Why Visit Jasper?
*Please note that as of 2024, a large portion of Jasper National Park and the town of Jasper remain closed due to the damage inflicted by the recent wildfires. This saddens us; however, this post is our way of paying homage to a uniquely breathtaking part of the world we were fortunate enough to visit prior to the devastation.
In the northern part of Alberta’s Rocky Mountains, Jasper is a lesser-known, yet equally stunning, counterpart to Banff. Jasper National Park, Canada’s largest national park in the Rockies, offers a pristine wilderness experience filled with rugged mountain peaks, vast forests, crystal-clear lakes, and abundant wildlife. At over 11,000 square kilometers, Jasper National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most breathtaking regions in the Canadian Rockies. With its remote, rugged beauty, the park provides an unparalleled wilderness experience.
Athabasca Falls & Sunwapta Falls
Jasper is home to some impressive waterfalls, and two of the most famous are Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls.
Athabasca Falls is located just off the Icefields Parkway, and is one of the most powerful waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies. Although not the tallest, its sheer force and volume are awe-inspiring. A network of trails and viewing platforms around the falls allows visitors to witness its power from multiple angles.
Sunwapta Falls is a little further south on the Icefields Parkway, and is another stunning natural wonder. The falls are fed by the Athabasca Glacier, and their name means “turbulent water” in the local Cree language, which is fitting for this wild and dramatic waterfall.
Maligne Lake & Spirit Island
Maligne Lake is one of the crown jewels of Jasper National Park. This stunning glacier-fed lake, known for its vibrant turquoise waters, is surrounded by towering mountain peaks and offers visitors a tranquil and picturesque setting for exploration.
Paddling across the calm waters of Maligne Lake is one of the most serene and scenic experiences in Jasper. Canoes and kayaks can be rented at the lake, allowing visitors to explore its hidden coves and islands.
One of the most famous sights in Jasper, Spirit Island is a small, iconic landform located in the middle of Maligne Lake. Visitors can take a boat cruise to this picturesque spot, where they’ll be treated to jaw-dropping views of the lake’s surrounding peaks and the unique beauty of the island itself.
Scenic Drives
For those who prefer to experience Jasper’s beauty from the comfort of their vehicle, several scenic drives in the park offer breathtaking views.
The Icefields Parkway, which connects Jasper to Banff, is one of the most iconic drives in the world, passing through glaciers, waterfalls, and towering mountain peaks. Other scenic routes include the Maligne Lake Road and Pyramid Lake Road, both offering opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Jasper Sky Tram
For breathtaking views of the entire Jasper region, a ride on the Jasper SkyTram is an unforgettable experience. The tramway takes visitors up to the summit of Whistlers Mountain, where they are greeted by panoramic views of the surrounding mountain ranges, the Athabasca River, and the town of Jasper itself.
Once at the top, visitors can take the short hike to the summit of Whistlers Mountain, which provides even more expansive views. The SkyTram is operational from late spring through early fall, making it a popular attraction for visitors during the warmer months.
Athabasca Glacier & Columbia Icefield
One of the most unique experiences in Jasper is visiting the Athabasca Glacier, part of the vast Columbia Icefield. The glacier is easily accessible from the Icefields Parkway, and several activities allow visitors to get up close to this ancient ice formation.
Hop aboard a specially designed Ice Explorer vehicle and ventures onto the glacier itself. This guided tour provides fascinating insights into the geology and history of the glacier while allowing you to walk on the ice and take in the grandeur of the surrounding peaks.
For those seeking a thrill, the Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a glass-floored observation platform that extends out over the Sunwapta Valley. The views from the Skywalk are incredible, offering a bird’s-eye view of the valley below and the glaciers above.
Wildlife Watching
Jasper is renowned for its abundant wildlife, making it a prime destination for animal lovers and photographers. The park is home to a variety of animals, including elk, black bears, grizzly bears, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, wolves, and even the elusive lynx. One of the best ways to see wildlife in Jasper is by taking a scenic drive at dawn or dusk when animals are most active.
For a more immersive wildlife experience, guided wildlife tours are available, led by knowledgeable guides who can offer insights into the animals’ habits and habitats.
Winter Adventures
While Jasper is a fantastic destination in the summer, it truly comes alive in the winter, transforming into a snow-covered paradise perfect for winter sports.
Marmot Basin is Jasper’s premier ski resort, offering a variety of terrain for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. The resort is known for its uncrowded slopes and stunning alpine views.
Pyramid Lake freezes over in the winter, providing a beautiful natural rink for ice skating. Visitors can also rent fat bikes and explore the snow-covered trails around the lake.
Winter visitors can take advantage of Jasper’s vast network of snowshoeing and cross-country skiing trails. These activities offer a peaceful way to explore the snow-covered wilderness.
Explore the Town of Jasper
The town of Jasper itself is a charming mountain community with a relaxed vibe. Unlike the bustling resort atmosphere of Banff, Jasper maintains a quieter, more laid-back feel, making it an ideal place to unwind after a day of adventure. The town has a selection of restaurants, cafés, and boutique shops, as well as art galleries and cultural exhibits that highlight the area’s Indigenous heritage and history.
