Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, spanning an incredible 11,000 square kilometres (4,200 sq miles). It boasts some of the most awe-inspiring hikes for every skill level. With its shimmering glacial lakes, massive glaciers, and abundant wildlife, Jasper is a hiker’s paradise.

But you don’t have to venture deep into the backcountry to experience it. Many of the best trails and walking routes are just minutes from the town of Jasper, making it perfect for memorable day hikes. After many trips to this part of Alberta, we’ve learned that while Banff gets a lot of the attention, Jasper offers a wilder, more rugged beauty that we keep coming back to.

This guide is designed to help you find the perfect trail for your trip. We’ve broken down our favourite hikes by difficulty and included all the practical details you need to hit the trail with confidence.

Map of the Best Jasper Hikes

Best Jasper Hikes at a Glance (Top 5 Picks)

If you’re short on time, this quick guide will point you to the can’t-miss trails in the park.

Planning Your Jasper Hiking Trip

Before you lace up your boots, here are a few essential tips for planning your adventure.

Jasper National Park Pass Info

To enter Jasper National Park, you must have a valid Park Pass. You can buy it at the park gates upon entry or online in advance.

• Daily Pass (2025 rates): $10.50 CAD per adult or $21.00 per vehicle/group.
• Discovery Pass (Annual): $72.25 CAD per adult or $145.25 for a family/group. This gives you unlimited access to all of Canada’s national parks for 12 months. If you plan to visit for more than a few days or see other parks like Banff, this is the best value.

You can purchase your pass online from the Parks Canada website. Please verify all prices on the official site, as they can change.

Getting to the Trailheads

Jasper is best explored by car. The park is located approximately 4 hours (365 km / 226 miles) from Edmonton and about 3.5 – 4 hours (288 km / 179 miles) from Banff via the incredibly scenic Icefields Parkway.

• Check car rental rates here.

Bear Safety & What to Pack

Jasper is home to both grizzly and black bears. It is essential to be bear-aware on all trails.

• Carry Bear Spray: Know how to use it and keep it accessible on your hip, not in your pack.
• Make Noise: Talk, sing, or call out periodically to avoid surprising a bear.
• Pack in Layers: Mountain weather changes quickly. Bring a waterproof jacket, a warm mid-layer, and a hat, even on a sunny day.
• Bring Water and Snacks: There are no shops at the trailheads. Pack more than you think you’ll need.

Where to Stay in Jasper

We stayed at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, which makes for a great luxury base. For other options, you can check out vacation rentals and hotels in the town of Jasper. There are also numerous front-country and backcountry campsites managed by Parks Canada, which should be booked well in advance.

Easy & Accessible Jasper Hikes

These trails are perfect for families, casual walkers, or for a day when you want maximum scenic reward with minimal effort. They showcase some of Jasper’s most iconic features without requiring a strenuous, all-day commitment.

1. Maligne Canyon

• Length: 3.4 km (2.1 miles) loop
• Elevation Gain: 118 m (387 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Approx. Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Trailhead: Maligne Canyon Trailhead

Maligne Canyon is one of the most spectacular hikes in Jasper National Park. Located just 10 minutes from town, the trail is easily accessible. The well-maintained path crosses several bridges, offering incredible views down into the deep, narrow gorge carved by the Maligne River. You’ll see waterfalls and unique rock formations as you wind your way along the canyon rim.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The canyon is stunning in summer, but it’s a completely different world in winter. If you’re visiting then, a guided ice walk with cleats through the frozen canyon floor is one of the most unique and memorable experiences you can have in the Rockies.

2. Valley of the Five Lakes

• Length: 4.7 km (2.9 miles) loop
• Elevation Gain: 162 m (531 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
• Approx. Time: 1.5 – 2 hours
• Trailhead: Valley of the Five Lakes Trailhead on the Icefields Parkway.

This hike is a local favourite for good reason. The trail takes you through a lush forest before arriving at a series of five pristine lakes, each glowing with its own distinct shade of jade and blue. The trail has some gentle rolling hills but is a rewarding hike for the whole family.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The colour of the lakes is truly unbelievable on a sunny day. The Third Lake is the most vibrant and the best for photos. It’s also the most popular spot for a very chilly swim if you’re feeling brave!

3. Athabasca Falls

• Length: 1.0 km (0.6 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 26 m (85 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Approx. Time: 30 – 45 minutes
• Trailhead: Athabasca Falls Parking Lot on the Icefields Parkway.

While not a long hike, Athabasca Falls is one of the most powerful and picturesque waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies. The easy, paved pathways lead to various viewpoints overlooking the falls as they roar through a narrow gorge. It’s a busy trail, but well worth the stop for the incredible views of the falls and the Athabasca River.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The power of the water here is the main event. While the upper viewpoints are great, be sure to take the stairs down to the lower platform. You can feel the mist and hear the roar of the canyon, which really puts the force of the river into perspective.

4. Toe of the Athabasca Glacier

• Length: 1.4 km (0.8 miles)
• Elevation Gain: 60 m (196 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Approx. Time: 45 minutes – 1 hour
• Trailhead: Toe of the Athabasca Glacier Trailhead at the Columbia Icefield.

This is a brilliant, family-friendly hike that offers a free alternative to the guided tours on the glacier. The trail leads you over the rocky moraine left behind by the retreating glacier. Along the route, signs mark the glacier’s location in different years, providing a sobering look at how much it has shrunk.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: It is extremely important to stay behind the ropes and on the marked trail. The terrain near the glacier can be unstable and there are unobservable crevasses that are very dangerous. This hike is about witnessing the glacier’s scale from a safe distance.

5. Jasper Discovery Trail

• Length: 8.5 km (5.2 miles) loop
• Elevation Gain: 264 m (866 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Approx. Time: 2 – 3 hours
• Trailhead: Multiple access points from parking lots in the town of Jasper.

If you want to explore close to town, the Jasper Discovery Trail is a great choice. This easy trail takes you on a stroll around the town’s perimeter, offering lovely views of the surrounding mountains and the Athabasca and Miette rivers. It’s easy to navigate; just follow the bear signs.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: This is the perfect thing to do on your arrival day. It helps you get your bearings, stretch your legs after a long drive, and you can scout out some dinner spots in town along the way.

6. Wapiti Trail

• Length: 4.8 km (3 miles) out & back
• Elevation Gain: 113 m (370 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Approx. Time: 1 – 1.5 hours
• Trailhead: Wapiti Campground

The Wapiti Trail is a lovely, gentle walk that follows the path between the Icefields Parkway and the Athabasca River. Starting from the Wapiti Campground, it heads northbound towards the town of Jasper. It’s a relatively flat and quiet trail, perfect for a morning stroll or for families looking to enjoy the riverside scenery without a major climb.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: While it’s a great short hike on its own, you can also use this trail to walk all the way from the campground into town for dinner, which is a great way to earn your meal and enjoy the evening light on the mountains.

7. Wabasso Lake Trail

• Length: 7.7 km (4.7 miles) out & back
• Elevation Gain: 276 m (905 ft)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Approx. Time: 2 – 2.5 hours
• Trailhead: Wabasso Lake Trailhead

The Wabasso Lake Trail is a popular but peaceful hike that takes you through a dense forest to a secluded, marshy lake. The trail has some rolling terrain but isn’t overly strenuous, making it another great option for families. The real reward is reaching the quiet shores of Wabasso Lake and enjoying the solitude and mountain reflections before heading back.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: This trail is known for being muddy in sections, especially after it rains, so waterproof hiking shoes are a good idea. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching if you take your time by the lake.

Moderate Hikes in Jasper (5km – 10km)

Ready for more of a challenge? These moderate trails involve more elevation gain but reward you with spectacular, high-country views that you have to work for.

8. Edith Cavell Meadows

• Length: 8.4 km (5.2 miles) loop
• Elevation Gain: 582 m (1909 ft)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Approx. Time: 3 – 4 hours
• Trailhead: End of Cavell Road

The Edith Cavell Meadows hike is a beautiful and rewarding trail in Jasper National Park. It begins on a paved path along the Glacier Trail, leading to a stunning viewpoint of Angel Glacier and Cavell Pond. The trail then climbs steadily through a rocky moraine and subalpine forest before opening up into a beautiful meadow that is filled with wildflowers in July and August. You are treated to incredible glacier views for the entire journey.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The drive to the trailhead is an adventure in itself, with tight switchbacks. The real star here is Angel Glacier. You get great views from the lower lookout, but push on to the upper meadows. The sight of the glacier framed by wildflowers is absolutely worth the climb.

9. Sulphur Skyline Trail

• Length: 7.9 km (4.8 miles) out & back
• Elevation Gain: 653 m (2142 ft)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Approx. Time: 3.5 – 5 hours
• Trailhead: Miette Hot Springs parking lot

The Sulphur Skyline Trail is one of Jasper’s signature hikes, known for its unrelenting uphill climb that pays off with some of the best panoramic views in the park. The trail starts at a steady incline and just keeps going. Once you break through the treeline, the path continues to a ridge offering a breathtaking 360-degree scene of the surrounding peaks and the Fiddle Valley below.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Don’t forget your swimsuit! The ultimate reward for this tough hike is a long soak in the Miette Hot Springs, located right at the trailhead. Trust us, your tired muscles will thank you. It’s the perfect end to a challenging day on the trail.

10. Pyramid Lake Loop

• Length: 5.6 km (3.4 miles) loop
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Elevation Gain: 203 m (666 ft)
• Trailhead: Multiple access points near Pyramid Lake.

The Pyramid Lake Loop is a great choice for an afternoon hike with beautiful views, located just a few minutes from the town of Jasper. The trail climbs through the forest to viewpoints overlooking the iconic Pyramid Mountain and Pyramid Lake. There are many different intersecting routes in the area, but most lead back to the main trail. It’s also a dog-friendly trail, as long as your canine companion is on a leash.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: For the best photos of Pyramid Mountain reflected in the water, make sure you take the short walk over the bridge to Pyramid Island either before or after your hike. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Jasper for a reason.

Difficult Hikes in Jasper (10km+)

For experienced hikers looking for a serious challenge, these trails offer some of the most expansive and rewarding views in the entire park. Be prepared with sturdy hiking boots, plenty of water, and bear spray.

11. Bald Hills

• Length: 15 km (9.3 miles) out & back
• Elevation Gain: 780 m (2559 ft)
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Approx. Time: 5 – 7 hours
• Trailhead: Maligne Lake parking area (furthest lot).

For views high above the treeline, nowhere is better than the summit of the Bald Hills. The trail follows a wide fire road for most of the climb, with a steep shortcut option available for those who want it. As you gain elevation, the trees thin out and the views of Maligne Lake and the surrounding mountain ranges become increasingly spectacular. The final push to the summit ridge opens up to a stunning 360-degree panorama.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: The final push to the true summit beyond the main viewpoint is a bit of a scramble, but it’s where you’ll leave 90% of the other hikers behind. The 360-degree panorama from the very top is one of the best in the Canadian Rockies.

12. Opal Hills Loop

• Length: 8.0 km (5 miles) loop
• Elevation Gain: 517 m (1696 ft)
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Approx. Time: 3 – 5 hours
• Trailhead: Maligne Lake parking area (near the boat house).

Don’t let the shorter distance fool you; the Opal Hills Loop is a steep and strenuous workout that takes you straight up. The trail climbs relentlessly through the forest before opening into a beautiful alpine meadow that is often filled with wildflowers. This hike is a great choice if you’re looking for a challenging climb with rewarding views and fewer crowds than the nearby Bald Hills trail.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: This is a steep one, so hiking poles are your best friend, especially for the descent. The real reward is the alpine meadow at the top, which is a great place to spot marmots and pikas in the summer.

13. Whistlers Mountain Summit

• Length: 12.7 km (7.9 miles) out & back
• Elevation Gain: 968 m (3175 ft)
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Approx. Time: 5 – 7 hours
• Trailhead: Upper station of the Jasper Skytram.

While the Jasper Skytram whisks you most of the way up the mountain, the hike to the true summit is a challenging adventure at high elevation. From the upper tram station, the trail continues to climb across a rocky, exposed ridge. The path can be slippery with snow even in summer. The reward is an unparalleled view over the town of Jasper, the Athabasca Valley, and countless mountain ranges stretching to the horizon.

Dave & Deb’s Tip: Don’t be fooled by the tram ride; this is a proper mountain hike. Be prepared for wind and cold temperatures at the top, even in August. The view from the summit makes you feel like you’re on top of the world.

FAQ: Jasper National Park Hikes

So, Which Trail Will You Hike First?

And those are our favourite hikes in Jasper National Park! There are dozens more to explore, but these 13 trails offer an incredible taste of what makes this corner of the Canadian Rockies so special. Whether you’re taking an easy stroll to a waterfall or tackling a challenging summit, the views are guaranteed to be worth it.

Let us know in the comments which hike you’re adding to your list!

I’ll never forget the first time we saw a grizzly bear in the wild. We were driving slowly down Maligne Lake Road in Jasper, windows down, with the scent of pine hanging in the cool mountain air. And then, there he was, a huge male grizzly, foraging for berries just metres from the road. We cut the engine and watched in absolute silence, completely in awe of his size and power.

That’s the magic of Jasper National Park, one of the most beautiful of Canada’s national parks. It’s a place where moments like that feel possible around every corner. It’s wilder, bigger, and more rugged than its southern sister, Banff. After countless road trips through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Jasper remains one of our absolute favourite places on Earth.

Most guides will give you a simple list of popular spots. We want to share the experiences that have kept us coming back for years. This is our collection of stories, insider tips, and can’t-miss adventures, designed to help you get beyond the roadside pull-offs and into the real heart of the Rockies.

Top 5 Can’t-Miss Jasper Experiences

If you’re short on time, here are the five experiences in Jasper that we believe are absolutely essential for any first-time visitor.

• Maligne Canyon Icewalk: The single most unique winter adventure in the Rockies.
• Jasper SkyTram: For the most spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding ranges.
• Wildlife Spotting: For that iconic moment with a Canadian Rockies local.
• Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island: For one of Canada’s most famous and breathtaking views.
• Athabasca Glacier Walk: A true bucket-list experience to walk on an ancient glacier.

Best Things to Do in Jasper for Wildlife Lovers

One of the main reasons we return to Jasper again and again is the incredible opportunity to see wildlife. It is, without a doubt, one of the best places in the Canadian Rockies for animal sightings. Remember that these are wild animals; always keep a safe and respectful distance, never feed them, and be aware of your surroundings. It’s not uncommon to spot wildlife like elk, deer, and even mountain goats.

Go on a Wildlife Safari (or a Self-Drive Tour)

While you can book an official wildlife tour, our favourite way to look for animals is to do our own self-drive safari. There’s a quiet thrill in heading out at dawn with a coffee in hand, driving slowly with the windows down, and scanning the trees for movement.

The best times are always early in the morning or in the hours just before dusk when the animals are most active. For the best odds, we recommend a slow drive down Maligne Lake Road or the Icefields Parkway just south of town.

Look for Bighorn Sheep at the Miette Hot Springs Road

If you want an almost guaranteed sighting of Bighorn Sheep, take a drive out toward the Miette Hot Springs. Along the side of the road, you’ll often see them licking the mineral deposits right off the rocky cliffs. It’s a fascinating sight. Just be sure to pull your car over safely and completely off the road, as they can cause a bit of a traffic jam!

Best Outdoor Adventures in Jasper

Jasper is a massive outdoor playground, and the list of potential adventures is endless. But some experiences are so spectacular they should be at the top of everyone’s list. These are our personal favourites that we think are truly unforgettable.

Hike Maligne Canyon (Summer) or Do the Icewalk (Winter)

Maligne Canyon is a must-see, but the experience is completely different depending on the season. In summer, it’s a thrilling hike across a series of bridges, with the powerful turquoise river roaring deep below you.

In winter, however, it transforms. We did the ice walk on our last winter trip, and it was one of the most incredible things we’ve ever done in the Rockies. You can book a guided tour or go on your own. You strap on ice cleats and walk right on the frozen floor of the canyon, surrounded by massive, glittering icefalls. It’s a super fun and otherworldly experience.

Ride the Jasper SkyTram

For the best possible view of the sheer scale of the surrounding mountains, you have to take a ride on the Jasper SkyTram. It climbs over 1,000 metres up Whistlers Mountain to a viewpoint that gives you a stunning 360-degree panorama of six different mountain ranges.

Our best tip is to book a spot on the first tram of the day. You’ll get the best morning light for photos and avoid the biggest crowds that arrive mid-day.

Take a Cruise to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake

You’ve probably seen the photo a thousand times; it’s one of Canada’s most iconic images. So, is the cruise to see it in person worth it? In our opinion, yes. The boat cruise itself is beautiful, with guides pointing out glaciers and historical spots along the way.

And seeing Spirit Island with your own eyes, framed by the turquoise water and massive peaks, is a moment that truly lives up to the hype.

Walk on the Athabasca Glacier

Part of the massive Columbia Icefield, the Athabasca Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in the world. You can book a tour that takes you out onto the ice in a massive Ice Explorer vehicle, allowing you to step out and walk on ice that is thousands of years old.

It’s a humbling experience to stand on such a powerful river of ice. Even on a hot summer day, the wind coming off the glacier is frigid, so be sure to bring a jacket and wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes.

Hike to Pyramid Lake and Gaze at Pyramid Mountain

Just a short drive from Jasper town, the Pyramid Lake area is one of our favourite spots for an easy, rewarding outing. The main attraction is the small wooden footbridge that leads to Pyramid Island, where you can get that perfect photo of the iconic, pyramid-shaped mountain reflected in the still water.

We love coming here in the early morning before the tour buses arrive, when the lake is like glass and you can often spot elk or deer grazing near the shore.

Feel the Power of Athabasca Falls

While not the tallest waterfall in the Rockies, Athabasca Falls is one of the most powerful. The sheer volume of water from the Athabasca River that thunders through a narrow gorge is incredible to witness.

There’s a network of safe, paved trails and viewpoints that let you get close to the action. Our tip is to follow the trail down to the lower canyon to see where the churning water opens up into the river valley, it’s a perspective most people miss.

Explore Sunwapta Falls

Located further south on the Icefields Parkway, Sunwapta Falls is another must-see stop. We love this one because the viewpoint is just a short walk from the parking lot, making it super accessible.

The classic view is of the upper falls with its small island of trees right in the middle, but be sure to take the short hike down to the lower falls for amazing views. It’s far less crowded and offers a beautiful walk along the river.

See the Sights from a Motorcycle Sidecar

For a thrilling and totally unique perspective on the park, you have to try a motorcycle tour. We did this on our last summer trip and it was an absolute blast. Bundled into the sidecar, you feel completely immersed in the landscape—the wind in your face, the rumble of the engine, and completely unobstructed, panoramic views.

Our guide took us on a two-hour trip out to Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake, sharing interesting facts along the way, and seeing those iconic sights from the open air was a completely different experience than seeing them from a car. It’s a fantastic way to feel the scale of the mountains and have a ton of fun doing it.

Brave the Columbia Icefield Skywalk

Just a short drive from the Athabasca Glacier Discovery Centre is the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, and it’s not for the faint of heart. We’ve done a few of these glass-floor viewing platforms, and this one is truly spectacular. You walk out on a walkway that extends over the Sunwapta Valley, with nothing but reinforced glass between you and a 280-metre (918-foot) drop.

The views of the glaciers and the valley below are breathtaking, and it gives you a real sense of the scale of the landscape. Our advice is to focus on the mountains on the horizon as you walk out, and don’t look down until you’re ready!

Best Relaxing Experiences in Jasper

Jasper isn’t just about adrenaline-pumping adventures. It’s also a place that invites you to slow down, breathe in the mountain air, and simply be present. These are some of our favourite ways to unwind after a long day of exploring.

Stargaze in a Dark Sky Preserve

Did you know that Jasper is the world’s second-largest Dark Sky Preserve? This means the park has made a special commitment to limiting light pollution, and the results are breathtaking. On a clear night, just drive a few minutes out of town, pull over, and look up. We’ve spent hours just staring at the Milky Way splashed across the night sky, more brilliant than we’ve ever seen it anywhere else.

Soak in the Miette Hot Springs

Tucked away at the end of a scenic road, the Miette Hot Springs are the hottest mineral springs in the Canadian Rockies. Soaking in the warm, mineral-rich water while surrounded by towering peaks is the perfect remedy for sore hiking muscles. It’s about an hour’s drive from town, but the stunning journey is part of the adventure. We think it’s well worth the trip.

Explore the Downtown Jasper

The townsite of Jasper has a laid-back, unpretentious charm that we love… Our favourite post-hike ritual is to grab a pint and a bite at the Jasper Brewing Company, the first national park brewery to open in Canada. It’s the perfect place to relax and mingle with Jasper locals and fellow travellers. Don’t forget to check out the Two Brothers Totem Pole nearby, a beautiful piece of local art.

Have a Drink at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

You don’t have to be a guest to experience the grandeur of the historic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Set on the shores of the beautiful Lac Beauvert, this sprawling property of log cabins and lodges is an attraction in itself. We love to cap off a day of hiking by heading to the Emerald Lounge, grabbing a seat on the outdoor patio, and enjoying a cocktail with a world-class view of the lake and mountains. It’s a perfect way to experience a piece of iconic Canadiana.

If you are staying at the lodge, we highly recommend taking a sunrise stroll around Lake Annette and Lake Edith. The views with the rising sun are spectacular.

Take a Jasper Food Tour

One of our favourite ways to get to know a new place is through its food scene, and a Jasper Food Tour is the perfect way to do that. We joined one on our last visit and were so impressed. It’s a small-group walking tour that takes you to four local restaurants, pairing a signature dish with a craft beer or wine at each stop. It was a great way to sample different spots and chat with the restaurant owners and Jasper locals. We discovered a couple of new favourite dishes and it gave us a great feel for the friendly, down-to-earth food culture in Jasper town.

Planning Your Trip to Jasper National Park

Now that you have an idea of all the incredible things to do, let’s cover the practical details. Here’s what you need to know to plan your visit.

How to Get to Jasper National Park

The two closest major airports to Jasper are Edmonton International Airport (YEG) and Calgary International Airport (YYC).

• From Edmonton: This is the closest and most direct route, typically a 4-hour drive.
• From Calgary: The drive is longer, about 5 hours, but it takes you along the spectacular Icefields Parkway. If you have the time, we highly recommend this route as it’s one of the most scenic drives on the planet.
• Combining Jasper and Banff: Many people (including us) combine a trip to both national parks. We highly recommend starting in Banff National Park and Lake Louise, then driving the Icefields Parkway north to Jasper. The parkway is one of the most scenic drives on the planet and an iconic Canadian road trip in itself. Give yourself a full day to make the drive, as you’ll want to stop frequently for photos and viewpoints.

Getting Around (Do You Need a Car?)

In a word, yes. To make the most of your time and have the freedom to explore, a car is essential. While the town of Jasper itself is very walkable, most of the major attractions like Maligne Lake, the Athabasca Glacier, and the various trailheads are spread out across a vast national park.

A vehicle allows you to pull over safely for wildlife, visit viewpoints on your own schedule, and truly experience the wildness of the park. You can check for the latest trail conditions and information at the Jasper Information Centre in town, or check out the Parks Canada website.

Where to Stay in Jasper National Park

Jasper doesn’t have a massive selection of hotels, so it’s important to book well in advance. For a first visit, staying in or near the main townsite is your most convenient option.

• For a Central Location: Look for hotels along Connaught Drive, the main street in town. This puts you in walking distance of all the restaurants and shops.
• For the Ultimate Splurge: The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is an iconic Canadian experience, set on a beautiful lake just outside of town.
• For a Rustic Feel: There are several cabin and lodge-style accommodations just outside the townsite that offer a quieter, more rustic mountain experience, which is great for the whole family.

Best Time to Visit Jasper National Park

There’s no bad time to visit Jasper, but the experience changes dramatically with the seasons.

• Summer (July – August): You’ll get the best weather, the longest days, and all attractions are guaranteed to be open. However, this is also peak season, so expect the biggest crowds and highest prices.
• Fall (September – October): This is our personal favourite time to visit. The crowds have thinned out, the aspen trees turn a brilliant gold, and the air is crisp and cool. Wildlife is also very active during this time.
• Winter (December – March): Jasper transforms into a magical winter wonderland. It’s the time for unique experiences like the Maligne Canyon Icewalk, snowshoeing, and skiing at Marmot Basin. It’s cold, but the snowy landscape is unforgettable.
• Spring (April – June): This is the shoulder season. You’ll find fewer crowds and better prices, but the weather can be unpredictable. Many lakes may still be frozen into early June, but it’s a great time to see bears and other wildlife emerging from hibernation.

Frequently Asked Questions About Jasper

Here are our quick answers to some of the most common questions we get about visiting Jasper.

Your Jasper Adventure Awaits

Jasper National Park is the kind of place that stays with you. It’s a truly wild and humbling landscape that rewards the adventurous spirit. Whether you’re walking on a glacier, watching a grizzly from a safe distance, or just staring up at a sky full of stars, we hope this guide has helped you plan an unforgettable trip.

If you have any more questions, drop them in the comments below!