Sunwapta Falls

About Sunwapta Falls

In 1892, AP Coleman gave Sunwapta Falls' name the Stoney Indian word for "turbulent river". While this is a bit less of a hike and more of a viewing experience, you can place a fair amount of time hiking in Sunwapta Falls' areas, taking in the many different views of this amazing waterfall and canyon.

Sunwapta Falls is a beautiful natural attraction located in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. It is one of the many stunning waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies and is known for its impressive cascades and scenic surroundings

Sunwapta Falls Location

Sunwapta Falls is situated on the Sunwapta River, a glacial river that originates from the Athabasca Glacier in the Columbia Icefield. The falls are approximately 55 kilometers (34 miles) south of the town of Jasper in Alberta.

Accessibility

The falls are easily accessible by road and are located just off the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93). Visitors can reach the falls by car, and there are parking areas near the viewpoints.

Upper and Lower Sunwapta Falls

Sunwapta Falls consists of two main sections: the Upper Falls and the Lower Falls. The Upper Falls are easily accessible from the parking lot and are known for their powerful rush of water as the river plunges through a narrow gorge. The Lower Falls are further downstream and offer a more tranquil setting, with the river cascading over a broader area.

Hiking and Viewing Sunwapta Falls

There are well-maintained hiking trails that provide excellent viewpoints of both the Upper and Lower Falls. These trails offer visitors the opportunity to get closer to the falls and enjoy different vantage points for photography and appreciation of the natural beauty.

Sunwapta Falls Scenic Beauty

The area surrounding Sunwapta Falls is incredibly picturesque, featuring breathtaking mountain scenery, dense forests, and wildlife. It is common to see various bird species, including eagles and ravens, as well as small mammals like squirrels and chipmunks.

Seasonal Variation

The appearance of Sunwapta Falls can vary depending on the time of year. In the summer, when the glaciers melt, the water flow is higher and more impressive. During the winter months, the falls can freeze partially, creating an entirely different and equally captivating landscape.

Activities from Sunwapta Falls

Besides admiring the falls, visitors can engage in various activities in the region, such as hiking, wildlife spotting, river rafting and photography. Additionally, there are tour operators offering guided excursions to explore the Columbia Icefield and nearby attractions like Athabasca Glacier.

When visiting Sunwapta Falls please follow Jasper Natiuonal Park guidelines, respect wildlife, and leave no trace to preserve this beautiful place for future generations to enjoy.

Getting TO Sunwapta Falls

Drive south of Jasper on Hwy 93 (The Icefields Parkway) for 55km and turn right at the Sunwapta Falls Resort. The parking lot is at the end of the access road. There are picnic tables, bathrooms and garbage cans around the area. It may be busy during the day, but is a great spot for an early evening picnic.

Viewing and Hiking Sunwapta Falls

The best view of Sunwapta's waterfall below the viewing bridge is from the edge or rim of the canyon. If you desire to see more canyon and waterfalls, simply follow the well marked Lower Sunwapta Falls hiking trail. Details are below.

Hiking the canyon to the lower sunwapta falls is a great way to extend enjoyment of the Sunwapta Falls area of Jasper National Park. The hiking trail is downhill on the way in but it's a gentle climb back up. This short hike is definitely worth the time. For the perfect view of the lower sunwapta falls, stacked one above another, it is necessary to scramble a bit down a steep bank below the last fall. Please be careful as this area can be extremely slippery when wet.
Hiking Sunwapta Falls

Sunwapta Falls Origin and History

Sunwapta Falls fed by Sunwapta River & Athabasca Glacier

Sunwapta Falls is fed by the Sunwapta River. The falls are located on the Sunwapta River, which originates from the Athabasca Glacier in the Columbia Icefield, a vast expanse of ice and snow in the Canadian Rockies. The river flows through the rugged landscape of Jasper National Park before cascading over the falls, creating a stunning natural spectacle for visitors to admire.

Sunwapta Falls History and Exploration

The history of the exploration of Sunwapta Falls is not well-documented, and there is no specific information about who exactly first explored the falls. Indigenous peoples, such as the First Nations in the region, likely knew about and visited the falls long before European explorers arrived in the area.

In the 19th century, as European explorers and fur traders began to venture into the Canadian Rockies, they encountered Sunwapta Falls during their explorations.

It was not until the establishment of Jasper National Park in 1907 that more formal records and documentation of Sunwapta Falls' features began to be recorded. Today, Sunwapta Falls remains a popular destination for tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, offering a chance to experience the beauty of these powerful Falls in the Canadian Rockies.
Jasper Columbia Icefield

Sunwapta Falls River Rafting

Jasper Sunwapta & Athabasca River Rafting

Rafting opportunities on the Sunwapta River and nearby rivers within Jasper National Park and the surrounding area are plentiful. Guided Rafting tours on the Athabasca and Sunwapta Rivers provide casual and thrilling rafting experience for visitors.

Rafting Sunwapta River

Rafting on the Sunwapta River is a popular and exciting adventure for visitors to Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada. The river offers thrilling rapids, breathtaking scenery, and a chance to experience the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies up close.

Sunwapta River Location

The Sunwapta River flows through the heart of Jasper National Park, originating from the Athabasca Glacier in the Columbia Icefield and winding its way through the rugged mountain landscape.

Sunwapta River's Rapids

The Sunwapta River features a mix of Class II and Class III rapids, providing an exciting yet manageable rafting experience suitable for beginners and families with older children. The rapids offer a good balance of fun and adventure without being overly challenging.

Sunwapta River Rafting Tours

Several licensed tour operators in Jasper National Park offer guided rafting trips on the Sunwapta River. These tours typically range from a couple of hours to half-day excursions, depending on the route chosen.

Scenic Beauty

Besides the exhilarating rafting experience, the Sunwapta River offers stunning views of the surrounding wilderness, including towering mountains, dense forests, and the possibility of spotting wildlife along the riverbanks.

Safety

Rafting companies prioritize safety and provide all participants with appropriate safety gear, including life jackets and helmets. Experienced guides lead the trips and provide instructions on rafting techniques to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone.

Season

Rafting on the Sunwapta River is typically available from late spring to early fall, as weather and water conditions permit. The best time for rafting varies each year depending on the snowmelt and river flow.

Sunwapta River Rafting Age and Experience Requirements

Rafting companies may have specific age and physical fitness requirements for participants. It's essential to check with the chosen tour operator beforehand to ensure everyone in your group meets the necessary criteria.

Booking Sunwapta Falls River Rafting

Due to the popularity of rafting on the Sunwapta River, it is recommended to book your rafting tour in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Jasper Sunwapta & Athabasca River Rafting