Explore Jasper // Sulphur Skyline Trail

Although we had a relatively tough winter this year, I have been very blessed to have completed sixteen hikes this year so far. Not only that, we were gifted with great weather and conditions for most of those hikes. Amongst the most memorable were certainly the trails in Jasper during a most wonderful trip with my favourite hiking buddies. On our last full day, we decided to try a highly recommended trail known as the Sulphur Skyline. The name originates from its location near the sulphuric Miette Hot Springs, which is now accessible to the public within a pool complex. If you ever find yourself in the area, take note that many hikers choose to soak in the springs after completing the climb. 

This particular hike is a roundtrip length of 8 km and requires one to climb an elevation gain of 700 m. As we are quite seasoned hikers, the length and elevation were not major issues-- the most difficult factor of this hike (and most hikes this year) was the insufferable amount of biting insects we had to endure! Luckily, our Jasper hikes were granted sublime weather, lots of wind at the top to blow away such pests, and the incredible, clear views.

Every time we paused for a brief water or snack break, we would be set upon by a terrible amount of mosquitoes, gnats, and other unfortunate insects. Nevertheless, here is Eva looking quite peaceful despite the forty-odd bites she would later discover on her body...

As evidenced by the above photos, the majority of the hike was a wide, well-maintained path that climbed steadily (but not too steeply) towards the summit. Whenever we looked to the side or backwards, we were rewarded by gorgeous views of the surrounding mountain ranges. 

After a series of forested switchbacks, we came upon a clearing that marked the trail right before the summit. Many hikers decided to eat some energy-giving snacks before attempting the last steep push to reach the top of the mountain. It was here that we began to feel the fly-repelling relief of strong winds and were required to put on our coats due to the newfound chill.

A shot of me after making it to the top following the short but steep scramble to the summit. The hike to the summit took us about two hours (including some breaks to accommodate one member of our party who wasn't feeling well).

Tia in the distance.

After drinking our fill of the views, eating our lunches, and chatting with various other hikers, we started to make our way down the mountain. Since the path was so wide and easy to navigate (ie. no roots or loose stones that could easily cause one to slip), I was able to race down the mountain in about an hour or less-- I always enjoy finishing the hike down as fast as possible if I can do it safely. 

I never stopped being amazed by the gorgeous assortment of wildflowers that we were able to enjoy along the sides of the path. 

It's hard to believe that these photos were taken when summer was just getting into its full swing and now it's almost the end of August-- why must time go so quickly when it's my favourite season of the year?

All in all, we loved Jasper just a bit more than Banff and would go back in a heartbeat (or even live there for parts of the year if we could)! As well, while I've done sixteen hikes, I hope to do quite a few more before the end of the year-- next up is a trip to Tofino and Ucluelet where I hope to complete some lovely coastal trails. Have you been doing any hiking this summer?