The Skyline Trail: A Canadian Rockies Gem

Introduction

The Canadian Rockies are full of backpacking opportunities which are well-traveled but secluded. One scenic route is the Skyline Trail in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. I have had the benefit of backpacking many of the trails in the Canadian Rockies. However, I have never managed to make it out to the Skyline Trail. Also, the limited number of backpackers permitted on the trail at one time ensures a relatively private trip, and the elevation of the trail provides unparalleled views.

I grew up hearing my mom, and my almost ninety-year-old Grandma tell fond stories of a woman I resemble but never knew. Auntie Marion died at a young age, and  Grandma says I am like her: willowy, possessing a keen outspoken mind, and having a propensity to be something of an “old maid” with unusual hobbies (like photography and backpacking).

Auntie Marion hiked the Skyline Trail many years before I was born and I wanted to see what she did and bring my grandmother back the photos. As you might have guessed, Grandma enjoys seeing her grandchildren living and progressing.  I can’t help but want to bring photos back to see her smile.

Trip Review

Planning and Preparation

Aside from booking permits, I needed to do little in preparation for the Skyline Trail. In March, I booked permits for a mid-August trek (and by that time in the summer my gear and my physical conditioning is in a relatively “grab and go” state). Considerations for the Skyline Trail which I did not plan for every other trip of my summer included: a high alpine route, snowstorm, bears, and caribou.

Travel Style

I have one friend who agreed to head out with me on this trail. We’d do a full gear split and work as a team to prevent redundancy. When I booked permits, I only had the option of a three-night booking due to available campsites. We’d stay at Little Shovel, Curator, and Signal Road Campsites. Also, with short days and ample daylight hours, this hike would be a fast, light and relaxing “milk run.”

Logistical Notes

The Skyline Trail  has limited campsites. Campsites are booked in advance, on a first come, first serve basis. Booking starts online in January. In this area, I expect snowstorms at any time.

In addition to booking permits, I recommend booking a campsite near Jasper if you need to stay overnight prior to arrival at the trailhead. Also, camping in the area is limited and can be full and booked well in advance. I booked Pocahontas Campground off Highway 16.

A bus from Maligne Valley Direct Shuttle can be scheduled from one trailhead to the other to facilitate the use of one vehicle for transport to the trail. If you are in the townsite without a vehicle, you can hop on the shuttle in Jasper and shuttle to the trailhead and back. I booked the earliest bus (9 AM) from the Signal Mountain Trailhead to the Malign Lake Trailhead. Parking at both trailheads is limited, and I recommend booking the bus and arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon to ensure a parking space.

Also, the least elevation gain route starts at Maligne Lake hiking northwest towards the Jasper townsite. The Maligne Lake start route is the most popular option but is certainly not without elevation gain. Starting from Maligne Lake gains 2700 ft (820 m). Starting from Signal Mountain Fire Road gains 4450 ft (1350 m) of elevation.

Equipment Notes

Aside from the constant threat of high winds and summer snowstorms, the Skyline Trail has very few major concerns. Campsites are semi-primitive and have bear hangers, cook areas, tent pads, and open-air pit toilets. The Skyline Trail bans dogs, fires, horses and mountain bikes at all times. The area around the Skyline Trail is environmentally sensitive, and there are limited trail use permits issued.

Photo Journal