Walking EuropeValley of the Five Lakes
Walk 6064
Country - Canada
Region - Jasper National Park
Author - Lou Johnson
Length - 5.0 km / 3.1 miles
Time - 2.00 hours
Grade - easy
Click image to visit gallery of 9 images.
The start of this short hike lies some 9 km south of Jasper on Highway 93. The parking area lies on the east side of the road (right hand side when approaching from Jasper). There is an information board and eco-toilets at the trail head. This is a popular family hike and parts of the route also see use by mountain bikers.
From the trailhead take Trail 9a into the forest with its lodegpole pines. You reach a recently renovated boardwalk across the Wabasso Creek after about 15/20 minutes. Sightings of beavers have been noted in this wetland area. The trail climbs away from the boardwalk to reach a junction. Go straight ahead on trail 9b to reach a point between First Lake (on your left) and Second Lake (on your right).
Bear right and follow the path around Second Lake keeping the Lake on your right. Continue onto Third, Fourth and Fifth Lakes. The trail continues between Fourth and Fifth through forest to take you back to the junction reached after the boardwalk. The lakes vary in colour due to their different depths. During this walk a family of Loons was seen on Fifth Lake. For non-Candians this is the bird featured on the back of the Canadian One Dollar coin (hence the coin's nickname - Loonies). Also seen and head were woodpeckers.
Cross the boardwalk and return to the start.
Notes this was a busy trail when I visited the area during the summer time. At quieter times of the year normal precautions about bears might be considered although it is unlikely you will meet Grizzly Bears.
Suggested Maps
- Government of Canada Topographic Map, Sheet 83D/16 - Jasper, 1:50000 scale
Stay Safe
Do enjoy yourself when out walking and choose a route that is within your capabilities especially with regard to navigation.
Do turn back if the weather deteriorates especially in winter or when visibility is poor.
Do wear the right clothing for the anticipated weather conditions. If the weather is likely to change for the worse make sure you have enough extra clothing in your pack.
Do tell someone where you are planning to walk especially in areas that see few other walkers.
Do take maps and other navigational aids. Do not rely on mobile devices in areas where reception is poor. Take spare batteries especially in cold weather.
Do check the weather forecast before leaving. The Met Office has a number of forecasts for walkers that identify specific weather risks.
Please Note - These walks have been published for use by site visitors on the understanding that Walking Britain is not held responsible for the safety or well being of those following the routes as described. It is worth reiterating the point that you should embark on a walk with the correct maps preferably at 1:25000 scale. This will enable any difficulties with route finding to be assessed and corrective action taken if necessary.