Bighorn Alley

Bighorn Alley is Jasper’s easy, mostly flat connector between the northeast end of the Jasper Discovery Trail and the Lake Annette/Lake Edith area. The point-to-point route is about 2.7 miles (4.3 km) one way, with roughly 33 m of gentle elevation gain—plan on 1–2 hours one way at a relaxed pace.

Start at the town-side end of the Jasper Discovery Trail and follow Bighorn Alley north through montane forest, open meadows, and the Athabasca Valley. The route crosses the Athabasca River at Moberly Bridge, including a crossing of Highway 16, then continues east toward the Lake Edith and Lake Annette access area. The lake beaches and picnic areas make a natural destination or lunch stop. This is a one-way route rather than a loop, so return by retracing the corridor or arrange transportation from the far end.

Scenery stays wide: mountains frame the valley, mixed conifers line the corridor, and birdlife and other wildlife are common. Bighorn sheep and elk are possible, along with deer and woodpeckers; keep a respectful distance and bring binoculars if you like to linger. Wayfinding is generally straightforward, with bear-symbol trail signs and connections to the Jasper Discovery Trail and the surrounding lakes-area paths.

This is not a remote wilderness ramble—you’ll share it with locals and visitors, especially in summer—but that’s part of its charm. The trail is permitted for hiking and biking and is an easy way to reach the lakes without driving. The natural dirt tread has occasional roots and is not wheelchair-accessible. Spring through fall brings green forest, wildflowers, and active wildlife; winter can also work for an easy snowy walk, but expect ice or snow and shorter daylight.

Use the signed access and be prepared for a Highway 16 crossing at Moberly Bridge. If you want more solitude, choose early mornings or shoulder seasons, or choose a more remote trail elsewhere in the park.