Jasper: Athabasca Glacier and Tangle Falls

After hiking Wilcox Pass it was only natural to visit Athabasca Glacier as it is basically right across the road. This glacier is very well known as it is easy to reach from the Icefields Parkway. There is a large parking lot and then all you have to do is climb up a short path and you are literally standing within feet of this massive glacier.

Path leading to the Athabasca Glacier

 Just like at Wilcox Pass it was rather chilly. A result of the wind blowing over the Columbia Icefield. Dad and I saw many people in a wide variety of dress. There were girls in flip flops and mini-skirts, guys in shorts and t-shirts, and one couple looked as though they were about to undertake an arctic exploration as they were so well covered! My suggestion is to wear a pair of running shoes to make climbing the path easier and to have a sweatshirt of jacket handy. Many people do stop here for a few minutes as they are traveling down the parkway so dressing in layers would probably be best so as to be comfortable in the car but warm when you stop to see the glacier.

It is possible to actually go out onto the glacier but you should not do so unless you are with an official guide. It can be very dangerous to walk out onto the glacier by yourself and there are many informational signs telling you exactly why this is not a good idea. Unfortunately, many people ignore the warning and cross the fenced off area to walk on the glacier anyways.

Here are some of the plaques they have on display telling you about the glacier and warning of the dangers.

Standing at the foot of the glacier

A very sad story

Some of the not so wise people who decided to risk it and walk on the glacier

After taking in the glacier we jumped back in the car and continued up the Icefields Parkway. I had Dad stop for a few minutes so I could take in Tangle Falls. These beautiful falls are literally right on the Parkway. I am drawn to water, I love it. I love waterfalls, and lakes, and oceans, and rivers. If you are a water lover like me you will adore these Falls, they are picture perfect.

Instead of heading right back to the campsite Dad and I made a detour into town to gas up the car as we would be moving campsites in the morning. There are some lovely views as one drives into Jasper on the parkway.

The dogs and stepmother were waiting for us back at the campsite. Dad and I rewarded them for being so good that day by taking them for a walk along the Athabasca River that runs right next to the campground. There is a nice trail that runs next to the river. The dogs loved it and splashed around in the water. A nice way to spend our last evening in Jasper.