Visiting Jasper National Park (Alberta, Canada), provides the ideal setting for observing the wildlife found in the Canadian Rockies.
If witnessing wildlife up close tops your travel wish list, know that North America offers its own version of a safari adventure! Jasper National Park is home to Grizzly and black bears, elk, beavers, caribou, wolves, moose, eagles, marmots, and additional species.
Additionally, Jasper National Park features countless other attractions: lakes with amazing reflections, hot springs, glaciers, waterfalls and more.
Although we will go into details throughout this article, these are the most essential things to do in Jasper National Park:
WHAT TO DO IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK
- Maligne Canyon: Do not miss the hike through Maligne Canyon where we find six bridges with incredible perspectives of this ravine.
- Jasper SkyTram: Take the highest aerial tram in Canada to have unprecedented views of Jasper.
- Athabasca Waterfalls: You cannot miss visiting the Athabasca waterfalls during your trip to Jasper.
- Maligne Lake: Undoubtedly, it is the premier location to have animal encounters in Jasper. Here you can find moose, bears, wolves and much more.
- Medicine Lake: This mystical lake is known to disappear periodically. A must-see attraction found in Jasper.
- Pyramid Lake: Under the Pyramid mountain, this lake amazed us for its tranquility. Do not hesitate to rent a kayak to explore it.
- Sunwapta Fall: Visiting an area of a waterfall containing an island full of pine trees is something that should be experienced in Jasper National Park.
- Beauvert Lake: This lake offers a tranquil setting in Jasper, though you need to remain alert for grizzly bears in the vicinity.
Here, you will find our Guide with the top things to do in Jasper.
Table of Contents
VISITING JASPER NATIONAL PARK – TOURISM IN JASPER
Jasper is the northernmost of the Canadian Rockies National Parks. It is located in Alberta and connected with Banff National Park via the Icefields Parkway, one of the most scenic roads in the world.
We currently possess an annual travel health plan, however when we transferred to the US we leased extended stay travel coverage.
For this reason, wildlife spreads freely across the park. Endangered species such as the Caribou can even be found here.
For those seeking to expand their knowledge regarding wildlife, one should not overlook our article on wildlife containing alisting of creatures observable in the Canadian Rockies.
- A food tour through Trastevere and Prati neighborhoods: This trip covers the area north of the Vatican known as Prati, and includes sampling meats, cheeses and the best “pizza al taglio” in Rome (mentioned below under “Devour ALL of the food”).
Don’t miss our Guide to Photographing the Milky Way
We invested four days in Jasper National Park during our 15-day trip through the Canadian Rockies. However, there are some multi-day routes that we missed and would like to hike when we next return.
HOW TO GET TO JASPER
There are different ways to access Jasper National Park, but I suggest renting a vehicle, as many places cannot be reached via public transportation.
HOW TO GET TO JASPER FROM BANFF
The Portuguese Celiac Association (Associação Portuguesa de Celíacos) provided valuable assistance during my trip planning stages as I searched Lisbon for places to eat while adhering to my dietary needs. They maintain a list of certified restaurants (available here), as well as general recommendations for visiting Portugal as someone with Celiac disease. I advise reviewing both resources. Many of the locations mentioned below hold certification from the APC.
HOW TO GET TO JASPER FROM CALGARY
The nearest airport to Jasper is located in Calgary, which is closer in proximity to Banff, so I recommend to initially travel from Calgary to Banff and then take the Icefields Parkway to Jasper.
HOW TO GET TO JASPER FROM VANCOUVER
An alternate route involves traveling directly from Vancouver, approximately an 8 hour drive. En route, you might explore Wells Gray Provincial Park.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK
Jasper is the largest park within Canada`s Rocky Mountains National Park system. However, most of its landmass is inaccessible. That’s why wildlife and nature evidently thrive to a much greater extent here than at other parks.
The landscapes spanning this region are varied – ranging from frigid glaciers in the south to balmy hot springs in the north, we passed through cascading waterfalls, placid lakes, secluded valleys, towering mountains, and abundant wildlife.
Throughout this travel guide, defining sites you must not overlook in Jasper National Park will be explored. A key focus will be on symbolic locations featuring wildlife. Naturally, highlighting the top points of interest and excursions in Jasper National Park will also be covered.
♦ GUIDE TO jasper NATIONAL PARK
To help plan your trip, we’ve divided the post into four main sections:
- The road running through Banff National Park known as the Icefields Parkway. The most scenic road in the world that we traveled along from Banff National Park, with many incredible waterfalls, glaciers, and lakes visible along the route.
- Jasper.The visitor center, restaurants, and shops surrounded by dreamy lakes and wildlife.
- Maligne Road.You will feel like exploring an animal reserve. Do not worry, they are all free and roaming in the wild.
- Thermal springs near snowy peaks and wildlife. Relax in warm waters surrounded by mountain scenery and fauna.
We will also discuss our places of residence(mostly campsites) in Jasper National Park as well as a list of the best hotels available in Jasper.
If exploring an area inhabited by bears, consistently carry a bear protection spray with you. The initial action to take prior to an encounter is to remain calm and prepare to utilize the bear spray if necessary.
ICEFIELDS PARKWAY
The Icefields Parkway is viewed as the most scenic road globally. As we referenced in the post on Banff National Park, waterfalls, deep blue lakes, and glaciers can be found along this route. It is also full of wildlife watching potential.
This 142-mile-long road links Banff National Park to Jasper National Park. Even though it sounds like a major distance, points of interest are well handed out along the road. With mesmerizing views along the way, you won’t get tired of driving here.
In this section, our focus will only be on the stretch of Icefields Parkway associated with Jasper National Park.
ATHABASCA GLACIER
The Athabasca Glacier is among the most accessible glaciers worldwide. Spanning 4 square miles, this ice tongue thousands of years old still exists today.
From the Columbia Icefields Parkway, we can only perceive a small portion of the glacier, despite it being relatively close. You can visit this must-see glacier in one of two ways:
The initial suggestion is to park just below the ice ledge and hike up a little to examine the starting point of the glacier more closely. It is not advised to walk on the glacier since there are cracks and sinkholes concealed by thin ice layers that have taken some tourists in times past.
Another choice is to hire a tour at the Columbia Icefields Discovery Center to visit the glacier using Ice Explorers. These 6-wheeled SUVs are designed to maneuver around on the glacier. Additionally, the guides will take you to an area where it is safe to walk on.
We would also gain access to the Glacier Panorama, a glass platform suspended on the edge of a precipice with impressive visions.
Tours operate from mid-April to mid-October. The price is 100 CAD or 90 CAD if purchased ahead of time by 48 hours, and the tour takes around three hours to experience both attractions.
SUNWAPTA FALLS
The Sunwapta Falls are without question the most photogenic waterfalls we have ever seen. Also, they are very accessible since the path that takes you there is only 2000 feet away from the Icefields Parkway.
This small body of descending water is formed from the waters of the Athabasca Glacier, measuring only 62 feet in height. However, its primary attraction is the small island located just before the fall with a breathtaking vista of snowcapped mountains in the background. For me, it is one of the essential sights one must see in Jasper.
Many photographers take pictures, especially during the night time, since there is no light contamination in the area.
Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge is the only place where you can stay nearby. We will discuss this hotel later in the lodging section.
ATHABASCA FALLS
Visiting the Athabasca Falls is another one of the principal attractions in Jasper National Park. As we continue along the Icefields Parkway, we will arrive at the beginning of the trail that takes us to these waterfalls.
The primary interest of this place is the water eroded limestone rock formations. Along the path, we can observe the waterfall from different angles. Several trails go to both sides of the Athabasca River.
Throughout the year, even late in summer, this waterfall maintains considerable water flow at 78 feet tall, consistently supplying water. It`s a necessity for any travelling along the Icefield Parkway.
VALLEY OF THE FIVE LAKES
The Valley containing Five Lakes is located at the conclusion of the Icefields Parkway, in very close proximity to the entrance of Jasper.
For us, it was Jasper’s best hiking route. Each of the lakes in this valley has a diverse hue, from jade to emerald. It is a perfect outing to embark on a sunny day, as we will appreciate much more of its bright colors.
The loop trail spans 2.5 miles, taking approximately two hours to complete. Despite ups and downs along the route, the terrain remains quite gentle. Additionally, use closed-toe shoes and strong mosquito repellent if visiting in summer.
The fifth and final lake was our favorite, with its small wooden dock along the shoreline.
DO NOT MISS OUR GUIDE ABOUTTHE ICEFIELDS PARKWAY
JASPER
Jasper offers all that is needed. Eateries, lodging, cafes, bars, parlors for frozen treats, and even stores for clothing and mountain equipment.
However, the most vital resource is the Jasper National Park Information Centre, where visitors can obtain maps and guides needed for hikes and excursions, including the Day Hiking Guide in Jasper National Park. The guide can also be found attached here.
Before discussing the best things to do in Jasper, we would like to recommend two places we loved here.
The principal is the Scoops & Loops ice cream parlor, simply facing the data focus. We had the best ice cream of our entire excursion, and the best part is the names of the flavors which are ideal for the occasion, like Moose Tracks and Rocky Mountain Raspberry.
The second spot I aim to suggest is the Bear’s Paw Bakery, an artisanal bakery that became a ritual every morning we invested in Jasper National Park. The scent of sugar and cinnamon overwhelms as soon as you stroll through the entrance, and it is filled with diverse natural alternatives which make it even more problematic to choose.
COTTONWOOD SLOUGH
Cottonwood Slough is an area near Jasper where several hiking routes commence. You can leave your vehicle in the parking area labeled as P4 in this guide. Here, we will find numerous wetlands – and with good luck, it is possible to see moose, bears, deer, and even beavers at dusk.
During one evening visit, in addition to glimpsing these elusive animals (Can you spot the beaver in the photograph above?), we also sighted a black bear near the shoreline. It quickly departed as we approached the lake.
We think this is a perfect place to enjoy the sunset, although it is more than advisable to bring a good mosquito repellent (and bear spray too).
Be sure to check our guide to avoiding bear attacks in Canada.
PATRICIA LAKE
Along the same roadway, the Pyramid Park Path, we can find the initial sizable lake in Jasper, Patricia Lake. This body of water has a shoreline similar to a beach, where canoe rentals are provided, making it an especially well-liked destination during the summer months.
We can locate the Patricia Lake Bungalows surrounding the lake where a trail connects them with the Cottonwood Slough.
One of the peculiarities of this lake is the remnants of the Habakuk Project, where the British examined ice-based composite materials to manufacture unsinkable aircraft during the Second World War. To visit these remains, you must request for a special diving permit.
PYRAMID LAKE
Continuing along the similar route, we will soon arrive at Pyramid Lake. This lake is found at the base of the Pyramid Mountain which is a point of interest that must be seen in Jasper.
This lake is also renowned for Pyramid Island, a tiny island within the lake which can be attained by crossing a wooden bridge. There are benches and a picnic area once you get there.
Similar to Patricia Lake, this body of water is perfect for canoeing or spending a day at the shoreline. Also along its coast is the Pyramid Lake Lodge.
In this region, it is fairly typical to find moose, bears, and various wildlife at dawn and dusk. Pyramid Lake is a must-see destination in Jasper National Park.
BEAUVERT LAKE
Moving from the western to eastern side of Jasper, we will find a series of lakes that were once a single large lake covering the entire Athabasca Valley at the end of the ice age. The first of the so-called Kettle Lakes is a beautifully bright green lake named Beauvert Lake.
Numerous paths surrounded yet all closed in May during our visit due to sensitive Elk Calving Season. Then females strike danger from constant watch against preying Grizzly bears.
ANNETTE LAKE & EDITH LAKE
Anette Lake and Edith Lake also belong to the Kettle Lakes collection. These lakes receive their water through an extensive underground spring network.
They are positioned in close proximity to each other with a picnic area and parking lot in between. Both exhibit a bluish green hue, ideal for investing a day canoeing or kayaking. Additionally, Annette Lake has a beach that is quite popular during the summer months.
By the beach, we find the surrounded Ochre Lake, a lagoon full of quick sand. Going into this lagoon is prohibited .
MALIGNE ROAD
The Maligne Road goes from Jasper to Maligne Lake. It is the only way to get to this lake, and across its 26 miles, we can find gorges, lakes, and plenty of wildlife.
If you like animals, it is quite likely that you will travel this route more than once. To be precise, we followed it every day we spent in Jasper (I would say more than once a day). The best time to do it is at sunrise and sunset.
Note that fuel stations and shops are absent here, so come prepared with everything needed, like food, water, and gas.
MALIGNE CANYON
Maligne Canyon is at the beginning of the roadway. This ravine is one of the most thrilling attractions along Maligne Road and within Jasper National Park. The entire exploration is 2.4 miles, and six bridges with magnificent views of the canyon will be crossed.
There are two options – either leave your vehicle at the tea house adjacent to the initial bridge span or park at the lot by the sixth bridge crossing.
Since the first five bridges were situated relatively close together, numerous people would traverse between the tea house and those five bridges on foot before taking a vehicle to travel to the last one further away.
Also, the most exciting part of the canyon is the area around the first bridges, since the canyon is much narrower here.
MEDICINE LAKE
Medicine Lake is perhaps the most mystifying lake in Canada as this body of water disappears completely during some months of the year.
The Maligne River flows from Maligne Lake to Medicine Lake. At the bottom of Medicine Lake is an underground drainage arrangement in the limestone, where the water disappears and then later reappears in the Maligne Canyon.
During spring, the melting of glaciers results in the lake receiving more water than draining, so we will find the lake full at this time period.
However, in autumn and winter, the amount of water it receives is lower than its drainage rate, which then transforms the lake it into a marsh.
This special seasonal occurrence led the indigenous tribes to believe that this lake possessed magical healing qualities, which is why they named it “Medicine Lake”.
Due to a fire that happened in 2015, the entire area surrounding the lake was devastated. It would break your heart to see thousands of rows of pine trees that were completely burned out. It was an ecological disaster since many species call the area around the lake home.
MALIGNE LAKE
Undoubtedly, Maligne Lake is the most incredible lake that must be seen in Jasper National Park. The photos do not do justice to the intense blue hue that glows during summer – it is an experience to behold with one`s own eyes.
The northern end of the lake can be accessed by vehicle, and the remaining 14 miles can be explored by boat or canoe.
One of the most fascinating points to visit is the Spirit Island, which is 8 miles away. This tiny island attracts many visiting photographers. However, we did not have the chance to see it mainly due to time constraints.
Our boat excursion here was quite expensive (CAD 74 or CAD 67 if you prepay) and not as enjoyable as we had anticipated.
Our plan is to explore it by canoe, which would necessitate a minimum of three days.
The lake has three remote camping areas for those who are willing to travel by canoe or kayak. You can book them from here.
Additionally, the excellent thing about exploring Maligne Lake by canoe is having the ability to go beyond Spirit Island, where travelers are few and wildlife is bountiful.
If I were asked what is the best lodging in Monument Valley, without hesitation I would say it is The View Campground (not The View Hotel). This campsite, with space for only 30 tents, has the finest views of Monument Valley. Additionally, there is nothing like sleeping in a tent in such a place to genuinely feel like an authentic Navajo Indian.
MOOSE LAKE
In our attempt to see moose, we decided to embark on a short route beginning from Maligne Lake which is known as Moose Lake Loop.
This area is said to be frequented by moose, particularly toward the route`s end, where they go to the lake to drink and cool off.
We did not see any moose, but we liked the trail. It was also the sole one we could hike in this area since the rest of the trails that begin from Maligne Lake were full of ice and snow.
We spent an hour navigating the 1.25 mile trail on foot, thankfully later seeing moose along Maligne Road.
MIETTE HOT SPRINGS
Traveling along Yellowhead Highway 16 from Jasper brings you to one of the park’s prime attractions. The Miette Hot Springs, located in the uniquely situated Fiddle Valley.
To arrive there, one must pass through the small town of Pocahontas via a remote dirt path. We were fortunate to observe several black bears in this area.
The facilities were small in size yet crowded with people despite being early in the season. However, the views from there were not very scenic. The cost was quite low at just 6 Canadian dollars per person and it was open from May to October.
It is also thrilling to visit where the initial pools were, about a half a mile away, and also to see the original spring where the water flows at 129oF. Once the water reaches the pools, it is cooled to a comfortable 104oF.
where to stay IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK – campgrounds and hotels
There are many lodging alternatives in Jasper National Park. You can find anything from lavish resorts to cheap hostels, through camping in the core of nature and woody cabins. Jasper is quite distant compare with other National Parks in the Canadian Rockies. However, reserving beforehand is advised.
To help you, we have written an article on accommodation options in Jasperin which we also provide everything needed to know about camping in Jasper, one of the options we most recommend.
Bear in mind that many hotels and most Jasper campsites close in winter, so be sure to check opening dates.
If you’re looking for excellent lodging options in Jasper National Park, these are some of our favorite selections:
- Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, the top hotel in Jasper
- Pyramid Lake Resort, an accommodation in Jasper known for its beautiful views
- Mount Robson Inn, a well-situated hotel in Jasper, Canada
- Maligne Lodge, a prime lodging choice in Jasper
- This accommodation in Jasper known as the Jasper Inn & Suites is well-suited for families traveling together.,
- Sunwapta Cataracts Lodge, one of the finest hotels in Jasper
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OTHER TIPS TO VISIT YOHO NATIONAL PARK
We provided some helpful suggestions in the Canadian Rockies Mountain post, and if you have not read it yet, I strongly recommend doing so. In that article, we discussed visas, currency, park entrance fees, and the items you need to bring, etc.
This section will focus on helpful suggestions for Jasper.
BEST TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR JASPER
As there are so many wild animals present, purchasing at minimum an affordable travel insurance that covers all activities engaged in is essential.
BEst TIME TO TRAVEL TO JASPER NATIONAL PARK
The best time to visit Jasper is from May to October. However, if you travel in the spring, temperatures are considerably warmer here than in Banff National Park or Yoho National Park. I suggest starting in Jasper first when taking in these three parks together in one trip.
The lakes here thaw before the other parks. Also, fewer visitors at this time expanded our chances to see wildlife.
HOW MUCH TIME IS NECESSARY TO VISIT JASPER NATIONAL PARK
We spent three days here, and truthfully we would have stayed a few more days, especially so we could kayak Maligne Lake. If you travel for 15 days to explore the Canadian Rockies, this is the timeframe you can plan for this park.
In my opinion, it takes at minimum a week to tour all the thrilling places in Jasper, like a canoe trip to Spirit Island.
WHERE TO TAKE THE 5 BEST PHOTOS OF JASPER NATIONAL PARK
The five best representations of Jasper of our choice are the following:
- Sunwapta Falls
- Sunset in Maligne Lake
- Watching the sunrise at Five Lakes Valley
- Beauvert Lake shoreline
- Pyramid island from the wooden bridge of Pyramid Lake
JASPER NATIONAL PARK MAP
To complete this guide of activities in Jasper, you can find a map below displaying all the notable places.
If you want to use this map of Jasper National Park on your mobile device offline:
- Download the Mapswithme app on your mobile device.
- Access and save the subsequent KML file in your Dropbox.
- Access the file via Dropbox from your mobile device, prompting filter selection to open in Maps.me for viewing.
And…all set! You have everything needed to start your trip to Jasper National Park
