Maligne Canyon closure in 2026
Maligne Canyon is a narrow limestone gorge more than 50 m deep and in places only 2 m wide. Its trails normally cross the gorge on bridges. In 2026 the canyon trails and the ground around them are closed, from the First Bridge parking lot to the turn-off at Fifth Bridge. The closure order has been in force since 14 August 2026, and it covers winter walking and ice walks as well.
The reason is safety. The slopes are unstable, and after the wildfire the loss of vegetation raised the risk of debris flows and landslides. Investigations are needed before anyone can go back in. No reopening date has been set, so do not plan a trip around the canyon. If you want a replacement, look at the Jasper tours and at the places further down this page.
What is closed and what is open
The closure covers the canyon itself, not the whole Maligne Road area.
Closed: the canyon trails
The trails, the bridges and the gorge between First Bridge and the Fifth Bridge turn-off are off limits. That includes the First Bridge parking lot. Do not walk past barriers to look over the edge.
Closed: winter use
Ice walks, winter hikes and other winter activities in the canyon are not allowed. Do not look for an ice walk here this winter, and do not book one that claims to enter the canyon.
Open: the Fifth Bridge day-use area
The day-use area at Fifth Bridge and the trail between Fifth Bridge and Sixth Bridge are open. They do not lead on into the closed canyon, so this is a short outing rather than a replacement for the gorge walk.
Parking
The First Bridge lot lies inside the closed zone. The picnic area at Fifth Bridge is open.
Our pick: the Maligne Valley instead
The canyon itself is closed in 2026, so this guided trip goes to a valley lookout, Pleckaitis Canyon and Medicine Lake.
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.
Jasper tours instead of the canyon
Maligne Lake boat trips, glacier outings, wildlife tours and more, with live prices and availability.
Where to go instead
Three places that are open in 2026 and suit a similar half day.
Maligne Lake and Spirit Island
The 22 km lake on the same road as the canyon, with a boat trip of about 1.5 hours.
Athabasca Falls
Water through a short gorge, with viewpoints along the rail.
Pyramid Lake
A short walk to Pyramid Island over a wooden bridge.
Maligne Lake is the closest match for a day on the same road. Plan at least 90 minutes from town to the lake, including possible delays from traffic and animals on the road, and arrive about an hour before a boat departure. For more ideas, see things to do in Jasper.
Safety around the closed canyon
- Stay out of the closed zone. The ground at the rim can be unstable, and the walls are steep. A guide does not change the closure.
- Watch for signs and barriers. They mark the closed area. Follow them even when other people have gone past.
- Do not rely on old photos or older maps. They show a trail system that is not open now, and the condition of individual bridges after the fire cannot be judged from outside.
- Check before every visit. Closures can change with the season, so look at the current Parks Canada notices before you drive out.
Maligne Canyon: frequently asked questions
Is Maligne Canyon open?
No. The canyon trails and the ground around them are closed for the whole of 2026. Only the Fifth Bridge day-use area and the trail to Sixth Bridge are open, and they do not go into the gorge.
Can I do a Maligne Canyon ice walk this winter?
No. Winter activities in the closed canyon are not allowed, which includes ice walks. A tour listing does not override the closure.
When will Maligne Canyon reopen?
There is no reopening date. The closure runs through 2026 because of unstable slopes, a higher landslide risk and the investigations still needed.
Can I enter with a guide?
No. The closed area is closed to everyone, including guided groups.
What can I see near the canyon instead?
Maligne Lake is on the same road, and Athabasca Falls and Pyramid Lake are other short stops. You can also look at the Icefields Parkway for a longer drive.