There’s no shortage of waterfalls in Alberta, with all of them offering spectacular scenery year-round. Though, seeing as it’s summer, there’s no better time to witness the falls in all of their glory.
We’ve rounded up some of the best waterfalls to visit at this time of year in Alberta. Whether you’re looking for a picturesque hiking destination or just a great photo opportunity, we’ve got you covered.
Located in Jasper, this waterfall offers upper and lower waterfalls, both fed by the Athabasca Glacier.
The Upper Falls is a massive 60-foot drop through a narrow gorge, highly accessible with just a short walk from the parking lot and an excellent viewpoint from a footbridge. However, the Lower Falls is located about one kilometre downstream via a well‑marked trail, which offers intimate canyon views for those willing to walk a bit more.
Where: 55 km south of Jasper, Alta.
Crescent Falls is a series of two waterfalls located in Bighorn River Canyon. The day-use area just recently got renovated, offering a new staircase leading to several spruced-up platforms for visitors to safely enjoy their visit.
If you’re looking to visit, you’ll want to keep in mind that visitors must park at the upper lot. Here, there’s a new 800-metre trail that leads to the day-use area, rated for moderate to expert skill levels due to the incline. There is no general parking near the falls or within the campground; however, there is a drop-off zone near the platform and designated accessible parking.
Where: 22 km west of Nordegg, Alta.
Located in Banff National Park, Johnston Canyon is a world-famous hiking destination known for its gorgeous views. Even more famous are its stunning waterfalls, which, according to AllTrails, are a 2.7-kilometre hike from the trailhead (5.4-kilometre round trip).
There are the Lower Falls, a more picturesque waterfall you can view from a bridge or a small cave tunnel for a close-up experience, as well as the Upper Falls, a more dramatic, taller waterfall with two viewpoints: one at the base and one from a higher vantage point.
Where: Bow Valley Parkway, Improvement District No. 9, Alta.
While Athabasca Falls isn’t the highest waterfall by any means, according to its website, it most certainly is one of the most powerful.
Located in Jasper National Park, this waterfall is one of the most famous destinations in the park due to its spectacular views and natural beauty. The falls cascade down a rugged limestone canyon, and the water plunges over a series of rock ledges and creates a mesmerizing display for visitors to take in.
With the falls being a short walk from the designated parking lot, this is called one of the most accessible waterfall destinations in the province.
Where: 30 km south of Jasper, Alta.
According to Alberta Parks, Lundbreck Falls is “one of southern Alberta’s most accessible and breathtaking landmarks.”
You’ll find this spot just off Highway 3 between Crowsnest Pass and Pincher Creek. This waterfall provides two viewing platforms with excellent vantage points, and a short trail leading to a lower viewpoint where you can take it all in and commemorate the visit with photos.
Where: Range Road 24B, Lundbreck, Alta.
This short drop of 20 feet is still just as spectacular as these other waterfalls, with easy parking off Highway 66 for your viewing pleasure. Plus, it’s only 67 kilometres southwest of Calgary, making it a spectacular day trip destination.
The falls are relatively easy to get to, with a trail from the parking lot leading visitors to several great viewpoints. Behind the waterfall are the stunning sights of the mountains, just adding to the Alberta ambience.
Where: AB-66, Bragg Creek, Alta.
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Alyssa Gallardo
Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.
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