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Road Trip Alberta

The ULTIMATE Guide of Things to Do in Jasper, Canada (for 2024)

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Compiled by the Road Trip Alberta team

Last updated on January 18, 2024

We do enjoy Banff. But we desperately and truly love Jasper.

Jasper possesses many similar amenities to Banff but on a smaller scale. And given that it is a bit farther from everything – the distance from Edmonton to Jasper , and the closest international airport, is 365 km – it attracts those that are looking to get a little further off the beaten path and away from the crowds. It gets full in summer – don’t get us wrong – but it still feels like you can get a piece of it all to yourself.

Jasper downtown in winter

It is a small town in the middle of Canada’s largest Rockies national park, after all. Alberta’s tallest mountain is nearby, as is the stunning Spirit Island in the middle of Maligne Lake. It is home to the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve and has 1,200 km of hiking trails. It is a beacon to all lovers of the outdoors.

This guide will show you what to do in Jasper and help you plan to fall in love with it as we have. (Or if you’re looking for some quick info, we have a guide on how to spend 3 days in Jasper that will be helpful!)

About the town

Acknowledgments.

Jasper is located on Treaty 8 territory and is a traditional meeting ground and home for many Indigenous Peoples, including Stoney, Tsuu T’ina, Secwépemc, Kelly Lake Metis Settlement Society, and Aseniwuche Winewak.

Originally a trading post run by the Hudson’s Bay and North West Companies, Jasper has changed a lot over the years. The town actually got its name from the original manager of the post, Jasper Haws. Jasper National Park was officially established in 1907. With a size of 2,774,500 acres, it became the largest park in the Rocky Mountains. It took 21 years after establishing the park for the Jasper-Edmonton highway to open.

Where is Jasper, Alberta?

The Jasper townsite sits between the Yellowhead Highway and the Icefields Parkway. The Colin Range, Mount Edith Cavell and Pyramid Mountain are all staples of the skyline.

A view of Jasper National Park

The community has a population of 5,200 people and is a model for being environmentally conscious. Jasper National Park itself protects the Columbia Icefield (a bucket-list stop on many lists!) and plenty of animals.

Getting to Jasper

There are no direct flights to Jasper – the closest airport is Edmonton International Airport (YEG), and Calgary International Airport (YYC) is also a reasonable option if you would like to explore Banff National Park on your way to Jasper.

Icefield Parkway to Jasper

You have several options to get to Jasper from either of those locations. You can either rent a car and drive, or use a bus or shuttle service, and there are even rideshare options. If you choose either of the last two, you can also rent a car upon your arrival in Jasper to get you around the area.

The most direct route would be to leave from Edmonton or Calgary, and we have outlined detailed options for both destinations in these posts:

  • Edmonton to Jasper
  • Calgary to Jasper

Brief details, including for another originating city, are also available below.

No matter your starting point, you can expect to spend a good amount of time in the car to get yourself to Jasper. Take your own comfy four wheels, or we recommend booking via  RentalCars.com , to select the cheapest rate or to book with whichever company you prefer.

How far is Jasper from Edmonton?

Jasper is 394km from the Edmonton International Airport (which is just south of Edmonton in Nisku). The fastest route from Edmonton is on AB-2 N until you reach AB 16 which will take you straight to Jasper. This will take just over 4 hours to get to Jasper.

Driving to Jasper

How far is Jasper from Calgary?

Jasper is 413km northwest of Calgary, and the best driving option is via the Trans-Canada (Highway 1) going through Banff and along the Icefields Parkway. This route takes just under 5 hours but the scenery cannot be beaten.

As this route is mainly through the mountains, ensure that you have proper winter tires if driving in the winter months (they are mandatory) and allocate lots of time for potential traffic jams from either accidents or crossing wildlife. Please note that the Icefields Parkway also often closes in winter due to heavy snowfall.

How far is Jasper from Banff?

Jasper is 288km from Banff, and just over a three-hour drive if you don’t make any stops. But trust us, you’ll want to make many stops! The Icefields Parkway is a very popular road trip and is touted as one of the most scenic in the world. Allow yourself enough time to make it and also read up on our Banff to Jasper guide for more information about this trip.

How far is Jasper from Vancouver?

The drive from Vancouver to Jasper is just over 8 hours long, or 795km. It is an extremely scenic route and you’ll want to take your time – stopping in Kamloops can help you split up the drive!

Luckily, there are a couple of options for travelling by train into Jasper National Park via either Edmonton or Vancouver. A train trip from Edmonton to Jasper typically takes 6 hours and 29 minutes on VIA Rail Canada and this a direct route that runs every day. VIA Rail also has a run into Jasper if you are departing from Vancouver, although the trip duration is quite lengthy at 19 hours.

A train to Jasper

Rocky Mountaineer also has a route from Vancouver to Jasper but it isn’t direct and focuses more on the tour aspect of the journey as opposed to the fastest time. Regardless they offer a one-way option that takes either 2 or 4 days.

Getting to Jasper by bus is a great way to enjoy the scenery of the Rocky Mountains and not have to worry about driving conditions. There are a few options for bus services to Jasper depending on your departure city:

Sundog Tours can pick you up at the Calgary International Airport and bring you to Jasper via Banff and the Icefields Parkway. Alternatively, they can pick you up at the Edmonton International Airport and bring you to Jasper via Highway 16.

Although there is no direct option to bus from Vancouver to Jasper, you can take a Rider Express from Vancouver to Banff and then hop on a Sundog Tour bus to complete the journey to Jasper.

A view of downtown Jasper, Alberta.

Practical Essentials

Jasper national park pass.

Note that Jasper National Park requires a pass in order to enter.

Effective January 1, 2024 daily fees are:

  • Adult: $10.50
  • Senior: $9.00
  • Youth (up to 17 yo): FREE
  • Family/group (up to 7 people): $21.00
  • Commercial group (per person): $9.00

The daily passes expire at 4 pm the following day. If you’re looking to enter multiple times or staying longer, consider the Parks Canada Discovery Pass . It gives you unlimited admission for a year to all the national parks in Canada.

Discovery Pass fees are as follows:

  • Adult: $72.25
  • Senior: $61.75
  • Family/group: $145.25

Canoeing on Maligne Lake

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Getting Around Jasper

Jasper is a small town that is mostly walkable. However, there are so many things to do in the area that you will definitely want to employ other options to get around.

Cycling: Whether it’s summer or winter, you can rent a bicycle or mountain bike from the Bench Bike Shop . The local shop rents skinny and fat tires for any season. Many of the hiking trails can be reached by walking or cycling, just make sure to add the time it takes to get there when planning.

A Jasper local

Shuttles: If you are without wheels and you want to explore some of the bigger adventures, you’ll have to take a shuttle! The majority of shuttles in Jasper are run by tourism companies. These tours include knowledgeable guides that can make your experience more immersive. One company that does summer and winter tours is the Jasper Adventure Centre . They do tours by bus, train and boat.

Taxi: There are only two options for a taxi in Jasper – Caribou Cabs (780-931-2334), and Jasper Cabs (780-852-4555). There is no Uber or Lyft as of yet.

Rent a car: If you arrived in Jasper via a shuttle or bus service and want to rent a car while you are there, there are a few rental companies in Jasper to choose from:

  • We recommend booking via  RentalCars.com , to select the cheapest rate or to book with whichever company you prefer.

Best Time to Visit Jasper

There are plenty of things to do and sights to see in Jasper year-round. The busiest season tends to be June to mid-September (prices for accommodations are generally higher too), but it is certainly worth it for the multitude of outdoor activities available. A slower season to visit is from mid-September to mid-October. Like Banff, traffic to Jasper tends to pick up again for the winter ski season (but not to the same level as summer visitors).

A polar dip in a mountain lake near Jasper, Alberta.

Weather in Jasper

Summer is the most pleasant time to visit, but the weather can drastically change at any moment in Jasper National Park. During summer, temperatures can reach above 30 degrees Celsius but at night can dip below zero. In the winter months, temperatures average below zero and can drop as low as -45 degrees Celsius. Common sense is to be prepared and pack for every season.

Where to Sleep

Luxury – If you are going to splurge during your vacation to Jasper National Park, we highly recommend staying at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . This luxurious hotel has tons of amenities such as 8 on-site restaurants, a spa, and an award-winning golf course while providing breathtaking lakefront views of Beauvert Lake.

See reviews and check availability .

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Mid-Range – Surrounded by mountain views and just a 14-minute walk from Athabasca River and a 30-minute drive from Jasper town center, relax in your own wood cabin at Jasper East Cabins ! You get the amenities of a hotel room stay but with enough quiet and serenity that it kind of feels like you are “roughing it”.

Budget – A good budget hotel option in Jasper is Maligne Lodge . Apart from the stunning mountain views, the lodge has a sauna, an indoor pool, and an outdoor hot tub!

Home away from home – There are plenty of Jasper Airbnb options but we like the looks of the popular Nest Guest Suite – an entire apartment perfect for 2 guests in the heart of Jasper.

Camping – If you would rather experience the outdoors and “become one with nature”, there are a plethora of options available for you to pitch a tent or park your trailer.  For a full list of the best camping that Jasper has to offer, check out our guide to the the best Jasper camping spots . You may also find our guide to RV rentals in Alberta helpful!

Want to see more options for where to stay? We’ve published an entire guide just for accommodations in Jasper , and another just for cabins in Jasper .

Sights to See Around Jasper

Whether you visit in winter or summer or somewhere in between, the sights of the Canadian Rocky Mountains always deliver some magical moments. Here are our top things to see in Jasper National Park.

Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is the largest glacially-fed lake in the Canadian Rockies and is surrounded by stunning mountain views. Maligne Lake is located 47 kilometres (30 miles) outside of the Jasper townsite. (Make a stop at Medicine Lake along the way as well for another landscape to marvel at.)

You can take a 90-minute Maligne Lake boat tour on the lake where a knowledgeable guide talks about the history of the area, its geology, wildlife, weather, flora, and fauna. The cruise leads to the most photographed place in the Canadian Rockies: Spirit Island. The view of the island framed by impressive peaks and glaciers is breathtaking and iconic and only available from the south end of Maligne Lake. To preserve the area in its natural state, walking onto the island is not permitted.

A Maligne Lake cruise

Or consider taking this highly-rated (and reasonably priced) 6-hour tour that includes the Maligne Lake boat cruise and other beauties in the area (including Medicine Lake and Maligne Canyon). It’s an easy way to see and explore many spots at once, complete with a knowledgeable guide leading the way. You’ll enjoy several short walks through the gorgeous scenery, and once at Maligne Lake, you can choose between a boat ride to Spirit Island or a guided hike.

We reference several guided excursions throughout this article, if you’d like to review them all at once, see our article on the best Jasper tours .

Medicine Lake

The scenery around Medicine Lake should not be missed. When arriving at the lake there are walking paths to and around the lake. Medicine Lake is famous for its “disappearing water”. In summer, the 7km lake looks like a normal alpine lake, but in winter it disappears looking like a mudflat with the water being drained into a cave system and emptying 16 km away.

Medicine Lake Jasper National Park

Pyramid Lake

At the foot of Pyramid Mountain lies the majestic Pyramid Lake. It’s a short 15-minute drive from downtown Jasper and you will arrive at the Pyramid Lake lodge where there are plenty of things to do. The most popular activity is renting a canoe and getting out on the water.

Canoe on Pyramid Lake

In addition to canoeing or kayaking on the lake, there are plenty of hiking trails nearby. Or you can just simply marvel at the sights and take walk out to Pyramid Lake island where you will be surrounded by the most beautiful mountain scenery.

Being in such a picturesque destination in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the wildlife viewing in Jasper National Park is outstanding. Most wildlife (grizzly bears, moose, elk, cougars, mountain goats and more!) can be seen just by chance as you explore the area, however, to really see the park’s most iconic species we recommend going on a guided wildlife tour . Guided tours are a great way to gain local knowledge and learn about the history of the area while looking for wildlife in the perfect spots.

Grizzly Bear in Alberta

Dark Sky Preserve

In 2011, Jasper was designated as one of the 17 Dark Sky Preserves in Canada by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. Because the light pollution is so limited in Jasper, the area has ideal conditions for dark sky viewing. Further, because there is a town within the limits of the preserve, Jasper National Park is the largest accessible Dark Sky Preserve in Canada.

Jasper Dark Sky

As the daylight hours begin to recede, October is the ideal time to celebrate the skies and so the annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival was created. This festival has become Canada’s largest celebration of the night sky and regularly draws thousands of spectators to take in all of the night views and knowledge from the stacked list of guest speakers that have included NASA astronauts and Hollywood celebrities. Bonus: Make a trip to the planetarium (which is open year-round) and visit with some local astronomy guides.

Take a Tour of Jasper National Park on a Motorcycle

Let the fresh glacial air hit your face as you ride tandem on a Harley-Davidson motorcycle through Jasper National Park . You’ll have unobstructed views and fresh mountain air while cruising by stunning scenery including snow-capped mountains, emerald green lakes, and bright blue glaciers.

See Jasper, Alberta on a motorcycle

Columbia Icefields

At the heart of the breathtaking Icefields Parkway is one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world: the Columbia Icefield. Explore the ancient Athabasca Glacier on an Ice Explorer – or even better, on foot (get into all of the glacier’s hidden nooks and crannies on a four-hour tour ) before travelling to the Glacier Skywalk.

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk puts you on a glass walkway high above the canyon.

The nearby Columbia Icefield Skywalk is also unlike anything you have ever seen before. A 1-kilometre walkway provides the ultimate 360-degree views of giant glaciers perched above and a spectacular valley spreading out below. See waterfalls, wildlife, and even fossils on this experience which ultimately leads to a platform where glass is all that separates you from a 280 m (918-foot) drop.

Athabasca Falls

Flowing from the glaciers of the Columbia Icefield, the Athabasca River drops 23 metres to where it is known as Athabasca Falls. Although the falls themselves are not very high compared to others in the Canadian Rockies, they are a definite sight to see while in Jasper National Park.

The powerful Athabasca Falls in Jasper National Park

The size of the river makes these falls one of the most powerful in the Canadian mountain national parks (and one of the most stunning waterfalls in Alberta ).

Sunwapta Falls

Not too far from Athabasca falls, are the epic Sunwapta Falls. These falls are probably one of the most iconic waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies. There are a few options to view the falls when you arrive. From the parking lot, there is a viewing platform nearby where you will have your first view of the upper falls.

Sunwapta Falls in Jasper National Park

Carrying on from the viewing platform there is a 3km out-and-back trail where you can view the lower falls. Note that the lower falls are not as impressive as the upper falls, but are still beautiful to see. Always exercise caution here and stay behind the guard railing for safety.

Things to Do in Jasper

For those not in the know, it may come as a surprise that Jasper National Park is a year-round destination. There are a TONNE of Jasper attractions to partake in. Visitors can enjoy horseback riding, kayaking, and, of course, hiking in the summer, while hitting the slopes, taking a sleigh ride, or visiting an ancient glacier in the winter.

Here are some of our favourite things to do.

Jasper SkyTram

Experience the best views in the national park with Canada’s highest and longest, guided aerial tramway. For the 7-minute journey in the Jasper SkyTram , there is a local guide who will be available to point out things to see and answer any questions! You get off at the Upper Station on Whistlers Mountain at an elevation of 2,263 metres.

View of Jasper from the Jasper Tramway

Here you can get a bite to eat at the Summit Restaurant or just plain marvel at the views. If the skies are clear you might even be able to see Mt. Robson in neighbouring British Columbia.

Kayaking, Canoeing, and Rafting

With the multitude of rivers and bodies of water found in Jasper National Park, getting out on the water in a kayak, raft, canoe, or paddleboard, is one of the most popular summer activities to do in the park. Take a serene canoe or SUP ride on Lake Beauvert or get the adrenaline pumping while whitewater rafting on one of the many rivers.

Kayaking in Jasper

There are some excellent tours available tailored to your skill and comfort level and how long a ride you want to experience.

White Water Rafting

Both Class II and Class III rapids are available in the area – with the former being found on the Athabasca River and the latter on the Sunwapta. This means there are options for (most) everyone to enjoy!

White water rafting in Jasper, Alberta

The landscapes you will raft in will be well worth the heart-racing adventure and are not far from the town of Jasper. Check-in with Jasper Rafting Adventures to plan for an epically good time on the water!

Unlike Banff which has 3 beautiful hills to choose from, Jasper only has one: Marmot Basin . However, this resort offers 3,000 vertical feet of supreme powder that stretches across 1,720 acres of varied terrain.

Marmot Basin is only 20 minutes from downtown Jasper and is a favourite for skiers and snowboarders alike due to the relaxed and friendly atmosphere mixed with the superb variety of terrain framed by the beautiful scenery of the Rocky Mountains. Also, as beginner skiers ourselves, we personally can highly recommend this hill!

Marmot Basin Skier

For more information, including prices and current ski conditions, see our complete guide to skiing in Alberta .

Miette Hot Springs

With water temperatures kept steady between 37 and 40ºC, the Miette Hot Springs are the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies! Not only does the water put the ‘hot’ in Alberta hot springs , the panoramic views while you relax, and the scenic drive through the wild Fiddle valley to get to and from there make this experience a must-do.

Miette Hot Springs

Dog Sledding

Dog sledding may be a trope that you scoff at for its stereotypical Canadian iconography. That is until you try it. Magic appears when the dogs pull you effortlessly over the snow, at the sound of their pants and yips, and with the frosty air nipping at your nose and cheeks.

Dog Sledding in Jasper

If you’re going to do dog sledding anywhere, why not choose one of the most majestic sceneries to accompany you on your sled ride? There are quite a few dog sledding adventures found in Jasper National Park to suit your comfort level. Tip: For a fully immersive experience try mixing your dog sledding adventure with a little bit of history of the Rocky Mountains and try the 4-5 hour Ghost of Cold Fire Creek Dog Sled Tour ! On this tour, you follow a 100-year-old trap line up 1,000 vertical feet to see how trappers and prospectors once explore the vast mountain wilderness.

One of the best ways to explore a new destination is just to take a hike. There are so many amazing hiking trails in Jasper that allow you to experience beautiful valleys, magnificent lakes, and pristine mountain scenery. A few of the more popular hikes include Edith Cavell Meadows, Old Fort Point Trail, and the Valley of the Five Lakes.

There are trails from short to long distances and for ALL skill levels. Be sure to check the trail and weather conditions prior to venturing out.

Hiking in Jasper

It may come as a surprise that Canada’s #1 golf resort is found in this small town in the mountains of Alberta, but one look at the smartly designed holes beautifully framed by dramatic mountain peaks, and fairways that carve through thick forest and you will see why. The award-winning course (the best of Alberta golf courses !) at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club is a dream course that is one of the must-play courses in Canada.

Maligne Canyon Icewalk

Just a 10-minute drive north of the Jasper townsite is one of the most incredible ice walk adventures you will ever experience. Journey through the deepest canyon in the park and watch as adventurers climb vertical sheets of ice. Maligne is an adjective that means evil – also baleful, malevolent, and malicious – and upon stepping into the haunting atmosphere of it is clear why the name has remained.

Maligne Canyon Ice Walk

The experience of exploring the depths keeps visitors coming back for more and has made this canyon one of Jasper’s most popular spots to visit during winter. Be sure to only undertake such a walk with proper ice cleats for your own safety.

Discovery Trail

If you’re not much of a hiker, your time in Jasper is limited, or you’d prefer to stick close to town but you still want to get outdoors and enjoy the beauty of the area, check out the Discovery Trail . This 8.5-kilometre walk loops around the entire circumference of the town, taking you through both developed and natural areas.

Stop and enjoy the trees, views, and wildlife along the way, all the while knowing you’re never far from town (and perhaps a hot chocolate to warm up with!). This trail is also popular for runners, mountain bikers, and snowshoers, as it’s open all year round.

Where to Eat in Jasper

There are plenty of good restaurants in Jasper. From fine dining to casual pub fare, you will find something for every type of eater. Here are some of our favourites:

Evil Dave’s Grill

If you’re looking for a place to eat in Jasper that serves “wicked food” Evil Dave’s Grill is where it’s at! The menu is themed after everything wicked, evil and sinful, and for good reason – it is all obscenely delicious. The funky vibe of this restaurant is unique and the “wicked food” is made with fresh ingredients topped with creative flare.  Tip: try the top-selling bison and wild boar bacon meatloaf and finish with a Deadly Dessert.

Evil Daves Grill Jasper

Syrahs of Jasper

Some of the most innovative cuisines in town can be found at Syrahs of Jasper. The restaurant is quite small (only 15 tables!) so the ambiance is very intimate and quaint but that just adds to the overall experience. The food is Canadian themed and the menu is prepared fresh daily. The price point is high but if you are looking for fine dining in Jasper, then we say you should treat yo’ self!

Sunhouse Cafe

Offering some of the best coffee in Jasper in a beautiful space with some seriously good vibes, Sunhouse Cafe is the top-rated cafe in Jasper and a favourite breakfast spot for locals and tourists alike.

Jasper Brewing Company

Opened in 2005, Jasper Brewing Company has the designation of Canada’s first National Park Brewery! Pairing delicious brews with elevated pub fare, Jasper Brewing Company has six signature beers brewed on-site and each brew is finished with the same ingredient: pure, natural mountain water sourced from the great Canadian Rockies.

People enjoying a meal at Jasper Brewing Co

Jasper Food Tours

With all of the delicious offerings found in Jasper, the best way to sample a bit of everything is to do a food tour! Jasper Food Tours provides a 3-hour guided walking tour that samples fares from 5 surprise restaurants. Not knowing where you will be sampling from is part of the adventure and guarantees that you can do this tour more than once!

Need some more suggestions? Check out our guide to the best Jasper restaurants , and our advice on where to go for an excellent breakfast in Jasper .

In the Area

The town of Hinton is known as the “Gateway to the Rockies”, and has a must-see 3km ‘Beaver Boardwalk’ around Maxwell Lake. It is the world’s largest freshwater boardwalk and a great way to see beavers!

Horseshoe Lake

Just 30km down Highway 93, you’ll find the beautiful Horseshoe Lake. The region has a small trail network full of bridges, views, and clear water. The lake is one of the deepest in Jasper and is known for scuba diving, swimming, and fishing.

Folding Mountain Taproom

Looking for a cool bite to eat outside of Jasper? Check out the Folding Mountain Brewery ! This great local place is just 10min West of Hinton at the edge of Jasper National Park. Enjoy some quality Alberta craft beer while admiring the Rocky Mountains. The kitchen has tasty gluten-free and vegetarian options so everyone can find something to love!

Icefields Parkway

Explore some of the best of the province of Alberta by driving along the Icefields Parkway! It is self-driveable, but there are also tour buses that can take you through the parkway if you just want to enjoy the views. Check out our full guide to road-tripping from Banff to Jasper for more information.

The view from the Icefields Parkway in Alberta

Don’t Forget!

Visiting other spots in Alberta? Check out our extensive guide for all the things to do while visiting Edmonton , Banff , or Calgary !

ALSO, don’t forget that while you’re on the road, you can download our FREE Road Trip Alberta bingo cards , to make it just that much more fun!

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The ULTIMATE Guide to Things To Do in Jasper

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Things to Do in Jasper Last updated: February 15th, 2024

Located a little further off the “beaten track”, Jasper is like a smaller, more local Banff. Nestled at the north end of the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park, Jasper is surrounded by vast valleys, towering mountain peaks, and hordes of wildlife. If you’re looking for a quieter version of Banff, this is it.

Just like Banff , Jasper is an epic destination for outdoor enthusiasts. You’ll find Alberta’s tallest mountain, stunning Maligne Lake and Instagram-famous Spirit Island, the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve, more than 1,200 kilometres of hiking trails, and the incredible Jasper SkyTram. There’s also a variety of delicious restaurants, accommodations, and souvenir shops – everything a traveller could want.

In this guide, we’ll describe all the things to do in Jasper so that you can plan the best trip ever.

Glacier Skywalk - things to do in jasper

Table of Contents

Things To Do in Jasper in Summer

Alright. Now for the most important part. All the fun, incredible, and beautiful things to do in Jasper National Park. If you’re looking for world-class shopping, you are in the wrong place. If you’re looking for world-class mountain scenery, this is the place to be!

Jasper SkyTram

One cannot simply visit Jasper without visiting the Jasper SkyTram and riding Canada’s highest, longest, guided aerial tramway. It’s only a 7-minute journey to the top, but once there you’ll be greeted to some of the best views of Jasper and the surrounding area from an elevation of 2,263 metres. From here, you ca n continue hiking up to the summit for even more impressive views or take it easy at the Summit Restaurant.

Jasper Skytram - things to do in jasper

Maligne Lake 

One of the most popular sites near Jasper is beautiful Maligne Lake. This is the largest glacially-fed lake in the Canadian Rockies and is also home to the Insta-famous Spirit Island. Most people come here to take the 90-minute Maligne Lake boat tour to the island while learning about the history of the area, as well as its geology, wildlife, flora, and fauna. You could also bring your own canoe or kayak if you have one, or even go hiking. Please note that Maligne Lake is almost 50 kilometres from the town of Jasper and takes about an hour or so to get there. The scenery along the way is spectacular so throw in some more time and enjoy it.

Maligne Canyon

On your way back to town from Maligne Lake, do stop and do the hike into Maligne Canyon . If you’re too tired, no problem. Maligne Canyon is only 10 minutes from town, making it an easy place to return. This is a fairly simple hike that takes you through the canyon, past waterfalls, and into the thick pine forest. It’s beautiful.

Spotting Wildlife

It’s not too often you visit a place where wildlife is one of the main attractions. This is one of the things that makes Jasper so special. On all of our trips thus far, we’ve seen dozens of Elk, deer, and Canadian Geese. However, you may also see grizzly bears, moose, cougars, mountain goats, and more. In our experience, we’ve seen them right in the town or right next to our cabin at Becker’s Chalets. However, you could also go on a guided tour to more secluded areas. Important note: Wildlife is wild. Please do not approach them. Deaths have occurred in the mountain parks due to people getting out of their car and getting closer to wild animals in hopes of a better photo. Bears are often the most feared but elk can be even more dangerous. Admire from a distance. 

Athabasca Falls - sights to see in Jasper

Athabasca Falls

If you didn’t stop at Athabasca Falls while driving the Icefields Parkway, you certainly want to make it here before you leave. It’s also one of the most popular stops in the area due to its natural beauty. It’s not a high waterfall but it’s very powerful and very beautiful.

Columbia Icefields

Almost in the middle of the Icefields Parkway is the world-famous Columbia Icefields – the largest non-polar ice fields in the world. There’s a variety of ways to enjoy them too. You can simply admire them from the highway or you can jump on an Ice Explorer tour and drive right on the glacier for a chance to walk on it and even sip some fresh glacier water. There are also walking tours for those looking for more adventure. In addition, there’s the incredible Columbia Icefield Skywalk, which gives you the chance to walk out onto a glass platform that sits 918 feet (280 metres) from the valley bottom.

Dark Sky Preserve

If you love stargazing, Jasper is one of the best places in the country. There are 17 Dark Sky Preserves in Canada and Jasper is one of the darkest. This is because light pollution is so limited here that you can see the stars in all their glory. You may even see the milky way! If looking up at the dark sky is very important to you, you may want to time your visit to the annual Jasper Dark Sky Festival in October. There are even speakers, ranging from NASA astronauts to celebrities.

Kayaking/Canoeing/Rafting

As you can imagine, Jasper is an ideal place to get into water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and whitewater rafting. Whether you opt for a lake or river, this is a great way to get into nature and admire its stunning surroundings. If you have your own, you’re pretty much free to go, but if you don’t, there are a number of companies in the area that offer tours for all skill levels.

best things to do in jasper - Columbia Glacier

Miette Hot Springs

If you’re looking to sit back and relax in a natural hot spring, this is the closest one to Jasper. It’s located about 1 hour from Jasper on the road to Edmonton. With water temperatures kept steady between 37 and 40ºC, the Miette Hot Springs is actually the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies!

Hiking in Jasper

Jasper is one of the top destinations in the world for hiking. Whether you’re looking for a simple day hike or a multi-day expedition, Jasper has it all. There are many different trails that take you to or through vast valleys, stunning lakes, and gorgeous mountain scenery. The warmer months are best but you can also hike in the winter if you have the proper equipment.

Golfing in Jasper

We’re not big golfers but we were surprised to hear that Jasper is home to Canada’s #1 golf resort. Then again, it’s easy to imagine why. Who wouldn’t want to golf in the middle of Jasper National Park, surrounded by mountain peaks and thick pine forests? It’s located at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Club.

Cabins in Jasper - Beckers Chalets

Things to Do in Jasper in Winter

Jasper is beautiful in both the summer and the winter. Many of the activities mentioned above (such as hiking, hot springs, etc) are available in the winter as well, but it’s also home to winter-only activities, which we’ll get into below.

Skiing and Snowboarding

Without a doubt, skiing and snowboarding are the most popular activities in the winter months. However, there’s only one resort: Marmot Basin. That’s not a bad thing though. Marmot Basin offers 1,720 acres of varied terrain, 3,000 vertical feet of prime powder, and more than 90 runs! It’s only 20-minutes from Jasper, making it a very convenient mountain to visit. It’s also not nearly as busy as the big resorts near Banff.

Dog Sledding

Many people dream of going on a dog sled ride so why not do it to the backdrop of the mighty Canadian Rockies? It’s a wonderful experience not only to see the scenery but to be towed by eager dogs wanting to get some exercise. There’s a variety of tours to choose from and they range from a quick 1-hour jaunt to a full 5-hour excursion.

Maligne Canyon Icewalk

While Maligne Canyon is a beautiful place to hike in the summer months, it’s even more magical when it freezes over. Just 10 minutes from the town of Jasper, you can wander through the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park and admire the ice climbers who make their way up large vertical sheets of ice. If doing the hike on your own, make sure to wear the proper footwear. If it’s very icy, you may want ice cleats on the bottom of your shoes. Another popular place to see similar scenery is Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park.

We didn’t see ice climbers on the day we went because it was too cold. Either way, it’s a stunning walk and one of the top things to do in Jasper in the winter. We went on a tour with Sundogs, which was great. Expect crowds if you go on the weekend.

Ice Climbing

If you’re looking for a new exciting adventure, why not climb up a frozen waterfall? We had always admired the look of people making their way up a frozen waterfall but never imagined doing it ourselves. But, in 2021, we made it happen. We went ice climbing with Rockaboo Mountain Adventures. There are a variety of places to go, but for us, we went back down the Icefields Parkway and climbed one of the many icefalls there. We had the sun shining right on us and it was an incredible experience. Highly recommended!

Jasper Accommodations - Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

One of the newest winter sports is fat-tire biking, which is basically a mountain bike with fat tires on it. These tires help you push through the snowy trails. We went out to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and rented the bikes there so that we could use their many trails. Good exercise and a great way to hit the trails!

Ice Skating

Without a doubt, one of the most popular winter activities in the country is skating. It’s cheap to do as all you need is skates! There are a variety of places to go in Jasper but we went out to Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and used the skating track they’ve made on one of their lakes. It’s quite big and is free to use. We had our own skates but you can also rent them here.

Jasper in January Winter Festival

If you’re visiting Jasper in the winter , we highly recommend timing your visit with the Jasper in January winter festival. Not only can you still enjoy all the usual winter activities, but you get to combine it with a festival that brings unique activities such as sleigh rides, pond hockey tournaments, concerts, and street parties, just to name a few. There are also special curated menus at many of the restaurants and a spectacular fireworks display on the final day.

Beckers Chalets Jasper

Where to Sleep in Jasper

There are lots of options when it comes to Jasper Accommodations , ranging from luxury to rustic and everything in between. There are also a plethora of camping options in the summer months.

Budget: For the ultimate budget and nature experience, camping is one of the best options in the warmer months. You can book online via Parks Canada and choose from an array of stunning campgrounds. There are also hostels such as Hi-Athabasca Falls, and Hi-Maligne Canyon .

Mid-Range: The only place we’ve ever stayed in Jasper (we just keep coming back) is Becker’s Chalets, which is located about 10 minutes south of Jasper along the Icefields Parkway. We like them because they’re right next to the river and offer cabins with full kitchens. Every morning, we’d look out the window in the massive field and see elk or Canadian geese. It’s a great spot, especially for families or couples. However, there are many other options for where to stay in Jasper .

Luxury: Without a doubt, the most luxurious option is the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge . This luxurious hotel has 8 on-site restaurants, a spa, and one of the most popular golf courses in the country.

Harvest Jasper Restaurant

Where to Eat in Jasper

Another thing we love about Jasper is the array of amazing restaurants. Whether you’re looking for the best pizza and beer or a small fine-dining experience, Jasper has it all. Some of our favourite Jasper restaurants include:

Located in The Crimson Hotel, Terra is currently our favourite restaurant in Jasper. Inspired by the rawness of Jasper, this restaurant utilized locally farmed and foraged fare, creating menus that change with the seasons. From breakfast to dinner, we always pay a visit to Terra. Some of our favourite dishes include the Roasted Squash (Ras El Hanout Rub, Toasted Pepitas, Crème Fraîche, and Timut), the Roasted Kuterra Salmon (Fingerlings, Preserved Tomatoes, Sumac Butter, and the Duck Duo (Confit Duck Leg, Crispy Duck Wing, White Bean Cassoulet, and Sour Cherry Jus). The atmosphere is inviting, open, and simple. Highly recommended!

Harvest Food & Drink

During our visit to the Jasper in January event in 2024, we paid our first visit to Harvest and fell in love with the food. Giving Terra a run for its money, Harvest is equally our favourite restaurant in Jasper now. This small family-owned and operated restaurant offers delicious meals and cocktails offering great value at the same time. If you want to follow in our footsteps, the Goat Cheese Bruschetta is mouth-watering, made with fresh tomato, onion chutney, basil oil, balsamic, goat cheese, and toasted baguette. We also loved their Arctic Char (Roasted vegetables, kale, chorizo sausage, coconut rice, lemon caper butter) and Lamb Osso Buco (red wine and tomato braised lamb shank, mashed potatoes, seasonal vegetables, chimichurri).

Jasper Pizza Place

If you’re simply looking for a delicious pizza, Jasper Pizza Place is the spot. Whether you order takeout or sit in their lively bar-style restaurant, Jasper Pizza Place knows how to make a pizza thanks to both a wood-burning and traditional oven. I wish I could say we’ve tried them all, but with only one visit so far, we sunk our teeth into their King of New York (capocollo, genoa, pancetta, fior di latte, basil & tomato sauce) and their Salumi (genoa, fior di latte, chillies, honey, Parmigiano & tomato sauce base.)

Syrahs of Jasper

This is one of the highest-rated restaurants in Jasper. We come here each time we visit because it’s just so darn good. It’s one of those places you need a lot of time for. Expect 2 hours minimum to fully experience this fine-dining restaurant. It’s also quite small but the ambiance is very intimate and the service is impeccable. They offer “Canadian food” and the menu is prepared daily. Whatever you do though, you must try their White Chocolate Goat Cheesecake.

wildlife of Jasper National Park

Where is Jasper, Alberta?

Jasper is right at the intersection between Yellowhead Highway and the Icefields Parkway. It’s about 365 kilometres from Edmonton, 288 kilometres from Banff , and 413 kilometres from Calgary.

Jasper has a population of around 5,200 people and Jasper National Park receives around 2.5 million visitors each year. Yes, it’s a popular place.

Getting to Jasper

For those travelling to Jasper, you can only go by road. There is no airport. The closest airport is Edmonton International Airport (YEG) as well as the Calgary International Airport (YYC), which isn’t much further away.

There are a variety of options for getting to Jasper, including car, bus, rideshare, or even the train. There are car rental companies in Jasper as well, though it’s much better to rent one before you get here.

Edmonton is the closest city if you’re looking for the most direct route, but Calgary is also a great option as it’s very close to Banff as well. We’ll go over that below.

Getting to Jasper by Car

Like most of Canada, getting around with a vehicle is the most convenient option. It’s a huge country and both Jasper National Park and Banff National Park are big places, which means a lot of driving. However, they’re also incredibly scenic and there’s no shortage of places to stop off and let your jaws drop.

Note: Driving in the mountains is fairly straightforward but does come with some caution. First and foremost, there is a lot of wildlife in this area. This is great for spotting bears and elk, but not so great if you run into one. In addition, there might be heavy traffic in the summer, whereas the winter presents icy conditions. Be alert and drive safely. 

Edmonton to Jasper : Jasper is approximately 365 kilometres from downtown Edmonton. The fastest route is heading almost entirely west, taking Highway AB 16 all the way to Jasper. It takes approximately 4 hours without stopping.

Calgary to Jasper : Jasper is approximately 413 kilometres from downtown Calgary. The fastest route here also happens to be one of the most scenic routes in the world. You’d link up with the Trans-Canada Highway towards Banff and once you hit Lake Louise, you’d jump on the famous Icefields Parkway and continue north until you arrive in Jasper. This drive takes 5 hours, but in all honesty, you should allow yourself 10 hours to fully enjoy all the scenic stops along the way.

Jasper to Vancouver: Vancouver is approximately 800 kilometres from Jasper and takes approximately 9 hours without stopping. This is also a scenic drive so if you’re hoping to stop off along the way, you may want to add in some extra days and enjoy other places along the way.

Banff to Jasper : Driving from Banff to Jasper is around 288 kilometres as Jasper is at the opposite end of the Icefields Parkway. The drive takes three hours if you don’t stop, but if it’s your first time (or second third or fourth), you might be inclined to stop half a dozen times. I’d allow at least six hours to enjoy it or even more if you plan on doing some light hikes along the way.

Banff to Jasper - Icefields Parkway Winter - Must Do Canada

Getting to Jasper By Train

Thanks to the Jasper VIA Rail Station, there are actually a couple of options for arriving by train. VIA Rail has a direct route from Edmonton to Jasper that takes around 6.5 hours and runs every day. There’s also a VIA Rail route from Vancouver to Jasper, which takes around 19 hours.

Another option is the Rocky Mountaineer , which also goes from Vancouver to Jasper but not as a direct route. The Rocky Mountaineer is a luxury tour that stops in Lake Louise. The one-way trip can take anywhere from 2-4 days and is much more expensive than VIA Rail.

Getting to Jasper by Bus

If you’re not up for getting a car but still want to enjoy the scenery, taking the bus is probably the best option. Jasper isn’t as serviced as Banff but there are still a few options for bus services:

Sundog Tours : This tour company offers bus service to Jasper from both Calgary International Airport and from Edmonton International Airport. This plus side of going from Calgary is that you’d arrive via the Icefields Parkway. The cost is approximately $89.

Cold Shot : This relatively new bus company has a range of options with one of them being Edmonton to Jasper. It costs approximately $55.

As of now, there is no longer any direct service from Vancouver to Jasper. However, there are options for going from Vancouver to Banff. Once in Banff, you can find a way to get to Jasper, including with Sundog Tours. Busbud is a good option for searching and comparing different buses.

things to do in alberta road trips

Jasper Park Pass

Jasper National Park, like all national parks in Canada, requires a Park Pass to enter.

The current daily fees are:

Adult: $11 Senior: $9.59 Youth (up to 17 yo): FREE Family/group (up to 7 people): $22 Commercial group (per person): $9.35

The daily passes expire at 4 pm the following day. If you’re exploring any national park in Canada for more than 6-7 days, you’ll want to consider a yearly Discovery Pass, which offers access to all national parks and historic sites for an entire year.

Current fees are as follows:

Adult: $75.25 Senior: $64.50 Family/group: $151.25

Things to do in jasper

Getting Around Jasper

Although the town of Jasper can probably be walked in less than two hours, it’s all the other sights in the area that require some mode of transportation.

Rent a car: Driving a car will give you the best opportunity to schedule your own trip and see everything in the area. Options are limited in Jasper but you can rent a car from Budget or National. If you’re visiting in the summer, you’ll probably want to book well in advance. Even better, book one in Calgary or Edmonton and drive here.

Cycling: Bikes can be rented in all seasons from the Bench Bi ke Shop. The warmer months are much better but fat-tire biking is catching on rather quickly in the winter months. There are many trails in the area but make sure you have enough time to visit certain sites and please ask about wildlife in the area. Even on a bike, you can’t “outrun” a bear.

Shuttles: If you don’t have a car and you want to get to some of the distant natural attractions, you will need to take a shuttle. These are run by tour companies and include guides who can give you quality information about the sites you’re visiting.

Taxi: There are also several taxi companies in Jasper, including Mountain Express Taxi, Mr.Taxi, and Caribou Cabs. It won’t be cheap to go far distances but it is an option if you need it.

Weather in Jasper (Best Times to Visit Jasper)

Jasper is a year-round destination. However, most people visit between June and late September. Some lodges close down after October. We love visiting in the fall, as it’s slightly quieter and the fall colours are beautiful.

Like Banff, Jasper is warm in the summer (roughly +20 Celcius in the day) and cold in the winter (roughly – 25 Celcius in the day). Nights are much cooler than in the day. Due to the additional attractions and activities in the summer, this is the optimal time to visit. However, Jasper in the winter is also a winter wonderland and for those willing to brave the cold, it offers incredible beauty and a wide range of activities including skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing, and more.

Abraham Lake in the Winter

Things To Do Around Jasper

Icefields parkway.

It would be one of the worst mistakes you could make in life to come to Jasper and not drive the Icefields Parkway. Yes, it’s that SPECTACULAR. From Banff to Jasper or Jasper to Banff, it’s truly mind-blowing and is easily one of the best road trips in Canada. Watch our Icefields Parkway Video for more information.

This little town is known as the “Gateway to the Rockies” and is a wonderful place to see beavers! All you have to do is walk their 3-km Beaver Boardwalk around Maxwell Lake.

Abraham Lake

If you do drive down the Icefields Parkway and want to take a side trip, head to Abraham Lake via Highway 11. This is a great place to spot wildlife and in the winter, it’s one of the most photographed lakes due to the frozen methane bubbles beneath the surface. It’s spectacular to see. Plus, you can also take an incredible helicopter tour over the mountains with Rockies Heli .

Want to EXPLORE more of ALBERTA and CANADA? Check out these articles below:

  • Things To Do in Banff
  • Things To Do in Calgary
  • Things To Do in Canmore
  • Things To Do in British Columbia
  • Things To Do in Alberta
  • 3-Day Jasper Itinerary

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Things to Do in Jasper

About Matthew G. Bailey

Matthew G. Bailey is the founder and editor-in-chief of Must Do Canada. Growing up in Alberta to a mother from Quebec and a father from Newfoundland, Matt spent his childhood playing hockey under the Northern Lights and hanging out in the forest before moving to Calgary and travelling to more than 250 cities spanning 42 countries and 6 continents. He loves travel, learning new things, playing sports, writing, making videos, photography, and scuba diving. You can also find him at LiveLimitless.net .

Reader Interactions

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April 27, 2021 at 7:26 pm

I really do intend to visit Jasper National Park, on my bucket list.

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May 9, 2021 at 11:32 am

Thanks for the tips. I will definitely knock this off my bucket list once the pandemic is over.

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May 12, 2021 at 8:28 am

Thanks for all the info, this will definitely help with my upcoming trip!

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May 12, 2021 at 9:16 am

Jasper is an absolute favorite anytime of year

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May 12, 2021 at 1:28 pm

I appreciate all the information on things to do in Jasper. This helps me plan an extended trip. Thank you

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May 13, 2021 at 2:30 pm

LOVE JASPER, can’t wait to explore more there

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May 14, 2021 at 7:43 am

Love Jasper!

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May 17, 2021 at 8:36 pm

Love Jasper. So much to see

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May 26, 2021 at 6:10 am

More to do than I realized.

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June 11, 2021 at 9:45 pm

I love the idea of a dogsled tour. That would be so much fun!

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Visitor Guide - 2023 - 2024-Cover Page

2023 Visitor's Guide

athabasca glacier rockaboo adventures

Hello friend. Welcome to Canada’s base of adventure.

We want to help you feel at home in this world class destination.

As the official marketing organization of Jasper and Jasper National Park, Tourism Jasper presents Jasper as it really is: an awe-inspiring and authentic Rocky Mountain destination that will charm your socks off. From its humble beginnings as a railroad town, Jasper’s spectacular scenery has been grounded by a community of friendly locals. It is from here that the greatest personal expeditions begin; where explorers and wanderers from around the world collect to hike, dine, relax, ski, see wildlife and so much more, all year round.

For those prepared to venture beyond, we can help. Tourism Jasper works with media, travel trade, and independent travelers to ensure every visitor arrives informed and inspired, and that each one waves goodbye while already dreaming of their next return trip.

Inspire travelers to visit Jasper.

Be a global leader in destination marketing and management, positioning Jasper as the premier mountain destination.

Drive visitation to Jasper for the benefit of our shareholders.

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Destination Stewardship Plan

Shaping Jasper's Future Together: A 10-Year Destination Stewardship Plan

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Destination Marketing Fee

Tourism Jasper is partially funded by a voluntary destination marketing fee (DMF) collected from visitors as a user pay system and not from residents or businesses directly. The DMF consists of an additional visitor levy applied to accommodation room rates as well as tourism and dining experiences

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Jasper National Park

Visit the world's second largest dark sky preserve in the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies! Known for its abundant wildlife and extensive trail network; visitors from all over the world travel here to experience this very special place.

Part of UNESCO's Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, find your connection to this very special place. Discover one or all of our five spectacular regions, explore our extensive trail network, or visit our famous red chair locations. (Hint: the winter months are pretty spectacular!)

Useful links

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Winter in Jasper National Park

From our snow-covered mountain peaks to our lightly dusted forests, the landscape is a winter wonderland awaiting adventure.

tourism jasper canada

Icefields Parkway in Winter

Witness incredible snow peaked mountains, ancient glaciers, ice covered lakes and winter wildlife.

tourism jasper canada

Wildlife safety

Learn how to respect wildlife with these safety tips.

tourism jasper canada

Trail conditions at Jasper National Park

Avoid surprises before heading out on Parks Canada trails.

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  • Seasonal closures for caribou conservation

Seasonal closures and access restrictions are just one way that Parks Canada is protecting caribou.

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You can reduce the impact of an unfortunate circumstance by being well informed and well prepared.

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Phone number: 780-852-6176 Email address: [email protected]

PO Box 10. Jasper, AB T0E 1E0

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Open year-round Our peak visitor season is from June through August. Complete schedule

More places to discover with Parks Canada

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Banff National Park

Founded in 1885, Banff is Canada’s first national park and part of the first national park system in the world. With its soaring peaks, azure lakes and abundant wildlife, this Rocky Mountain park attracts millions of visitors every year.

tourism jasper canada

Elk Island National Park

Experience first-hand the story of the bison and how it was saved from near extinction at Elk Island National Park, where an active conservation program replenishes herds around the world.

tourism jasper canada

Yoho National Park

In the shadow of the Great Divide, Yoho’s towering rockwalls, spectacular waterfalls and soaring peaks reveal the secrets of ancient life, the power of ice and water and the stories of plants and animals that continue to evolve today.

tourism jasper canada

Fort St. James National Historic Site

Take a self-guided audio tour, meet costumed interpreters, witness a world-famous chicken race and delight your taste buds at the Home Stretch Diner.

Jasper National Park   Travel Guide

Courtesy of James Anderson | Getty Images

tourism jasper canada

13 Best Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Updated February 11, 2021

Year-round food and revelry bookend days of excitement and adventure in this massive park, which sits nestled in the Canadian Rockies. While the geographic attractions that draw visitors to Jasper National Park will always remain, how travelers can

  • All Things To Do

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Maligne Lake Maligne Lake free

The second-largest glacier-fed lake in the world, Maligne Lake enchants travelers with its brilliant turquoise waters and stunning skylines. Anyone who wants to trek to Maligne Lake should take the time to visit the lake's Spirit Island as well, which is one of the most famous views of the Canadian Rockies in the world. The lake sits east of the Icefields Parkway in the southern portion of the park, and travelers can access the area with their own car, in an excursion bus or even as part of a motorcycle tour. (To book a motorcycle tour, check out the Jasper Motorcycle Tours website .) Once at the lake, visitors can take advantage of a variety of tours and excursions, or just explore the area independently.

Past visitors recommended bringing a camera to capture photos of the beautiful scenery – many note there are numerous photo opportunities. However, recent travelers also warned that both the cruise and nonmotorized watercraft rentals come at a steep price.

tourism jasper canada

Jasper SkyTram Jasper SkyTram

In a little more than seven minutes, travelers can glide up nearly 7,500 feet to the side of The Whistlers mountain summit in Jasper National Park. After riding the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada, those who make the trek will experience views of six mountain ranges, colorful rivers and lakes, and the town of Jasper. Each car on the Jasper SkyTram can accommodate 26 people, plus one flight attendant. Flight attendants are essentially tram tour guides, who can point out points of interest and answer any questions.

Past travelers suggested planning your trip on a clear, sunny day to make the most of the views. They also recommended wearing hiking shoes to complete the 1.5-mile hike to the peak of the mountain, where visitors can admire even more stunning panoramas.

tourism jasper canada

Athabasca Glacier Athabasca Glacier

Rapidly receding, the Athabasca Glacier draws visitors from around the world. The glacier is part of the massive Columbia Icefield, which divides southern Jasper and northern Banff , and is easily visible from Icefields Parkway. Hiking trails and guided tours allow visitors to get near the edge of the glacier. While travelers can hike out onto the glacier, officials do not recommend making the trek because tourists have died due to hidden crevasses in the past.

If you do want to explore the glacier's surface, or are simply looking for an excellent tour, recent visitors suggested taking an Ice Explorer tour onto the Athabasca Glacier. Past travelers raved about the entertaining tour guides and the opportunities to safely explore the ice. Each trip last between two and three hours (including 20 minutes on the ice), and all excursions include access to the Glacier Skywalk .

tourism jasper canada

Popular Tours

5.5-Hour Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise from Jasper

5. 5-Hour Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise from Jasper

(269 reviews)

from $ 132.60

Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island

Jasper National Park Tour: Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake and Spirit Island

(360 reviews)

from $ 56.83

Maligne Lake Cruise

Maligne Lake Cruise

(263 reviews)

from $ 67.99

tourism jasper canada

Maligne Canyon Maligne Canyon free

A narrow chasm located about 7 miles north of downtown Jasper, Maligne Canyon winds slightly less than a mile through Jasper National Park. The stunning canyon reaches a depth of more than 150 feet, while some sections are as narrow as 7 feet. In addition to the unique geological aspects of the area, the canyon is surprisingly green, with an immense amount of plant life.

Recent travelers appreciated the two hiking trails that weave through the area. The shorter loop crosses the canyon via four bridges, while the longer option traces the gorge and features two additional bridges along the way. Plus, the longer path is slightly less crowded. Past hikers also noted the parking lot at the trailhead can get crowded and suggest arriving early.

tourism jasper canada

Lake Annette and Lake Edith Lake Annette and Lake Edith free

Situated across the Athabasca River and just north of downtown Jasper, lakes Annette and Edith are great spots for a leisurely jaunt or a full-fledged adventure. Travelers can spend a day picnicking and grilling, relaxing in the park's signature red Adirondack chairs and hiking the various trails.

Recent travelers were surprised by the lakes' cerulean water. They recommended packing a camera for snapping photos along the area's primary hiking trail, the Annette Loop, which is paved and an excellent option for novice hikers. 

tourism jasper canada

Athabasca Falls Athabasca Falls free

Athabasca Falls offers incredible views from an easily accessible location, adjacent to the Icefields Parkway and about 20 miles south of downtown Jasper. There is parking a short walk away from the falls, so this is an easy option for travelers searching for a stress-free excursion. While the water may not actually fall too far (about 75 feet) the falls are known for their torrential flow. Photographers particularly appreciate the falls for the array of viewing areas and surrounding trails.

Recent visitors described the Athabasca Falls as a must-see spot in Jasper National Park. They also note that you don't need to spend a full day here, but they suggest spending the time to view the falls from all of the available vantage points. Others recommended wearing sturdy shoes as the paths and stairs can often get slippery with all the spray from the falls. The falls are free to visit. For more information on the history of the falls, visit the Parks Canada website .

tourism jasper canada

Whitewater Rafting Whitewater Rafting

Rafting trips are a great way to see some of the more remote areas of Jasper National Park and they are excellent excursions for adrenaline junkies. Most of the rafting companies stick to the relatively calm Athabasca River, which runs through the southwest portion of the park and is a popular choice for families. The Athabasca River still boasts Class II rapids though, so travelers will still want to use the issued wetsuits to stay warm in inclement weather. For more of a challenge, adventurers should consider the Fraser or Sunwapta rivers, which include Class III rapids.

Past travelers almost universally leave glowing reviews of whitewater rafting in Jasper, particularly praising the opportunities to take in the beautiful scenery. They also generally appreciate the family-friendly nature of the rafting experience.

tourism jasper canada

Glacier Skywalk Glacier Skywalk

Are you afraid of heights? If so, you'll probably want to skip the Glacier Skywalk. Everyone else should consider trekking out over the U-shaped walkway, which extends over the Sunwapta Valley. The architectural marvel allows travelers to safely venture out over the natural edge off of a 918-foot cliff, while the glass-floored walkway lets tourists take in a unique view of the area's natural setting.

Recent visitors generally praised the Glacier Skywalk for the novelty of its glass floor and the panoramas available from its observations platform. Still, many recent travelers said the views are not worth the steep price required to access the skywalk, especially because similar vantage points are available nearby. One perk of paying: Audio tours are available for no additional fee, and past tourists said they found them to be informational.

tourism jasper canada

Planetarium and Telescope Combo Tour

(71 reviews)

from $ 54.90

Jasper to Banff One-Way Tour

Jasper to Banff One-Way Tour

(49 reviews)

from $ 226.56

Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour

Jasper Evening Wildlife Tour

(345 reviews)

from $ 64.65

tourism jasper canada

Marmot Basin Marmot Basin

Marmot Basin has transformed from a small cross-country skiing stopover in the 1920s to a full-blown mountain for skiers and snowboarders with 91 runs and seven chairlifts. Most of the runs are classified as either intermediate, advanced or expert, but 30 percent are suitable for novice skiers. The mountain also includes a small terrain park, as well as an expansive backcountry, for the most adventurous skiers. Additional on-site amenities include three eateries for after you've worked up an appetite, plus a store in case you need last-minute gear.

Past visitors appreciated the variety of runs, which appeal to skiers with different levels of experience. A number of them also suggest trying to find a discount to offset the pricey lift passes, as the mountain offers different deals based on the season and through its Marmot Escape Card program. The Marmot Escape Card costs a one-time fee of CA$79 and includes perks like half-price full-day lift tickets and 20 percent off youth tickets, as well as discounts on food, spa visits, accommodations and the Jasper SkyTram .

tourism jasper canada

Miette Hot Springs Miette Hot Springs

As the hottest mineral springs in the Canadian Rockies, Miette Hot Springs provides an excellent alternative to the otherwise physically demanding things to do in Jasper National Park. Water flows from the mountain at a piping 129 degrees Fahrenheit before being cooled to the much more manageable range of 98 to 104 degrees. When you're not soaking, you can take a walk along the easy Source of Springs trail or challenge yourself with the roughly 5-mile Sulphur Skyline trail. Also on-site: a gift shop and the Fiddle Valley Café, which serves a variety of meal options.

Previous tourists praised the abundance of soaking pools and beautiful scenery. However, the changing rooms received mixed reviews in regards to their cleanliness.   

tourism jasper canada

Ice Climbing Ice Climbing

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tourism jasper canada

Jasper National Park Horseback Riding Jasper National Park Horseback Riding

tourism jasper canada

Canoe Tour Canoe Tour

tourism jasper canada

Columbia Icefield Tour with Glacier Skywalk from Jasper

(129 reviews)

from $ 225.91

Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour

Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour

(203 reviews)

from $ 108.35

Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike

Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike

(94 reviews)

from $ 72.83

Explore More of Jasper National Park

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A Complete Guide to Jasper National Park, Canada

Jasper National Park is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers.

Read our Jasper National Park travel guide when planning your trip to this incredible part of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta province. We share tips on the best things to do in Jasper, both town and its surroundings, where to stay, how to get, entrance fee, what to pack, or when to visit.

Jasper National Park is an enormous wilderness area in Alberta, Canada. Canadian Rockies' largest national park is a truly unique place that offers a great network of hiking trails, incredible scenery and natural sights.

Based on our multiple visits, we've put together all the practical information you might need before packing bags and including Jasper in your final Canadian Rockies itinerary .

It would not be possible to visit the national park so easily without Jasper town, which serves as a perfect base for exploring the area. We visited Jasper a few times in the recent years and always enjoyed its small-town vibe.

Even though we were very well aware of its popularity and the fact we need to reserve our stay in advance, we still twice ended up in a campsite several kilometers behind Jasper's perimeter.

Nowadays, it is really hard to imagine a settlement that was established in 1813 that was one of the first abandoned stops on the fur trade route.

Maybe in the winter, when the tourism slows down a bit, but in the summer, Jasper is a buzzing point welcoming visitors from all over the world, visitors keen to see some of the country's most iconic spots.

When traveling to this part of the world, we assume you're a nature lover, which means you'll have a blast in Jasper .

For all of you planning your trip, we've put together this ultimate Jasper travel guide for first-time visitors.

We share tips on the best things to do, how to get to Jasper and plan your visit, when is the best time to visit, how to get around, and much more.

In a nutshell, our goal is to ensure your time in Jasper will be as smooth as possible.

WHERE IS JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian province of Alberta in the southwest of the country.

Jasper town is the gateway to Jasper National Park that sits at the intersection of two roads.

Yellowhead Highway that connects the west coast with Edmonton is the less-traveled road by visitors that features, for example, Mount Robson Provincial Park.

The second road is the famous Icefields Parkway, which is the destination on its own.

Icefields Parkway is a synonym for road trip in Canada, and Jasper is either the first or last stop on this route dotted with the insane number of must-visit sights.

When looking on the map, you will soon understand that Jasper, hadn't it been for the natural beauty that made the town famous, would have otherwise been easily overlooked, as it literally sits in the middle of nowhere.

Well, in the middle of the valley surrounded by mountainous peaks.

The closest large cities, Edmonton and Calgary , are 365 kilometers and 413 kilometers away, respectively.

This is also the reason why Jasper is a popular getaway for people traveling locally , who love to escape the hustle and bustle, especially on weekends.

Jasper National Park is in Alberta, Canada.

HOW TO GET TO JASPER

There are several options for getting to Jasper, given the fact the town is a traditional tourist destination. The truth is that every alternative has pros and cons, but one thing is unavoidable.

Because of the location deep in the Canadian Rockies, it takes time to get to Jasper National Park.

On the other hand, if Jasper is one of the stops on your road trip itinerary, we believe that the journey is also the destination, and the time on the road will be rewarding and well-spent.

Public transport in the area is not very reliable and frequent, and because of the very nature of the trip, we think we would miss out a lot if we were exploring the Canadian Rockies without a rental car or campervan.

Of course, you can prove us wrong, but based on our two visits, we know our trip would not be that flexible, and we would not be able to see as much as we did without the car.

The most common way is renting a car at the airport (Edmonton or Calgary) and then drive towards Jasper.

If you drive from Edmonton, the scenery becomes interesting closer to Jasper, so you'll be able to reach the town in one day.

On the other hand, if you land in Calgary, there are many places to see along the route - Banff, Lake Louise, and Icefields Parkway.

As you surely do not want to rush things, you should allocate several days for this drive.

If you do not want to drive or simply want to get to Jasper without any hassle, it is possible to book a shuttle bus from either Calgary or Edmonton directly to Jasper.

It is also a perfect alternative for travelers who plan on staying in the Jasper area and making one or multi-day hiking trips without the necessity to have their own car all the time.

Transfer between Calgary and Jasper takes 7.5 hours and offers comfortable service and great views.

It is very similar to transfer between Edmonton and Jasper, that is a bit shorter.

It is possible to book this service even when you travel in the opposite direction.

Another option is to book directly with Sundog Tours that leave quite regularly from the center of Edmonton.

If you prefer traveling by train over a bus, there is one train line daily that connects Edmonton Railway Station with Jasper. The ride takes 6 hours and 30 minutes and is provided by ViaRail.

There's no airport in Jasper, which means the closest international airports are either in Calgary or Edmonton.

It is, of course, possible to land in Seattle in the USA (this is what we actually did during our first visit) or in Vancouver, but these cities are much further.

Once you land, no matter where, you need to either arrange transport or rent a car.

You need a car to get easily to Jasper National Park.

GETTING AROUND

Jasper is an easily walkable town, and there is no need to have own transport, but the situation changes once you decide to explore the surroundings, which is frankly what the whole visit is all about.

Because public transport is almost non-existent in Jasper National Park and you would be limited by the number of sights you could see in one day, it makes sense to consider other transport types for getting around.

The most convenient option is having a rental car that gives you flexibility, especially if time is your main concern.

Thanks to it is getting around Jasper National Park painless, and it is also much easier to create an itinerary and follow it.

Also, parking in the park is free of charge, which is an advantage, although spots fill up quickly

If you do not have a car or campervan, do not despair.

You can either book a taxi in Jasper that will take you to hike trailheads or arrange a driver for the full day that will show you the top attractions in the vicinity.

Last but not least, it is possible to book a tour either in Jasper or online in advance.

Various tours are an interesting way to explore Jasper National Park, and they combine the advantage of having transport arranged and a knowledgeable guide on board.

Here is our pick of the best tours in Jasper.

Wildlife Watching Tour | Search for wildlife such as bears, moose, elk, or deer and watch it safely in their natural habitat with this guided tour.

Jasper Downtown Foodie Tour | Before you head out into the wilderness, visit some local restaurants for a plate of delicious food and hear some local stories of a small mountainous town.

Whitewater Rafting Tour | Rafting is one of the most popular activities to do in Jasper National Park. Class 2 rapids are perfect even for families with kids.

Bike Tour in Jasper National Park | Enjoy one of many great routes Jasper National Park offers on a biking tour with a guide.

Wildlife and Waterfall Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise | Take a scenic tour along the Maligne Valley, see Maligne Canyon, and enjoy the Maligne Lake cruise.

Also, the town offers in the summer season a shuttle bus to Maligne Lake.

Ask about the current timetable at Jasper's Visitors Center, where you can get essential information on the trails and safety.

WHERE TO STAY IN JASPER

In the summer and early autumn, between June and September, accommodation is a scarce commodity in Jasper. The town has its capacity, and the capacity fills up extremely quickly.

Finding accommodation is often mission impossible, so you should make a reservation once you establish your next trip destination is the Canadian Rockies. It applies especially if you travel around the Rockies on a budget .

Hotel rooms are often overpriced in the season, and it is always better to secure first-time deals.

Honestly, we would not dare to travel in the summer months to Jasper without hotel or campsite reservations. It is simply too risky, and if you find a last-minute deal, it will possibly break your bank account (and heart).

Another possibility is to stay in towns nearby within Jasper National Park.

We've handpicked the best hotels in Jasper for every type of traveler; feel free to get inspired.

Budget | Jasper Downtown Hostel - If you're traveling on a budget, this hostel is by far your best bet. Of course, in case you do not mind sleeping in dormitories. Private rooms are also available and more expensive, so check out the alternative that suits you the best. Another similar accommodation is HI Jasper that offers more modern facilities and both private and shared rooms.

Mid-range | Pine Bungalows - This very stylish hotel is one of Jasper's best accommodations in the given category. The property is a bit outside the town's center, but it should not be a problem if you have a car. Also, the views from the lodge give you the feeling you're in the wilderness.

Luxury | Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Honestly, we did not find many hotels that could justify the high price tag. Fairmont is an international brand, which is an exception because it adds excellent service you can expect throughout the world. The hotel is truly different in a good sense of the term and if you're looking for something special, check it out.

Hotels sell out quickly in Jasper during the summer season.

CAMPGROUNDS

If you travel in the Rockies by car or campervan, camping opens up a whole new world for you, in terms of accommodation.

There are several bigger or smaller campgrounds spread across Jasper National Park, and it is a more budget-friendly alternative for people traveling on a budget .

Of course, the lower price means the demand is high as well, and although some of the campgrounds work on a first-come, first-served basis, you need to make an early reservation on Parks Canada for most of them.

For more detailed camping information, check out our Camping in the Canadian Rockies Guide .

BEST THINGS TO DO IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK

The majority of the best things to do in Jasper are closely connected with soaking up the views and exploring the area actively.

We are not afraid to say that no traveler can be resistant to this part of the Canadian Rockies' beauty.

If you are looking for what to do in Jasper, there are plenty of natural attractions to choose from, but there's no problem finding a less-trodden path and connect with the real Canadian wilderness.

No matter what your program will be, it is good to know that a cozy room or a romantic camping spot is waiting for you in Jasper.

We've put together a list of places we think are worth visiting and activities you should not miss doing in Jasper. Select what suits you the best and create your own perfect Jasper itinerary.

MALIGNE LAKE

Jasper National Park surely has no shortage of beautiful, crystal clear lakes. One of the most iconic lakes is Maligne Lake, which is located on the very end of Maligne Lake Road.

Maligne Lake is 22.5 kilometers long, and the waters feed the canyon beneath.

This lake often makes it to the list of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies , so be prepared to be blown away.

When the sky is clear, you can admire the mountains in the backdrop, but even when the weather does not play along, the moody scenery will take your breath away.

Except for admiring the scenery, there are a few more things to do at Maligne Lake .

The lake's shore is popular for leisurely walking along the shore, but you can also pack a picnic or book a boat tour.

It is also possible to rent a kayak and paddle to Spirit Island, which is one of the most famous photo spots in the park.

Be prepared that canoe rentals on Maligne Lake are ridiculously overpriced as prices start from $75 per hour. Still, it’s a bit cheaper than paddling across Moraine Lake or Lake Louise in Banff National Park.

Maligne Lake is often ranked as one of the most beautiful places in the Canadian Rockies.

MALIGNE CANYON

Maligne Canyon is one of the best places in Jasper National Park, which is worth visiting both in the summer and winter.

The narrow canyon and the strongly blue swirling water are very photogenic, and the network of pathways along the canyon will allow you to explore the site from every angle possible.

For some travelers, Maligne Canyon is a short photo stop; others can easily spend here a few hours walking on the designated trails. Either way, the Maligne Canyon is worth a visit.

Maligne means in French wicked because of the turbulent, possibly dangerous waters.

The deepest canyon in the Canadian Rockies is undoubtedly an excellent warm-up for exploring the area, same as Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park.

The road that leads to Maligne Canyon is known for wildlife spotting, so drive slowly.

Getting to the canyon is super-easy. From Jasper, follow Yellowhead Highway and then turn onto Maligne Lake Road that will take you to this point of interest in no time.

In case you do not have a rental car but still want to visit this part of Jasper National Park, consider booking Maligne Valley Tour that includes a short stop by the canyon and then continues to Maligne Lake.

Maligne Canyon is magical in the summer, but a completely different experience awaits you here in the winter when the water freezes.

It is recommended to join Maligne Canyon Icewalk Tour for your safety.

MEDICINE LAKE

To be honest, when we traveled around Jasper National Park for the first time, we almost missed Medicine Lake. The reason was quite simple.

At the time of our visit, there was virtually no water in the lake, and we started to search for information about where all the water did go.

Apparently, Medicine Lake is known for mirror-like effects, but also for a unique underground drainage system, which causes the water level to vary from month to month.

Medicine Lake sits between Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake, and it is a welcoming stop on this beautiful road.

The Maligne Lake Road is a scenic drive in Jasper National Park.

OPAL HILLS TRAIL

Among others is Maligne Lake area a popular hiking destination. You can park your car here and choose a trail according to your preferences and level of fitness.

We have opted for Opal Hills Trail, a moderately difficult 8 kilometers long loop that will take you to an alpine meadow surrounded by hills on each side.

The meadow is at its best in late spring when flowers are in bloom, but you can visit the place any time, and you won't be disappointed.

We were pleasantly surprised that we left the crowds behind and met only a few people on the trail. The first section is pretty demanding, but the path gets much easier once you get above tree line.

For the hike back, which leads downhill all the time, it is a good idea to bring trekking poles for knee support.

Among other alternatives belong Mary Schaffer Loop, a 3.5 kilometers long flat loop, or Moose Trail that is exceptional because of the high possibility of wildlife spotting.

Speaking of which. Jasper and, by extension, Jasper National Park is very safe, but you should always keep in mind this is a bear country .

Although spotting wildlife is one of the best activities in Jasper, always keep your distance.

For hiking in the berry season, it is essential to have a bear spray on you, and you should hike in a group of people for your safety.

Travel Insurance

We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.

Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.

SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.

Travel smarter and safer!

SULPHUR SKYLINE TRAIL

Why did we love hiking in the Jasper area so much? One of the reasons was that breathtaking views were never too far away. This was also the case of Sulphur Skyline Trail .

This not that well-known hike offers from the summit 360-degree views, and all keen travelers should definitely consider including this trail on the itinerary.

Sulphur Skyline is 8 kilometers long roundtrip, but the elevation gain on the first 4 kilometers is 685 meters, so it is not exactly a piece of cake.

On the other hand, the reward is sweet, and it is worth pushing hard for a while.

The trail is easy to follow; only the loose rocks on the trail can sometimes be slippery, so be careful.

Another reason why is Sulphur Skyline Trail one of the top activities is that it ends by Miette Hot Springs.

Jasper is full of epic day hikes and amazing trails.

MIETTE HOT SPRINGS

We visited Miette Hot Springs twice, and although the conditions were each time diametrically opposed - once it was sunny and once it snowed - nothing changed the fact that this activity has a lot to offer, especially in combination with the hike we had described above.

What can you expect from the Miette hot pools?

In general, there are several pools, each with a different temperature, from a very hot ones (the water temperature is cooled down from the original 54°C to 40°C) to a cold one.

The entrance fee is only CAD 7.21, which is very cheap for Canadian standards. The low entrance fee makes it one of the best budget things to do in Jasper.

The trailhead for Sulphur Skyline Trail and Miette Hot Springs car park is 61 kilometers from Jasper.

The road is often closed in the winter because of the icy conditions, so always check the up-to-date information before you set off.

Do not forget to pack a travel towel and swimsuit, but it is possible to rent both at the reception.

MOUNT EDITH CAVELL

Only 33 kilometers from Jasper town is located another shining star, Mount Edith Cavell. To get to the pristine area and closer to this easily recognizable 3363 high mountain, you need to drive via a series of switchbacks, so drive slowly and enjoy the scenery.

This part of the national park has many aces up its sleeve and you should read our Mount Edith Cavell guide to get the most of your trip.

First, there's the meadow. If you want to explore it more closely, allow yourself three to five hours, as the trail to this tundra-like environment is quite long.

As you would expect, the best time to visit Mt. Edith Cavell is in early spring when the flowers are in full bloom.

But travelers short on time should not miss this place as well, because not far from the parking lot is the Path of the Glacier Trail that will take you to the viewpoint of Angel Glacier, Cavell Glacier, Cavell Pond, and Mount Edith Cavell itself.

The views are hard to beat, so it does not come as a surprise that this area is very touristy, especially because it is properly accessible only a few months in the year.

Visiting Mt. Edith Cavell by car in the winter is off-limits as the road is closed. Cross country skiing is the only way to get there during this period.

ICEFIELDS PARKWAY

It is impossible to talk about Jasper and the national park and not to mention Canada's most famous road, Icefields Parkway.

For many, is Jasper either the starting or ending point of this ultimate adventure as Highway 93 basically ends/begins just before Jasper.

It could almost seem that this road was designed for road tripping, as it is dotted with incredible scenery and an endless list of top natural attractions.

It is possible to drive along the Icefields Parkway and see some of the best sights in one day (it is better because the accommodation along the route is scarce), but if you can, spend in this location even longer.

By now, we traveled this scenic road a few times and would not mind coming back as we surely did not see it all.

A part of the Icefields Parkway belongs to Jasper National Park, while the other, approximately half, is already within Banff National Park .

If you travel the route south to north, we cannot emphasize enough how important it is to have your accommodation booked in Jasper because you will likely arrive late in the evening.

Iconic Icefields Parkway connects Jasper and Banff.

SUNWAPTA FALLS

Sunwapta Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls along Icefields Parkway, only about 40 minutes drive from Jasper.

One would think that the location and easy accessibility would mean that the site is overcrowded from morning till evening, but the reality is a bit different.

Travelers arriving in Jasper are often after the whole day on the road tired and cannot wait to check-in in the hotel.

Visitors traveling in the opposite direction are, on the other hand, excited to drive Icefields Parkway and often skip Sunwapta Falls because there are many more renowned places about to come. Do not make the same common mistake.

Sunwapta means in local Stoney language turbulent water, and you're about to get a powerful experience.

The waterfall is only a short walk from the parking lot, so follow the trail to Upper Falls, and if you have more time, feel free to extend the hike to Lower Falls too.

ATHABASCA FALLS

You would not probably find a more famous waterfall near Jasper than Athabasca Falls when it comes to waterfalls. The popularity of this waterfall has many reasons, but it is certainly helpful that the viewing platform is only a few steps away from the parking lot.

This is why parking fills up quickly, especially by large tour buses.

Although Athabasca Falls is definitely worth it, be patient as the first impression will not necessarily be positive when you arrive in the peak time.

Athabasca Falls is 23 meters high and 18 meters wide. When you read these stats, you might start wondering what the fuss is all about, as the numbers are not that impressive.

But this natural attraction is not about height or width; it is about the volume of crystal clear water that makes its way through a narrow canyon.

When the viewing platform is full, follow designated paths that will take you to less exposed viewpoints. Athabasca Falls is only 25 minutes drive from Jasper, so make sure you do not overlook it.

Best Hikes in Banff National Park Lake O'Hara Guide: Hiking in Yoho National Park Hiking the Plain of Six Glaciers in Banff National Park

WILCOX PASS

It is beyond our limits to give you a tip on every single top hike in Jasper National Park , but we can at least recommend those we have a personal experience with.

About 100 kilometers from Jasper, not that far from the line with Banff National Park, is a Wilcox Pass trailhead.

Wilcox Pass hike is often overlooked because of a more famous Parker Ridge Trail (which is not in Jasper anymore but close), but we really enjoyed the walk through subalpine scenery and the tranquil atmosphere.

Wilcox Pass hike is 8 kilometers in-out trail. The first half climes up, but it is nothing too challenging; elevation gain is about 200 meters.

Most of the hikers turn around by the first viewpoint, which is marked by a pair of red chairs, but no matter how the view is pretty, it is definitely not the highlight, so carry on.

Once you reach the pass, you'll be blown away by the tranquil meadow lined by peaks such as Mount Athabasca, Mount Andromeda, Mount Wilcox, or Nigel Peak.

ATHABASCA GLACIER

Athabasca Glacier sits on the very border of Jasper National Park, and the local authorities are surely glad this giant belongs to the area because the glacier attracts the attention of international and local travelers alike.

There are several ways to visit the Athabasca glacier.

First, the most budget-friendly alternative is to take a 30-minute Toe of the Athabasca Glacier Hike , which will take you to the mouth of the glacier.

For those looking for a more in-depth experience, it is possible to book either Athabasca Glacier Icewalk , or another alternative is reserving a ride on an Ice Explorer.

This activity can be booked in Athabasca Discovery Center across the road.

Unsurprisingly, we had opted for the free version of seeing the glacier, and we certainly weren't disappointed.

When you walk along the path to the glacier, read informative signs.

Some of them talk more closely about safety, but some also increase awareness about our environment, as it is easy to see how much the glacier has receded in the past few decades. There's definitely a lot to think about.

Global warming is not a made-up phenomenon, and we as individuals certainly can make a difference when we travel responsibly .

You can take a guided tour and walk on the Athabasca Glacier.

MARMOT BASIN

We've already outlined that Jasper National Park is opened for visitors all-year-round, and one of the reasons is that the snow conditions in this part of Canada are often perfect.

Only 20 kilometers from Jasper is one of the most popular ski resorts in Alberta Province, Marmot Basin. It is an ideal place for skiing and snowboarding as you can find here seven lifts and about 90 kilometers of slopes.

All of that in a beautiful environment that offers views of snow-capped mountains around.

A single day Marmot Basin Ski Resort ticket costs CAD 105 without GST.

Of course, if skiing is not your thing, Jasper in winter turns into a winter sports center, and you can choose between snowshoe hiking, ski mountaineering, or cross country skiing.

JASPER SKYTRAM

We noticed the increasing popularity of gondolas in the Canadian Rockies, and although we always prefer hiking and conquering summits on foot, we can understand the logic.

Without much effort, travelers get the chance to get to an alpine zone and trails that would otherwise have been off-limits either because of an insufficient level of fitness or lack of time.

Sometimes we cannot justify the price, which is pretty high, in our opinion, but it is definitely always good to know this service exists.

Jasper SkyTram is a synonym for great views in the area because the gondola will take you to 2263 meters above sea level.

Once you get there, you can join Summit Trail, which features 360-degree views of six mountain ranges.

To get this ultimate experience, book your Jasper SkyTram ticket in advance.

WILDLIFE WATCHING

Despite the number of yearly visitors, Jasper and the area are still a real wilderness, which we should always keep in mind when walking around.

It is pretty common to see herds of elks, bighorn sheep, mountain goats along the road, and spotting a grizzly bear or black bear is not as exceptional as you would think, especially in the spring and summer season.

It is very cool to see bears in the wilderness from a distance (we saw grizzlies at Mount Assiniboine ), but it is not that great to encounter mum with cubs in the woods.

If you spot wildlife, you should always keep your distance, and you should certainly not try to find bears on purpose for a simple photo opportunity.

The best advice we can give you is to book a Wildlife Watching Tour with a knowledgeable guide.

This way, your chances to see native animals are high, and this form of travel also increase your safety, plus the money goes back to the community.

Wildlife watching tours are very popular in Jasper.

DARK SKY RESERVE

Due to limited light pollution, Jasper was in 2011 designated as Dark Sky Reserve; it is actually the second-largest Dark Sky Reserve in the world.

Simply, it is an area where it is great to watch the night sky and stars.

We've already visited a Dark Sky Reserve in New Zealand in Lake Tekapo and can only encourage you to stay up late and when the sky is clear, travel, for example, to Medicine Lake or Maligne Lake.

The experience is truly unforgettable. Jasper even annually hosts Jasper Dark Sky Festival in October, so if you're in the area during this time, make sure you ask in the info center what is the program and activities you can join.

BEST TIME TO VISIT JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Jasper National Park is a destination that is possible to visit all-year-round. Without any doubt, the most popular season is summer, from June to August, closely followed by two autumn months, September and October.

These months usually guarantee warmer temperatures, although you should be prepared for ever-changing weather that can bring occasional snowstorms even in July.

The pros of visiting Jasper in summer are more stable weather, open trails, great hiking opportunities, and usually open roads.

The infrastructure and services such as shops, restaurants, and hotels are ready for customers.

The only disadvantages are full parking lots and higher rates in hotels. On the other hand, these cons aside, we always had a great time in Jasper.

Once we got on the trail, we were able to escape crowds. As we've already mentioned, early autumn has been lately becoming even more popular.

First of all, the tourism slows down, the weather is still pretty much stable, and the mountains and blue lakes in combination with trees that change color are very photogenic.

Jasper is also a place where it is possible to spend cozy winter evenings.

First of all, Marmot Basin Ski Resort is less than 30 minutes drive away, so a ski trip is definitely possible.

If you're a more experienced hiker, you can in the winter put on snowshoes or crampons and experience Jasper from a new angle.

There's only one thing you need to keep in mind. This part of Canada can get really cold, and it snows a lot, so especially if you travel to Jasper from Banff , you need to watch the daily weather forecast as Icefields Parkway can be blocked by snow.

Although wintertime, according to us, cannot compete with summer, it presents Jasper to more outdoorsy and active travelers.

Probably the slowest season in Jasper is spring, between March to May.

Trails are often muddy, there's still snow, and you need to be well-prepared for all types of weather. On the other hand, spring is the time when nature wakes up, and when lucky, you can see cubs in the wild.

To sum it up. Based on our experience, unless you want to enjoy icy scenery and skiing, we would have recommended you visiting Jasper in the shoulder season, either at the end of May, June, or then late September and October.

WHAT TO PACK

Jasper is a classic alpine town, which means that the place is quiet during the day, and it gets alive in the late afternoon when travelers return from day trips.

There's one more thing that will strike you. You'll meet here travelers wearing outdoor clothes and those wearing jeans and fancy jackets.

If you think about what to pack for visiting Jasper National Park, we can give you only one piece of advice.

First, consider the activities you plan on doing.

If you just want to drive around and from time to time get off the car to take a photo, sneakers, jeans, and a down jacket will indeed be enough.

On the other hand, if you prefer spending your time more actively, we recommend packing more carefully as Jasper is surrounded by real wilderness.

Bring hiking boots , hiking trousers, rain jacket , rain poncho, and quality daypack . Seriously, jeans are not good enough for hiking.

If you decide on camping, you are going to need a sleeping bag , sleeping mat , and probably a proper tent .

To get a more detailed insight, read our post, Canadian Rockies Packing List .

The good news is that even if you forget something essential from your packing list at home, there are plenty of outdoor shops in the town, so you can buy whatever is necessary (for higher prices, though).

Weather in Jasper National Park can change rapidly.

ENTRANCE FEE

All visitors at Jasper National Park are required to pay an entrance fee. A daily ticket costs CAD 10 per person or CAD 20 for a group of up to 7 people arriving in a single vehicle.

As we believe Jasper National Park is not the only national park on your itinerary, it makes more sense to buy Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which is valid for multiple parks and one year.

The price for Parks Canada Discovery Pass is CAD 69.90 per person or CAD 139.40 per group.

Although it might seem high, when you take into account that all sites within national parks are free and you can travel around freely, we think it is a reasonable price that helps manage the parks' infrastructure responsibly.

As Jasper lies within Jasper National Park, you need to buy an entrance ticket even if you only want to visit the town. What we understand, it is the same even if you're driving through.

SHOPPING IN JASPER

As in any other tourist town in the mountains, you can expect to pay a surcharge in Jasper, no matter if you go shopping for food, clothes, or camping gear.

The positive aspect is that you can get almost everything in Jasper, so it is a great place to restock on your road trip.

The main pedestrian road is lined with outdoor shops, souvenir shops, coffee houses, restaurants, and shops where you can buy camping gear, all of them opened in the season till the late evening.

Yes, Jasper is touristy, but there are times when it really comes in handy.

HOW MANY DAYS YOU NEED

It is always a tough question to answer. Every person has a different travel style and travel pace. Thanks to a large number of hiking trails, it is easily possible to spend in Jasper National Park months without getting bored.

In short, Jasper is a fantastic place for outdoor lovers. But more realistically, we know that most likely, you have ten days to two weeks for the entire Canadian Rockies trip .

We would recommend you staying in Jasper for two to three full days when we put this into perspective.

It is a reasonable amount of time that will give you a chance to explore some of the best things to see and do, spend some leisure time by a lake, make one or two half-day hikes, relax in the hot pools, which is basically what the area is all about.

Of course, the more time you have, the more authentic your visit can be as you'll have time to get off the beaten path, but there's always a reason to come back and tick off your bucket list places you did not have time to see during the last visit.

You need at least three days for Jasper National Park.

Travel Resources

Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.

Accommodation : When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld .

Tours : Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.

We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator .

Rental Cars : When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com , a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.

Flight Tickets : When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.

Travel Insurance : World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.

Jasper National Park, Canada

Jasper National Park

In a modern world of clamorous cities and ubiquitous social media, Jasper seems like the perfect antidote. Who needs a shrink when you’ve got Maligne Lake? What use is Facebook when you’re a two-day hike from the nearest road? And how can you possibly describe the Athabasca Glacier in a 140-character tweet?

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Jasper National Park. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Jasper National Park

Jasper Town & Around

Jasper is a rugged beauty; it's more raw and less tourist-pampering than its southern cousin Banff, and hence host to a more ambitious, adventurous…

June 7, 2015: The red-white snowcoatch bus carrying tourists to Athabasca Glacier.

Athabasca Glacier

The tongue of the Athabasca Glacier runs from the Columbia Icefield to within walking distance of the road opposite the Icefield Centre. It can be visited…

Miette Hotsprings in Jasper National Park during spring.

Miette Hot Springs

More remote than Banff's historic springs, Miette Hot Springs ('discovered' in 1909) are 61km northeast of Jasper off Hwy 16, near the park's eastern…

Maligne lake

Maligne Lake

Almost 50km from Jasper at the end of a stunning road that bears its name, 22km-long Maligne Lake is the recipient of a lot of hype. It's the largest lake…

Icefields Parkway and Athabasca River, Canada

Jasper Skytram

If the average, boring views from Jasper just aren't blowing your hair back, go for a ride on this sightseeing gondola. The seven-minute journey …

Peyto Lake, Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada.

You'll have already seen the indescribably vibrant blue color of Peyto Lake in a thousand publicity shots, but there's nothing like gazing at the real…

Columbia Icefield

Columbia Icefield

About halfway between Lake Louise village and Jasper Town, you'll glimpse the vast Columbia Icefield, covering an area the size of Vancouver and feeding…

Mt Edith Cavell

Mt Edith Cavell

Rising like a snowy sentinel over Jasper Town, Mt Edith Cavell (3363m) is one of the park’s most distinctive and physically arresting peaks. What it lacks…

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It's Not About the Miles

22 Things to Do in Jasper National Park for an Epic Canadian Rockies Adventure!

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The largest National Park in Canada, Jasper National Park is a must-visit on any Canadian Rockies trip. Part of the Canadian Rockies UNESCO World Heritage site, Jasper National Park will wow you with its awesome beauty. Read on to discover the most unmissable things to do in Jasper National Park!

Located in the western Canadian province of Alberta, Jasper National Park covers an area of more than 4,000 square miles to the northwest of Banff National Park.

Together, the two parks (plus others nearby), make for an epic Canadian Rockies getaway.

View of Maligne Lake in Jasper Canada

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Less crowded than Banff and Lake Louise , Jasper nevertheless offers a ton of activities if you love the outdoors, from hiking and biking to canoeing and walking on a glacier.

And if you are a landscape photographer, prepare to get deliriously happy over the zillion photo spots in the area!

The Best Things to Do in Jasper National Park

With a plethora of lovely alpine lakes, spectacular scenery laced with craggy mountains, gorgeous glaciers, tumbling waterfalls, and emerald forests, Jasper National Park should definitely be on your bucket list if you love nature.

And while outdoor enthusiasts will be delighted with the variety of adrenaline-pumping adventures on offer, you can also visit simply to soak in the beauty of the area, with leisurely scenic drives, wildlife spotting tours, and short walks on the agenda.

Pyramid Mountain reflected in Pyramid Lake Jasper Canada

Our guide is written primarily for visits in late spring, summer, and early fall, when roads and hiking trails are generally open, lakes thawed, and the countryside green and dotted with wildflowers.

Of course, Jasper is also fun to visit in the winter if you love winter sports and snow-covered wonderlands.

Here, then, are the best things to do in Jasper National Park!

#1 Ride the Jasper Skytram

Soaring high above the scenic landscape in the bright red Jasper Skytram is one of the most popular activities in Jasper National Park. You climb 7,425 feet from the lower station to the upper station in about seven minutes.

The SkyTram in Jasper National Park Alberta Canada

The views are spectacular as you start to ascend, and sensational from the top. Take in the views from several different viewpoints at the top. Hike the short Summit Trail to the top of Whistler’s Mountain, from where you can view six mountain ranges. Keep an eye out for wildlife.

View from Upper Station Jasper SkyTram Canada

There’s a restaurant at the upper station if you want to enjoy a meal or a drink with a view, and gift shops at the top and bottom. The Skytram is very popular, so reserve in advance to be guaranteed a spot on the day of your visit!

Check availability and price on your Jasper SkyTram ride now !

#2 Do a boat cruise on Maligne Lake…

One of the most beautiful lakes in Canada , Maligne Lake is set in the midst of tall mountains and glaciers. It is the longest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, and is located about 27 miles from the town of Jasper.

Maligne Lake in Jasper Canada

The drive to and from Maligne Lake is very scenic. If you do the drive early in the morning or around dusk, you will likely spot wildlife such as elk, moose, and bear. Even during the day, we saw several black bear in the area when we visited in late June.

At the lake, you can walk along the shore: the Mary Schaffer loop is about two miles, forested in parts and running along the water in others. Snap a photo of the picturesque boathouse. Take a canoe out on the water.

Boathouse at Maligne Lake in Jasper Canada

The one thing you definitely must do at Maligne Lake is the boat cruise through the Samson Narrows to Spirit Island and back. The scenery is simply stunning, and the commentary informative.

Book the Maligne Lake cruise now !
For a memorable experience, consider this highly-rated 5.5-hour tour of Jasper National Park with a knowledgeable local guide, which also includes the Maligne Lake boat cruise. It’s an excellent value! Book this tour now !

Maligne Lake Cruise Boat Jasper Canada

Getting to Maligne Lake

You can drive to Maligne Lake if you have a car. Plan on spending the day in the valley, exploring not just Maligne Lake but also Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake.

If you do not wish to drive, consider this popular tour of the major attractions in the area, including Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon, and Medicine Lake. It’s a great way to enjoy the scenery on the way and learn about the valley.

#3 …And photograph Spirit Island

You’ve probably seen photos of the iconic Spirit Island online: the tiny little island is one of the most photographed places in Canada. Spirit Island can only be accessed from the water, on a Maligne Lake cruise or by canoe or kayak.

Spirit Island Maligne Lake Jasper National Park Canada

If you visit on a cruise, the cruise boat’s destination is Spirit Island. You cannot walk on to the island itself (for much of the year it is connected to the mainland by a strip of land), but you can walk along the shore to photograph it from various angles.

Spirit Island on Maligne Lake Jasper Canada

It takes several hours to canoe or kayak to Spirit Island, so it should only be attempted by very strong paddlers. Reserve a spot at one of campsites at the far end of the lake near the island, where you can spend the night.

#4 Hike Maligne Canyon

The deepest canyon in the Canadian Rockies, Maligne Canyon is a must-explore slot canyon on your way to Maligne Lake. There are six bridges built across the canyon, offering breathtaking views.

Maligne Canyon in Jasper National Park, Canada

Waterfalls, lovely textured rock formations, the river far below, and the flora and fauna in the canyon make for an exciting opportunity to get into the wild. There are interpretive displays so you can learn as you explore.

Maligne Canyon Jasper Canada

If you do the full loop, it’s five miles, and will take you about 2.5 hours with lots of stops to marvel at the scenery and take photos. The Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen is a great place to stop for a drink or a bite to eat.

You can drive to Maligne Canyon, or do a guided tour of Maligne Valley that combines a stop at the canyon with a stop at Medicine Lake and Maligne Lake.

#5 View Medicine Lake (or not!)

Medicine Lake is a quick scenic stop on the way to or from Maligne Lake. It is famous for its disappearing water.

In the summer, the lake looks like any other alpine lake, but if you visit in the early spring (before the snow melt), or the fall, all you might see is a giant mud hole, or very shallow water levels.

There are sinkholes at the bottom at Medicine Lake, and the water from the Maligne River, which feeds both Maligne Lake and Medicine Lake, drains out of Medicine Lake through the sinkholes and resurfaces a few miles down after traveling under the ground.

The scenery is beautiful, so if there is water at Medicine Lake when you visit, it’s definitely worth stopping at the pullout to stretch your legs and take some photos. You might even spot some wildlife: we saw moose, mountain goats and a pika when we visited.

Medicine Lake Jasper Canada

You can drive to Medicine Lake if you have a car. If you do not want to drive, book a tour of the Maligne Valley that includes a stop at Medicine Lake, along with a Maligne Lake cruise and a stop at Maligne Canyon.

#6 Enjoy a wildlife tour

You will lots of wildlife in Jasper National Park when you are out driving or hiking. We saw lots of elk everyday on the road leading up to our cabin in Jasper, and black bear, pika, moose, and mountain goats as we were out exploring.

Black Bear in Jasper National Park Canada

But when you are in Jasper, it is very worthwhile to consider a wildlife spotting tour as a dedicated experience.

We did an evening tour and saw a plethora of wildlife, including a coyote that ran across the road right in front of our van, a bald eagle, a mountain goat, lots of bighorn sheep, an elk, and black bear.

And a grizzly that ran alongside our van for almost 15 minutes! It was the most amazing experience watching him lumber right alongside the van.

Elk in Jasper National Park Canada

With large windows in the minivans, it is easy to view wildlife safely, and take photos. You’ll also learn a lot about the region, the wildlife, and how wildlife is protected within the park.

While wildlife views are not guaranteed, the scenery is breathtaking, and the local guides select the route based on seasonal movements of animals in the area. Our wildlife tour is one of my most favorite memories from our visit to the Canadian Rockies!

Book your Jasper Wildlife Spotting Tour now !

#7 Walk Jasper Town

The little alpine town of Jasper is more rustic than Banff: we saw a herd of elk right in town one morning! It’s small, and you can explore it on foot in under an hour.

Jasper Canada

Jasper used to be a railroad hub, and is today one end for two of three routes the famous Rocky Mountaineer trains with their glass-dome coaches. The routes run between Vancouver and Jasper or Banff / Lake Louise, and are considered some of the most scenic train journeys in the world.

If you visit the town in the earlier part of the day, stop in at the Bear’s Paw Bakery . Their raspberry and white chocolate scones are famous, and their sandwiches make for a great to-go lunch. The coffee is great too!

Bear's Paw Bakery in Jasper Town, Canada

For a sampling of local cuisine and a walking tour of Jasper, consider this 3-hour food tour that guides you through the sights, along with stories about the town and four stops for food and beverage tastings.

Check price and availability on this Jasper food tour now!

#8 Take a canoe out on Pyramid Lake

If you are in Jasper on a clear bright morning, head to Pyramid Lake for beautiful photos of pyramid Mountain reflected perfectly in the still waters of Pyramid Lake. But even without the reflections, Pyramid Lake is one of the most scenic spots in the park.

Pyramid Mountain reflected in Pyramid Lake Jasper Canada

At Pyramid Lake, you can hike the lakeshore trail, about 1.25 miles long. Walk the wooden bridge to the island in the lake. Take a canoe or kayak out on to the water. Look for wildlife and birds.

This guided canoe adventure is a great option for beginners and you can choose from a morning or evening paddle. Your guide will help you spot wildlife as you paddle!

Check price and availability on this Pyramid lake canoe excursion now!

#9 Walk the shore of Lake Annette (or Lake Edith)

There is no shortage of beautiful lakes in Jasper National Park. Lake Annette and Lake Edith, two beautiful lakes we visited, are within easy driving distance of Jasper town.

Lake Annette in Jasper National Park Canada

With picnic tables, sunbathing and diving decks, and trails you can walk, either lake is a great place to spend a few hours enjoying the beautiful scenery. There are sandy beaches from which you can walk into the water, or go swimming if the water is warm enough.

#10 Do a day trip to Mount Robson Provincial Park

If you are in Jasper for a few days, consider a day trip to Mount Robson Provincial Park , which is also part of the Canadian Rockies UNESCO World Heritage site.

Mt. Robson in Canada

Mount Robson is the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies, and a stunning sight when clouds are not obscuring its majesty. The Visitor Center offers great views of the peak, and you can enjoy the wildflower meadow at the foot of the mountain if you visit during the bloom season.

Wildflowers at the Mount Robson Visitor Center in Canada

The Yellowhead Highway makes for a gorgeous drive, and you can visit lakes and waterfalls along the route. Start early to allow for time to do a couple of short hikes during the day.

#12 Do a day trip to the Columbia Icefield

While you can stop at the Columbia Icefield as you drive to Jasper or back, a day trip to the icefield is well worth the time if you plan to be in Jasper for a few days.

A snocoach on its way to the Athabasca Glacier Alberta Canada

Start your visit at the Discovery Center, where you can view the exhibits and the short film and look out at the Athabasca Glacier from the grounds of the center.

Next, board the Ice Explorer bus, which will transport you across the ice to the foot of the Athabasca Glacier, where you can alight and walk on the ice! Seeing the glacier up close is awe-inspiring. We saw lots of folks filling up their water bottles with the glacier melt!

Finally, visit the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-bottomed cliff edge walkway that hangs over the Sunwapta Valley. The views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers and forests are spectacular.

The Columbia Icefield adventure is extremely popular and slots tend to get sold out in season. We recommend booking in advance! Book your Columbia Icefield Adventure now !

View from the Glacier Skywalk in Jasper Canada

You have a choice of two restaurants for lunch, or you can do what we did: pack a cooler with a picnic lunch that you can enjoy on the grounds of the visitor center.

Getting to the Columbia Icefield DiscoverY Center

If you have a car, you can drive the spectacular Icefields Parkway to the Columbia Icefield and back. If you leave early, you can complete your visit by the afternoon, and return to Jasper for another activity, or make a few stops on the drive.

If you do not wish to drive, opt for a guided tour. This highly rated tour includes the ride to the glacier on the Ice Explorer, admission to the Skywalk, and a hot buffet lunch.

Book your tickets now for the Columbia Icefield Tour from Jasper !

#13 Enjoy a river rafting adventure

River rafting is one of the most popular adventure activities in the summer in Jasper. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, you can find a river rafting expedition suited to your skill level!

If you want a scenic river rafting tour where all you do is sit back and enjoy the views, consider this highly rated 2.5 hour Athabasca River Rafting tour !

Licensed guides do the rowing and provide commentary on this fun tour that visitors of all ages can enjoy. You’ll traverse a few small rapids, but it’s mostly smooth sailing.

The Athabasca River in Jasper Canada

For a more active rafting adventure that’s still suitable for beginners, check out this tour that starts from the base of the Athabasca Falls and takes you along a number of exciting rapids! This Class 2+ adventure includes 90 minutes on the water.

More experienced rafters will enjoy navigating Class III rapids on the Sunwapta River as part of this highly rated 4-hour tour . Enjoy the beautiful scenery and watch for wildlife on the river banks as you ride the choppy currents!

#14 Be awed by the Athabasca Falls

A magnificent spectacle along the Icefields Parkway near Jasper, the Athabasca Falls are a must-visit. It is not a super tall waterfall, but the sheer force of the water flow will leave you  breathless.

Athabasca Falls Jasper Canada

Located in the upper portion of the Athabasca River, the falls are at their ferocious best in the spring, when the snow melts. But there’s still lots of water even in the fall, when rivers generally are at their low levels for the year.

Walk the pathways to various viewpoints from where you can snap photos of the powerful falls. You can get close enough to get drenched by the spray! You can also walk down to the actual river, which flows peacefully at the bottom.

Athabasca Falls in Jasper NP Canada

#15 Admire the beauty of the Sunwapta Falls

Also located along the Icefields Parkway, the Sunwapta Falls consist of a pair of waterfalls. The Upper Sunwapta Falls are just steps from the parking lot, and the water drops about 60 feet.

Sunwapta Falls Jasper Canada

To access the Lower Sunwapta Falls, walk the forested trail down: it is about 0.8 mile. The lower falls consist of three beautiful falls.The path is packed dirt, with loose rock and exposed tree roots, so watch your step. The return uphill is not too bad.

Since the Sunwapta Falls are fed by melt from the Athabasca Glacier, they are at their best in late spring and early summer. If you have the time, do the walk down to the Lower Sunwapta Falls, where you’ll find magnificent scenery and fewer people.

#16 Do a scenic drive up Mount Edith Cavell

If you have the time, a half day trip to the top of Mount Edith Cavell is one of the best things to do in Jasper National Park. The drive is super scenic, and the hikes at the top epic.

Cavell Road Jasper Canada

At 10,800+ feet, Mount Edith Cavell is truly majestic. A narrow winding road, about 9 miles in length, takes you up the mountain to the top, where you can park your car and explore the beautiful area, with its alpine meadows, wildflowers in season, and interesting rock formations.

Parking Area Mt. Edith Cavell Jasper Canada

If you enjoy hiking, you can choose between the Path of the Glacier trail, which is a moderate difficulty, 1 mile round trip, or the much longer Cavell Meadows trail, which is about 4 miles long and also classed as moderate.

We did the Path of the Glacier trail, and thought it was one of the top hikes from our Canadian Rockies visit. The views of the Angel Glacier from the trail are spectacular. Alpine flora, moss, and lichen make for interesting detail along the way.

Angel Glacier Jasper Canada

If you are lucky, you may see ice chunks break and fall during your visit: that is a sight not easily forgotten! Stay on the trail both for your own safety and to protect the delicate environment.

The Cavell Meadows trail features beautiful wildflower meadows in the summer. So if you visit then, you may want to set aside a few hours to do both trails!

#17 Enjoy the Fairmont Spa and discover Lac Beauvert

Even if you do not stay at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge , plan on a relaxing treatment at the spa in the resort. A luxurious spa with large windows open to the spectacular surroundings, a treatment here is the perfect way to relax after a day out! You can also enjoy a drink on the lovely terrace.

Located close to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, beautiful Lac Beauvert is worth a visit as well. You can stroll along the shore and take in the beautiful views. On a bright still morning, the reflections of the mountains in the water are breathtaking.

Lac Beauvert Jasper Canada

And if you haven’t spotted wildlife elsewhere, you will very likely see elk on the grounds of the lodge, especially if you visit early or late in the day.

#18 Snap a photo of pretty Patricia Lake

There are so many beautiful lakes in Jasper National Park! We visited quite a few during our time in Jasper, among them pretty Patricia Lake, which was right by the Patricia Lake Bungalows , where we stayed. In fact, we had a view of the lake from our unit!

Patricia Lake Jasper Canada

You can walk the shore of Patricia Lake (about 3 miles if you do the full loop), go swimming in the crystal clear waters if it’s warm enough, lounge on the beach, or take a kayak or canoe out on to the lake.

Look for birds and wildlife! With Pyramid Mountain as its backdrop, Patricia Lake offers great photo ops.

#19 Enjoy a soak at the Miette Hot Springs

Located about 38 miles northeast of Jasper, Miette Hot Springs are worth the drive even if you do not want to soak. The drive is beautiful, and the pools are set outdoors, with stunning views over the valley.

A relaxing soak in the water (the pools are set at different temperatures so you can pick the one that appeals to you) is an incredibly stress-relieving, calming experience. When we visited, two pools were hot and two were cold.

There is a cafe if you wish to eat or have a drink, and you can also just walk around, enjoying the serenity and beauty all around you. If you wish, you can actually walk up to the source of the springs, where the water is much hotter, at 129 degrees Fahrenheit.

There is a fee for admission, which also gives you access to amenities such as showers and lockers.

#20 Do one (or more) epic Jasper National Park hikes

Whether you’re a novice hiker or an expert, you’ll find trails to hike in Jasper National Park . Hiking is one of the best ways to get up close to the breathtaking scenery around you, whether you stroll around a lake or attempt to scale a summit.

Some of the best trails in the park include the Maligne Canyon trail and the Edith Cavell trails. But there are others you can tackle if you have the time!

Path of the Glacier Trail Mount Edith Cavell Jasper Canada

The Valley of the Five Lakes is a gorgeous trail that’s just what it reads: a walk along five beautiful alpine lakes. The entire loop is about 2.8 miles, and will take you about 2 to 2.5 hours at an easy pace that allows you to explore along the way, admire the stunning views, and take lots of photos.

For a more challenging hike, try the Opal Hills trail, classed as moderate. A little under 5 miles in length, the trail weaves through pretty alpine meadows, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains. It does have some steep parts though, so be prepared to do some climbing. This trail is especially beautiful in the early summer, when wildflowers are in bloom.

#21 Enjoy stargazing at night

Jasper National Park is a Dark Sky Preserve, one of under 2 dozen sites in Canada. So if you enjoy being outside in the quiet dark of the night, you will love this park!

Jasper National Park night sky

Bundle up in layers and head outside to take in the breathtaking spectacle of millions of stars in the dark sky, especially on moonless nights. Brush up on your night photography skills and take photos of the Milky Way!

If you visit in October, you can enjoy the Jasper Dark Sky Festival, with special events through the month at different sites in the park. Some events are free, and others have a fee. You might even see the Northern Lights at this time of year!

#22 Drive the Icefields Parkway

The Icefields Parkway is the road that connects the village of Lake Louise to the town of Jasper. Officially Alberta Highway 93, the 167-mile route is considered one of the most scenic drives on the planet.

The Icefields Parkway in Jasper Canada

With many beautiful places to stop and explore, the drive is best done over the leisurely course of a full day as you travel north to Jasper or south to Lake Louise and Banff.

Goats and Glaciers Viewpoint Icefields Parkway Alberta Canada

I have listed some of the attractions along the Icefields Parkway that are within Jasper National Park, such as the Athabasca Falls, the Sunwapta Falls, and the Columbia Icefield. But the drive itself deserves mention as one of the top Banff or Jasper things to do.

The Icefields Parkway not only offers beautiful scenery and many spectacular natural attractions, but also lots of opportunities to view wildlife. We saw mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and black bear on our Icefield Parkway drives.

Weeping Wall Icefields Parkway Canada

If you see vehicles parked by the side of the road, it generally means wildlife has been spotted. If you decide to stop, park well off the road and view from the safety of your car.

If you do not wish to drive, consider this one-way sightseeing trip that takes you along the Icefields Parkway from Banff or Lake Louise to Jasper.

Getting to Jasper

If you are visiting Jasper as part of a Canadian Rockies trip coming from the south, you will likely travel to Jasper from Banff or Lake Louise.

If you have a car, take the Trans-Canada Highway from Banff to Lake Louise, and drive the Icefields Parkway north from Lake Louise to Jasper.

Arriving by air

Calgary and Edmonton are the closest international airports, serviced by numerous domestic and international air carriers. You can rent a car at the airport in Calgary or Edmonton and drive to Jasper. Driving distances and drive times in normal traffic are as follows: Calgary to Jasper: About 257 miles (approximately 5 hours) Edmonton to Jasper: About 227 miles (approximately 4 hours)

You can arrive by air to Vancouver (British Columbia) as well, and then do a fun road trip from Vancouver to the Canadian Rockies , arriving either in Jasper or Banff.

If you plan to drive to Jasper from Vancouver, note that it’s a long drive, close to 500 miles, with a drive time of about 8.5 hours in normal traffic. You can overnight in Clearwater.

For a much more scenic (but equally long) route, drive from Vancouver to Banff with an overnight stop in Kamloops, and then go north to Jasper via Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway.

Renting a car for your Jasper National Park trip

Renting a car for your trip to Jasper is super convenient with Discover Cars , which allows you to compare prices across multiple car hire companies and pick the car that’s best for you.

Check availability and book your car for your Jasper trip now!

We found the roads in Canada well-maintained. Major roads within Jasper National Park are fully paved, and scenic routes have pullouts where you can park to enjoy the views.

Cavell Road Jasper Canada

If you visit in late spring, summer, or early fall, you should find roads open and free of snow, although weather in the mountains is subject to abrupt changes and you should always check weather conditions and the status of roads just prior to your visit.

While a car is definitely very convenient for exploring Jasper National Park, you can take a shuttle from the airport at Edmonton or Calgary, and then explore via guided tours.

Arriving by train

If you are traveling from Vancouver to Jasper, consider the Rocky Mountaineer train for a super scenic way to arrive! The luxury train offers glass-dome coaches so you can appreciate the stunning scenery.

You can also travel by VIA Rail Canada to arrive in Jasper by train from Edmonton, Calgary, Vancouver, or other places in Canada.

Getting around in Jasper

A car is by far the best way to explore Jasper National Park, since major sights are spread out in the large park. With your own car, you can stop along routes to take photos or to enjoy the views, and you can fit a lot more into your time in the park since you are independently mobile.

If you do not wish to drive, you can use a mix of taxis (which tend to add up) and guided tours to explore the park. If you stay close to the town of Jasper you can walk to the bakeries and restaurants.

Where to stay in Jasper

We stayed at the Patricia Lake Bungalows , about 3 miles outside the town of Jasper. Our lakeview cabin was just steps from the lake, so as early risers we could stroll by the shore before breakfast. A great way to start the day!

The cabins are spacious, beds super comfortable, and you can fix breakfast in your cabin if you wish. The grounds are beautiful, with barbecue facilities and canoe rentals in season, and you will very likely encounter wildlife. We saw elk every single day we were there!

There is no onsite dining though, so you have to drive into town to eat, or bring back food to your cabin. Book a stay here

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge has a beautiful location overlooking Lac Beauvert. The grounds are gorgeous, with lots of room to walk and enjoy the beautiful setting. You can stay in the main lodge, or one of the cabins on the property. I would opt for a standalone cabin facing the lake!

Enjoy the outdoor pool and sauna, and book a pampering treatment at the luxurious spa. The hotel has onsite dining and a coffee shop. Read reviews and compare prices on Tripadvisor | Book a stay here

The best time to visit Jasper National Park

While the scenery in Jasper National Park is spectacular all through the year, you should plan to visit in late spring, summer, or early fall if you want to hike, bike, mountain climb, canoe, kayak or raft. In these seasons, you can expect roads and trails to be generally open.

In the late spring and summer, enjoy the abundance of wildflowers in the alpine meadows and along roadways. In the summer, you can swim in the lakes. In the fall, enjoy the changing colors. And when the lakes are fully thawed, you can appreciate their surreal turquoise color in all its magnificence.

Maligne Lake in Jasper Canada

July and August are high season in the Canadian Rockies and accommodation prices tend to be at their highest. Reserve your accommodation well ahead of time if you plan to visit during these months. We booked in January for our late June/early July trip.

Winter brings its own list of activities to enjoy in Jasper, from ice skating and ice climbing to cross country skiing and dog sledding. And the park is beautiful when blanketed with snow. But road closures and snowstorms can disrupt travel schedules in the winter, so be prepared for weather-related snafus.

How long should you spend in Jasper?

While you could easily spend a long time enjoying the wild beauty of Jasper National Park, allow for 3 full days to enjoy most of the activities I have described above.

As part of a 2-week trip to the Canadian Rockies, we spent 3 days in Jasper National Park, along with two days driving the Icefields Parkway (once in each direction), and thought that amount of time was just enough to experience the best of the park. If you can afford a couple days more, you can experience all the park has to offer at a slower pace.

What’s Nearby?

Jasper National Park is one among multiple national and provincial parks in the Canadian Rockies, and you can combine your visit to Jasper with some others that appeal to you.

Southeast of Jasper are the village of Lake Louise and the pretty alpine town of Banff. With Banff as your base, you can explore Banff National Park, and do day trips to adjoining Kootenay National Park and Mt. Assiniboine Provincial Park.

You’ll find a ton of exciting things to do in Lake Louise , from visiting the world-famous lake of the same name to epic hikes and scenic drives. You can also do a day trip to Yoho National Park in neighboring British Columbia from Lake Louise or Banff.

So there you have it: my suggestions for the best things to do in Jasper, Canada! Have you been? If you have, I would love to read what you thought of this beautiful part of the world: comment below to respond.

If you haven’t yet visited Jasper, I do hope you will plan a visit soon! It really is a spectacularly beautiful place, a place to get away from it all, and I hope you put it on your travel list.

And if you enjoy visiting national parks, discover the most beautiful US national parks to visit in the summer !

You may also like:

British Columbia : The Best Things to Do on Your First Visit to Vancouver California : The Most Amazing Experiences in Death Valley National Park Nevada : The Best Day Trips from Las Vegas California : One Day in Joshua Tree National Park California : The Best Places to Stop Along the Pacific Coast Highway

Did you find this article informative? Pin it for later reference!

From a boat cruise on Maligne Lake to a hike in Cavell Meadows and wildlife spotting, discover the best things to do in Jasper National Park!

Dhara's travel interests are eclectic, spanning everything from natural wonders to history, culture, art and architecture. She has visited 22 countries, many more than once, plus almost all 50 states of the USA, and has amassed a hoard of cherished travel moments.

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The World Was Here First

The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Jasper National Park Itinerary

Last Updated on February 12, 2024

by Audrey Webster

Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. That means if you click a link and make a purchase, we may make a small commission. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. For more information, see our privacy policy.

tourism jasper canada

Just north of Banff National Park sits Jasper—a less-visited but no less beautiful national park in the Canadian Rockies. Planning a 2 to 3 days in Jasper National Park itinerary is one of the best ways to see this incredible natural area in the mountains of Alberta.

While you could spend an endless amount of time exploring the park and all the natural wonders it has to offer, spending a few days in Jasper is enough to get a feel for the park and the splendors it contains. Whether you’re looking for plenty of hikes or simply want to take in incredible lake and mountain views, visiting Jasper is never a bad idea.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Jasper National Park?

After a quick search to get a sense of all the things to do in Jasper, you’re probably left wondering how many days to spend in the national park to catch the highlights without overextending yourself. If you only have a few days, here’s what you can expect.

If you have 2 days in Jasper, you can catch the park’s most famous highlights. Plan to be met with crowds and spend much of your day driving, but you will see most of the landmarks that make this park spectacular.

With 3 days, you can either see the sights at your leisure or spend the extra day hiking and lounging. There are a number of comfortable mountain lakes and relaxing hot springs to spend a nice afternoon and round out your visit to Jasper.

Maligne Lake & Spirit Island in Jasper NP

Getting To & Around Jasper National Park 

The two airports nearest Jasper National Park are Calgary International Airport and Edmonton International Airport. Calgary is about a five-hour drive away from the park while Edmonton is four hours away by car.

You can book a shuttle bus from Edmonton to Jasper, but it tends to be expensive and limits your ability to get around the park. Many visitors see Banff National Park in tandem with Jasper, so flying into Calgary and driving through Banff to Jasper makes the most sense.

Keep in mind that you will need to purchase a Park Pass in order to enter Jasper. There are a few different options available that can suit lots of different travel styles and preferences, so make sure to choose which is best for you.

That said, the best way to get around Jasper is with a car. You can rent one at whichever airport you fly into by browsing Rentalcars.com to compare prices. Alternatively, you can consider renting from Outdoorsy if you prefer an RV or campervan. This grants you the most flexibility to see the park.

You can sign up for tours such as this full-day tour but they usually won’t take you everywhere you might want to go. We highly recommend you rent a car to see through your Jasper itinerary. 

Medicine Lake

2 to 3-Day Jasper Itinerary

For your itinerary to feel complete, add some of these highlights to your travel plans. You can adjust the order based on where you’re staying in the park, but the list below contains some of the park’s most impressive landmarks.

Day 1 – Jasper SkyTram, Columbia Icefields & Athabasca Glacier and Falls

Ride the jasper skytram.

Welcome yourself to Jasper by taking a ride on the Jasper SkyTram. It’s a quick way to get an early sense of everything Jasper has to offer and you can pre-book tickets here.

From the top, you’ll get panoramic views of the Rockies. You can see the town of Jasper, the Athabasca River, surrounding mountain ranges, and much more.

Take your time walking along the boardwalk with several options for viewpoints or relax in the restaurant. You can go on a short hike to the top of Whistlers Mountain. Bear in mind that the SkyTram is usually only operational from March to October, weather permitting. 

Columbia Icefields 

The Columbia Icefields never fail to impress their visitors. It sits along the Icefields Parkway, the highway that runs through Banff and Jasper, connecting the two parks. The icefields include several major glaciers with a few ways to get excellent views.

First, is from the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center. If you want to hike to a viewpoint, consider the Toe of the Glacier trail for a close-up view of Wilcox Pass for a bird’s-eye view.

You can also stop by the Columbia Icefield Skywalk—a glass-floored lookout that gives viewers a look over Sunwapta Valley and nearby glaciers.

Icefields Parkway

Athabasca Glacier

It’s worth it to call out one glacier in particular: Athabasca Glacier. It’s one of the most-visited glaciers in North America and it’s the lowest tip of the Columbia Icefields. During peak travel seasons, Athabasca Glacier sees a lot of tourists.

You can walk right up to the base of the glacier or you can hop on a trail nearby to get away from the crowds for a broader view. During the hikes we recommended viewing the Columbia Icefields, you’ll also get good views of Athabasca Glacier. 

Athabasca Falls

Athabasca Falls is located on the upper Athabasca River, just south of the town of Jasper. There are various viewing platforms and walking trails so you can experience the falls from several angles.

The waterfall was created when the Athabasca Valley Glacier receded, revealing a cavernous landscape that pushed tons of water through.

In total, the falls are about 79 feet, with several tiers of drops. By far the best time to visit is in the early spring when snowmelt sends water pummeling over the falls. 

Athabasca Falls

Day 2 – Maligne Lake and Canyon, Pyramid Lake & Medicine Lake

Maligne lake and spirit island.

If you want to start your second day on a slower note, head over the Maligne Lake. This is the largest lake in the Canadian Rockies, with stunning views of forests, mountains, and the crystal clear lake all around. The drive to this lake along the Maligne Lake Road is one of the most scenic in the entire park, with incredible views and jaw-dropping overlooks to see along the way.

One of the most popular ways to explore the lake is by boat. The boat tour takes you around the lake to point out unique geographical features and the history of the area. You’ll also make a short stop at Spirit Island. You can take a walk along the short trail around the island before heading back to the boat.

The photo of Spirit Island surrounded by the lake and mountains is one of the most iconic images of Jasper. 

For those after an easy and beautiful hike in the area, also consider the Moose Lake Loop, which is a family-friendly circular route. The trailhead is located close to the boat launch area, so this is something you can easily combine with a cruise on the lake.

Medicine Lake

Medicine Lake is a popular and easy stop along the route to Maligne Lake. Its smooth waters reflect the mountains and trees surrounding it. The lake is fed by glacial water, filling it with crystal clear water. Medicine Lake has earned the nickname “disappearing lake” because of an underground drainage system.

There are sinkholes at the bottom of the lake that drain the water through caves before resurfacing about ten miles downriver. It’s a natural wonder, beautiful site to behold, and an excellent spot for looking for wildlife.

The best time to spot wildlife is early in the morning or at dusk. Elk, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, bears, and moose are all common sightings throughout the park. You can also choose to go on a wildlife tour to explore with a guide.

Medicine Lake

Maligne Canyon

Here is one of Jasper National Park’s most unique features. This narrow gorge stretches more than 160 feet in some places. Its limestone walls have been carved by the powerful Maligne River. It’s a scenic area to go on a hike along the interpretive trail.

It’s a fenced path that runs along the cliffside. You’ll cross bridges that span the canyon creating excellent vantage points over the fast-flowing river below. The canyon is especially impressive during winter.

The water freezes over to cover the gorge in ice. You can take an ice walk to see it up close and personal. But the canyon is beautiful all year round.

Pyramid Lake and Island

The little island on Pyramid Lake is an unexpected favorite for many Jasper visitors. It also happens to be one of the most iconic photo ops in the entire park.

Pyramid Lake is a calm, kidney bean-shaped lake at the base of Pyramid Mountain. Its smooth waters create a mirror reflection of the surrounding landscape. This makes it a great spot to swim on a warm day or pause for an afternoon picnic.

To reach Pyramid Island, you’ll cross a narrow wooden bridge over a shallow section of the lake. 

And if you haven’t had enough lakes for the day, then consider heading a little bit away from Pyramid Lake to the beautiful Lake Edith and Lake Annette, two more incredible bodies of water nestled in the Rockies.

Pyramid Lake

Day 3 – Sunwapta Falls and Valley, Cavell Meadows, Miette Hot Springs & Lac Beauvert

Sunwapta falls and valley.

You’ll see a lot of Sunwapta Valley as you’re making your way through Jasper National Park, but Sunwapta Falls is another beautiful waterfall you’ll find in Jasper. It was created by a hanging valley.

This is a place where two valleys, one deeper than the other, collided to create a sharp drop in the landscape. At Athabasca Falls, Chaba Valley and Athabasca Valley met.

You can visit Sunwapta Falls alone or head out on the trail to visit the lesser-trafficked Lower Sunwapta Falls or hike into the backcountry. Like all waterfalls in the park, the most impressive time to visit is during the spring.

Sunwapta Falls

Cavell Meadows

The hike through Cavell Meadows is a perfect mash-up of everything Jasper has to offer over a few-mile hike. Before you go, know that because it’s a hike of moderate difficulty and offers beautiful scenery, it does tend to be popular.

Try to be on the trail earlier in the day. That said, along this hike, you pass by alpine meadows, wildflowers, Angel Glacier, and Cavell Pond, with stunning views of Mt. Edith Cavell. You can expect to run into some wildlife here as well. Marmots and pikas are common. 

Miette Hot Springs

What better way to conclude seeing Jasper in 3 days by relaxing in hot springs? After you’ve walked many miles and taken in all the park’s stunning beauty, head over to Fiddle Valley where you’ll find Miette Hot Springs.

These outdoor pools are located high in the hills, granting visitors exceptional views while they enjoy the warmest natural hot springs in the Rockies. The water emerges from the ground at 54°C (129°F) and is cooled to 40°C (104°F) before being funnelled into the pool.

The pools are generally open from May to October but double-check before your visit. 

Road to Miette Hot Springs

Lac Beauvert

If you have time to spare on your last day in Jasper, visit Lac Beauvert. It’s convenient to reach if you’re staying in the town of Jasper as it’s located near the Jasper Park Lodge. You can explore the lake in multiple ways.

First, you have the option of hiking around the lake on the Lac Beauvert Trail. This entirely forested trail circles the lake and stretches just over two miles long. Alternatively, you can rent a kayak, paddle board, or pedal boat to see the lake and surrounding landscape from the water.

It’s quiet, serene, and relaxing. The Jasper Planetarium is also located on the lakeshore. 

Have More Time?

Spend an afternoon or morning wandering around the townsite of Jasper. It was formerly a railroad hub, but Jasper is now a charming town filled with bakeries, restaurants, and cafes.

If you’re interested in taking a deeper dive into the local cuisine, you can sign up for a food tour to taste some of the highlights. You also could opt to visit nearby Patricia Lake if you haven’t had enough of gorgeous lakes on your trip.

Mount Robson is the tallest mountain in the Canadian Rockies and just a short day trip from Jasper. Mount Robson Provincial Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers guests an exceptional visitor’s center where you can enjoy nice views of the mountain and surrounding landscape.

There are several options throughout the park to see it from the water as well. You can rent a canoe, kayak, or paddle board to explore one of the lakes. Another option is taking a rafting tour on the Athabasca River, with a few exciting rapids and tons of stunning viewpoints.

Mount Robson

Where to Stay in Jasper

Mount Robson Inn – This 3-star hotel in downtown Jasper is a great option for mid-range visitors to the national park. They have a number of great rooms to choose from, a perfect location for exploring all the area has to offer and gorgeous mountain views from all rooms.

Miette Hot Springs Bungalows – These cosy bungalows are an excellent choice for those looking for a private yet luxe place to stay when visiting Jasper. Located outside the town of Jasper, there are a range of bungalows to choose from and plenty of wonderful amenities available to guests.

Private Rental – Those looking for their own space while they visit Jasper National Park will find an array of private rentals available in the area. There are properties to suit all kinds of visitors – such as this two-bedroom apartment in the town of Jasper.

HI Jasper – Budget travelers will love this hostel located in the center of the town of Jasper. Offering both dorms and private rooms, they have great common areas with a cosy fireplace and chalet-style feel.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Jasper hotels!

It goes without saying, but Jasper is full of beautiful lakes, mountains, waterfalls, and canyons to explore. Just a short time in Jasper couldn’t possibly capture everything the park has to offer. We hope this Jasper itinerary gives you plenty of options for what to do on your trip to Jasper National Park. Enjoy your trip!

Are you planning to visit Jasper? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

tourism jasper canada

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

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21 Awesome Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is often overlooked due to its world-famous neighbor: Banff National Park. Jasper National Park Alberta has more of a welcoming, quaint, homey feel with the remarkable surrounding beauty. The small cute city of Jasper has plenty of eateries, watering holes, and boutique shops to explore. I loved driving just outside the town where I was able to spot wildlife everywhere we turned. Outside civilization, the Park has endless jaw-dropping scenic areas. I was utterly obsessed and blown away by the beauty of Spirit Island and the Athabasca Glacier. My point being, Jasper is an underrated National Park. Take advantage of it! Soak in all the beauty like we did and have a blast. Attempt all of the Jasper attractions I have listed because you won’t regret it. Here are 21 awesome things to do in Jasper National Park! Enjoy 🙂

things to do in jasper national park pin

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How to get to jasper national park.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

There are two main airports near Jasper National Park.

  • Edmonton: 370 km West, 5 Hours
  • Calgary: 404 km Northwest, 4 hours

The best way to get there is to rent a car or an RV, and drive to the National Park. Driving your vehicle is the best way to experience this one of a kind national park. Jameson and I flew into Calgary and drove from the airport up to Jasper National Park. We made sure to drive through Icefields Parkway to experience one of the best road trip views of the world  > Rent an RV Here

When is the Best Time to Visit Jasper

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

The best time to visit Jasper is June through September. The summer is when the snow starts to melt, and you can experience great hikes with stunning turquoise lakes. June can bring rainy weather (we experienced this). While July and August have a better chance for great weather. September is a great month to get away from the crowds.

Jasper Canada: Travel Tips and Facts

  • For official maps and guides to Jasper click here.
  • Before going on any hikes, check in at the visitor center to find out which trails are closed off.
  • Always bring bear spray with you. While bear attacks are rare, you never know how things will turn out.
  • Bring ponchos or rain jackets in your day-pack. We were rained on numerous times during our hikes, and we were happy we brought our dry gear even though it looked like great weather. Weather can change quickly in the mountains. We spotted several people hiking in the rain without ponchos, and they weren’t too happy.
  • It can get cold. I brought a jacket with me everywhere because the weather is unpredictable.
  • Always bring mosquito spray. The mosquitoes are giant and ruthless.
  • There is so much wildlife at Jasper. It can be hard not to get close to these animals. Do not try to feed or get near any animals. Especially the Elk. They look cute and harmless, but they can attack if they feel like their babies are threatened so please be careful.

Read More:  The 15 Best Hikes in Banff National Park

Jasper Accommodations

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

  • Fairmont Jaspar Park Lodge is a resort located on the shores of Beauvert Lake just four miles away from the town of Jaspar. The Fairmont is probably one of the best Jasper Hotels. The lodges are adorable, and they even have a golf course!  >Check Prices and Availability Now
  • Patricia Lake Bungalows:  One of the biggest draws of Jasper is the peacefulness and chill vibes. This hotel brings out those vibes, as it is located on the shores of Patricia Lake with the outstanding views of Pyramid Mountain  >Check Prices and Availability Now
  • Jasper Downtown Hostels  is the best hostel, located smack dab in the middle of Jasper. If you are looking to save some money, then this is the spot to be.  >Check Prices and Availability Now
  • Jasper National Park Campgrounds: We stayed in Wilcox and Whistlers campground. We loved Wilcox because of the incredible views on the Icefields Parkway. All the information on the campgrounds can be found here . They are doing renovations on Whistlers campground so, that campsite will not be available in 2019 but, Wapiti is a good alternative near the city of Jasper.

Jasper Attractions: Gear

Day hiking in jasper.

  • Sunscreen:  Although our time in the Canadian Rockies was overcast, bring some just in case!  >Buy some sunscreen, so you don’t accidentally burn!
  • Hiking Boots/Shoes:  OMG this was honestly one of the muddiest, wet places I have ever hiked. If you don’t get actual hiking shoes or boots, you will have wet soggy feet.  >Don’t have soggy wet feet. Buy my Hiking Shoes
  • Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. I also love how they now have pink socks too 🙂 >Buy Hiking Socks
  • Refillable water bottle:  I always bring a Hydroflask on all my adventures. They are on the heavier side, but I know they will not break. I have had a few cheap water bottles break on me before.  >Check Prices Now
  • Water:  Hiking for sure requires water.
  • Sunglasses: Just in case you get lucky and the sun comes out. Also, I usually wear the most fashionable sunglasses when I hike. 🙂  >Check Out These Sunglasses
  • Snacks:  The best meals are jerky, nuts, energy bars. >Clif Bars are great for hiking so click HERE.
  • Trekking Poles: This is an optional product, but they help with the knees. The poles I have listed are known to be one of the best in the market. I am not going to lie; I didn’t use trekking poles in Jasper, but I don’t have problems with my knees. Not everyone’s bodies are the same, so if you feel like you need some extra help, then check out my trekking poles.  >Buy My Trekking Poles Here
  • Camera: I have linked the camera I used to take pictures of The Canadian Rockies. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.   >Buy Sony Camera Here
  • Crampons: This will help you not slip and fall with the snow and ice. I didn’t see any snow in Jasper when I went, but if you are hiking before the end of June, I highly recommend getting crampons. It sucks walking in the snow without them.   >Buy your Crampons Here
  • First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started backpacking and camping. It is super portable.  >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
  • Day Pack:  The REI bag I have linked, I have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
  • Good hiking pants: These are probably the best hiking pants that I have found. They keep you dry in the crazy weather, and they are durable. I will say that I brought a lot of shorts with me but never wore them. It was a little too cold for me. Your best bet is leggings or hiking pants.  >Buy my hiking pants here
  • Breathable sweat-wicking shirts >Check Out This Shirt
  • Sports Bra:  For women.
  • Jacket: Yes it was chilly at times in the summer  >Buy My Favorite Jacket
  • Base Layers:  If you run cold like me I recommend bringing them on the trip (Yes even in the summer). When you start your hike, you can then judge if they are needed or not.  >Buy the bottoms here, >Buy the top here
  • Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the perfect sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
  • Bear Spray: You can usually buy this in the city of Jasper.
  • Hammock: Hammocks are a great way to lounge around. They are perfect for naps.   >Buy A Packable Hammock
  • Poncho or Rain Jacket: We were rained on so many times, so it is best to take a poncho with you at all times.  >Buy A Great Rainjacket Here
  • Headlamp:  Just in case you get stuck hiking at night!  > Buy A Headlamp Now

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  • Everything in the Day Hike List Above and,
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Jasper National Park Map

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Jasper is sectioned off into five sections. Icefields Parkway, Edith Cavell, Maligne Canyon, Miette Hot Springs, and the Jasper Area. I have sectioned off this post into those five areas to make it easier for you to plan your days. For the official maps and brochures of Jasper National Park Click Here.

Below, I marked the eateries, campgrounds, hikes and photography spots. The map has different layers, so you can show the various categories as you please. You can download this map before your trip.

T hings To do in Jasper National Park

Icefields parkway, hike wilcox pass.

I discussed this hike in more detail in my Banff Hiking Guide.  The reason why I added Wilcox Pass to both posts is that the trail is located on the border of Banff and Jasper.

This trail was my absolute favorite in the Canadian Rockies, and I feel like it is one of the top things to do in Jasper National Park. When we first attempted this hike, it was pouring rain so we decided to come back another day. I’m so glad that we did because the views were breathtaking. We also saw some Bighorn Sheep running around in the fields.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

The hike is  4 km one way with a 335 m Elevation Gain, and it takes about 3.0 to 3.5 hours round trip. I would label the hike as moderate. There were times the hike felt like a stroll. 

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Walk on The Athabasca Glacier or do the Glacier Skywalk

I know many visitors come to the Canadian Rockies primarily to see Moraine Lake, but, it truly is a shame if you make it all the way Jasper or Banff and don’t see the Athabasca Glacier and all its surrounding glory. I was in shock when I first laid eyes onto the landscape. Witnessing such a powerful force of nature was surreal. As always, photos do not remotely resemble the feelings, beauty or even the size. So make sure to see it for yourself.

The Athabasca Glacier has an area of about 6 square kilometers and a depth of 90-300 meters. You can experience walking on this glacier by buying tickets from Pursuit , and I feel like it is one of the best activities in Jasper National Park. You can pick up the tickets at the Icefield Discovery Center.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Even if you aren’t going to walk on the Athabasca Glacier, I recommend checking the Icefield Center out. Be advised that this place gets packed with hundreds of visitors and is complete madness during peak hours.

The Columbia Icefield Center has a few restaurants and a patio with a view. Jameson and I did not pay to walk on the glacier, but we did drink some wine while taking in the views on the patio. We also had a nice dinner at The Altitude Restaurant. The food was quite good.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park Hikes: Athabasca Glacier

If you don’t feel like paying CAD 100 to walk on a glacier, I suggest taking a quick hike to see the Athabasca Glacier up close. The trail is 1.4 km round trip, elevation gain/loss of 60 meters, and can be completed in less than an hour. The path is relatively easy, and the Athabasca Glacier is front and center at the end of the hike.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Throughout the hike, many signs are stating to stay on the path. Hiking on the glacier can be dangerous. People can fall into the cracks, and it is difficult to rescue them. The only safe way to walk on the glacier is to be guided by Pursuit .

Sunwapta Falls

Who doesn’t love chasing waterfalls? Yes, I do have the TLC song stuck in my head while writing this!

Upper Sunwapta Falls are located on the Icefields Parkway, and it only takes a few minutes to take photos of the waterfall. Just find a parking spot and take in the flowing water with the mountains in the background. I loved the island in the middle.

A hike to the Lower Sunwapta Falls is available which is about 2.8km return, an elevation gain/loss of 87 meters and it takes 1 hour to complete. We did not attempt this hike due to time constraints.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Eat at Sunwapta Falls Resort

I usually don’t list restaurants on my blog, but the food in Jasper is worth mentioning! Jameson and I had been eating stale muffins every morning for about four days, and we were ready to eat an actual breakfast, especially since we had been hiking for days.

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We decided to stop at Sunwapta Falls Resort and wow, was this one of the best decisions we made that weekend. The breakfast was heavenly. The coffee was perfect. I am sure the stale muffin had a little to do with us loving the food here, but regardless you need to stop here to eat.

Check Out the Views At Athabasca Falls

Like Sunwapta Falls, the Athabasca Falls is located on the Icefields Parkway, and you only need to park to see these beautiful falls! Maybe you will be lucky to see these falls on a beautiful sunny day. You can see the stunning Athabasca River in different areas of Jasper, but the Athabasca Falls was my favorite area. We even walked around trails to explore the area even further.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Take a Dip at Horseshoe Lake

As much as I love turquoise blue, hazy lakes, like Moraine Lake and Maligne Lake, I am obsessed with crystal clear green lakes. Something about being able to see everything underneath really intrigues me. I also love how well they reflect the surrounding trees and mountains. Horseshoe Lake wasn’t even in our to-do lists, but Jameson saw just how clear it was from Icefields Parkway, so we decided to check it out.

We did not see anyone at Horseshoe Lake at the time so, I still decided to jump in. I wished it had been sunny because the water was chilly. If you want to take a dip somewhere on a hot sunny day, this is the perfect spot. While it is advised not to, the lake has some lovely cliffs to jump off of, and the lake is plenty deep!

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Edith Cavell Area

Witness mount edith cavell.

Do you want to see a stunning 3300-meter mountain with a stunning glacier lake at the base? Then Edith Cavell is just for you! Mount Edith Cavell was renamed after a British nurse that was executed during Wolrd War I for helping prisoners escape Brussels. This place a MUST SEE in Jasper and is one of the most popular attractions in Jasper. I was severely disappointed to find out it was closed in 2018 due to improvements.

But lucky for you, the Edith Cavell road is going to be reopened in Summer of 2019. You can find out more information here.

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Jasper Area

Hike up or gondola up whistlers mountain.

Due to the limited time that we had, we chose to take the Gondola up to Whistlers Mountain. I enjoyed riding the Skytram up the mountain. The views were incredible, and the guide also talked about the history of Jasper. If you want to save money, you can also hike up the trail which is 7.3 km one way, elevation gain of 1200m, 3-5 hours up, 2-3 hours down, 5-8 hours round trip.  >>>You can buy Jasper Skytram tickets here.

After the gondola ride or trek up, you will have another 1.1 km hike to get to Whistlers Peak. The trail is 1.1km one way, elevation gain of 150 meters and 1-hour round trip. I highly recommend hiking to the summit as the views are incredible.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

At first, I was skeptical about hiking up to the summit due to the dense fog. I felt like the views would be obstructed, and to a certain degree, they were. However, I fell in love with the gloomy, murky haze of these clouds. The condition was an experience I have never had before. I felt like I was walking on clouds at times (and in a way we were).

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

There were times that the clouds would disappear and we would see the beautiful mountains off in the distance. It was spectacular. So I highly recommend this peak even on cloudy days. Don’t let a little cloud cover deter you!

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Get Sunset Pictures at Pyramid Lake

When we asked around for the perfect place to get sunset pictures, everyone said Pyramid Lake. Whelp, we were out of luck because the weather was poor so we didn’t get any sunsets. But we still went to Pyramid Lake and Pyramid Island to take pictures of the “sunset”.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Take Pictures of Lake Edith

We decided to take some quick photos of Lake Edith early in the morning. The lake was empty and still. Great for reflection pictures of the mountains.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park Hikes: Lake Annette Loop

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Lake Annette has a paved loop trail around, and it is 3.5 km with no elevation gain, and the trail takes 1-2 hours to complete. We walked around for a bit and took pictures of the glassy looking lake. We even saw a Bald Eagle flying past us. It is a perfect place for a morning stroll.

Jasper National Park Hikes: The Lac Beauvert Loop

We took a short hike around the lake while taking a few pictures. It was too windy to take a reflection picture of Pyramid Mountain, but the lake was stunning regardless. The trail is 3.5 km loop with no elevation gain, and it takes 1-2 hours to complete.

Eat at Downtown Jasper

We ate at a few places in Jasper, and we loved it! I have been to many National Parks and let me say that the city of Jasper did a pretty good job on restaurants. I asked a guide on where to eat, and she recommended:  Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria , Earls Kitchen & Bar , and Jasper Curry Place . We loved every single place, most notably Jasper Curry Place. If you like curry, I highly recommend the eatery after a long day of hiking. Let me say that Jameson and I slept like babies that evening.

We also went to the two Bear Paw Bakeries in the city for coffee and pastries. The white chocolate raspberry scone was to die for. My mouth is watering right now just writing about it.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Maligne Canyon Area

Take a picture of maligne overlook or hike maligne canyon.

The Maligne Canyon Trail is about 2.2 km one way, 100m elevation gain/loss and can be done in 1-2 hours. We didn’t have time to do the hike, so we just took a picture at the overlook on the way to Maligne Lake.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Take in The Views of Medicine Lake

If you are on the way to Maligne Lake than make a quick stop at Medicine Lake and take in all the views. Medicine Lake is a great sunset spot to stop when driving back to Jasper.

Maligne Lake area is also a great area to spot bears on the side of the road. Luck was on our side because we spotted a cute black bear!

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Explore Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is where the famous Spirit Island is located. While it is the main attraction, you don’t have to go to Spirit Island to enjoy this lake (even though I highly recommend it). The area has several hiking trails such as the Mary Schäffer Loop, Moose Lake Loop, Lorraine Lake, and Mona Lake, Bald Hills and Opal Hills Loop.

You can also wine and dine on Maligne Lake.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Canoe or Take a Boat to Spirit Island

The only way to travel to the peninsula is by boat or by canoeing on your own . You would have to take your camping gear if you chose to canoe because it takes all day to canoe to Spirit Island. The campsite near the peninsula is called Fisherman’s Bay. If you do canoe here make sure to take advantage of the sunrise and sunset. The regular boats do not operate during those early mornings or late hours.

If someone told me, I could only do one thing in Jasper, I would pick to see Spirit Island in a heartbeat. I can not describe just how utterly beautiful this place is.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Jameson and I decided to see the island via boat. When we boarded, our guide informed us how magical Spirit Island is. Honestly, I didn’t take her seriously. But, then the lake started to change from a dark green haze to a light turquoise color and all of a sudden we were surrounded by tall standing mountains that seemed to go on for days. Spirit Island looked genuinely magical. When I walked outside the boat, I teared up a little. I could see and feel EXACTLY what our tour guide was talking about. >>>Buy Maligne Lake Cruise Tickets Here

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

If I ever had the opportunity of going back to Jasper, canoeing to spirit island would be the first thing I would do. I cannot imagine how incredible this place would be during the sunrise or sunset.

Take Pictures of the Wildlife

I can’t describe how happy we were experiencing so much wildlife during our trip. Even though we have been hiking, camping and backpacking for the past six years, Jameson and I hardly ever saw wildlife. We have seen birds, squirrels, and other small animals, but, that doesn’t count because I see birds and squirrels outside my apartment every day (my dog JJ tries to attack them all the time). Right when we enter Jasper, BAM! We see wildlife everywhere! Towards the end of the trip, we were so used to seeing animals just walking around. Maligne Canyon area is the best place to spot wildlife.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Miette Hot Springs Area

Jasper national park hikes: sulphur skyline.

Sulphur Skyline trail is an 8.8 km round trip, with an elevation loss/gain of 700 meters and it takes 4-6 hours to complete. The hike is rated as difficult. The Sulphur Skyline hike is probably my second favorite hike in our Candian Mountain adventure. The views at the top are astonishing, and we were even met with rainbows and goats.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

I would agree that the hike is challenging, mostly due to the last kilometer on the way up. The best part is that there were hardly any people on the trail. We were able to experience the astonishing views with only one other couple.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

Take a Dip at Miette Hot Springs

Jameson and I had been hiking nonstop for about a week in Banff and Jasper. We had planned to visit the Hot Springs at Jasper, but words cannot describe how excited we were to take some time and relax in the warm water. Our muscles were dying after hiking all week!

When we were done hiking Sulphur Skyline, we went to our car, grabbed our bathing suits, drank a beer to relax a bit and walked on over to enjoy the hot springs.

Things To Do in Jasper National Park

The Hot Springs entry is about CAD 7 per person, and you have the option rent towels and even swimsuits. They have showers (hand soap), changing areas and lockers. The Miette Hot Springs has four different pools. Two of the pools are hot; two of the pools are regular swimming pools (cold).

When we got in the hot water, it felt as if the water just melted all of our pain away. After hiking all week, we were in heaven.

Activities Jasper National Park: Conclusion

Banff National Park is the park that gets most of the attention, but I feel that Jasper is just as beautiful. It is filled with incredible wildlife, magnificent mountains, glorious glaciers, and lovely lakes. I loved the vibe of the city and the spectacular food. I wish we had more time to explore this place to its fullest. I hope you liked this post about the best things to do in Jasper National Park Canada. Now, make sure to check out some of my other Canada posts:

  • The Best Two Week Canadian Rockies Itinerary
  • The 15 Absolute Best Hikes in Banff National Park
  • Things To Do In Quebec City Canada

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40 comments.

This outlines all the best attractions in Jasper so well! I haven’t been since I was little, but I’m so close to it now, maybe it’s time to go back!

Yes! Go back 🙂 Such a beautiful place.

Oh wow! Thank you for sharing this Michelle! Jasper was on my list forever! I’ll definitely save that for my future references 🙂

Hope you see it someday Yuki 🙂

Such beautiful photos – so amazing you saw a bear in the wild! The hot springs sound like a dream too. It looks so tranquil and calm (although the hiking sounds a little tough for me haha!!)

Haha yeah, the hiking was so tough at times, but the views just melt away any negativity.

I wanted to get to Jasper when I was recently in Banff, but due to limited time, I opted not to go. I didn’t want to rush through everything. And, after your post, I’m glad I didn’t as I would have missed so much or just not had time to enjoy being there in that scenery. I’m saving for later for when I have the right amount of time to go.

Yes, Jasper deserves a good amount of time! Do not rush.

Your photos are absolutely stunning! Jasper National Park looks like something out of a dream. Adding it to my bucketlist now!

Yay! So happy you like it! 🙂

Had just been there and saw what an amazing place Jasper can be…! Hoping to go back there again to discover the hiking trails you mentioned!

I hope you do too! I wish I had about two more days to explore this beautiful place.

Suuuuuch stunning photos! The views are incredibly, oh my goodness. And such a comprehensive guide too, will definitely use this when we go in October!

Thank you! I hope you do! It is such an incredible place 🙂

Wow – spirit island looks incredible! That water is so gorgeous. I’d love to visit Malign Lake Boat House one day!

You should! It was the best part!

Wow, this is thorough, thanks. I love hiking and i have my mind set on Banff! But wow, seems that Jasper kicks butts too! It’s gorgeous, thanks for the awesome photos! Now i drooling over these landscapes too! #bucketlist

Thank you so much! I hope you make it up there someday 🙂

I was only at Jasper for a day, and you’re making me want to go back and explore more right now!!

Yes! Jasper is so unique and has a homey vibe to it! You need to go back to experience it even more 🙂 Thanks for commenting.

such stunning captures and beautiful views.Would love to visit here soon Canada and rocky mountains are dream

I hope you do! This place is gorgeous 🙂

Hi and thanks for such a great blog! Visiting Jasper in June and only have 2nights/3days..what would you recommend? Hot spring, spirit lake?? Best hike? Thanks for your time

Spirit Island should be first. I really enjoyed it. I also think Whistler mountain Gondola and then hiking to the top is so beautiful. The Athabasca glacier area is an absolute must. I like the Wilcox hike the most in the Athabasca Area. I hope this helps!

Wow, this is so incredibly detailed! Thanks so much for sharing. We’re going for the first time this summer and I will definitely use your blog as a reference! 🙂

Yay glad you liked it! Banff and Jasper are huuuugggeee, so It can be overwhelming figuring out what to do!

Wow, this is a great post. I haven’t been to Jasper and I regret not going when I was in Alberta.

It really is wonderful! I hope you can go soon!

Wow thank you for such a thorough guide! Both Jasper and Banff have been on my list, so I’ll definitely be referring to this later!

Glad you liked it 🙂

I love Jasper, visited twice already and cannot wait to return again.

I want to come back a second time! It is just so stunning!

Your photos are GORGEOUS! We went to Banff and Jasper for our honeymoon back in 2013 and absolutely fell in love! It’s funny because back then, most of our friends and family had no clue where this area was, but now it has become super popular. I can’t wait to go back again someday and explore even more that this area has to offer!

Yeah I didn’t know about it either! I am hoping to go back again for Christmas. I just loved it so much!

The Athabasca Glacier is just mind blowing from your photos alone! I can’t imagine what it would be like in real life.

I loooove this Michelle!

We were there a week ago, and although it looked totally different (all the lakes are iced over) it was sooooo lovely. We all thought the same as you, it was even more fun to explore than Banff.

(I got a day of skiing in too – woot!!)

Such incredible photos!! It was really bad weather when I went to Jasper properly, so the waterfalls weren’t great and we didn’t do as much hiking as we would have liked. I actually loved Medicine Lake though! I had never even heard of it when we saw it. Columbia Icefield is unreal, too. Would love to go back and do more of this!

Yeah the waterfalls didn’t look too good when I was there either. Too much rain, but still super stunning! Thanks for commenting.

hey!! im LOVING your blog on your canada trip! my husband and i are visiting this summer for our one year anni and your blog has been soso helpful! in looking at booking the Maligne Lake Cruise Tickets via your link, do you know if i get to choose a time? or will i get a time assigned to me when i get there? i noticed the link you have is different than the pursuit booking website. thank you!!

Hey Nashya, I think you have to call the tour company to reserve the time. You can always book on the pursuit if that makes it easier for you. Have fun! I want to go back!

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38 Best Things to do in Jasper Canada in 2024

Written By: The Planet D

Updated On: February 8, 2024

Jasper National Park is often overshadowed by Banff National Park, but when visiting Alberta, Canada this incredible Rocky Mountain destination should be at the top of your list. There are so many things to do in Jasper you’ll understand why it is one of Canada’s most beautiful national parks . Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, (A designated UNESCO World Heritage Site) Jasper National Park spans more than 11,000 square kilometers of pristine wilderness. This protected area is home to an incredible array of wildlife, from grizzly bears and elk to bald eagles and bighorn sheep. And we saw them all!

Table of Contents

The Best Things to do in Jasper, Canada

There are so many places to visit in Jasper, you will want to spend at least 3 days in the area. If you have a week, it’s even better! We are going to highlight some of the best things to do in Jasper National Park, downtown Jasper, and along the Icefields Parkway.

Where is Jasper National Park?

The town of Jasper is located inside Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rockies. It is halfway between Edmonton, Alberta, and Calgary Alberta. The closest international airport to Jasper is Edmonton but you can also easily fly into Calgary. The best way to get to Jasper from one of the cities is to rent a car, but there are buses and tour operators that can take you as well. We highly suggest renting a car as you will definitely want wheels as this drive is beautiful and you’ll want to stop at all the scenic lookouts.

Jasper National Park is surprisingly accessible from quite a few places within Alberta . Jasper town is located just 4 hours (365 km / 226 miles) from Edmonton, 2 1/2 hours (288 km / 330 miles) from Banff, and 404 kilometers (251 miles) northwest of Calgary.

You will need to purchase a Parks Pass from Parks Canada here. It is $10 per person per day.

If you are going to stay longer, or visit Banff we suggest purchasing a Parks Canada Discovery Pass that costs $139 for a family or $69 per person. This gives unlimited access to Canada’s national parks from coast to coast to coast for 12 months!  You can purchase this online  here

Make a base in Jasper town and then get ready to explore all the things to do in Jasper National Park and beyond. Are you ready to explore the Canadian Rockies? Let’s go!

1. Maligne Canyon

Maligne Canyon is our favorite place to see in Jasper. It’s located just 15 minutes from downtown Jasper along the 46 km (miles) Maligne Lake Drive. This stop is one of the most popular places to visit in Jasper and for good reason. It is the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park.

The Maligne River winds through a 50-meter (154 feet) high gorge creating breathtaking scenery. A walking trail follows the gorge for 3.3 km (2.1 miles) offering gorgeous views as you snake along a path hugging the canyon walls.

If you aren’t driving, you can book this tour that will pick you up from your hotel. A Malign Canyon a guided hiking tour is a great way to explore the deepest canyon in Jasper National Park. This small group tour starts at Bridge 1 and finishes at Bridge 5. What’s awesome is that a shuttle will take you back so you don’t need to hike back up. It includes hotel pick up so you don’t even need a car.  Details here.

It can get very busy, so go early in the morning to beat the crowds. There are five bridges that cross the canyon showing waterfalls, rapids, and spectacular views. Read more: 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park – Alberta Canada

2. Maligne Canyon Ice Walk

Jasper National Park is a year-round playground and you can visit the canyon in the winter to enjoy the frozen waterfalls on the Maligne Canyon ice walk. Just like the Johnston Canyon Icewalk in Banff, the Maligne Canyon ice walk takes you to the bottom of the deepest canyon in Jasper. On your tour, you’ll explore ice caves, frozen waterfalls and impressive ice formations. It is about a three-hour tour, so make sure to dress for the cold weather. Read our tips 5 Winter Layering Tips to Dress for Extreme Cold Weather

Book this highly-rated Maligne Canyon Ice Walk Tour with an experienced guide to the bottom of the most accessible canyon in Jasper National Park to see its frozen waterfalls, Ice formations, and ice caves.

3. Canyoning

Canyoning, also known as canyoneering, is an exhilarating outdoor adventure activity that involves descending into and navigating narrow, steep-walled canyons or gorges, often with the aid of ropes, harnesses, and other specialized equipment.

The park offers a variety of canyoning opportunities for all skill levels, ranging from gentle introductory routes to more advanced, technical descents. Canyoning adventures in Jasper may involve rappelling down waterfalls, jumping into crystal-clear pools, sliding down natural water slides, and swimming through narrow rock channels.

Canyoning in Jasper National Park is an adventure of a lifetime, offering a unique opportunity to explore and experience the park’s rugged natural beauty up close and personal.

4. Maligne Lake

After a stop at Maligne Canyon, hop in your car and drive another 35 minutes farther along the 46k km Maligne Lake Drive. It takes you to the end of the road at Maligne Lake which must not be missed when visiting Jasper. Maligne Lake is the longest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. The lake stretches for over 22 kilometers and is surrounded by towering mountains, glacier-fed streams, and dense forests.

Spend the day here and take a boat cruise out to Spirit Island for one of the best photo opportunities in Alberta. Get here early to stay ahead of the crowds and save the scenic stops for the way back to Jasper Town.

Things to do at Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise – One of the best ways to see Maligne Lake is to take a Maligne Lake Cruise. The Maligne Lake Cruise typically lasts around 90 minutes and takes visitors to some of the lake’s most picturesque spots, including Spirit Island, which is one of the park’s most iconic landmarks. Along the way, knowledgeable guides provide commentary on the area’s history, geology, and wildlife, including the elusive loons that call the lake home.

Spirit Island – T he highlight of the cruise is undoubtedly Spirit Island, a small, tree-covered island that sits at the junction of Maligne Lake’s three glaciers. Visitors can disembark and explore the island, take photos, or simply take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers.

5. Medicine Lake

On our way back from Maligne Lake, a beautiful stop on the road is Medicine Lake. Located along Maligne Lake Drive, Medicine Lake is located  20 km (12 mi) from Jasper town center. It is an incredible scene in the autumn as the lake disappears as the water sinks into sinkholes creating a beautiful pattern of water and sand.

6. Helicopter Tour to Abraham Lake Ice Bubbles

Abraham Lake is famous for its ice bubbles and this helicopter tour takes you over the Canadian Rockies to see its frozen lakes and glaciers. The helicopter tour flies over 6 glaciers followed by a landing at Landslide Lake. You’ll then take a guided snowshoe tour to see views of the Rocky Mountains. Its then back on the helicopter to the next stop, Abraham Lake. Get ready to strap on crampons to walk to see the bubbles of Abraham Lake. The bubbles are formed by methane gas being trapped in the ice creating amazing photo opportunities that have graced social media for years.

Take a Helicopter tour of the Rocky Mountains. See the famous bubbles of Abraham Lake and take a walking tour on this bucket list trip in the Rockies. Details here.

7. Dark Sky Preserve

Jasper is known for its dark skies and each year it hosts the dark sky festival in October. It has the second-largest dark sky preserve in the entire world, and heading out to the lakes at night, is one of the best things to do in Jasper. While the Dark Sky Festival is an annual event, you can appreciate the night sky in Jasper any time of year. The dark sky preserve is so good because it is free from light pollution and the crisp mountain air makes for crystal clear skies.

The winter months are certainly the best time to enjoy the Jasper Dark Sky preserve due to the long nights. Make your way to one of the surrounding mountain lakes to enjoy the beauty of a night sky free from light pollution. It’s amazing because you can appreciate the night sky as early as 5pm.

What I love about going in October during the festival, is that not only does the night sky last for 15 hours, the weather isn’t freezing yet, so you aren’t dealing with a polar vortex. It is still cold, but not frigid. We found that getting up before sunrise was a great time to see the stars and Aurora Borealis as well. See more details about events and activities here.

8. Northern Lights

Since we just touched on the Dark Sky Preserve, we must talk a bit about dancing lights at night. Alberta is known for its vast skies that are free of light pollution, and as we said, Jasper is known for its dark sky festival. While staying at Jasper Park Lodge, we woke at 3 am to see the night skies and the milky way at Lake Edith.

We were surprised and delighted to see Northern Lights instead. But in fact, the Northern Lights are common to see in Jasper. You don’t need to go all the way to Iceland to see the aurora borealis, just fly into Edmonton and make your way to Jasper National Park for some of the best auroras on the planet.

 9. Jasper Planetarium 

If you really want to delve into the dark sky preserve, book a tour with the Jasper Planetarium. It operates all around Jasper National Park offering different experiences from an outdoor telescope experience to a dinner and stargazing package. Or spend an evening inside the Planetarium Dome to see and learn more about the Auroras, hear Indigenous stories and their constellations, and watch the starry skies over the Canadian Rockies. Jasper Planetarium is located at the main Lodge at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

10. Sidecar Motorcycle Tour

One of our favourite things to do in Jasper was to take a sidecar motorcycle. It’s one of the most unique activities as you tour the Rocky Mountains and Banff National Park on a Harley Davidson. Get geared up in full leather Harley Gear and enjoy the views as you take a tour of all the top Jasper attractions with Jasper Motorcycle Tours.

There are different durations and destinations from going to the Icefields Parkway, Marmot Basin, the Miette Hot Springs, or Maligne Lake, Medicine Lake, and Maligne Canyon. The possibilities are endless. Choose your motorcycle tour of Jasper here.

You can create your own motorcycle tour to see anything from Maligne Lake to Athabasca Falls with 1, 2 or, 3-hour ride options. You can even create shorter tours to get a feel for the open road in a side car to explore the turquoise lakes and viewpoints close to Jasper town center. Drivers are professional and know the area well.  Book it here

11. Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Staying at the  Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge  is an attraction unto itself. The rustic setting of luxurious and chic log cabins is set on the shores of Lac Beauvert with options to stay in log cabins, huge lake houses, and main building hotel rooms. There are elk and whitetail deer walking through the grounds and you feel as if you are in the middle of the wilderness while enjoying pure luxury. Check rates and availability here.

Even if you are not staying at Jasper Park Lodge, it is worth stopping to see this historic site. You can dine on its terrace, play a round of golf at its award-winning golf course or simply marvel at its 700 acres of sprawling property along the lake.

12. Athabasca Falls

Jasper has some beautiful waterfalls to explore, and Athabasca Falls is an impressive flow of water over a 23-meter (75 feet) waterfall. The narrow gorge forces the Athabasca River creating a huge volume of water cascading over the falls. There is a hiking trail to various lookouts and a bridge for a better view of the falls.

13. Explore the Icefields Parkway

No trip to Jasper would be complete without driving the Icefield Parkway. This 293 km (182 miles) road trip stretches from Jasper National Park to Banff National Park with amazing stops along the way. The Icefields Parkway is considered one of the most beautiful road trips in the world and it starts right in Jasper. You can explore a portion or the entire drive that weaves through the most stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies.

It can easily be done in a few hours, but we suggested a couple of days to see all of its attractions. So, let’s take a look at some of the places not to be missed on Icefield’s Parkway. Highlights include: Read our full post about the Icefields Parkway drive here.

One Way Icefields Parkway Tour

Book this tour to Banff – If you flew into Edmonton and took the bus to Jasper, you can travel to Banff on this tour. Get picked up from your hotel to enjoy a full day tour to Banff to see its top attractions such as Athabasca Falls, Bow Lake and the Weeping Wall. You can enjoy the Athabasca Glacier on a guided tour or choose the Glacier Skywalk at the Columbia Icefields Centre. This is a great highlight tour for those without a car.  Details here.

14. Columbia Icefield Discovery Center

Located at the halfway point between Banff and Jasper the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center is a must-stop. From here you can book tours to see the Athabasca Glacier and the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. Even if you don’t venture out on these adventures, there are great views from the terrace of the discovery center. There is a museum and two restaurants

15. Columbia Icefield Skywalk

We highly suggest doing some of the activities at the Discovery Centre though. The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is an incredible glass-floor skywalk that juts out into the Sunwapta Valley. Dangling 280m (918 feet) above the valley floor visitors can walk over the abyss for extraordinary views of the mountains.

16. Athabasca Glacier

The Athabasca Glacier is the most visited glacier in all of North America and it is spectacular. This massive glacier is one of six toes of the Columbia Icefield which is the largest nonpolar ice field in the world. So, do not miss getting a chance to see the Athabasca Glacier up close. It is when you are out on a snowcat or guided tour that you really feel how massive it is. Tours are offered on the Athabasca Glacier taking you out on an Arctic Cat to walk on the glacier admiring its deep crevasses and ice caves. Read more here.

17. Sunwapta Falls

Located on the Icefields Parkway Sunwapta Falls consists of Lower Sunwapta and Upper falls. Upper Sunwapta Falls is located close to the parking area, and the lower falls is a 2 km hike across the bridge. The upper falls are the best views of the falls, so you really don’t have to hike further than the bridge, but if you are looking for a nice day in nature, keep following the path to the lower Sunwapta Falls.

18. Sunwapta Whitewater Rafting Tour

When visiting the Canadian Rockies, you must get the adrenaline pumping with a whitewater rafting tour. One of the best places to do that in Alberta is along the Sunwapta River. The Sunwapta River takes you through a narrow canyon of class 3 rapids with gorgeous views of the Rocky Mountains.

This glacial fed river makes for a great day trip where you’ll practice your paddling techniques before hitting the rapids. As long as the weather stays good, the tours keep going giving everyone the soaker they are looking for on a hot summer’s day.

Once the rapids start it is still important to look at the 360-degree mountain views. The river follows the jagged ridge of the Endless Chain. Book this highly-rated tour here.

19. Whitewater Rafting the Athabasca River

Jasper Raft Tours is a popular rafting company that offers rafting tours along the Athabasca River. Rafting the Athabasca River is great for the whole family as the rapids are a class two offering a gentle run while still offering amazing views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

You can choose from a scenic Athabasca River Rafting experience, The Athabasca River Mile 5 run or the Athabasca Canyon run that starts at Jasper’s Athabasca Falls and goes through Class 2+ rapids along a 12km stretch of the Athabasca River.

Here are places to book your own Athabasca River Rafting Experience

Athabasca Falls Run – The Athabasca Falls run is a moderate run in an 8 person raft down the Athabasca River Canyon..

20. Ski Marmot Basin

Alberta is blessed with amazing ski hills and Marmot Basin has a longer ski season than most resorts, it has the highest ski elevation in all of Canada. With 914 meters (3000) feet of vertical terrain spanning 1720 acres, Marmot is an amazing day on the ski hill for all levels. Plus Marmot Basin was voted the most affordable ski resort in North America. There are shuttles from downtown Jasper with the hill only 20 minutes away.

21. Sunrise Pyramid Lake

One of our favorite places in Jasper for sunrise is Pyramid Lake. Pyramid Lake is a stunning lake with a pyramid-shaped mountain, aptly names Pyramid Mountain, reflecting in the still waters. Take a hike around the lake, and be sure to walk across the bridge to Pyramid Island. Pyramid Lake is one of the most photographed and picturesque lakes in Jasper National Park and the best time to visit is at sunrise.

In the summertime, you can hike up Pyramid Mountain.

22. Lake Annette and Lake Edith

Lake Annette and Lake Edith are near Jasper Park Lodge and are beautiful morning strolls or places to photograph postcard-perfect views of the Rocky Mountains and night skies. There are hiking and biking trails, canoeing and kayaking with some sandy beaches and picnic areas.

23. Sunset at Patricia Lake

Another beautiful lake in Jasper Canada is Patricia Lake. Patricia Lake is located near Pyramid Lake and is another photo stop on your trip to Jasper Canada.

24. Hike the Valley of the Five Lakes

As the name suggests, the Valley Of The Five Lakes trail leads you to five different alpine lakes. The five lakes trail starts at  Icefields Parkway  and takes you through a lush forest before crossing over the Wabasso Creek Bridge. Most hikers follow this route in a clockwise direction following the path to the five lakes. There are some steep uphills along the hiking route.

The great thing about this route is the fact you can swim, so remember to bring your bathing suit along for a quick dip. (but be warned, the water is cold and is at your own risk!) Nothing beats witnessing the crystal clear deep jade and blue lakes of Jasper.

25. Jasper Sky Tram

Located just 10 minutes from downtown Jasper, the Jasper Sky tram is a gondola that takes you  2,263 meters (7,425 feet) to a series of boardwalks and wooden platforms offering the best panoramic views in Jasper. You can hike up to the Marmot Summit just a little higher to the viewpoint and Whistlers Mountain summit at 2463 meters (8077 feet). There’s the Summit Restaurant at Upper Station where you can grab some lunch too!

Whistlers Mountain

With an elevation of 2,463 meters (8,081 feet), Whistlers Mountain is the highest peak in the vicinity of the town of Jasper and offers visitors panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges, including the Columbia Icefield to the south and the Athabasca River valley to the east.

Besides riding the scenic gondola from the base of the mountain to the summit, you can hike to the summit. The most popular hiking trail is the Whistlers Summit Trail, which is approximately 7.6 kilometers (4.7 miles) round trip and offers hikers spectacular views of the park’s rugged landscape.

26. Miette Hot Springs

The Miette Hot Springs are Jasper’s answer to the Banff Hot Springs . Like Banff, you can even rent old-timer swimsuits! The hottest hot springs in the Rocky Mountains, the Miette Hot Springs are a good place for a day trip from Jasper. The water is a whopping 54°C (129°F), but don’t worry, it is cooled to a respectable 40°C (104°F)

The hot springs are located approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) northeast of the Jasper townsite, the Miette Hot Springs can be accessed by a scenic drive through the Fiddle Valley. These historic hot springs were used by fur traders of Hudson Bay, back in the day. There are hiking trails and the Fiddle Valley Cafe.

27. Jasper Skyline Trail

The Sulphur Skyline Trail is one of Jasper’s signature hikes. It starts off at a steady pace that seems to never stop. but the good news is that you can combine your hiking with a dip in the Miette Hot Springs. The effort is worth it as you soak in the natural hot springs. The hike itself offers many viewpoints overlooking the Fiddle Valley. Once at the summit, the views open up to a beautiful 360-degree scene all around. This trail is open from Mid-May to Mid-October. Be sure to go in the morning to avoid the crowds.

28. Hike to the viewpoint of Edith Cavell

The hike to the viewpoint of Edith Cavell in Jasper National Park is a spectacular and challenging trail that takes visitors on a scenic journey to the base of one of the park’s most iconic peaks. Mount Edith Cavell is the most prominent peak that is located entirely in Alberta. It is a stunning mountain named after a British nurse who served in World War I and was later executed for her role in aiding allied soldiers.

The trailhead is located off Cavell Road. The hike itself is a challenging 3.4-kilometer (2.1-mile) round-trip trek, with a steep incline that gains 385 meters (1,263 feet) in elevation.

It’s worth noting that the trail to the viewpoint of Edith Cavell is only open from late June to early October, and visitors must purchase a Parks Canada pass to access the area. Additionally, due to the steep incline and rocky terrain, the trail is recommended for experienced hikers with proper footwear and gear.

29. Hike the Old Fort Point Trail

The Old Fort Point Trail in Jasper National Park is a popular hiking trail that offers stunning views of the park’s mountainous terrain and wildlife. The trail is a relatively easy and family-friendly hike, with a gradual incline that takes visitors up to the summit of Old Fort Point, which sits at an elevation of 2,280 feet (695 meters).

The trailhead is located just a short drive from Jasper townsite, making it easily accessible for visitors. The trail is well-marked and maintained, and takes approximately 2-3 hours round-trip to complete.

Along the trail, hikers are treated to beautiful views of the Athabasca River valley, as well as sightings of local wildlife such as elk, deer, and bighorn sheep. The summit of Old Fort Point offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, including the Miette Range, the Whistler Range, and the Athabasca River valley.

30. Jasper Wildlife

Jasper is in the middle of a wild and open national park and when you visit Jasper, be prepared to see a lot of wildlife. We saw more wildlife in Jasper than on any of our visits to Banff. Chances are you will encounter grizzly bears at some point, and you’ll definitely see elk, which roam freely on the grounds of Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. During our drives we saw whitetail deer run through the street, bighorn sheep sip water in the turquoise lakes by the side of the road and mountain goats high in the hills. . Take your time to go wildlife spotting.

It was in Jasper that we saw grizzly bears just hanging out on the side of the road. During our motorcycle tour, a grizzly bear mom and cub were hanging out near Lac Beauvert. We were careful to keep our distance. Grizzly bears are wild animals, and you should never approach them. During this encounter, Parks Canada came out to make sure that people didn’t get to close to the mom and cub letting them have their privacy.

31. Wildlife Tour

There are wildlife tours offered as well. This wildlife tour lets you see a lot of Jasper’s top attractions in one stop with a stop at Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake as you search for mountain goats, moose, bears, and elk. Or book this Wildlife Discovery Tour. Wildlife is abundant in Jasper, you will see a lot.

32. Mountain Biking

Besides hiking, mountain biking is one of the top outdoor activities in Jasper National Park. There are several designated mountain biking trails around the area and some of the most popular are The Maligne Canyon Route, The Athabasca River Trail, and the Valley of the Five Lakes.

33. Horseback Ride

One of our favorite ways to enjoy the rocky mountains is by horseback. There are plenty of horseback riding opportunities in Jasper. Tourism Jasper recommends Jasper Riding Stables on Pyramid Lake Road take you on a scenic ride around Pyramid Lake to enjoy the extraordinary views of Pyramid Mountain and other areas throughout the park. We trust Tourism Jasper as they have booked other horseback rides throughout Alberta for us and they’ve been fabulous! Details here.

34. Enjoy Dog Sledding

One of the best things to do in Jasper in winter is to go dog sledding. There is nothing more magical than being pulled through the snow as the dogs are in their element running with glee through the low mountain ranges.

There are several tour operators in Jasper that offer dog sledding experiences, ranging from short rides to multi-day expeditions. Visitors can choose to sit back and enjoy the ride as a passenger or learn how to mush their own team of dogs under the guidance of an experienced guide. During the dog sledding adventure, visitors are typically taken on a scenic tour through the park’s snowy forests and valleys, with stops along the way to take in the breathtaking views and snap some memorable photos.

The dogs used for dog sledding in Jasper are typically breeds such as Siberian Huskies and Alaskan Malamutes, which are bred for their strength, endurance, and love of running. The dogs are well-trained and cared for, and visitors are often given the opportunity to meet and interact with them before and after the ride. Read more: The Misconceptions of Dogsledding

35. Jasper Food Tours

If you are spending some time in downtown Jasper, book a food tour to sample some of the town’s best eateries. Jasper food tours are a fun and delicious way to explore the culinary scene of downtown. Led by knowledgeable and passionate local guides, these tours take visitors on a culinary journey through Jasper, showcasing the best local food and drink that the area has to offer.

You can book this tour to experience the food of downtown Jasper. Learn about the history of Jasper as you visit four local restaurants. You’ll try its top dish paired with an alcoholic drink. Details Here.

The tours typically include visits to a variety of local eateries, such as cafes, bistros, restaurants, and pubs. The food served on the tours often features regional specialties, such as bison burgers, Alberta beef, fresh trout, and locally brewed beer. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy.

Some of the popular food tours in Jasper include the Downtown Foodie Tour, which explores the town’s vibrant culinary scene, the Jasper Craft Beer Tour, which features local breweries and pubs, and the Jasper Food & History Tour, which combines food tastings with fascinating insights into the town’s history.

36. Get Your Coffee at Bear’s Paw Bakery

We looked forward to stopping at Bear’s Paw Bakery every morning for our morning cappuccino and delicious pastry.

37. Jasper Brewing Company

The Jasper Brewing Company is a popular brewery and pub located in the heart of the town of Jasper, Alberta, in Jasper National Park. Established in 2005, the brewery is known for its award-winning craft beers and delicious pub-style food.

The brewery produces a variety of beers, including lagers, ales, stouts, and seasonal brews. Some of their most popular beers include the Rockhopper IPA, the Jasper the Bear Ale, and the Snowblind Belgian-Style IPA.

The brewery itself is housed in a historic building that dates back to 1928, and features a spacious, rustic interior with plenty of seating and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. There’s also a patio outside that’s perfect for enjoying a beer on a sunny day.

38. Rocky Mountaineer

The Rocky Mountaineer is an extraordinary train journey through the Rocky Mountains from Alberta to British Columbia . One of the routes leaves (or arrives) from Jasper. It’s a one-way ticket, so if you want to move on to Vancouver, this is an amazing journey. Make sure to spend some time exploring the city once you get there. Watch our video here.

When coming into Jasper by train you’ll arrive at the Jasper Historic Railway Station which has been designated as a Canadian heritage railway for its historical significance.

Where to Stay in Jasper

We stayed at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge , but there are many other places to stay in Jasper to suit your budget. This luxurious hotel offers beautiful lakefront views, a spa, several restaurants, and a variety of outdoor activities such as golfing, kayaking, and mountain biking.

Whistlers Inn : This hotel is located in the heart of downtown Jasper and offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge with live music. It’s a great option for those who want to be close to the town’s attractions and nightlife.

Forest Park Lodge – Formerly Sawridge Inn and Conference Center. Enjoy the Mountain Wellness Day Spa, dine in their restaurant Canadian Rockies cuisine and explore downtown Jasper with many restaurants and shops within walking distance.

Becker’s Chalets: This cozy accommodation is located on the Icefields Parkway, offering stunning mountain views and a peaceful setting. They offer a variety of cabins and suites with full kitchens and fireplaces.

Check out vacation rentals and hotels in Jasper here.

Camping in Jasper National Park

There is plenty of camping in Jasper, you can check with Park’s Canada for availability. Wapiti Campground is located just outside of Jasper townsite and offers tent and RV sites with beautiful mountain views.

It’s a great option for those who want a more rustic camping experience. Sites can be booked ahead of time and there is a front country and backcountry camping. If you don’t have a lot of camping experience, but want to camp in the Rockies, try an oTentik at Whistler’s Campground.

How to Get to Jasper

There is no airport in Jasper. We flew into Edmonton and rented a car to drive to Jasper which is 365 km (226 miles). You can also drive from Banff Lake Louise up the Icefield’s Parkway. If you fly into Calgary, this is the way to go.

Located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Jasper National Park was officially established in 1907, after a group of Canadian Pacific Railway employees petitioned the Canadian government to protect the area. The park was named after Jasper Hawes, who was a trader with the Hudson’s Bay Company and one of the first Europeans to explore the region.

Today, it is a mecca for tourists wanting to enjoy the beauty of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, incredible hiking trails, stunning lakes, and waterfalls you won’t soon forget. All of this with a fraction of the number of tourists that visit Banff. So, if you are looking for a great outdoor escape, then add these 25 best things to do in Jasper National Park to your bucket list.

How Far is Jasper From Banff?

Jasper is easily accessible by car or trains from major cities such as Calgary and Edmonton, and the townsite offers a variety of amenities and accommodations, from cozy cabins to luxury resorts.

Jasper is 288 km (179 miles) from Banff along the Icefields Parkway. To drive directly from Banff to Jasper is about 3 1/2 hours, but to stop at all the attractions, especially at the Columbia Icefield Discovery Center, you’ll want at least a full day.

How Far is Jasper From Edmonton?

Jasper National Park is 363 kilometers (225 miles) west of Edmonton and takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes non-stop. You can travel to Jasper by car, bus or train. The nearest airport is Edmonton International Airport. From the airport, visitors can rent a car or take a bus to Jasper.

The most direct route to Jasper from Edmonton is via the Yellowhead Highway (Highway 16), which takes approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes. The route is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the Alberta countryside.

Several bus companies offer daily service between Edmonton and Jasper, with a travel time of approximately 5 hours. Greyhound and Sundog Tours are two popular options.

Via Rail Canada offers a daily train service between Edmonton and Jasper, with a travel time of approximately 5 hours. The train offers stunning views of the Canadian Rockies and is a popular option for visitors looking to experience the scenery in a unique way.

How Far is Jasper from Calgary?

Jasper is approximately 412 kilometers (256 miles) northwest of Calgary and takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes to get there. Visitors can also fly into Calgary International Airport and from the airport, can rent a car to drive to Jasper.

The most direct route to Jasper from Calgary is via the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), which takes approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes. The route is well-maintained and offers stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.

Several bus companies offer daily service between Calgary and Jasper, with a travel time of approximately 6 hours. Greyhound and Sundog Tours are two popular options.

Via Rail Canada offers a daily train service between Calgary and Jasper, with a travel time of approximately 6 hours. The train offers stunning views of the Alberta countryside and is a popular option for visitors looking to experience the scenery in a unique way.

Is Jasper Worth Visiting?

Jasper National Park is definitely worth visiting. We enjoy Jasper more than Banff as it sees fewer crowds and offers a more authentic experience without having to go into the backcountry. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elk, deer, grizzly bears, bighorn sheep, and wolves, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

Jasper National Park is home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, with towering mountain peaks, sparkling lakes, glaciers, and dense forests that provide a truly immersive outdoor experience. There’s no shortage of outdoor adventure in Jasper, with activities such as hiking, mountain biking, canoeing, kayaking, whitewater rafting, skiing, snowboarding, and dog sledding available for visitors to enjoy.

Unique experiences: Jasper offers a variety of unique experiences that can’t be found anywhere else, such as the Maligne Lake cruise, the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, and the Jasper Food Tour.

Overall, Jasper National Park offers a truly unforgettable experience for visitors, with its unparalleled natural beauty, abundant wildlife, outdoor adventure, unique experiences, and convenient accessibility making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to explore the best of Canada’s wilderness.

Jasper National Park Pass

When visiting Jasper, you must obtain a Jasper National Park Pass issued by Parks Canada. It allows visitors to access and enjoy the various attractions, activities, and services offered within Jasper National Park.

The Park Pass is valid for one year from the date of purchase and allows unlimited access to Jasper National Park during that time. There are several types of passes available, including individual, family/group, and commercial passes.

The cost of the pass varies depending on the type of pass and the duration of the visit. Prices can be found on the Parks Canada website and can be purchased online or at park entrances.

In addition to allowing access to the park, the Jasper National Park Pass provides various benefits, including access to interpretive programs, hiking trails, and day-use areas. The pass also supports conservation efforts and helps maintain and improve park facilities.

Best Time to Visit Jasper

The best time to visit Jasper National Park depends on your interests and preferences. Consider what activities you want to do, your budget, and your tolerance for crowds and weather conditions to decide which season would be the best fit for your trip.

Here is a breakdown of what to expect during each season:

  • Spring (March – May): This is a great time to visit Jasper National Park for those looking for fewer crowds, as the peak tourist season hasn’t started yet. The weather can be unpredictable, with snow still present in some areas, but there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking and wildlife viewing.
  • Summer (June – August): This is the peak season for Jasper National Park, with warm temperatures, long days, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Popular activities during the summer months include hiking, camping, fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives along the Icefields Parkway. However, it can be crowded, so be prepared to book accommodations and activities in advance.
  • Fall (September – November): This is a beautiful time to visit Jasper National Park, with the fall colors creating a stunning backdrop for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing. The weather is cooler but still pleasant, and crowds start to thin out toward the end of the season.
  • Winter (December – February) : Jasper National Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months, with snow-covered landscapes and opportunities for winter sports such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowshoeing. The Northern Lights can also be visible during the winter months, adding to the park’s already spectacular scenery.

We have visited Jasper on four occasions. Once courtesy of Tourism Jasper, Once with Tourism Alberta, once with the Rocky Mountaineer, and once on our own. Having been to Alberta in all four seasons, we know that it can be just as special no matter what time of year you visit.

We look forward to going back to Jasper again and again, so let us know if you have more ideas for the best things to do in Jasper and we’ll add them to our list!

Plan Your Trip to Alberta with These Resources

  • Lake Louise: Pond Hockey on Lake Louise- A Good Old Hockey Game
  • Winter Adventures: Banff Helicopter Tours and Snowshoe
  • Banff National Park : The Best Things to do in Banff, Alberta
  • Canmore: The Best Things To Do In Canmore, Alberta
  • Calgary: Canada Olympic Park – Fun In Calgary Alberta
  • Edmonton: The Best Things To Do In Edmonton, Alberta
  • Southern Alberta: Things To Do In Drumheller, Alberta
  • Icefields Parkway: Driving The Icefields Parkway From Banff To Jasper Alberta
  • The Cowboy Trail: The Cowboy Trail – A Southern Alberta Road Trip

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

  • Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
  • Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Tyler Riopel now at the helm of Tourism Jasper

Tourism Jasper didn’t have to look far to appoint its new chief executive officer.

  • Copy article link

Tyler Riopel was already waiting in the wings as the agency’s director of destination development since August 2022.

After James Jackson’s recent departure, he knew that he really wanted to step up to the plate to bring his expertise and enthusiasm to the head role.

“Tourism Jasper has established itself as an industry leader, and I am honoured and excited to lead the next chapter of this great organization," he announced in a press release.

Riopel brings an extensive background of nearly two decades in tourism marketing to his new office. He has been on the frontline and has held leadership positions with industry appointments on different committees and advisory groups in Alberta and within the Edmonton region. Most of his career was as the director of marketing and communications with Northlands in Edmonton.

There, he worked with tourism partners on the local, provincial and national levels, including Travel Alberta and Tourism Jasper. He’s been in and around the Tourism Jasper family in one way shape or form for much longer than this last year and a half.

The Destination Development Portfolio was brand new when he moved to Jasper. The organization has always focused on demand generation, but this aspect is more related to the supply side of tourism.

“We've really been crafting that role as we've gone through understanding what it can be and shouldn't be,” Riopel said.

You might be interested in

  • Dec 31, 1969

One of the major projects he worked on last year was the creation and establishment of the new and popular Visitor Experience Centre. It had a great opening summer in 2023, and he’s looking forward to opening the doors wide again for the public info hub located right next to the Old Fire Hall sometime in spring 2024.

He has also been busy preparing for the launch of the Destination Stewardship Plan, which he spent the last year refining it. With visitation levels nearing 2.5 million annually, tourism growth is on an upswing that puts the pandemic years in its dust. The plan is designed to provide a solid framework for growth over the next 10 years.

Riopel said that Tourism Jasper is a well-oiled machine that is totally on track to drive fast and far. A large part of that was how Jackson left operations in good working order.

“It's really nice to be able to step into a role that doesn't need to be fixed. There's a lot of great things that have been happening in Tourism Jasper,” he said, praising the rest of the exceptional team of leaders working behind the scenes in the office.

“I feel privileged to be able to work with them to continue to showcase Jasper as a world-class destination. The organization has a strong foundation and is on a really huge success trajectory. What we're looking to do is to continue that momentum, build off of the successes that are there and … make sure that that growth that's happening is responsible and doing the right things in our community so that we can maintain our sense of place and our sense of community which Jasper’s residents hold in such high regard.”

He added that family is very important to him. He, his wife and two children have felt fortunate to be welcomed with open arms by the community since they moved here.

“We knew that we wanted to find a community that would be embracing of our family and provide positive life experiences. Jasper has delivered on all those fronts.”

A large measure of that embrace comes from the organization’s own board of directors. In the press release for the announcement, chair Douglas Goss said that Riopel has demonstrated terrific leadership in his short time with the team.

“The Board of Directors of Tourism Jasper feels truly fortunate to have Mr. Riopel leading our organization,” Gross said.

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IMAGES

  1. 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park

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COMMENTS

  1. Jasper National Park

    Jasper has always been a place for trailblazers. In the early 20th century, explorer Mary Schäffer became the first European to visit Maligne Lake, and used her skills as a naturalist, illustrator, photographer, and writer to document the region. Today, women continue to leave their mark and bring life to the national park. March 8, 2024 in ...

  2. Things to Do

    Discover all the things to do in Jasper National Park. Explore Edith Cavell, Maligne Lake and Maligne Canyon, go rafting in Jasper, visit the best restaurants in Jasper, and more. Find things to do for all activity levels.

  3. Visitor Information

    See the real rockies in Jasper National Park in Jasper, Alberta, Canada. Plan your trip with Jasper hotels, Jasper restaurants, attractions, travel deals and more! ... Jasper restaurants, attractions, travel deals and more! Discover Jasper. Things to do. Where to stay. Plan your trip. Stories Travel Trade Media Groups & Meetings. Snow Report ...

  4. Discover Jasper

    Jasper National Park's shimmering glaciers, abundant wildlife, crystal-clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, deep canyons and evergreen forests - all surrounded by towering mountains - are some of the reasons the park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's one of only 15 such sites in Canada. See the real rockies in Jasper National Park in ...

  5. The ULTIMATE Guide of Things to Do in Jasper, Canada (for 2024)

    About the town Acknowledgments. Jasper is located on Treaty 8 territory and is a traditional meeting ground and home for many Indigenous Peoples, including Stoney, Tsuu T'ina, Secwépemc, Kelly Lake Metis Settlement Society, and Aseniwuche Winewak.. History. Originally a trading post run by the Hudson's Bay and North West Companies, Jasper has changed a lot over the years.

  6. The ULTIMATE Guide to Things To Do in Jasper

    Jasper SkyTram. One cannot simply visit Jasper without visiting the Jasper SkyTram and riding Canada's highest, longest, guided aerial tramway. It's only a 7-minute journey to the top, but once there you'll be greeted to some of the best views of Jasper and the surrounding area from an elevation of 2,263 metres.

  7. About Tourism Jasper

    Welcome to Canada's base of adventure. We want to help you feel at home in this world class destination. As the official marketing organization of Jasper and Jasper National Park, Tourism Jasper presents Jasper as it really is: an awe-inspiring and authentic Rocky Mountain destination that will charm your socks off.

  8. Plan your visit

    Spanning over 11,000 square kilometres, Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. Known for its vast wilderness, majestic peaks, abundant wildlife and outstanding natural beauty, visitors from all over Canada and round the world travel here to experience this very special place.

  9. THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Jasper (UPDATED 2024)

    5. Jasper SkyTram. 3,014. Trams. Jasper SkyTram is the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada. Gain a unique perspective on the majesty of Jasper National Park - an integral portion of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  10. Jasper National Park

    Jasper National Park. Visit the world's second largest dark sky preserve in the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies! Known for its abundant wildlife and extensive trail network; visitors from all over the world travel here to experience this very special place. Part of UNESCO's Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, find ...

  11. 25 Best Things to Do in Jasper, Canada

    Hike the Valley of Five Lakes. The Valley of Five Lakes promises hikers a captivating journey through some of the most enchanting landscapes Jasper has to offer. The loop trail is approximately 4.5 kilometers long and weaves its way around five pristine mountain lakes, each distinguished by its unique color palette.

  12. 31 Epic Things to Do in Jasper National Park, Canada

    Things to do in Jasper in summer. 1) Hike Maligne Canyon. 2) Paddle a canoe on Maligne Lake. 3) Photograph the elk! 4) See Medicine Lake. 5) Hike the Old Fort Point Trail. 6) Swim in Lake Edith and Lake Annette. 7) Ride the Jasper Skytram. 8) Hike to Whistler's Summit.

  13. 13 Best Things to Do in Jasper National Park

    This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content. Ranking of the top 13 things to do in Jasper National Park. Travelers favorites include #1 Maligne Lake, #2 Jasper ...

  14. Jasper National Park

    The Icefields Parkway Entrance is 6km south of Jasper Town on Hwy 93, on the way to Lake Louise. You must either buy or show a park pass at all entry gates. Park admission is C$10 for adults, C$8.70 for seniors, C$20 for families and free for kids under 17. There are additional fees for campground use, backcountry camping and fire permits.

  15. A Complete Guide to Jasper National Park, Canada

    Jasper SkyTram is a synonym for great views in the area because the gondola will take you to 2263 meters above sea level. Once you get there, you can join Summit Trail, which features 360-degree views of six mountain ranges. To get this ultimate experience, book your Jasper SkyTram ticketin advance. WILDLIFE WATCHING.

  16. Jasper National Park travel

    Mt Edith Cavell. Jasper National Park. Rising like a snowy sentinel over Jasper Town, Mt Edith Cavell (3363m) is one of the park's most distinctive and physically arresting peaks. What it lacks…. View more attractions.

  17. 22 Things to Do in Jasper National Park for an Epic Canadian Rockies

    The largest National Park in Canada, Jasper National Park is a must-visit on any Canadian Rockies trip. Part of the Canadian Rockies UNESCO World Heritage site, Jasper National Park will wow you with its awesome beauty. ... If you are visiting Jasper as part of a Canadian Rockies trip coming from the south, you will likely travel to Jasper from ...

  18. The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Jasper National Park Itinerary

    Planning a 2 to 3 days in Jasper National Park itinerary is one of the best ways to see this incredible natural area in the mountains of Alberta. While you could spend an endless amount of time exploring the park and all the natural wonders it has to offer, spending a few days in Jasper is enough to get a feel for the park and the splendors it ...

  19. 21 Awesome Things To Do in Jasper National Park

    Jasper National Park Hikes: Sulphur Skyline. Sulphur Skyline trail is an 8.8 km round trip, with an elevation loss/gain of 700 meters and it takes 4-6 hours to complete. The hike is rated as difficult. The Sulphur Skyline hike is probably my second favorite hike in our Candian Mountain adventure.

  20. 38 Best Things to do in Jasper Canada in 2024

    Read more: 14 Best Hikes in Jasper National Park - Alberta Canada. 2. Maligne Canyon Ice Walk. Jasper National Park is a year-round playground and you can visit the canyon in the winter to enjoy the frozen waterfalls on the Maligne Canyon ice walk.

  21. 33 Absolute BEST Things to do in Jasper, Alberta (2024 Guide)

    Some of the best places to go stand-up paddleboarding in Jasper include Lake Edith, Lake Annette, Pyramid Lake, Patricia Lake, the lake at the Jasper Park Lodge, Talbot Lake, Leech Lake, Maligne Lake, as well as Medicine Lake. For the calmest water, head to Lake Edith or Lake Annette.

  22. Tyler Riopel now at the helm of Tourism Jasper

    Tourism Jasper didn't have to look far to appoint its new chief executive officer. Tyler Riopel was already waiting in the wings as the agency's director of destination development since ...

  23. Jasper, Canada

    Page couldn't load • Instagram. Something went wrong. There's an issue and the page could not be loaded. Reload page. 109 likes, 2 comments - tourismjasper on March 15, 2024: "This way to the weekend! 👆 How are you going to make the most of this sunny weekend in Jasper?