Pros & cons
PROS
- Starting at Sixth Bridge usually means easier parking and fewer crowds
- Multiple bridge viewpoints over the canyon’s most dramatic stretch (Fifth to Third)
CONS
- Muddy and slick sections near the river; expect some rock‑hopping
- Intermittent closures reported in 2025—plans may need a backup
From Jasper, drive Maligne Lake Road and turn left at the signed Sixth Bridge (about 2.1 km). Park at the Sixth Bridge lot/picnic area; cross the bridge and turn right to begin.
Trail and bridges can be slippery when wet or icy; muddy sections common. Bears are present—be bear aware. Check for current closures affecting this section of Maligne Canyon.
Why this loop
If you want classic Maligne Canyon drama without the shoulder‑to‑shoulder crowds at the upper bridges, start at the Sixth Bridge. This loop tracks the Maligne River upstream to the Third Bridge and back, serving up deep limestone chasms, waterfalls, and a calmer vibe. It’s about 8 km/5 miles total, easy to moderate, on well‑maintained dirt and gravel with railings and stairs in places.
Trail experience
Park at the Sixth Bridge lot off Maligne Lake Road, cross the bridge, and turn right to follow signs along the canyon. The walking is mostly gentle, but expect short climbs and uneven sections. Between the Fifth and Third Bridges the canyon tightens and gets loud and spectacular—this is the photo zone, with multiple vantage points from the numbered bridges. Surfaces can be wet and slick near the river, and user reports mention muddy patches where you’ll step across stones.
Season and closures
Best June–September for dry tread and full, roaring water; fall colors sweeten the deal. The route is open year‑round and becomes a striking ice‑walk setting in winter (consider traction or a guided tour for icy conditions). Note: some listings marked this segment as CLOSED in spring 2025—check current conditions before you go.
Geology and wildlife
Maligne Canyon slices through ancient Devonian limestone, carved over thousands of years into narrow chasms up to roughly 50 m deep. Watch for classic erosion patterns, potholes, and fossils in the rock. In the forested stretches you may spot birds, squirrels, and deer; river otters are occasionally seen along the water.
Tips
- Start from Sixth Bridge for easier parking and a quieter approach; upper canyon lots near the First and Second Bridges fill early and get crowded.
- Footwear with traction is a must; bridges and shaded sections get slick after rain or in winter.
- Follow the clear signage for Maligne Canyon Trail and the Overlander Trail junctions.
- Not wheelchair/stroller accessible due to stairs and uneven surfaces.
Comparable options
If you’re chasing maximum canyon drama and don’t mind crowds, the upper Maligne Canyon near the First and Second Bridges has more facilities and overlooks. For a calmer, more nature‑forward outing, Sixth to Third is the sweet spot.
Where it starts
52.9336, -118.0300Wildlife on this trail
Near Sixth Bridge to Third Bridge Loop
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayOverlander TrailHistoric riverside singletrack with views and easy shuttle logisticsModerate · 10 mi · 5.5 hr
0 mi awayPunchbowl via Overlander TrailScenic Overlander trek to the Punchbowl viewpoint above the AthabascaModerate · 8.4 mi · 4.5 hr
0 mi awaySixth BridgeQuieter trailhead into lower Maligne Canyon and Overlander TrailTrailhead · Parking
1 mi awayFifth Bridge LoopLower Maligne Canyon loop with springs, bridges, and big viewsEasy · 2.6 mi · 1.5 hr
1 mi awayFifth BridgeQuieter gateway to Maligne Canyon’s springs and serene river viewsTrailhead · Parking
1.5 mi awayMount Tekarra ViewpointQuick, big views of Tekarra from Maligne LookoutParking · Scenic Viewpoint
1.5 mi awayMaligne CanyonJasper’s classic gorge walk with bridges, waterfalls, and karst springsModerate · 2.3 mi · 1.5 hr
1.5 mi awayBridge No 4Quieter Maligne Canyon span with dramatic views into the narrowsScenic Viewpoint
