Pros & cons
PROS
- Multiple variants let you dodge crowds by adding the First Lake extension
- Benches at several viewpoints make for relaxed photo and snack stops
CONS
- Wayfinding can be mildly confusing at a couple of junctions
- Parking fills fast; the short loop can feel busy by late morning
Signed parking lot just off the Icefields Parkway (~9–10 km south of Jasper); vault toilet at the trailhead. Arrive early to get a spot.
As of 2025, reports note a closure from 2024 wildfire damage—confirm status with Parks Canada. Expect short steep, rocky/rooty sections; slippery when wet or icy. Signage can be confusing—photograph the trailhead map.
Why go
This is Jasper’s crowd-pleaser: five small lakes, each a different shade of blue‑green, linked by a forest path with frequent viewpoints and the occasional bench. On sunny days the colors pop; on calm mornings you’ll get mirror reflections. It’s popular for a reason—quick payoff, family‑friendly, and you can tailor the distance.
Trail basics
Plan on 3.0 miles total (about 4.8–5.1 km) for the classic loop, with a shorter option around 3 km and add‑ons if you want to extend. Elevation gain is modest but expect short, sometimes steep and rocky or rooty bits. The surface is mostly dirt singletrack with small footbridges/boardwalk-style crossings. Difficulty lands in the easy–moderate zone—fine for most hikers and kids; not wheelchair or stroller friendly. Dogs are allowed on leash.
Route vibes and tips
Most hikers do the standard loop that threads all five lakes in quick succession. If you want a little more space, include the longer circuit around First Lake—fewer people go that way. Signage can be mildly confusing at a couple of junctions; snap a photo of the big map at the trailhead so you don’t second‑guess turns. Benches appear at a few prime viewpoints—great snack spots. After rain, expect mud and slick roots; in shoulder seasons, icy patches can linger in shaded sections.
Best time to hike
June through October is the sweet spot. Colors are most vibrant under sun, and mornings have calmer water and fewer people. This is one of the park’s busiest hikes; arrive before 9 am for easy parking and a quieter loop. Winter access is possible, but the lakes freeze and trail ice is common—less scenic and more slippery than summer.
Practicalities
Trailhead parking is just off the Icefields Parkway about 9–10 km south of Jasper. There’s a vault toilet at the lot and no potable water—bring your own. Keep dogs leashed and be bear‑aware (carry and know how to use bear spray). As of mid‑2025, the loop has been reported closed due to damage from the 2024 Jasper wildfires—always check Parks Canada’s current advisories before you go.
Bottom line
If it’s open and conditions are good, this is a must‑do sampler of Jasper scenery with minimal effort. Go early, do the longer variant for a touch more solitude, and bring a camera when the sun’s out.
Where it starts
52.8083, -118.0234Wildlife on this trail
Near Valley of the Five Lakes Loop
All places →All trails →
0 mi awayTrail 9bScenic shortcut between First and Second Lakes on the Five Lakes loopModerate · 2.9 mi · 1.8 hr
0 mi away9a Valley of the 5 LakesJasper’s color-wheel lakes on an easy loop; take 9a for quiet.Easy · 4.2 mi · 2.3 hr
0 mi away3 High LakesShort, vivid-lake loop with easy mileage and big photo payoffEasy · 3 mi · 2 hr
0.7 mi awayWabasso LakeSecluded beaver-made lake with an easy forest approachTrailhead · Parking
0.9 mi awayValley of the Five Lakes OverlookRed Chairs perch over gem-toned lakes on a short hikeScenic Viewpoint
2 mi awayBecker's Gourmet RestaurantFine dining with front-row Athabasca River and mountain viewsRestaurant · Food
2.1 mi awayBecker's ChaletsRiverside cabins with kitchens, fireplaces, and a standout restaurantLodging · Restaurant
2.9 mi awayPortal Creek TrailForest slog to alpine meadows and Maccarib Pass—the Tonquin gateway.Challenging · 13.2 mi · 8 hr
