Jasper, located in the Canadian Rockies, attracts fewer visitors than its neighboring town of Banff, though it offers easy access to natural beauty. The downtown area of Jasper is small and less developed compared to Banff, yet travelling a short distance outside leads one into wilderness where wildlife encounters are possible.
Jasper National Park is home to over 53 mammalian species, including wolves, moose, elk, cougars, and grizzly bears. We enjoyed Jasper greatly due to the abundance of natural beauty and incredible hiking trails we found just outside of town.
You must make it out to Maligne Lake at sunrise if possible – we even saw a pair of moose (mother and calf) along the lake as the sun rose!
There are a few things worth considering regarding where to stay in Jasper based on how much driving one is willing to do and whether being surrounded by nature or in the downtown region near restaurants and bars is preferred.
Locating lodging outside of Downtown Jasper means having the serenity of a mountain or lakeside retreat, but travelers will need to drive into Downtown Jasper if wanting to sample a restaurant or head to a bar.
No matter your preferences or budget, you’ll find suitable lodging in Jasper.
This guide to where to stay in Jasper National Park will assist you in finding the perfect accommodation, depending on the type of vacation you’re seeking.
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Where to Stay in Jasper: A Complete Guide to the Best Hotels, Lodges, and B&B’s
Jasper is both the name of the small town, and also the beautiful national park which attracts all kinds of travelers with its stunning scenery. Getting out amongst nature should be at the top of your to-do list in Jasper, no matter what activity that involves.
Several outdoor activities as well as other things to do while visiting Jasper are listed.
- Aquatic activities – The clear lakes and rivers in Jasper provide the perfect setting to immerse yourself in nature while drifting along the turquoise waters. The national park offers endless chances to canoe, kayak, raft, stand up paddleboard, or fish.
- Mountain biking – Between May and October, the weather makes for excellent mountain biking conditions. Trails of varying difficulty spanning hundreds of miles allow all visitors to explore the outdoors on two wheels.
- Learning about stars at the planetarium – While stargazing from your hotel owing to minimal light pollution, the planetarium hosts talks, question sessions and telescope viewing to educate about the night sky.
- Sampling locally brewed beer – Try beers brewed on-site and learn the brewing process through tours or samplings at the brewpub and eatery.Gluten-free ciders were also available during our visit.
- Jasper SkyTram – This gondola lifts visitors effortlessly to Whistler Mountain’s views in seven minutes, with a guide providing information en route. Topside platforms, trails and restaurants reward those seeking panoramas with low exertion.
On our trip, we stayed in this cozy Airbnb near Downtown Jasper. It’s small and it doesn’t have a full kitchen, but it’s affordable. Which is what we cared about at the time.
- Recommended Mid-Range Options:Villamas Perhentian Resort – BuBu Villa – Tuna Bay Island Resort – Alunan Resort
The Most Central Place to Stay: Downtown Jasper
For those seeking to be at the center of all the activity – bars, eateries, shops, and more – Downtown Jasper makes for the best selection. You`ll have whatever you require for your trip basically right on your doorstep, and accessing the mountains simply requires a brief drive in any direction.
Why Stay In Downtown Jasper?
The downtown area of Jasper is considered the ideal location for those seeking convenience as it offers numerous dining establishments, drinking venues, shops and other services in close proximity.
One of the ideal approaches to see the stunning Canadian Rockies is by means of train, and both VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer stop at the train station in Downtown Jasper. Car rental places are available if you want to pick up a vehicle so you can explore Jasper National Park and all the hiking paths.
There are plenty of great accommodation options in the town of Jasper; hostels, B&Bs, lodges, boutique hotels, and apartments. Even though there are numerous restaurants around, many hotels will offer rooms with kitchen facilities if you prefer to prepare some of your meals.
Jasper features everything one could possibly require during their visit. Numerous supermarkets, grocery stores, and delis allow purchasing food for preparation in the hotel room. Takeout choices are also available for grabbing a bite on the way back from an active day hiking, cycling, or kayaking.
Click here to find the ideal place to stay in the town of Jasper
The Best Hotels In Downtown Jasper
- Crimson Hotel – Best boutique-style hotel: The Crimson Hotel provides 99 rooms divided into hotel rooms, suites and self-catering studios. There is an indoor swimming pool, hot tub and gym on site along with an informal restaurant. Since it is situated right in Downtown Jasper, there are many dining choices within a brief walk. The hotel also runs a shuttle service to nearby attractions. In order to protect the local area, The Crimson Hotel uses environmentally-friendly toiletries and desires to share Jasper National Park`s beauty with visitors from around the corner and across the world for years ahead.
- Jasper Inn and Suites – Best rooms with kitchen facilities: The Jasper Inn and Suites is one of the top hotels in Jasper for traveling families, along with their pets. There are one and two-bedroom suites providing ample space for everyone to have some quiet alone time to reflect on the day`s activities. They all contain kitchenettes enabling you to quickly fix breakfast or a picnic lunch to take on your adventures. Jasper Inn and Suites offers free onsite parking, along with an indoor pool, steam room and sauna to relax tired bodies after hiking all day.
- Whistler’s Inn – Best mid-range hotel:Whistler’s Inn is ideally located in the center of Downtown Jasper, near all the restaurants and shops. If traveling across Canada by train, it is right across the street from the Jasper train station. Standard rooms and a selection of suite types are offered, some accommodating up to six people. The hotel boasts a steam room, rooftop hot tub, as well as two onsite restaurants. There are even two gift shops on site should you have insufficient time for souvenir shopping.
- Marmot Lodge – Best value hotel:This small hotel is situated just a 15 minute walk from Downtown Jasper center. Standard and deluxe rooms are offered, along with apartments accommodating up to six people with a full kitchen. Similar to most Jasper hotels, there is a sauna and hot tub, plus an indoor pool an hot tub for guests. The onsite restaurant is a steakhouse and there is a cozy lounge bar featuring a fireplace.
Rustic Mountain Getaways: The Best Places to Stay Outside of Downtown Jasper
Remaining outside of the main strip in Jasper will provide a more rustic experience. You’ll quickly find yourself in the woods as you drive outside of Jasper in basically any direction.
Why Stay Outside of Downtown Jasper?
While Downtown Jasper lacks a bustling atmosphere, many guests opt to lodge further out for more peace and quiet. The Jasper accommodations below are where to stay if you wish to spot wildlife from your balcony. They regularly host hotel nature walks and have nearby hiking trails for exploring without driving.
Visitors will have an assortment of lodging options available. Some accommodations are still within easy walking distance or a brief drive from downtown Jasper and provide a serene woodland retreat atmosphere. Alternative selections are deep within the mountains, nearly an hour’s travel from town and allow for a genuine isolated escape.
When choosing where to rest, it is crucial to take into account the distance from town. Will it be inconvenient to drive 45 minutes to town for an evening meal? If you want to peruse the shops or pick up some groceries for a picnic, is it bothersome to have to get in the car?
You may decide that you don’t mind driving for the odd night out in Downtown Jasper, but you`re probably going to want to choose a place to stay with cooking facilities so you can prepare your own meals. Usually, these resorts will have an on-site restaurant, but you might want to have some options for dinner. Especially cheaper options.
Best Resort Escapes Near the Town of Jasper
- Pyramid Lake Resort: (4 miles / 6 km from Downtown Jasper).The resort located by Pyramid Lake is considered one of the top places to stay in Jasper for those seeking stunning lake perspectives. Accommodations include rooms with adjoining balconies, views of the lake, or fireplaces. While only a brief 10-minute drive from Downtown Jasper, visitors can enjoy seclusion surrounded by nature. Being the sole hotel on Pyramid Lake allows private access to the water. Amenities involve a barbecue area, picnic spot, outdoor hot tub, and gym. An on-site restaurant with a view of the lake serves regionally-grown products.
- Tekarra Lodge: (Just over 1 mile / 2 km from Downtown Jasper). Situated a brief fifteen-minute walk from Downtown Jasper, Tekarra Lodge provides a more serene wilderness feel. Near some top hiking paths, bike rental allows exploring the area. Activities involve live music, outdoor fires with treats, and talks on the region. Cabins include kitchenettes and fireplaces for comfort. The hotel focuses on sustainability without television or limited wireless internet.
- Overlander Mountain Lodge: (32 miles / 50 km from Downtown Jasper).Situated in the Rocky Mountains bordering Jasper National Park, the Overlander Mountain Lodge provides rooms, cabins, and chalet accommodations based on group size. A 40-minute drive from Downtown Jasper, an on-site restaurant features gourmet cuisine alongside a craft brewery. Be sure to opt for a room with mountain views to make the most of the scenery.
Best Cabins and Bungalows Outside of Jasper
If you desire an even more rustic experience, there are some great cabins and bungalows outside of Jasper that would serve as an ideal home base for exploring the region.
- Pocahontas Lodge – Family mountain escape: (27 miles / 43 km from Downtown Jasper). The Pocahontas Lodge is a fantastic place for families to stay in cabins around Jasper. They offer a variety of one and two-bedroom cabins equipped with kitchens, some including amenities such as decks or fireplaces. In the summer months guests can take a dip in the outdoor heated pool to cool off and the outdoor hot tub is accessible year-round. Located 30 minutes from downtown Jasper, the lodge provides easy access to nearby attractions. Nearby is the site of the former town of Pocahontas where a trail describes the history of coal mining. Additionally, Miette Hot Springs and hiking trails are just minutes away.
- Pine Lodges – Riverfront cabins:(2.5 miles / 4 km from Downtown Jasper).Situated directly on the Athabasca River banks, the Pine Lodges provide magnificent water views and chances to see local wildlife. Cabins can sleep up to six people, well-suited for larger families or groups visiting Jasper. All lodges feature fireplaces and heated floors, and most include kitchen areas. It`s a brief walk or quick drive into downtown Jasper with its abundant dining selections. Pine Lodges hosts wildlife presentations and BBQs as well as walking trails and riverview benches. TVs are absent from the cabins and rooms, encouraging relaxation in nature with a book near the river.
- Jasper Cottages – Cozy mountain escape: (2.5 miles / 4 km from Downtown Jasper). Built from aromatic cedarwood, these cabins feature large windows maximizing scenic surroundings. Even though downtown Jasper is nearby, the on-site Elk Village Restaurant provides breakfast and dinner. Kitchens are present in all suites and cabins, and family-friendly rooms are available. Complimentary local papers and talks from local guides educate on Jasper National Park wildlife. Accommodating staff suggests walking paths or cafes but can arrange activities like horse rides, boats, fishing, or trips to nearby hot springs.
Camping in Jasper National Park
Camping is an inexpensive and engaging way to experience the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. You can spot local wildlife up close without significant costs. While free camping is prohibited in national parks, several campgrounds are available to choose from. It is best to plan ahead as sites fill up quickly especially in spring and summer. Most areas have regulations to preserve the environment and ensure safety, particularly regarding food storage to avoid attracting bears.
Some of the most popular campsites in Jasper are:
All three options allow for camping in campervans or tents depending on preferences. There are some first-come sites in Jasper National Park but obtaining space can be difficult, especially during peak periods.
Here’s an excellent guide to camping in Jasper if that’s the direction you wish to go.
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