Athabasca is likely the most visited waterfall in Jasper National Park and possibly in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Tour bus after after tour bus shuffle through here but don't let that deter you as it's popular for more than it's easy access. It's a segmented falls as the water changes directions and folds over itself. Depending on water levels there may be several different paths of falling water that shakes the ground with thunder. Look across the highway and UP to the east to view Kerkeslin Falls. Wheel chair accessible paved trail will be wet & slick in some areas most of the year. White water rafters put in just below the falls. The water pours over a hard layer of Quartzite and easily eats into the soft limestone below creating potholes & medicine bowls. Another paved trail takes you past the falls for a short hike over thousands of years through a unique ancient canyon that you can walk through. The Athabasca River is the largest river system in Jasper National Park and was mapped by David Thompson in 1810-1811 as he searched for a trade route through to the west and the Pacific Ocean. GPS data that was replaced by CGNDB data = 52.66468, -117.88274
Highway Directions
From Jasper Alberta begin at intersection of Highway 16 Yellowhead Highway and Highway 93 Icefields Parkway, drive south for 30km (18.6mi), turn right at the sign marking Athabasca Falls and park in parking lot at end of road. From Lake Louise Alberta begin at intersection of Highway 1 Transcanada Highway and Highway 93 Icefields Parkway, drive north for 196km (122mi), turn left at the sign marking Athabasca Falls and park in parking lot at end of road.
