Jasper offers a picturesque mountain getaway surrounded by towering peaks, untouched wilderness and turquoise lakes tucked into alpine valleys. The surrounding Jasper National Park offers endless picture postcard views. If you arrive from the east, you will climb through the rolling foothills into Jasper’s iconic Rocky Mountains. 370 km (192 mi) west of Edmonton and 404 km (256 mi) northwest of Calgary, the spectacular drive is an adventure in itself.
The town of Jasper is an authentic mountain community with welcoming locals. You will find all the comforts you could wish for, from luxury accommodation to charming cabins and fully serviced campsites, to eclectic dining options. Wildlife is abundant, even in the town centre. Where else will you find a herd of elk napping on the lawn?
Jasper. The largest national park in the Rockies.
Jasper National Park boasts the world-famous Rocky Mountains scenery and brims with year-round outdoor activities. There is something for everyone in every season: swimming, a picnic at Pyramid Lake, mountain biking, trail rides, canoeing and more.
Summer Activites
See the spectacular Northern Lights
Witness a completely dark sky in which the stars sparkle brightly. Jasper has ideal conditions for dark sky viewing and is the largest accessible Dark Sky Preserve in Canada. Although the night sky can be enjoyed year-round, Sep-May is the ideal time for star gazing.
Hike the Skyline Trail
Skyline Trial is one of the most popular hiking trails in Jasper because the views are exceptional, however, it could take 10 – 12 hours to complete in one day. Most hikers choose to spread it out over 2-3 days. This trail can also be done in winter, but specialist hiking gear may be required.
Rafting Tours
The ultimate activity! Jasper offers different options and rafting experiences due to the many rivers it boasts. In fact, this activity is available for everyone: small children and grandparents are welcome too to live an unforgettable adventure in Jasper.
Jasper Tramway
Take a round-trip to “Jasper’s Peak Attraction”, the Tramway. This is the longest and highest tramway in the Rockies. The ride up to the top of Whistler Mountain is breathtaking. At the upper terminal, you may like to enjoy a meal in the Treeline Restaurant or take part in an interpretive hike with a mountain guide.
Maligne Canyon/Lake
Fed by three glaciers, Maligne Lake is the largest glacially-fed lake in the Canadian Rockies and is a very popular attraction in Jasper. Famous for the colour of its water, it is surrounded by stunning mountain views and is one of the most photographed lakes in Canada, often with Spirit Island in view.
Wildlife Viewing
The park is home to caribou, elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, bears and wolves. We also have a variety of birds and many smaller creatures like marmots and pikas. The best times to see wildlife are spring and fall. Remember that it's illegal and dangerous to touch or feed wildlife.
Winter Activities
Maligne Canyon
Along with viewing majestic wildlife, you can choose to venture with anti-slip cleats in Maligne Canyon to explore frozen waterfalls, ice caves and incredible ice formations. This geological wonder is the deepest canyon in the park, and although incredible to see in the summer, it's arguably even more otherworldly come winter.
Dog Sledding
Sit under a blanket on a traditional dogsled and let a team of huskies lead you on a picturesque journey through mountain valleys. This is a once-in-a-lifetime and truly Canadian activity you won’t want to miss. For added excitement, try mushing the sledge yourself and guiding a team of dogs down the trail!
Snowshoeing
Strap on snowshoes and venture into the wilderness. Trained naturalists will accompany you to provide instruction on snowshoeing and to share their knowledge about the area. If you’re eager to experience more distant mountainous regions, heli-snowshoeing options are also available.
Ice-Skating
What could be more Canadian than skating on a frozen Rocky Mountain lake? A frozen Canadian Rockies lake at Jasper National Park offers a different ice skating experience. Glide along on the cleared rinks at Mildred Lake at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge or on Pyramid Lake and enjoy breathtaking views.
Ice-Climbing
Challenge yourself with one of winter's most exhilarating sports: ice climbing. In the winter, Jasper National Park is a mecca for ice climbers. Every type of climb can be found for climbers at all skill levels, from long alpine ice routes to short bolted mix and dry tooling routes.
More winter fun
Winter in Jasper is the perfect time to engage in your favourite cold-weather activities. Enjoy winter caving, take a sleigh ride, ice-skating or warm soak in the Miette Hot Springs. There are plenty of activities to do for everyone and all skill levels.
