Unusual Waterfall on the Maligne Canyon trail in Jasper National Park

One of the great pleasures of travelling for me is those unexpected treasures, like this waterfall that I just stumbled upon in Jasper National Park in Alberta. I always do my research before a trip, so I knew that the Maligne Canyon trail was a hike that I wanted to do. What I didn’t know was that I’d get a chance to see such a unique waterfall, and as I got closer to the edge of the river in front of the fall, my smile grew larger. The weather was unpredictable the day I decided to hike the short 2.1 km trail, but it seemed like the rain would hold off till I finished my trek. Thank goodness no one hires me for my weather prognosticating, I said “seemed”, right? I took my time walking the trail, stopping every now and again to take another photo. I was really enjoying the sights and sounds in the canyon, and was getting some cool shots when I caught my first glimpse of this waterfall. Momentarily mesmerized by the delicate streams of trickling water, I just stood there in silence. Oblivious to the other hikers walking past me, I must have looked a bit foolish with that ridiculous gin on my face. Sometimes I just like to get lost in the moment, knowing full well that this was a special place, and that I may never have the opportunity to see it again.

I didn’t even stop to photograph the waterfall at the  time I first saw it. After all, it would still be there on the hike back towards the beginning of the trail. So I went on my way hoping to see some other distinct features to photograph. About fifteen minutes later is when the heavens opened up and unleashed a furious rainstorm upon the land. Of course I had to be at the at the end of the trail and as far from shelter as possible in the canyon. After a few minutes of being stuck in this downpour there was no way I could possibly get any wetter, so I made my way back to the waterfall, hoping that the rain would subside as I got closer. Riiiiight, like that was gonna happen! If I looked foolish earlier on by standing there,  grinning like a Cheshire cat, then I must have really looked like an idiot standing there in the pouring rain waiting for my chance to get a shot of this perfect little waterfall. After about 20 minutes of Job like patience, the rain “kind of” stopped, and by “kind of” I mean that it was still raining hard, as opposed to time to build an ark and start rounding up the animals hard. Lucky for me that I packed my rain cover for my camera, it’s one part of the gear I always carry, just in case. I managed to get my shot and told myself that it was all worth it. I swear though, next time, I am going to take the photo when I first get the chance. Lesson learned.

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