Autumn is the last call for Alberta's waterfalls. Once winter sets in, many freeze over or become tricky to reach, so the next few weeks are prime time — with the bonus of golden larches and changing leaves framing the falls.

One of the easiest to visit is Lundbreck Falls, where a 12-metre drop pours into the Crowsnest River. Observation platforms sit right at the top, and a short trail leads down for a closer look. It's also an easy add-on if you're already headed to Waterton Lakes National Park.

For drama, Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park is hard to beat. The water crashes about 23 metres down and has carved a deep, narrow canyon into the rock over thousands of years. The walk to the main viewpoint is short and paved, and there are several paths and viewing spots to wander between — a solid choice if you want a big payoff without a big hike. It's roughly 30 km south of Jasper townsite off Highway 93.

Crescent Falls, about 30 km west of Nordegg in Clearwater County, might be the most striking of the lot: two side-by-side waterfalls dropping into Bighorn Canyon. The main viewpoint is a short walk from the parking area, and the surrounding provincial recreation area is popular for camping if you want to turn it into an overnight trip.

In Waterton Lakes, Blakiston Falls makes a perfect leg-stretcher. The trail starts at Red Rock Canyon on Red Rock Parkway and runs about two kilometres round trip through forest to a platform looking out over the falls and the canyon below.

Finally, Troll Falls in Kananaskis is one to catch while the fall colour is still hanging on. The route is roughly three kilometres round trip and fairly easy through the trees, and if you're feeling keen you can push on to Upper Troll Falls before turning back.

These five cover a good spread of the province — from the Rockies around Jasper and Kananaskis to the southwest corner near Waterton — and all are doable as short walks rather than all-day hikes, though any of them could anchor a full day trip. The common advice from locals: don't leave it too late. Trails get icy or close as winter moves in, and part of the appeal is seeing them flowing at full force with autumn colour around them.

If you're flying into Calgary, Troll Falls and Crescent Falls are the nearest day-trip options, while Jasper and Waterton work better as weekend escapes. Pack layers, check road conditions (Highway 93 and Red Rock Parkway can be seasonally affected), and get out there before the ice takes over.