Pros & cons
PROS
- Multi-lake payoff with minimal extra effort (Dorothy, Christine, easy Virl detour)
- Varied start with a railway up-and-over and a Miette River footbridge—fun landmarks
CONS
- Average signage; easy to miss the Virl spur or minor junctions
- Short, steep clamber over the railway can be awkward for some
Park at the Dorothy and Christine Lakes parking lot off Highway 16 (about 6.2 miles from Jasper, just past the Meadow Creek Bridge). From the lot, walk the dirt road to the railway embankment to start the trail.
Steep path over railway, average signage at junctions, and muddy or slick sections outside May–September; no amenities on route.
Why go
If you want classic Jasper lake views without the tour-bus traffic, this is your move. The trail strings together Dorothy and Christine—two calm, clear lakes with mountain backdrops—and tempts you with an easy detour to Virl. It’s a steady, moderate climb on forested singletrack with just enough variety to stay interesting.
Route overview
From the signed parking lot off Highway 16, follow a short dirt road to the railway. A steep path hops you over the tracks, then a footbridge crosses the Miette River—handy landmarks that confirm you’re on route. The grade stays mostly gentle as you wind through forest.
Around 4.3 km in, a right-hand spur leads 500 m to Virl Lake (a worthwhile add-on). Stick to the main trail to reach Dorothy Lake about 300 m later, with Christine Lake another 300 m beyond. Expect peaceful shorelines and views toward the Maligne Range; Virl offers sightlines to Indian Ridge.
For planning: it’s about 2.5 miles (4 km) one way to Christine (roughly 5.0 miles/8 km round trip), with around 250 m of total elevation gain.
Trail character and vibe
This one is about tranquility and lakeside time, not technical drama. Signage is only “average,” so pay attention at junctions. It’s family-friendly for active kids, and the path is used by both hikers and cyclists. Bring snacks—there are no amenities or campsites along the route—and linger at Christine if the wind is calm.
Best time to hike
May through September offers the best footing and weather. Earlier or later, expect lingering snow, mud, and slick spots. Summer is prime for photos and picnics, but carry bug spray; forest-and-lake terrain can be buggy. It’s quieter than Jasper’s marquee hikes, even in peak season. For closures or conditions, check Parks Canada’s Jasper trail updates before you go.
Tips
- Add Virl Lake if you have gas in the tank—the payoff-to-effort ratio is great.
- Boats that once dotted these lakes are gone; plan on shore wandering only.
- The start includes a short but steep up-and-over of the railway—keep packs tight and footing sure.
- No day-use permit is required for the trail, but you do need a valid Jasper National Park entry pass.
Elevation
5 mi · 2.5 hrNear Dorothy and Christine Lakes Trail
All places →All trails →
Maligne LakeGlacier-blue lake with cruises to photogenic Spirit IslandTrailhead · Parking
Mount Edith CavellAngel Glacier views and wildflower meadows on Jasper’s signature peakTrailhead · Restroom
Spirit IslandIconic island view on turquoise Maligne Lake, reached only by boat
Athabasca FallsRoaring glacier-fed falls squeezed into a narrow quartzite canyonTrailhead · Pullout
Skyline TrailCanadas premier alpine traverse with 25 km above treeline.Challenging · 27.4 mi · 16 hr
Maligne CanyonJasper’s classic gorge walk with bridges, waterfalls, and karst springsModerate · 2.3 mi · 1.5 hr
Cavell MeadowsWildflowers and glaciers with a steep, rewarding ridge loopModerate · 4.6 mi · 4 hr
Sulphur SkylineSteep climb to a 360-degree ridge, then a hot-springs soak belowChallenging · 5.3 mi · 4.5 hr
