I have done this trail twice now and both times in harsh weather. I was waiting to go again so I can get some updated photos for you. Here are some details of the Skyline Trail for all of you that are interested in this spectacular hike.
Patrick Crossing the stream
Colorful rock fall
The cairn along the route
View from Watchtower
You can access this trail from several locations, Signal Mountain, Wabasso Lake, Watchtower, and the most common route starts at Maligne Lake and ending up at Signal Mountain.
Curator Lake
There are about seven campsites on this trail, Evelyn Creek 5.2km (distance will list from Maligne Lake Trailhead), Little Shovel Pass 8.1km, Snow Bowl 11.8km, Watchtower 21.5 (this campsite is off the main path, and can be access by the Maligne Lake road just before Medicine Lake 10.3km), Curator 20.4km, Tekarra 30.1km, Signal 35.7km then another 8.5km down to the road. Booking campsites for this popular trail is a must and well in advance.
Be prepared for this trek as the weather changes are frequent and unpredictable. These photos were taken years ago and it was all in one long 12 hour day. If you think you are unable to hike this trail, try going by horseback with a local outfitter, and their access is from the Athabasca valley side by the way of Wabasso Lake.
Access: Maligne Lake, 48km from Jasper
Parking: Yes, last parking lot
Trailhead: Short walk
Distance: 45-47 Kilometers (usually 3day trek)
Elevation Gain: 1,350m
Activities: Hiking / Horseback
Thanks to Patrick for being my model.
by Eddie Wong.
RELATED LINKS:
- Jasper Riding Stables ( Horseback Tours )
- Jasper Park Stables Fairmont (Horseback Tours)
- Tonquin Valley Backcountry (Horseback, Backcountry Cabins)
- Tonquin Adventures (Horseback, Backcountry Cabins)
