Athabasca Falls at a glance
Athabasca Falls lies on the Jasper side of the Icefields Parkway. The Athabasca River drops over rock into a short, narrow gorge. The falls are 23 m high.
The day-use area and the trailhead are open to visitors. Short paths lead to viewpoints along the gorge, so a stop is usually short. A Parks Canada pass is needed on the parkway, including for a stop here. If you are comparing day trips, see the Jasper National Park tours, with stops along the parkway.
Athabasca Falls viewpoints and trails
What to expect at the rail.
Viewpoints
You see the falls and the short gorge from the paths near the water. Spray makes the rock wet, so allow time and wear shoes with grip.
Slippery rock
Wet rock near the falls is slippery. Stay behind the railings and do not cross them. Do not swim or climb at the falls.
Path conditions
The trailhead is open, but individual steps and side paths can change. Look at the signs on site and follow any closures.
Parkway pass
A Discovery Pass covers Jasper and Banff. A day pass is enough for a single visit. The Discovery Pass costs CA$83.50 for adults and CA$71.50 for seniors aged 65 and over in 2026, and it is valid for 12 months. Check the current fees on the day.
Our pick: the falls on a day trip
A long day along the parkway that stops at Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls; it starts in Calgary or Banff.
Hand-picked tours, booked through GetYourGuide. Prices are indicative starting prices in US dollars (as of October 2026). Tap a tour for live availability and the current price in your currency.
Athabasca Falls and Icefields Parkway tours
Day trips along the Icefields Parkway with stops at the falls, with live prices and availability.
Sunwapta Falls nearby
Sunwapta Falls is the second waterfall stop on the Jasper side of the parkway. The water falls into a limestone gorge, and a footbridge crosses it. A backcountry route along the Athabasca River starts here, which makes it a longer walk for those who want one. Keep to the railings and the footbridge, and do not climb on the rocks beside the gorge.
The picnic site and the trailhead are open. As at Athabasca Falls, rock near the water is slippery, and railings are there for a reason.
Driving to the falls
Road points that affect the stop.
Highway 93A in autumn
Road works on the 93A can restrict the side road in autumn. This does not close the main parkway, Highway 93 North. Check road conditions before you leave.
Winter driving
Winter tires or chains are required on the Icefields Parkway from 1 November to 31 March, and at any other time when the road is covered in snow or ice. Look for the snowflake symbol or M+S on the tire.
Mobile reception
Reception on the parkway is limited. Download offline maps and check Alberta 511 before you go.
Both waterfalls lie on the Jasper side of the parkway, so the same park pass covers either stop. Do not plan on a swim or a scramble at either one. For the whole route, see the Icefields Parkway guide. If you plan to continue to the glacier, the Columbia Icefield page has the next stop.
Athabasca Falls: frequently asked questions
How high is Athabasca Falls?
The falls are 23 m high, and the water drops into a narrow gorge.
How long should I stay?
A stop is usually short, because the paths are short. Allow more time if you want to walk to several viewpoints or take photos.
Can I swim at Athabasca Falls?
No. Do not swim or climb at the falls. The rock is wet and slippery.
Do I need a pass to visit?
Yes. A Parks Canada pass is needed on the Icefields Parkway. In 2026 the adult day pass costs CA$12.25 and the Discovery Pass CA$83.50.
Is Sunwapta Falls worth the extra stop?
It is another waterfall in a limestone gorge with a footbridge, so many visitors combine both on the way to or from the Columbia Icefield.