JASPER, ALBERTA—Canada—Hikers looking for a big challenge in a short amount of time should check out the Old Fort Point loop in Jasper National Park. Old Fort Point is a short, small-summit hike that contains some fairly steep grades. Hikers that meet the challenge will be rewarded with some great panoramic lookouts of the Canadian Rockies.

Vital Numbers for Old Fort Point—Jasper, Alberta

Hiking Distance: About a 4.0km loop.
Hiking Time: It will take about 1 to 2 hrs. to complete Old Fort’s loop.

Reaching the Trailhead in Jasper National Park

To begin the adventure, hikers should turn southeast off of Connaught Drive on Hazel Avenue. Continue on 0.6 km, crossing the railway to Highway 16. Once you’ve crossed the highway, travel 0.2 km to the next intersection and turn left at the sign marking Old Fort Point.

Navigating Old Fort Point

Finding the right trailhead for Old Fort Point can be tricky, as this area is the starting point for many hikes in the Canadian Rockies, including a path to the Maligne River and the Valley of the Five Lakes. To hike the standard Old Fort loop, choose the clockwise trail marked Old Fort’s Loop #1.

Start at the base of the steep wooden stairs built into the side of the cliff. Once you’ve reached the Athabasca River Monument, turn left and continue uphill, keeping along the ridge to the left. The hiking trail should be well-marked from here. Follow the path all the way up to the lookout, where you can take in some tremendous panoramic views of Jasper National Park. From here, the Jasper Park Lodge, Lac Beauvert and the Athabasca River can be seen.

Once you’ve taken in the scenery and are ready to return to your car, continue on back down the trail from behind Old Fort’s lookout. The path will lead into a long loop towards the left and eventually put you back at the beginning.

Tips For Hiking the Old Fort Point Loop in Jasper, Alberta

As with all hikes in Jasper National Park, Old Fort Point contains some tricky terrain. The path leading back toward the trailhead is rocky and can become muddy or slippery when wet. For up-to-date weather information, you can check out our live-streaming camera of downtown Jasper.

Hikers should also keep their eyes peeled for black bears. The animals have been routinely spotted on the lower hiking trails during certain times of the season.

When hiking and looking for things to do in Banff and Jasper, book all of your Canadian Rockies activities at Jasper Vacations, the official activities provider for Jasper National Park.