Expansive, panoramic views of mountain vistas are a signature of Jasper National Park. One of the best treks to experience these views without the backcountry preparation is the Sulphur skyline trail.

Beginning at the Miette Hot Springs parking lot, which is about 20 kilometres off of Highway 16, the steep eight-kilometre (round trip) hike gains a total of 700 metres in elevation at a steady pace for highly rewarding views of the Miette Range. The grade is gradual, but still strenuous enough for a half day hike.

Several wildflowers can be seen at this time of year during the ascent, which add some colour to the dense coniferous forest that dominates the first half of the hike. Despite the foliage, views of the ridge certainly aren’t obscured, as your destination comes into view quickly to the right.

About two-and-a-half kilometres in, the trail splits at Shuey Pass. Keep to the right for the Sulphur Skyline summit, as a trek left will direct you to Mystery Lake, which requires a full day.

Shortly afterwards, an alpine meadow opens up, which is still filling with flowers at this time of year. A large white rock (which appears to be left by a glacier) is a fine resting point before pushing to the summit.

The last four hundred metres are above treeline and the wind can pick up quickly, so be sure to dress warmly. While this section is also the steepest, views of the Miette Range become more pronounced and switchbacks lessen the strain on the calves - to an extent.

From the top, summits stretch in all directions, offering great views of Mount O’Hagan and Utopia Mountain, as well as a bird’s eye view of the Fiddle River. The Fiddle range sits to the north (with Mount Drinnan dominating) as does the Ashlar Ridge, while the Bosche range can be seen on clear days to the west.

Due to the dog bans on many of the trails in the Tonquin Valley and near Maligne Lake (put in place to protect valuable caribou habitat), the Sulphur Skyline trail is popular with dog walkers. Be sure to bring water for the pooch, as there aren’t many streams.

The top of the trail is also populated with several brazen chipmunks who are not afraid of snitching a sandwich, so keep an eye on your snacks.

After the hike, those in need of repose can sooth their muscles in the Miette Hot Springs.