Sunwapta Falls originates from the Athabasca Glacier at Columbia Icefield. The falls were formed around 8,000 years ago by receding glacier ice. There is an upper and a lower falls, the first forming a drop of 18 metres, the second of nine metres. The bigger of the falls is the most popular and accessible, although the other is well worth seeing.
Start at Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge. The star attraction here is a talking hologram of a Kodiak grizzly bear. Listen to him crack jokes at passers-by – this is almost certainly the friendliest bear you'll encounter in these parts. Steel yourself for a hike with lunch at the restaurant. Make the short walk to the falls, and admire the cacophony of rushing water. Sunwapta is a Native American word for turbulent water. Both falls look their best in spring, when the meltwater is at its highest. Railings around the falls are there for a reason – the rocks surrounding them are extremely slippery, so don't venture out any further than you should.
If you've the day to spare, set out on the full 25-kilometre hike to Fortress Lake via Hamber Provincial Park. The subalpine forest you'll pass through was rejuvenated by a wildfire in the late 1960s. You may well bump into some of the forest's inhabitants along the way – moose and bears and particularly abundant. Make plenty of noise as you go (clapping, singing, shouting) in order to scare off any bears. Plenty of other short strolls are available closer to the falls if you only want to be here for an hour or so. Ask at the lodge for the best route for you.
Should you wish to spend more time around Sunwapta Falls, there are some excellent accommodation options. Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge offers cosy, modern rooms. In the summer, pitch up at one of the campsites.
Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge is about 45 minutes' drive from Jasper, southeast along Icefields Parkway.
