Cottonwood Slough

Think of Cottonwood Slough as a peaceful wetland stop rather than a destination hike. It sits just off Pyramid Lake Road on the Pyramid Bench, minutes from Jasper. The path is short, flat, and usually under 1 km total—perfect for an easy leg-stretcher or a family wander along the marsh edge.

The draw here is wildlife, not big vistas. In spring and early summer, the slough is lively with waterfowl—ducks, geese, coots, grebes—and sometimes sandhill cranes. Songbirds chatter in the willows and cottonwoods, and elk commonly pass through in fall. Move slowly, bring binoculars, and you’ll get more out of it than a quick lap.

Expect a natural dirt path that can be muddy after rain. There’s no dramatic climbing or technical footing, just an amble with open views across the water and forest edges. If you want more mileage, link it into the Pyramid Bench network: routes like Trail 8 or the Mina–Riley loop pass right by here, so you can turn a 15–30 minute stop into a proper outing.

This is a good choice if you’re short on time or want a quiet wildlife window close to town. If you’re chasing alpine scenery, look elsewhere; the slough is about birds and calm water, not summit views.

Best time to hike

• Spring and early summer for peak birdlife. Early morning or late afternoon gives you the best wildlife activity and soft light for photos.
• Fall brings elk activity and migrating waterfowl.
• It’s accessible year-round, but winter brings snow cover and quieter wildlife. Check current trail conditions and guidance from Parks Canada before you go.