Valley of the Five Lakes
Discover five stunning lakes with vibrant jade and blue hues on a scenic hike in Jasper National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & best light
Valley of the Five Lakes
Best Time
Beat the crowds & best light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover five stunning lakes with vibrant jade and blue hues on a scenic hike in Jasper National Park.
"An amazing hike with beautiful colors, truly worth the hype!"
Choose Your Loop Length
Opt for the 3km or 9km loop to tailor the hike to your fitness level. :hiking_boot:
Slippery When Wet
Be cautious on inclines and declines, especially after rain, as the trail can get slippery. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Five Lakes
Various points along the loop trail
Experience five stunning lakes, each with unique shades of jade and blue, reflecting the serene surroundings.
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Crystal-Clear Waters
All five lakes
Marvel at the incredibly clear waters, offering mesmerizing reflections of the surrounding forests and mountains.
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Wildlife Sightings
Along the trail
Keep an eye out for local wildlife; sightings are common and add to the adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for the Best Views
Trail Conditions & Fire Impact
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Choose Your Loop Length
Opt for the 3km or 9km loop to tailor the hike to your fitness level.
Slippery When Wet
Be cautious on inclines and declines, especially after rain, as the trail can get slippery. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early or Late
To avoid peak crowds, plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon.
Check Fire Status
Always verify trail status and fire impacts before heading out. :fire:
Tips
from all over the internet
Choose Your Loop Length
Opt for the 3km or 9km loop to tailor the hike to your fitness level.
Slippery When Wet
Be cautious on inclines and declines, especially after rain, as the trail can get slippery. :athletic_shoe:
Arrive Early or Late
To avoid peak crowds, plan your visit for early morning or late afternoon.
Check Fire Status
Always verify trail status and fire impacts before heading out. :fire:
Dog-Friendly Trail
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on this trail, but keep them leashed.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of the Valley of the Five Lakes, highlighting the stunning colors and clear waters. While some find the inclines and declines a bit strenuous, the overall consensus is that the scenery is well worth the effort. It's a popular spot, so planning your visit to avoid peak times is recommended for a more enjoyable experience.
"Lots of inclines and declines that can be a little slippery when the ground is wet. Be careful. And as my husband and I have a combined age of 151, it was a bit strenuous. But none of this takes away from the beauty of the scenery. An amazing hike. This is also a popular trail so either come early or late in the day. Or early Spring or the Fall."
Daniel Cunningham
"This is really worth the hype. It’s a bit of a walk in and I did the long loop so went straight to lake 1 and then along the others and back, just under 7 kms but so worth it for the views"
Danielle Alleyn
"A visit here is essential along the Icefields Parkway. There are two restrooms, and the parking lot is spacious."
金玫Barrie 华人地产经纪 Mei Jin
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead is conveniently located just off the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park. There's a spacious parking lot available.
Currently, public transportation directly to the trailhead is limited. Driving your own vehicle or a rental car is the most common way to access it.
From Jasper townsite, head south on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93 South). The turnoff for the Valley of the Five Lakes parking lot is well-marked.
Yes, there are two restrooms available at the trailhead parking lot for visitor convenience.
While possible, winter hiking can be challenging due to snow and ice. Check trail conditions and be prepared for winter weather if attempting this hike outside of the main season.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Jasper National Park. You can purchase passes online or at park gates.
The hike itself is free to access once you have your Jasper National Park pass.
The trail is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, always check for any temporary closures due to wildlife or weather.
While not as common as for more strenuous hikes, some local tour operators in Jasper may offer guided excursions that include the Valley of the Five Lakes.
It's crucial to check the official Parks Canada website or local visitor information for the most up-to-date information on trail status, especially after fire events.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The loop trail typically takes 1.5 to 3.5 hours to complete, depending on which loop you choose and how long you spend enjoying the views.
It's considered an easy to moderate hike. There are some inclines and declines, but the elevation gain is spread out. +1
Wear comfortable hiking shoes or boots, especially if the ground is wet. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly.
While some visitors have been seen taking a dip, the water is very cold. It's generally not recommended for swimming due to the temperature.
Yes, the shorter loop is suitable for families with children, offering beautiful scenery without being overly strenuous.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon offers the best light for capturing the vibrant colors of the lakes and creating beautiful reflections.
The third and fourth lakes are often highlighted as particularly stunning. The reflections on calm days are also a photographer's dream.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the beauty, but a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a wide-angle lens can enhance landscape shots.
Yes, drone usage is restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Always check Parks Canada regulations before flying a drone.
You might spot squirrels, chipmunks, various birds, and occasionally larger mammals like deer or elk. Always maintain a safe distance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
The vibrant colors of the lakes and the chance to spot small wildlife like squirrels and birds will keep younger ones engaged. +1Tips for families: Pack plenty of snacks and water, wear comfortable shoes with good grip (as some parts can be slippery), and consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
🚶 Budget Travelers
This allows you to experience the stunning natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies without significant additional expense. Budget tips: Pack your own lunch and snacks to avoid purchasing them at park facilities.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring or fall) when accommodation prices might be lower and crowds are thinner. 📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 The best times for photography are early morning and late afternoon when the light is softer and more dramatic. Photography tips: Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive views.
Experiment with different angles to showcase the distinct colors of each lake. Be patient, as wildlife sightings can add a dynamic element to your shots, but always maintain a safe distance. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of the Five Lakes
+1The magic of this hike lies in the visual journey. As you traverse the well-maintained paths, you'll encounter each lake, often with the stunning Canadian Rockies as a backdrop. The water's clarity is remarkable, allowing for incredible reflections on calm days, creating a mirror-like effect that doubles the beauty.
+1 Many visitors describe the experience as a peaceful escape into nature, with the quiet forest trails providing a serene ambiance. While the hike is generally considered easy to moderate, it's important to be prepared. The trail features inclines and declines that can become slippery when wet, so sturdy footwear is recommended.
Navigating the Trails and Conditions
The trail is generally well-marked, making navigation straightforward for most visitors. However, it's crucial to be aware of trail conditions. The terrain includes ascents and descents, and when the ground is damp, these sections can become quite slippery.
For those looking to enhance their experience, consider bringing binoculars for wildlife spotting and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery.
+1 Remember to pack water and snacks, especially if you opt for the longer loops. The beauty of the Valley of the Five Lakes is best enjoyed when you're comfortable and prepared for the natural environment. 
Social
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