Pros & cons
PROS
- Five vividly colored glacial lakes on a short, rewarding loop
- Trailhead amenities include a large parking lot, vault toilets, and a few picnic tables
CONS
- Very popular; parking can still fill at peak times
- Bugs and muddy sections in summer or after rain
Overview
This is Jasper’s crowd-pleasing, low-commitment stunner: a compact loop that threads past five small lakes, each a different shade of blue-green thanks to glacial sediments and depth changes. You get big scenery for modest effort, with forested stretches, clearings, and mirror-calm water on still days.
The Hike
Expect roughly a 4.8 km (3 mi) loop with about 161 m (528 ft) of gain—generally moderate, with rolling ups and downs. A wooden footbridge early on breaks up the forest walk before you reach the lakes. Hiking counter-clockwise starts gentler and reaches Fifth Lake first; clockwise hits First Lake early but packs more immediate elevation.
What You’ll See
- Five distinct lakes, each with its own color palette and mood
- Photogenic shores and reflections, especially at the first and fifth lakes
- Forest shade punctuated by open viewpoints and a simple footbridge
Wildlife
Birds and small mammals are common along the trail. The broader area is a wildlife corridor with the potential for elk or bears passing through—encounters are uncommon but possible. Carry bear spray and make noise as you hike.
Amenities and Logistics
Access is just off the Icefields Parkway. The trailhead has a large, purpose-built parking lot, vault toilets (two units), and a few picnic tables. There’s no water, store, or food service—bring everything you need. No camping on-site.
Best Time to Visit
Late spring through early fall delivers the most vibrant colors and easier trail conditions. For softer light and glassy reflections, aim for early morning or late afternoon. To dodge the busiest hours, come early or after 4 pm and try weekdays.
Photography Tips
Calm, overcast or golden-hour light makes the colors pop and cuts glare. A polarizing filter helps with reflections. Work the angles around each lake—every bend offers a slightly different hue.
Current Conditions
This area sees heavy use in peak season. After rain, expect slick, muddy patches. Jasper experienced significant wildfire activity in 2024; openings and conditions can change. Always check Parks Canada for current advisories and closures before you go, and ensure you have a valid park pass.
Where it is
52.8393, -118.0325Tips for Valley of the Five Lakes
- 01Hike counter-clockwise for a gentler start and to reach Fifth Lake first.
- 02Arrive early or late in the day to secure parking and avoid the heaviest crowds.
- 03Pack bug spray; lakeside sections can be buggy, especially in summer.
- 04Wear proper footwear—some stretches get muddy and slick after rain.
- 05Check Parks Canada for current wildfire-related closures and advisories before you go.
Amenities
Near Valley of the Five Lakes
All places →All trails →
1.3 mi awayWapiti CampgroundYear‑round riverside camping with hot showers near townCampground · Restroom
1.3 mi awayBecker's ChaletsRiverside cabins with kitchens, fireplaces, and a standout restaurantLodging · Restaurant
1.4 mi awayBecker's Gourmet RestaurantFine dining with front-row Athabasca River and mountain viewsRestaurant · Food
2 mi awayValley of the Five Lakes OverlookRed Chairs perch over gem-toned lakes on a short hikeScenic Viewpoint
2.2 mi awayTrail 9bScenic shortcut between First and Second Lakes on the Five Lakes loopModerate · 2.9 mi · 1.8 hr
2.2 mi awayValley of the Five Lakes LoopFive jewel-toned lakes in one mellow, choose-your-length loop.Moderate · 3 mi · 1.8 hr
3.3 mi away11 Town trailEasy loop around Jasper with steady mountain views and benchesEasy · 5.2 mi · 2.5 hr
3.3 mi awayWhistlers TrailForest-to-alpine grind with huge summit views and a tram bailoutChallenging · 8.5 mi · 6.5 hr
