Edith Lake Loop

This is a mellow, scenic loop around Jasper’s glacial-fed Lake Edith—an easy, family-friendly walk with frequent peeks at turquoise water and mountain backdrops (watch for Pyramid Mountain on clear days). At roughly 2.9 miles total, it’s a true loop with minimal elevation and a mix of shoreline singletrack and short forested detours.

Expect a natural tread with a few rough spots: occasional swampy patches, some rickety footbridges, and average signage. Navigation is straightforward if you keep the lake on your side, but bring a map if you’re new here—especially after snowfall, when the path can be hard to follow. The vibe is calmer than nearby Lake Annette, though warm summer weekends still draw a crowd.

The fun of Edith is options: stroll, jog, or linger at benches and sandy edges; on hot days the lake’s shallows warm up fast, making it one of Jasper’s best swims. Non-motorized craft (SUPs, kayaks, canoes) are the rule—no gas motors. You’ll pass the area’s historic private cabins; the shoreline remains publicly accessible, but give properties a respectful buffer.

Wildlife is around—bears included—so carry bear spray, make noise, and stay alert. Birds frequent the area, and the mix of clear water and sandbars makes for easy photography. In winter, the lake often freezes and locals come for wild ice skating and, in good snow years, cross-country skiing, but the loop itself can be tricky to follow under snow.

Tips: Pair this with a picnic; the Annette–Edith area has day-use amenities nearby, and Lake Annette offers more established facilities if you want grills and outhouses. If you’re after something grander, there are bigger-view hikes elsewhere in the park—but for a low-effort lakeside fix close to town, Edith is tough to beat.

Best time to hike: May through October for dry trail and easy navigation; June–August for swimming and paddling. Go early or on weekdays in summer for the quietest lap and softer light along the water.