Sunwapta Falls
Dramatic upper and serene lower falls fed by glacial meltwater, offering stunning views along the Icefields Parkway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Sunwapta Falls
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Dramatic upper and serene lower falls fed by glacial meltwater, offering stunning views along the Icefields Parkway.
"Spectacular views of the falls from all angles, a must-see on the way to or from Jasper."
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking lot fills fast! Arrive early or late. RVs can be tricky.
🥾 Hike to Lower Falls
Don't skip the 2km round-trip hike to the lower falls for a more serene experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Sunwapta Falls
Adjacent to parking lot
Dramatic drop into a narrow canyon, offering instant 'wow' factor with minimal effort.
Lower Sunwapta Falls
1.3 km trail
A peaceful 2km round-trip hike through the forest leads to a less crowded, more immersive natural setting.
Glacial Blue Waters
River and falls
Witness the stunning, vibrant turquoise hue of the water, fed directly by the Athabasca Glacier.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Beyond the Main View
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking lot fills fast! Arrive early or late. RVs can be tricky.
🥾 Hike to Lower Falls
Don't skip the 2km round-trip hike to the lower falls for a more serene experience.
📸 Capture the Blue
The glacial blue water is a highlight. Best light for photos is often in the morning.
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Alberta weather can change quickly. Layers are recommended, even in summer.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking lot fills fast! Arrive early or late. RVs can be tricky.
🥾 Hike to Lower Falls
Don't skip the 2km round-trip hike to the lower falls for a more serene experience.
📸 Capture the Blue
The glacial blue water is a highlight. Best light for photos is often in the morning.
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Alberta weather can change quickly. Layers are recommended, even in summer.
🎟️ Park Pass Needed
A Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required to park your vehicle.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sunwapta Falls for its dramatic beauty and accessibility, with many highlighting the 'wow' factor of the upper falls and the serene charm of the lower falls. While parking can be a challenge during peak times, the short walk to the main viewpoint and the rewarding hike to the lower section make it a highly recommended stop on the Icefields Parkway.
"This is a great stop!! Parking can get crazy depending on when you go. I would bring a big RV into the parking lot as people park on both sides of the road and in the parking lot area, three class C RVs park along the inner area which leaves minimal space to squeeze through. Once you are there, it is a short walk to the falls bur you can go further around the falls to various viewpoints. On the highway there is an area where you can get something to eat and busses park there as well."
Donna Smith
"Sunwapta Falls is a must-stop! The upper falls are right next to the parking lot — perfect for those who love waterfalls but hate walking. Super easy to access and still very impressive.
But if you're up for a little adventure, don’t skip the lower falls. It’s a peaceful 2km round-trip hike through the forest, and honestly, I liked the lower falls even more. Less crowds, more nature, and just a better vibe overall. Totally worth the walk!"
Chris
"Visit June 28, 2025
I can’t say other than amazing spectacular views of the falls from all angles. Very short walk from the parking lot 0.1 mile. Just listen to the water voice and you will feel it inside you. It’s must to see weather before arriving to or after moving from Jasper"
Hassan Makhlouf
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sunwapta Falls is located along the scenic Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) about 53 km (33 miles) south of Jasper townsite. It's a straightforward drive, and the falls are well-signposted. Many visitors stop here as part of a larger road trip between Jasper and Banff. +1
Yes, Sunwapta Falls is a popular and easily accessible stop directly on the Icefields Parkway, making it a convenient addition to any drive between Jasper and Banff National Parks. 
While possible, it's a very long day trip. The drive from Banff to Sunwapta Falls is about 3.5-4 hours one way. It's more commonly visited as a stop when staying in Jasper or driving the entire Icefields Parkway.
Driving your own vehicle or a rental car is the most flexible way to visit Sunwapta Falls, allowing you to stop at your own pace. Tour buses also stop here, but you'll have less control over your time.
There is no direct public transit to Sunwapta Falls. You'll need to drive or join a guided tour that includes this stop.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a separate ticket for Sunwapta Falls itself. However, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required to park your vehicle within the national park.
The falls are free to view. The main cost is the Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which is required for entry into Jasper National Park and covers parking at many locations.
Sunwapta Falls is accessible year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor services like the nearby restaurant may have seasonal hours.
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is mandatory for parking at Sunwapta Falls and other designated areas within Jasper National Park.
You can purchase a Parks Canada Discovery Pass online in advance, at Parks Canada visitor centres, or at park gates.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The upper falls are just a very short, easy walk from the parking lot, making them highly accessible. For the lower falls, it's a moderate 1.3 km (0.8 mile) round-trip hike through the forest.
Yes, Sunwapta Falls can be partially or fully frozen in winter, offering a different but equally stunning spectacle. Be cautious of icy conditions.
The main viewpoint near the parking lot offers a dramatic perspective of the upper falls. For a more intimate experience and different angles, the trail to the lower falls is highly recommended.
Yes, the upper falls are very accessible for families with young children. The hike to the lower falls is also manageable for most children, but keep an eye on them near the water.
Swimming is not recommended due to the cold glacial water and strong currents. The focus here is on viewing the falls and enjoying the natural scenery.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There is a restaurant located near the parking area that offers food and amenities. It's a convenient spot for a break, especially if you're on a long drive.
Picnic tables are not explicitly mentioned, but you can likely find a spot to enjoy a packed lunch in the general vicinity, especially if you venture to the lower falls area. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The restaurant typically offers casual dining options suitable for travelers, such as sandwiches, burgers, and other quick meals.
The nearest significant grocery stores are in Jasper townsite, which is about a 45-minute drive north. It's best to stock up on snacks and drinks before you leave Jasper.
Prices at tourist-area restaurants can be higher than in towns. It's advisable to check menus or reviews for current pricing if budget is a concern.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, minimizing harsh shadows and capturing the vibrant colors of the water. Golden hour can be particularly stunning.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the falls and the surrounding landscape. A polarizing filter can help enhance the blue of the water and reduce glare.
Generally, photography is allowed for personal use. Be mindful of other visitors and stay within designated viewing areas. Drones may have restrictions within national parks.
Experiment with different shutter speeds. A faster shutter speed will freeze the motion of the water, while a slower shutter speed will create a silky, blurred effect.
The dramatic drop, the narrow canyon, and the striking glacial blue water make Sunwapta Falls incredibly photogenic. The surrounding evergreen forests add to the scenic beauty.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The short hike to the lower falls is also manageable for most families. It's a great opportunity to let kids explore a bit more of the natural environment. Remember to keep a close eye on children near the water, as the currents can be strong. Packing snacks and water is always a good idea, and there's a restaurant nearby for a more substantial break.
🚶♀️ Mobility-Challenged Visitors
While the trail to the lower falls is not paved and involves some uneven terrain, the accessibility of the upper falls makes Sunwapta Falls a worthwhile stop for many. Visitors can enjoy the powerful cascade and the stunning glacial waters from a convenient and easily reachable location.
🚗 Road Trippers
The easy access to the upper falls means you can get a powerful dose of nature's grandeur even on a tight schedule. For those with a bit more time, the short hike to the lower falls provides a rewarding extension to your stop. It's the ideal place to stretch your legs, take in incredible scenery, and capture some memorable photos.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Icefields Parkway: A Scenic Journey
When driving the Icefields Parkway, remember that services are limited. It's essential to fill up your gas tank before you leave Jasper or Lake Louise, as stations are few and far between. Cell service is also spotty, so downloading offline maps is highly recommended. The parkway is open year-round, but winter conditions can be severe, with potential road closures due to snow and ice. Always check road conditions before you travel.
Beyond Sunwapta Falls, the Icefields Parkway boasts other iconic sights such as Athabasca Falls, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield. Whether you're heading north or south, Sunwapta Falls serves as a perfect, easily accessible stop to break up the journey and marvel at the raw power of nature.
+1Understanding the Falls: Upper vs. Lower
For those willing to venture a bit further, the lower falls offer a more tranquil and intimate encounter with the falls. A 1.3 km (0.8 mile) round-trip trail winds through the forest, leading to a series of cascades and pools. Many visitors find the lower falls to be even more beautiful, with fewer crowds and a greater sense of immersion in nature. The journey to the lower falls is a pleasant walk, allowing you to appreciate the surrounding forest and the sound of the river.
The water feeding both the upper and lower falls originates from the Athabasca Glacier, part of the Columbia Icefield. This glacial meltwater gives the falls their characteristic vibrant, milky blue-green color, especially during the summer months. The contrast between the powerful water, the rugged rock formations, and the lush green of the surrounding vegetation creates a stunning visual spectacle.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit