Maligne Canyon Hike
I had no plans to be in Jasper and therefore having no specific idea what to visit and where to hike, I chanced a guess at trying the hike by Maligne Canyon. Having never visited a canyon before, I was excited to see what it looked like. There were different information panels as we hiked through the path, explaining the formation of the gorge to us curious hikers. 6 bridges in total exist for this hike (5 being fairly close and the last, a walk away). We stuck to the first 5 bridges for our morning hike.
The waters flowing in Maligne Canyon were bright blue. I was fascinated and compared the bright colour to that of the blue topaz on my engagement ring. The icy blue waters were reflected in my own stone. The current swishing at an insane speed between the rocky pass, one could stare endlessly and never get bored.
If you’re headed to Jasper, you can’t miss this hike!! It’s a beginner-level hike with fantastic views.
Edith Lake Swim
Again, with no particular plan in mind, we put on our bathing suits and went to take a swim in Lake Edith. I tried capturing the icy turquoise mountain waters through pictures, but truly, it was practically impossible to get the exact shade of blue I was witnessing. My partner waded into the lake and encouraged me to follow. I did not like the idea, as I loathe the cold with a passion. Into the waters I went anyway, to see what it felt like. The lake was undoubtedly cold thanks to the glacial water. VERY cold. It was also so clear, unlike any lake I’d been to before. Every rock (and foot!) was visible. I was so mesmerized I could (almost!) forget that I was freezing!
The App We Use For Hiking
We use AllTrails for our hiking needs, there is a wonderful GPS option allowing you to see how far into your hike you’ve walked, and how much longer you have to go. We use the free version and it works perfectly for us. I recommend putting the hike in one’s favourites before heading out.
Astoria Hotel in Jasper
Our booking of the Astoria Hotel was done the day before we arrived if I remember correctly. It was a very nice place to stay with super friendly and helpful staff. The price, however, was not friendly, especially for such a last-minute stay. We asked to stay an extra night once we got there (for a total of 2 nights) and thankfully so, as the room we booked was the last available. The person after me in line couldn’t book a stay. This goes to say that it was excessively busy. For trips to Banff or Jasper, I have read that the recommendation is to book months in advance (obviously in the current situation, one must be sure plans can be cancelled).
I honestly should have done more research before coming here and recommend that people do. I just wasn’t offered the privilege with my last-minute change of plans.
Supper at The Pines Restaurant in Jasper
The Pines is a short drive from our hotel and one of the few restaurants in Jasper National Park. The view from the restaurant is worthwhile, a peaceful lake with nature all around. Food-wise, I opted for bison (for the first time!). An adventurous choice for me, to be sure, but one that was worthwhile. My partner’s vegetarian option, the Zucchini, however, was hard to stomach, with some herb or another overpowering the meal. Vegetarian or vegan meals tend to be hit or miss and this was definitely a miss. Nonetheless, don’t let this turn you off from the restaurant, because upon checking their menu on their website again recently, I realized the vegetarian option had changed and so there is possibly a seasonal aspect to it.
Curious as to what we were doing the day before? Don’t miss my previous article on our beautiful drive from Whistler to Jasper.
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