Alberta has some incredibly impressive views and while the weather continues to cooperate, many of you will be looking for the best of ’em. From city skylines to bright blue lakes, Wild Rose Country has it all, but the Athabasca Glacier is truly something else!

Located in Canada’s Rocky Mountains, the Athabasca is the most-visited glacier on the North American continent and one of the best places to see it is by hiking Wilcox Pass.

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Named for early Rockies climber Walter Wilcox, this 8 km trail takes around 2 to 3 hours to complete in its entirety (depending on your speed) and was originally taken to avoid an impassable canyon on the Sunwapta River north of the Glacier by indigenous families and horseback riders.

While it can be snowy until late July, this trail offers fresh air, stunning panoramas, and you might even catch a glimpse of a bighorn ram or two – which are known to graze the flowery meadows.

Only have the energy for half the trek? Lucky for you, this particular trail can actually be broken up into two – with many choosing to turn back around at the Wilcox Viewpoint 2.4 km into the hike.

 

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Here travellers will typically take a snack break, snap a few photos at the iconic Adirondack red chairs, and catch their breath before heading back to the trailhead – found in the left parking area of the Wilcox Creek Campground entrance.

It really is quite magical, but come prepared!

Proper footwear, water and additional clothing are always recommended no matter where you begin your journey – but it’s all worth it.

In a nutshell, the payoff is incredible, Alberta – so if you’re up for it, check this one out. It won’t be long until it feels too cold to do so.

Wilcox Pass, Alberta

Where: Improvement District No. 12, AB – Directions here

Information on Wilcox Pass is from Parks Canada.

Curiocity Staff

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