About 54 kilometers south of Jasper, you will come across Sunwapta Falls, another powerful waterfall tucked into the rugged landscape of Jasper National Park. After the impressive force of Athabasca Falls, we weren’t sure another waterfall could make quite the same impression—but Sunwapta Falls had its own kind of drama. Even the name seems fitting. Sunwapta comes from a Stoney Nakoda word meaning “turbulent water,” and standing above the falls, it was easy to see why.

The upper falls are just a short walk from the parking area, making this an incredibly easy stop to add to an Icefields Parkway road trip. As we approached, the sound of rushing water grew louder, eventually opening up to the dramatic sight of the Athabasca River being funneled through a narrow canyon before plunging over the falls. The surrounding forest and towering mountains made the scene feel completely wild, despite how accessible it was.

We had originally planned to continue past the upper falls and hike down to the Lower Sunwapta Falls, and honestly, if you have the time, we recommend doing exactly that. The trail continues approximately 1.3 kilometers farther through the forest to the lower falls, where the crowds thin out and the scenery becomes even more secluded. Unfortunately, we were starting to realize just how much there was to see along the Icefields Parkway, and with a long day of driving still ahead of us, we were running short on time. So, reluctantly, we abandoned the mission to the lower falls and decided to simply soak in the upper falls instead.

Looking back, it was a good reminder that you don’t have to see absolutely everything. Sometimes the best choice is to stop rushing, find a viewpoint, and actually enjoy where you are. We stood above the falls for a while, listening to the roar of the water and taking in the surrounding landscape before reluctantly making our way back to the car.

If you’re planning your own Icefields Parkway adventure and have more time than we did, add the Lower Sunwapta Falls hike to your list. If you’re working with a tighter schedule, don’t feel guilty about visiting only the upper falls—they’re still well worth the stop.

Safety Tip

Be careful around the falls, especially after rain or during periods of high water. Mist from the rushing water can coat nearby rocks and walkways, making them surprisingly slippery. Stay on the designated trails and behind the railings—those turquoise waters may look inviting, but the current is extremely powerful.

Allow: 30 minutes for upper falls only or 1–1.5 hours if hiking to the lower falls.