Brazeau Loop

Brazeau Loop is Jasper’s demanding, high-elevation lollipop loop through Nigel Pass, the Brazeau River valley, Brazeau Lake, Poboktan Pass, and Jonas Shoulder. The route starts and finishes at the Nigel/Brazeau parking area off the Icefields Parkway and is a true wilderness backpacking trip rather than a day hike. Strong hikers typically allow five days for the full 81 km circuit.

Most parties travel counter-clockwise: Nigel Creek trailhead to Four Point Campground over Nigel Pass; onward along the Brazeau River corridor to Brazeau Lake; over Poboktan Pass to Jonas Cutoff; then over Jonas Shoulder and Jonas Pass back to Four Point before retracing the Nigel Pass trail to the parking area. Designated campgrounds—including Four Point, Brazeau River, Brazeau Lake, John-John Creek, and Jonas Cutoff—shape the itinerary, and Brazeau Lake is about 900 m from the main trail.

Expect forest, open meadows, rocky passes, scree, braided river valleys, and exposed alpine terrain. The route includes cold river and creek crossings, limited signage, and rapid mountain-weather changes; carry reliable navigation, trekking poles, rain gear, and warm layers. The three high passes can hold snow into July, and Parks Canada advisories should be checked before departure.

Backcountry camping is restricted to designated sites and requires advance reservations. Brazeau Lake and Jonas Cutoff make useful bases for day trips, while the route’s broad valleys and high viewpoints offer strong opportunities for mountain and wildflower photography. Keep food secured, carry bear spray, and give wildlife plenty of space.