Sulphur Skyline Trail

The Sulphur Skyline Trail is one of the most popular day hikes in Jasper National Park. Upon arrival at the summit of the trail, it is easy to see why -- the huge panoramic views in every direction are amongst the best in all of the Canadian Rockies. Do note that there is a "Skyline Trail" that is different than this trail, which is the "Sulphur Skyline." While both offer exceptional views, as their names suggest, the former is near Maligne Lake, not at Miette Hot Springs. Additionally, the former is a multi-day hike, whereas the Sulphur Skyline is a day hike with more limited backcountry connections and should be considered a day hike for most travellers to Jasper and the surrounding regions.

The trailhead of Sulphur Skyline is located just behind the Miette Hot Springs and resort facility. There is no shortage of parking spaces here, but expect the lot to be full at midday during the busy summer season. It should take about an hour to drive to Miette Hot Springs from the town of Jasper. The road from the Trans-Canada Highway to Miette Hot Springs is a spectacular drive, but it is narrow and windy in places. There are no length restrictions on the drive, but prepare to have some white knuckles if you are arriving in a larger vehicle or towing a fifth wheel. 

From the parking area, walk toward the main entrance to Miette Hot Springs. To the south of the entrance you should see a paved driveway heading due east into the forest and a sign a short distance up indicating that it is the Sulphur Skyline Trail. The pavement will turn into a dirt trail about 400 meters up the hike. From there, the trail ascends steadily through the forest virtually the entire way to the saddle of Sulphur Skyline. The final push to the summit from the saddle is short, but it is a bit steeper and much more exposed to the wind than the rest of the trail is up to that point. Expect heavy crowds at the saddle and at the summit of the hike.