The best walks and hikes around Yellowhead County

Overlander Mountain Lodge sits just outside Jasper National Park's East Gate, with cabins and lodge rooms, and sweeping views of the Canadian Rockies from anywhere on the property. It's surrounded by over 25 kilometres of hiking trails, including a 10 km route to the Brule Lake dunes and the longer Folding Mountain Trail. Its location just outside the park's East Gate makes it a natural hub for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to explore the longer trails and backcountry routes in the area.

The Brewery Access Trail is a straightforward route connecting Overlander Mountain Lodge to the nearby Folding Mountain Brewing, making it a popular choice for hikers looking to pair a walk through the forested foothills with a well-earned lunch and a locally brewed pint. The brewery is just a stone's throw from the lodge, with views of the surrounding mountains along the way. It's a casual, accessible outing that works well as a warm-up before tackling longer trails in the area.

Despite its name, the Brule Lake trail doesn’t actually lead to Brule Lake; instead, it’s a wide, open dirt road that runs through a picturesque open area in the forest, starting at the Overlander Mountain Lodge, and is a shared path with off-road vehicles. Most of the trail offers little shade, so plenty of water and sun protection are a must before you head out to explore this area. There is a side trail that branches off toward Wildhorse Lake, which is a fantastic detour if you’re looking to extend your hike. The trail is open year-round and is popular for hiking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, and you’ll likely see plenty of wildlife and beautiful wildflowers in the spring and summer.

Rock Lake–Solomon Creek Wildland Provincial Park lies on the eastern slopes of the Rockies northwest of Hinton, protecting a vast landscape of alpine meadows, glacier-fed streams, and rugged peaks. The park’s network of old outfitter and horse trails leads deep into backcountry wilderness, connecting to Jasper National Park through remote mountain passes. It’s a true wildland experience suited to experienced hikers and backpackers seeking solitude, sweeping mountain views, and encounters with untouched alpine terrain.

Ogre Canyon near Hinton is a hidden slot canyon carved into limestone cliffs, known for its narrow passageways, waterfalls, and striking rock formations. The hike follows a rough, unmarked route along Ogre Creek, requiring creek crossings and some scrambling over boulders. It’s a short but adventurous trek best done in summer when water levels are low, offering one of the most unique canyon experiences in the foothills east of Jasper National Park.

Brule Lake lies west of Hinton on the edge of Jasper National Park, surrounded by forested hills, sand dunes, and views of the Rocky Mountains. The area is popular for hiking, paddling, and photography, with access points leading to the scenic Brule Lake Sand Dunes along the eastern shore. Calm waters and open view make it a peaceful spot to explore, especially in the evening when the surrounding peaks reflect across the lake.

The Athabasca River is Alberta’s longest river, flowing an impressive 1,231 kilometers from the Columbia Icefield in Jasper National Park to Lake Athabasca. It winds through stunning mountain valleys, lush boreal forests, and expansive prairies, forming a vital part of the Mackenzie River system. Known for its ecological significance and rich history in trade and travel, the river is home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers fantastic opportunities for paddling, fishing, and hiking.

This scenic loop begins at a lovely picnic area and quickly leads into a quiet forest, descending toward Canyon Creek and its namesake canyon walls. The trail follows the creek through shaded sections and rocky outcrops, with a short spur leading to the Athabasca River with beautiful expansive mountain views. It’s a half-day walk with a few ups and downs, which is just enough to feel like you’ve earned the scenery.