Moderate

Mina and Riley Lakes Loop

Quiet lakes-and-forest loop steps from Jasper’s townsite.

Distance5.3 mi

Typical time2.5 hr

DifficultyModerate

PetsAllowed

Why hike it

If you want a peaceful, close-to-town nature fix without committing a full day, this loop delivers. It strings together two small, scenic lakes with birdy wetlands and mellow forest, and it’s popular with hikers, runners, and in winter, snowshoers and cross‑country skiers. Don’t come for big alpine drama—come for tranquil water, mixed forest, and easy accessibility.

Route overview

The full loop is about 5.3 miles (total), starting from the Jasper Activity Centre area. From the kiosk, follow signed Trail 8, skirting Cottonwood Slough, then link to Trail 2 near Pyramid Lake Road to close the loop back toward town. Expect gentle rolling terrain with roughly 450 feet of elevation gain and a few short ups and downs. Junctions are frequent—pay attention to signage to stay on the Mina–Riley circuit.

What you’ll see

You’ll circle quiet Mina Lake and Riley Lake and pass the Cottonwood Slough wetland, a reliable birding spot. Forest stretches mix spruce, pine, and aspen, with occasional openings that give peeks toward town and surrounding peaks. Wildlife is common—think deer, beavers, squirrels, plenty of birds, with occasional elk or bears moving through.

Trail feel and conditions

The surface is packed dirt and gravel with some roots and occasional muddy spots after rain. It’s well signed, but the web of connecting trails means a map or GPS app helps. Mosquitoes can be fierce near the water in early summer; bug spray isn’t optional.

Best time to hike

Spring through fall is prime (roughly April–September for dry trail and open water). Early or late in the day is quieter and best for reflections and wildlife. Winter is very doable as a snowshoe or ski outing when conditions allow.

Tips

Start from the Jasper Activity Centre and look for Trails 8 and 2 signage; remember the sequence: 8 → Cottonwood Slough → 2 → back to town.
Carry bear spray and know how to use it; make noise in brushy sections.
Bring bug spray, especially June–July.
A valid Parks Canada entry pass is required for Jasper National Park.

Pros

Walkable start from Jasper townsite—no car required
Excellent birding around Cottonwood Slough along the loop

Cons

Numerous junctions can be confusing without a map
Mosquito-heavy near lakes and wetlands in early summer

Parking

Park at the Jasper Activity Centre (303 Pyramid Avenue). A trail kiosk marks the start; the loop begins on signed Trail 8 and closes via Trail 2.

Caution

Active wildlife (bears, elk) possible—carry bear spray and make noise. Junctions are frequent; bring a map or GPS. Expect mosquitoes near water and muddy spots after rain; boardwalks and bridges can be slick when wet or icy.