Pros & cons
PROS
- Parks Canada Red Chairs with classic lake views
- Short, rewarding stop along a popular 4.6 km loop
CONS
- Busy at midday in peak season
- Mosquitoes can be fierce in late spring and summer
Overview
A tranquil pause point on the Valley of the Five Lakes loop, this overlook sits by the Parks Canada Red Chairs between Third and Fourth Lakes. It’s the poster child view for the trail: glassy, gem‑toned water framed by forest, with a comfy seat to soak it in.
Why it’s worth your time
You get a high payoff for little effort—classic Jasper scenery without a big climb. Colors shift from emerald to deep blue from lake to lake, and calm mornings deliver mirror‑smooth reflections that photographers chase.
What you’ll see
- The most vivid views are over the Fourth and Fifth Lakes, with clear, jade‑green water and forested shorelines.
- On clear days, distant peaks peek through for layered backdrops.
- In late spring and summer, small wildflower patches brighten the shoreline.
Trail context
The overlook is partway along the loop, not at a road pullout. Start from the Valley of the Five Lakes trailhead off the Icefields Parkway, follow the signed paths around the lakes, and you’ll reach the Red Chairs viewpoint. Expect a moderate, family‑friendly loop of about 4.6 km with minor ups and downs.
Wildlife
Keep an eye out for loons, ducks, geese, and songbirds on the water. Squirrels and chipmunks are common; beavers or muskrats show occasionally near the lakes. Deer, elk, and even black bears are possible near dawn or dusk—give wildlife space and store food properly.
Geology & color
The lakes rest in glacially carved depressions dating to the end of the last Ice Age. Their striking greens and blues come from glacial silt and minerals interacting with light, all set atop the sedimentary bones (limestone and shale) of the Canadian Rockies.
Practical notes
- There are no facilities at the overlook—use the vault toilets at the main trailhead and bring water and snacks.
- The trail can be muddy after rain.
- Mosquitoes are a thing here in early summer; repellent helps.
- As of 2024–2025, parts of Jasper have seen wildfire closures—always check Parks Canada for current status before you go.
Best time to visit
- Early morning or late afternoon: softer light, calm water for reflections, and fewer people.
- Weekdays beat weekends in peak season (late June–September) if you want quieter chairs.
- Sunset can be lovely if skies cooperate, but bring a headlamp for the walk out.
Where it is
52.8162, -118.0056Tips for Valley of the Five Lakes Overlook
- 01Go early or late for the best light and a quieter seat at the Red Chairs.
- 02Bring bug spray in late spring and summer; mosquitoes can be relentless.
- 03Check Parks Canada for current trail and area closures before heading out.
- 04Use the restroom at the main trailhead—there are no facilities on the loop.
- 05Carry water and a snack; the overlook makes a perfect mini-picnic stop.
Amenities
Near Valley of the Five Lakes Overlook
All places →All trails →
0.4 mi awayWabasso LakeSecluded beaver-made lake with an easy forest approachTrailhead · Parking
0.9 mi awayTrail 9bScenic shortcut between First and Second Lakes on the Five Lakes loopModerate · 2.9 mi · 1.8 hr
0.9 mi awayValley of the Five Lakes LoopFive jewel-toned lakes in one mellow, choose-your-length loop.Moderate · 3 mi · 1.8 hr
0.9 mi away9a Valley of the 5 LakesJasper’s color-wheel lakes on an easy loop; take 9a for quiet.Easy · 4.2 mi · 2.3 hr
0.9 mi away3 High LakesShort, vivid-lake loop with easy mileage and big photo payoffEasy · 3 mi · 2 hr
2 mi awayValley of the Five LakesShort loop past five jewel-toned lakes with big payoffTrailhead · Restroom
2.4 mi awayBecker's Gourmet RestaurantFine dining with front-row Athabasca River and mountain viewsRestaurant · Food
2.4 mi awayBecker's ChaletsRiverside cabins with kitchens, fireplaces, and a standout restaurantLodging · Restaurant
