Snake Indian Falls
Alberta • Jasper National Park
By Armen Suny · Last verified Jun 2026
Difficulty
Hard
Trail Type
Out And Back
Elevation Gain
1067 m
About Snake Indian Falls
Snake Indian Falls is a remote, multi-tiered cascade on the Snake Indian River in the vicinity of Jasper National Park, Alberta. The falls sit in a steep, forested valley and are reached via a backcountry route that may require route-finding, creek crossings, and travel over rough, sometimes indistinct trails. The site is valued for its dramatic setting and relative solitude compared with more developed Jasper-area attractions. Exact measured height is not confidently documented here.
The Setting
Snake Indian Falls sits at 1,286 metres within Jasper National Park, in the mountains of Alberta.
Why This Waterfall Exists
Snake Indian Falls flows over layered carbonate rock, primarily limestone and sandstone, laid down about 201-323 million years ago. These soft rocks erode readily, allowing the stream to carve a vertical drop into the landscape.
Trail & Hike Details
Trail Description
Expect a remote, unmaintained to lightly maintained backcountry route. Trails to Snake Indian Falls may be partially indistinct, steep in places, and include river/stream crossings. Route-finding skills, a topographic map, compass/GPS, and good footwear are recommended. Depending on your chosen approach, the hike may traverse forested slopes, valley bottoms, and rocky sections close to the river. Trails may be muddy or snow-covered outside of summer. Facilities (toilets, marked viewpoints, bridges) are likely absent.
What to Expect
Solitary waterfall viewing in a rugged mountain valley. Tree-lined approaches, steep banks near the falls, and potentially high water flow in spring/early summer. Wildlife (including bears and moose) may be present. Limited or no signage, few or no maintained viewpoints, and variable trail conditions. Seasonal factors: higher flows in late spring/early summer, lower flows late summer or drought years. Winter approaches can be hazardous due to snow, ice, and avalanche risk in steeper gullies.
Accessibility
The trail involves steep, uneven terrain with significant elevation change and is not accessible to mobility devices.
Frequently Asked Questions
🐶 Are Dogs Allowed at Snake Indian Falls?
❌ Dogs are not allowed
Are There Any Fees or Permits Required?
🆖 No fees required
🏊 Is There Swimming at Snake Indian Falls?
❌ Swimming is not allowed
When to Visit
Late spring to early summer for highest water flow and dramatic cascades. Late summer and early fall offer lower flows but more reliable trail access and fall colors. Winter visits are possible for experienced winter backcountry travelers but present additional hazards (deep snow, ice, avalanche risk) and should only be attempted with proper equipment and experience.
Seasonal Access
The best time to visit is Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter. Check with Jasper National Park for current conditions.
Safety Information
Hazards include: remote location and limited cell service; steep, slippery rocks near the falls; creek/river crossings that can be hazardous especially in spring melt or after heavy rain; fast-changing mountain weather; cold water and risk of hypothermia; wildlife encounters (bears, moose); possible avalanche danger in winter. Always check local conditions, carry navigation tools and emergency supplies, and practice bear-aware travel. If uncertain of route or conditions, consider hiring a guide or choosing a more developed nearby waterfall.
Current Water Conditions
Based on a Water Survey of Canada gauge 33.4 km away
14.1 m³/s
Current discharge — how much water is flowing
About average for this time of year
Based on 61 years of record
1.75 m
Water depth at gauge
7-Day Discharge Trend
What does this mean for your visit?
Flow is about average for this time of year.
About This Gauge
This gauge is on a regional waterway. Conditions at the falls may differ, especially after local rain.
Know when to go.
Get a free email alert when waterfalls near Jasper hit peak flow. We only send when conditions are worth the trip — no weekly newsletters, no spam.
Weather Forecast
Location & Access
Getting There
The falls lie in the Snake Indian River valley north/northwest of Jasper (approximately 28 miles from Jasper, 34.3 miles from Hinton by general road distance). Access typically involves driving to a trailhead or forest/secondary road and hiking; some access routes are unpaved and may require a high-clearance vehicle. Expect remote backcountry travel and limited to no cell coverage. Visitors should consult Parks Canada / local trail resources for the latest access information.
Get Directions on Google MapsParking
Parking at the nearest trailhead is likely informal and limited. There may be a small pullout or roadside parking; parking conditions can be rough (gravel/soft shoulder). Do not rely on a developed parking lot. Check local signage and park information before visiting.
Elevation
1,286 metres above sea level
Coordinates
53.294434° N, -118.271551° W
Land Management
Managed by Parks Canada Agency
Visitor Tips & Gear
1) Check Parks Canada and local trail reports before you go for current conditions, closures, and road status. 2) Bring a map, GPS, and know how to use them, some routes require route-finding. 3) Wear sturdy, waterproof boots; expect stream crossings. 4) Carry bear spray and know wildlife-safety practices. 5) Do not approach wet rocks at the falls' edge, they are slippery and drop-offs may be hidden. 6) Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace. 7) If driving on secondary roads, a high-clearance vehicle may be advisable. 8) Tell someone your plan and expected return time; cell service may be unreliable.
Where to Stay
Browse vacation cabins and private rentals nearby
Unique outdoor stays — tents, yurts, and treehouses
Rent a campervan or RV for your waterfall road trip
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Nearby Campground
Celestine Lake Campground
18.5 km away
Additional Information
Nearby Attractions
Jasper National Park (townsite), the Icefields Parkway corridor (scenic drives and viewpoints), other nearby river valleys and backcountry hiking opportunities. Exact proximity depends on route chosen; check maps for local trailheads.
Wildlife
Bears (black and grizzly), moose, elk, deer, wolves, cougars, and smaller mammals and birds. Standard wildlife caution and food-storage practices apply.
Cities near Snake Indian Falls
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