Fifth Bridge

Overview

Fifth Bridge is the low-key, crowd-light gateway into Maligne Canyon’s trail network. From here you can head uphill toward Bridges 1–4 for deeper slot-canyon drama, or wander downstream to the Sixth Bridge for a peaceful forest-and-river ramble. Expect classic turquoise water, mossy forest, and the white noise of the Maligne River.

Why start here

Most tour buses swarm the upper bridges; Fifth Bridge stays calmer. There’s parking right at the bridge, and many smart hikers leave a car here, then shuttle up to the First Bridge and hike back down—net downhill with the best scenery saved for last. A full out-and-back from Fifth to First and back typically takes about 2–2.5 hours depending on your photo stops.

What you’ll see

Between the 5th and 6th bridges you’ll pass numerous springs bubbling straight out of the canyon walls and riverbed—one of the coolest, most unusual features of this canyon. Heading uphill toward the First Bridge, the gorge tightens and deepens with waterfalls and sculpted limestone. Benches and a few tables near the bridge make it an easy place to pause for a snack.

A bit of geology

Maligne Canyon is carved into soluble limestone. Much of its water travels underground from Medicine Lake and resurfaces through springs in and above the canyon—dye tracing has shown that water can take roughly 12–14 hours in summer and up to nine days in winter to reappear.

Wildlife

Keep an eye out for canyon-loving birds like American dippers, ravens, and (with luck) black swifts. Bears occasionally roam near the lower bridges, especially around the Sixth—carry bear spray and give wildlife space.

Logistics & amenities

• Parking at the bridge; no confirmed restrooms here (facilities are by the main lot near the First Bridge).
• No food or shops onsite.
• The bridge itself was recently replaced with a timber design that blends into the forest setting.
• Trails can be slick after rain; good footwear helps.

Winter notes

In winter, the canyon becomes an ice-walk wonderland. If you’re exploring in the cold season, bring traction aids like cleats and follow any on-site guidance about safe routes.

Current conditions

Following wildfire recovery work, this area reopened in July 2025. Conditions can still change—check the latest advisories from Parks Canada or on-site signage.

Best time to visit

Early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer people; weekdays beat weekends. Start here if you value tranquility, or shuttle up to the First Bridge for a scenic, mostly downhill walk back to your car.