Experience Sunwapta Falls

Two Waterfalls in One: Upper and Lower Sunwapta Falls

Located on the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park is an opportunity where you can behold two waterfalls in just one adventure! Watch the turbulent waters originating from the Athabasca Glacier carve at the surrounding rocks and minerals as it slowly shapes a scene, you're sure to enjoy today and in the future! The upper cascades have a drop of about 18m and is only a short distance away from the parking area, while the lower portion is accessible by completing a brief and enjoyable hike. If you’re interested in getting a different view of things, try crossing the footbridge, this will also allow you to get a closer look and feel!

The History of Sunwapta Falls

In 1892, A.P. Coleman attributed the name "Sunwapta Falls" to the Stoney language, where "Sunwapta" translates to "turbulent water." These falls began to take shape when glacial meltwater from the Sunwapta River began to fall into the U-shaped Athabasca Valley about 8000 years ago. Viewing these waterfalls acts as a portal to journey through time, where the further you explore, the further back in history you get to see!

The source of the watercourse that powers this remarkable display of nature is the Athabasca Glacier. For the past two centuries, this glacier-fed water, containing an essential ingredient, has played a huge role in sculpting the attraction that we know today. This crucial component is known as glacial flour, a fine sediment remarkably similar in consistency to ordinary flour. This unique material is easily suspended in water and is produced when rock and gravel particles grind together during glacial erosion. Glacial flour is also extremely corrosive and significantly contributes to the distinctive milky appearance of the water you'll be able to view on your visit.

If you didn't know already, limestone predominantly comprises this attraction's canyon walls. With limestone ranking between 3 and 4 on the Mohs scale of hardness, it is relatively soft. So, as vast volumes of water packed with glacial flour constantly course over these walls, it will gradually migrate the falls upstream, leaving behind a gorge with incredible towering walls that is sure to take your breath away.

Even though this process started thousands of years ago, the erosion that substantially crafted these captivating cascades we currently recognize and admire today actually began just around 200 years ago. Your visit will offer you a unique opportunity to step back in time while also simultaneously witnessing the dynamic transformation of our planet change right before your very eyes.

Park, Eat, and Explore at Sunwapta Falls!

On your visit take comfort in knowing that there will be parking available! Leaving your vehicle at our designated lot is always completely free, but to access this attraction you will need to purchase a Canada Parks Pass. This will allow you to drive on the Jasper National Park Icefields Parkway, which is the only way in and out of these spectacular curtains of water. Purchase your parks pass here!

Looking to eat near these beautiful displays of water? We’ve got you covered, near the parking lot you will find picnic tables where you're free to savour a meal with your loved ones surrounded by the sights and sounds of Mother Earth. Once you feel re-energized, get excited, and discover all this scenic attraction has to offer!

Bears and Wildlife Safety at Sunwapta Falls

On June 26, 2019, in Jasper National Park, Global News Canada reported on a wildlife sighting that occurred the day prior. The visitors of Sunwapta Falls were left shaken up after a very close encounter with a black bear around 3 p.m. Video footage was captured by Bijan Avaz, a post-secondary student visiting from Los Angeles. The footage shows a black bear running across the wooden footbridge, which was crowded with many people at the time. A voice in the video cautioned visitors not to run; while some individuals quickly fled, others remained still. Eventually, the bear made its way back into the forest just up the hill.

Laura Coulson with Parks Canada ensured that Avaz’s video was shared with their specialists and stated that their team members will continue to monitor the black bears at Sunwapta Falls. Coulson also emphasizes that “We all have a role to play in keeping wildlife wild”. The agency is considering assigning a wildlife guardian to physically move around the park, educate and interact with visitors, and tend to areas where previous wildlife sightings have occurred. Coulson encourages visitors to remember to secure their food and garbage and never let children wander off on their own, as the surrounding habitat is shared with wildlife. She also stated that during your visit to the Canadian Rockies, also keep in mind to provide at least 100 meters of space between yourself and large animals, especially carnivores. It is crucial never to surround, crowd, turn your back, and especially follow an animal. If you notice an animal reacting, it’s a clear indication that you are too close!

If you encounter a bear, make sure to:

• Make Noise
• Use Bear Spray
• Stay Calm

While Alberta Fish and Wildlife did not comment on this specific story, safety tips were shared on their Facebook page. Their post also states that residents and visitors are to report any wildlife sightings to the nearest fish and wildlife office. View the full story on Global News Canada below.

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