Trail as it's a natural attraction. You only need your Jasper National Park pass.
While official guided tours specifically for Old Fort Point Trail might be limited, many local tour operators in Jasper offer broader Jasper National Park experiences that may include this area.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The loop trail is relatively short, typically taking about 1 to 1.5 hours to complete, depending on your pace and how long you stop to enjoy the views.
Yes, Old Fort Point Trail is often considered family-friendly due to its short length and rewarding views. However, the steep sections might require extra supervision for very young children.
You'll be treated to stunning panoramic views of the Athabasca Valley, the Athabasca River, and prominent Jasper landmarks like Pyramid Mountain and Whistlers Mountain.
Restroom facilities are typically available at the Old Fort Point day-use area near the trailhead.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking shoes or boots. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly. Bring a jacket, even in summer.
📸 📸 Photography
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise and before sunset, offers the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for photography. Midday can be harsh.
The summit provides the best panoramic shots. Also, look for unique angles of the Athabasca River and the surrounding mountain ranges from various viewpoints along the trail.
Drone usage in Jasper National Park is subject to strict regulations. You must have a Special Flight Operations Certificate (SFOC) and adhere to Parks Canada rules. Check their official website for the latest guidelines.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget a tripod for low-light conditions.
Look for the iconic red chairs often found at scenic viewpoints, offering a perfect spot for a memorable photo.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there are some steep sections, the well-maintained path and the chance to see wildlife like bighorn sheep add to the adventure. Remember to bring plenty of snacks and water, and keep a close eye on children, especially near steeper drop-offs. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The trail offers diverse compositions, from sweeping landscapes to intimate shots of the river. Don't forget your wide-angle lens and a tripod for those stunning sunset shots. 🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the Trail: Old Fort Point Loop
Many visitors appreciate the convenience of the loop as it allows for a complete circuit without backtracking. The trail is popular for its accessibility from Jasper townsite, making it a go-to for a quick nature escape. Be prepared for uneven terrain and wear appropriate footwear.
It's worth noting that parts of the area have been impacted by fires, as mentioned by some visitors. While this can create a unique, albeit somber, landscape, the natural beauty and resilience of the park are still evident.
Wildlife Encounters and Safety
However, the most significant wildlife concern in Jasper is bears. A Reddit user shared an experience of encountering a mother bear and cub near Old Fort Point, emphasizing that bear encounters can happen anywhere, even on busy trails.
Always be aware of your surroundings, especially in areas with dense vegetation or blind corners. If you do see a bear, remain calm, do not approach it, and slowly back away. Following these safety guidelines ensures a more enjoyable and secure experience for everyone in the park.
Photography Opportunities at Old Fort Point
The trail itself provides numerous vantage points for capturing the dramatic landscape. For the best photographic results, timing is key. Visiting during the golden hour – the period shortly after sunrise or before sunset – bathes the landscape in warm, soft light, creating dramatic shadows and vibrant colors.
This is also a prime time for spotting wildlife, adding another layer of photographic potential. Consider bringing a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive scenery and a telephoto lens if you're hoping to photograph wildlife from a safe distance. Don't forget a tripod for sharper images in lower light conditions.
The iconic red chairs often found at viewpoints also make for a great compositional element in your photos.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit