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Group of friends taking in the views at Mistaya Canyon on the Icefields Parkway
Hiking

Mistaya Canyon

One of the best opportunities to see the forces of nature at their most powerfulis found just off the Icefields Parkway between Lake Louise and Jasper. Mistaya Canyon has been carved over thousands of years by a rushing river that flows down from Peyto Lake. There’s a 1.8 km trail here which loops around and right across the canyon. Our favourite spot is the bridge that gives great views directly into the steep limestone canyon.

Good To Know

Difficulty
Easy
Duration
< 1hr
When
May - Oct

Location

Distance from Banff:
137km
Distance from Lake Louise:
75km

When to go

Operating Dates

MonthOperating Status
JanClosed
FebClosed
MarClosed
AprClosed
MayOpen
JunOpen
JulOpen
AugOpen
SepOpen
OctOpen
NovClosed
DecClosed

Local Tips

  • For the sake of safety and being a good trail citizen, stick to the path and avoid wandering off-trail onto the slippery rocks on the canyon edge. 

  • The trailhead parking area comes up quickly around a bend in the road, so note the distance from Banff or Lake Louise and keep an eye on your odometer!