Things to do in Improvement District No. 12

Visiting Maligne Lake is like seeing a postcard come to life. You’ve probably seen its island featured on posters and in movies more than a few times and it has become a symbol of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. On first seeing the lake, you’ll be struck by its sheer size, vivid color, and pristine mountainous backdrop. Of course Maligne Lake is much more than just a view; there is enough to do to keep you occupied for days. Visit in summer for the most diverse range of options.

Visit Jasper National Park South Entrance to discover a magnificent mountain getaway, which has postcard-perfect landscapes and diverse ecosystems. Jasper National Park South Entrance is the southern gateway to Jasper National Park, the Canadian Rockies’ biggest national park. Its breathtaking scenery is a paradise for lovers of nature and outdoor pursuits. Bike, hike and ride on horseback along trails framed by waterfalls and flower-filled meadows. Take scenic drives, try alpine sports and spot rare wildlife.

Flowing from Columbia Icefield’s huge glaciers, Athabasca Falls pour over quarzite rocks into a small canyon. The reason these falls draw in so many visitors has little to do with their height. At 75 feet (23 meters) tall, there are many bigger waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies. Yet, this sudden drop in the Athabasca River makes such an by impressive noise that people come here for the experience as well as the stunning picture it provides.

Sunwapta Falls consists of two waterfalls, one above the other. Both carve deep into the limestone to create a forceful torrent of water, falling from 60 feet (18 meters) and 30 feet (9 meters) respectively. The water itself originates from the famous Athabasca Glacier. Whether this is a fast photo stop-off or the starting point of some outdoor activities, you’ll want to take some time to admire the roaring falls.

If you’ve witnessed the flow of water in Maligne Canyon, a visit to Medicine Lake is a must, because this is where it all goes. Well, this is where it is supposed to go at least. When autumn starts, the body of water disappears and leaves a mere trickle. This phenomenon has mystified people for thousands of years. Medicine Lake earned its name from the Native Indians who believed its ebb and flow was magical, like medicine.

A trip to Mount Edith Cavell is as easy or as challenging as you want it to be. Its 11,034 feet (3,363 meter) peak can be conquered by the adventurous, but those who would rather just take in a the scenery can stick to easier trails. Two base trails lead to Angel Glacier and the longer of the two goes on to the Cavell Meadows.