The trail is recognized as one of the best backpacking trails in the Canadian Rockies. With 25 km of the total 44.1 km of the trail at or above the treeline, it has views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It is normally hiked over two days from Maligne Lake to the bottom of Signal Mountain, but it alternatively may be hiked at a more moderate pace over 3 to 4 days. It is recommended to hike the trail south to north from Maligne Lake, as the fire road descending to Signal Mountain on the north end is an 800m elevation loss. There are three challenging passes to conquer, including the highest section of trail in Jasper National Park.