Opal Hills

Why hike it

Opal Hills is a short, punchy loop that pays you back fast: a steep forest grind pops you into a high basin of flower-rich meadows with big views over Maligne Lake and the surrounding peaks. If you like effort-with-dividends, this is one of Jasper’s most rewarding half-day hikes.

Trail overview

The standard Opal Hills loop is about 5.1 miles (8.2 km) total and typically takes 3–5 hours. Expect roughly 1,500–1,650 ft (≈450–500 m) of elevation gain, front-loaded in the first couple of miles. The tread is natural—dirt with roots and some rocky bits—and can be muddy or snowy in the shoulder seasons. It’s signed and easy to follow once you’re on route.

Route and experience

Start from the upper/day-use parking areas at Maligne Lake. The trail briefly overlaps the Mary Schäffer Loop before splitting and climbing—hard—through forest that includes dense regrowth from an 1800s burn and older stands of lodgepole pine. Around 2.8 km in, you reach the meadows and the start of the loop. Most hikers prefer going counterclockwise for a slightly gentler descent and better unfolding views. The meadows are the star—especially in July–August—set beneath Opal Peak with layered vistas toward Bald Hills and beyond. Experienced hikers can tack on an unofficial extension higher toward the ridge or toward Opal Peak for bigger panoramas and fewer people.

What you’ll see

• Meadows bursting with wildflowers in midsummer.
• Classic Jasper layers of peaks and wide views toward Maligne Lake.
• A living timeline: fire-regrown forest giving way to subalpine meadows, plus colorful soils and rock that give the area its "opal" character.

Wildlife is common here—moose, elk, deer, and grizzly bears are all reported—so stay alert.

Best time to hike

July–August is prime for clear trails and peak wildflowers. Late spring and early fall can be lovely and cooler, but expect lingering snow or mud; bring traction if needed and be avalanche-aware if you’re venturing in winter conditions (this is not a casual winter route). Start early for easier parking and quieter meadows.

Heads up

This hike is steep with limited switchbacks and sees regular grizzly activity. Make noise, keep bear spray instantly accessible, and check current trail reports at the Jasper Visitor Centre or online before you go—closures for wildlife are not uncommon. If this trail is closed or socked in, Bald Hills nearby is a solid backup.