Skyline trail information (by CleverHiker.com)

The Skyline Trail in Jasper National Park is a spectacular backpacking destination in the Canadian Rockies. Of the 44 km of trail, nearly two thirds of the route is above treeline. You can expect sweeping mountain views in all directions, beautiful glacial lakes, and wind-swept ridges for miles.  The trail climbs over three mountain passes along a moderately graded path. You’ll encounter diverse flora and fauna (and a beautiful wildflower display in August), as well as vast meadows great for wildlife entions and other pieces of content that don’t fit into a shorter, more succinct space.

• Distance: 44 km (27 miles)
• Days Needed: 2-4 days
• Elevation Gain/Loss: 1,410 meters (4,625 feet)
• Best Travel Time: Late July - September
• Difficulty: Moderate - Difficult

• Good portion of hike above treeline
• Sweeping mountain views in all directions
• Relatively mellow elevation profile
• Well-maintained and well-marked trail
• Decent solitude, due to permit process
• Great shuttle service options

• Highly competitive permit process for campsites
• Can be very windy along ridges above treeline
• 9km stretch to/from Signal Trailhead is a forest road walk
• Can be susceptible to quickly changing weather
• Campfires not permitted
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In general, July through September is the best time to hike the Skyline Trail. Snowpack is a key factor for trip planning in this area, as snow can linger on the passes, especially the Notch, until late in the year. Rain and snow can fall at any time of year and freezing temperatures are possible, even in summer months.

As always, be prepared and diligent monitoring current conditions before your trek. Weather can change quickly . Before heading out, check the Jasper National Park trail report for up-to-date conditions at www.pc.gc.ca/jaspertrails.

 Below are the distances of each campsite from Maligne Lake.

• Evelyn Creek - 4.8km
• Little Shovel - 8.3km
• Snowbowl - 12.2km
• Curator - 21.3km- Shovel Pass Lodge is located 1 km from this campsite.
• Tekarra - 30.9km
• Signal - 35.6km

Water is plentiful along this trail and easily accessible from small streams. Carry enough water to get from one source to the next and use a lightweight water purifier. Every campsite along this trail has nearby running water.