Jasper National Park
Breathtaking mountains and glacial lakes!
Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is like stepping into a living postcard. It’s wild, majestic, and absolutely brimming with adventure. Whether you’re there to hike in the summer or to ski in the winter, Jasper offers something for everyone.
Fast Facts
Everything you need to know about Jasper National Park
Location
Jasper National Park is four hours northwest of Calgary, or four hours due west of Edmonton. The town of Jasper is right off the highway and has hotels, restaurants, shopping and more.
Top Summer Attractions
Be sure to check out the iconic Maligne Lake (and Spirit Island), as well as high alpine hiking, and the Jasper Park Lodge
Top Winter Attractions
Skiing at Marmot Basin is a classic. You'll also be able to take in Dark Skies for star gazing.
Difficulty
Easy - Most of main attractions in Jasper National Park are accessible by car and near the highway.
Hidden Jem
The Icefields Parkway! This is an incredible road with views of (and access to) towering mountains and glaciers.
History & Stats
Founded in 1907 as Jasper Forest Park it became a National Park in 1930. Jasper covers 11,000 km2 and sees 2.5M visitors each year
About Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park wasn’t always the famous outdoor haven it is today. Back in 1907, it started as Jasper Forest Park, part of Canada’s growing effort to protect its wild spaces. It officially became a national park in 1930. The park gets its name from Jasper House, a trading post that served as a hub for fur traders in the 1800s. It’s a nod to the rugged, pioneering spirit of the early explorers who passed through these valleys.
Today, it’s the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, covering over 11,000 square kilometers of breathtaking mountains, glaciers, rivers, and forests. It’s also part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its natural beauty and significance.
Jasper in the Summer
Lakes, Peaks, and Adventure Everywhere
When the snow melts and the wildflowers bloom, Jasper is a summer paradise. The options for outdoor activities are endless, but let’s hit the highlights.
Maligne Lake and Spirit Island
Maligne Lake is the kind of place that makes you stop and say, “Is this real life?” With turquoise waters surrounded by jagged peaks, it’s no wonder this spot is one of the most photographed places in the Rockies. A boat cruise to Spirit Island is a must—it’s iconic for a reason. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a kayak and explore at your own pace. Trust me, there’s nothing like gliding across that glassy water with only the sound of your paddle breaking the surface.
Hiking Heaven
Jasper is a hiker’s dream, with trails for every level. If you’re short on time, try the Valley of the Five Lakes. It’s a relatively easy loop where you’ll pass—you guessed it—five stunningly clear lakes, each a slightly different shade of green or blue. For something more challenging, hike up Sulphur Skyline. The panoramic views at the top are worth every ounce of effort (and every drop of sweat).
Athabasca Falls
Want to feel the raw power of nature? Athabasca Falls is a showstopper. The waterfall isn’t the tallest, but the sheer force of the water cascading through a narrow gorge is mesmerizing. There are several viewpoints, so take your time and soak it all in.
Jasper in the Winter
If you think Jasper is spectacular in the summer, wait until you see it in the winter. When the snow blankets the Rockies, the park turns into a serene, magical wonderland.
Skiing and Snowboarding at Marmot Basin
Marmot Basin is a hidden gem for skiers and snowboarders. It’s not as crowded as some of the bigger resorts, which means shorter lift lines and more time on the slopes. The views from the top are nothing short of epic. And with runs ranging from beginner-friendly to expert, everyone can join in on the fun.
Icefields Parkway in Winter
Driving the Icefields Parkway in the winter is like being in a snow globe. The route takes you past frozen waterfalls, icefields, and snow-covered peaks. Make a stop at Athabasca Glacier and, if conditions are right, consider a guided tour onto the ice.
Wildlife Spotting on Snowshoes or Skis
Winter is also prime time for spotting wildlife. Grab a pair of snowshoes and hit the trails—elk, deer, and even wolves leave their tracks in the snow. You might even catch a glimpse of a moose or mountain goat if you’re lucky.
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Wildlife in Jasper
Everything from bears to beavers.
Speaking of wildlife, Jasper is teeming with it. The park is home to everything from bears to beavers. Keep an eye out for elk—especially in the fall during the rutting season when the males are bugling (a sound you’ll never forget). Black bears are fairly common, and if you’re really fortunate, you might spot a grizzly from a safe distance. And let’s not forget the smaller critters—pikas and marmots love hanging out on the rocky slopes.
Jasper is also part of one of the largest remaining habitats for woodland caribou, though these shy creatures are harder to spot. If you’re a bird enthusiast, you’ll be delighted to know that over 260 species call Jasper home at various times of the year.