Sunwapta Falls

A torrent of plunging water not far from the Icefields Parkway, Sunwapta Falls is just one of the many waterfalls in Jasper created by hanging valleys.

Broad U-shaped hanging valleys were formed when glacier ice receded 8000 years ago. Larger valleys were carved deeper than smaller ones and in places where the two meet, the smaller valleys "hang" at a higher elevation. This is an excellent place to find waterfalls. At Sunwapta Falls, the smaller "hanging" Chaba Valley and larger Athabasca Valley join in a spectacular stepping waterfall that has carved a deep limestone gorge out of the rock some metres below the footbridge.

Sunwapta Falls is also the trailhead for a beautiful backcountry trail that features campgrounds along the Athabasca River and majestic peaks towering in the background. The trail passes through the Chaba River burn area, legacy of a 1967 wildfire. The fire rejuvenated a large portion of the subalpine forest along the Chaba River Valley and is now one of the best bear and moose habitats in the park.

CAUTION - Mist from the falls covers surrounding rocks with a slippery film of water. For your own safety, do not cross the railings.