Things to Do in Jasper National Park

Did you know that Jasper National Park is the northernmost of the Rocky Mountains and the largest of Canada’s mountain parks? Founded in 1907, it has a vast expanse of mountain scenery with glaciers, lakes, waterfalls, canyons, and hot springs.

In this article, we offer you a summary of some of the best things to do in Jasper, Alberta, together with your family and friends, and also a list of essential tips that will help you during your stay. Check it out now!

Photo by Sterling Lanier on Unsplash

 

Must-Do Activities in Jasper National Park, Alberta

Paddle on Maligne Lake by Canoe

One of the most exciting moments during your visit to Jasper National Park will be paddling Maligne Lake in a canoe. There are several rental options, such as Maligne Lake Boat House, which offers canoes, kayaks, and paddle boats; or Wild Current Outfitters, which provides quality equipment and discounts if you rent for multiple days.

Rentals typically cost around $60 per hour and about $120 for the entire day, and packages include paddles, life jackets, waterproof bags, and whistles. We recommend always checking weather forecasts before heading out. If you plan to camp overnight on the lake’s shores, reserve your spot through the Parks Canada website.

Photo by Sergey Pesterev on Unsplash

 

Ride Up Jasper SkyTram to Whistlers Mountain

Enjoy panoramic views of the city from the Cable Car is one of the things to do in Jasper, Alberta. Feel the world at your feet as you ascend 2,263 meters in approximately seven minutes. From the top, take in the breathtaking views in detail, and on clear days, you may catch a glimpse of Mount Robson in British Columbia.

From the top station, you can do a full hike from the base to the top of Whistlers Mountain of approximately 6.8 km, which can take anywhere from 3 to 6 hours. Check weather forecasts before your visit and make sure the skies will be clear for the best views. Plan your activities because tickets tend to sell out quickly during peak seasons.

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Watch Wildlife at Pyramid Lake

Pyramid Lake is in Jasper National Park in Alberta and is known for common sightings of bald eagles, herons, and other waterfowl. You are also very likely to see land mammals such as mule deer or even bears as you make your way to the lake. The best times to observe wildlife are early morning or late in the day when the animals are usually most active.

Be sure to keep an adequate distance from the animals to avoid disturbing them. Don’t forget to bring binoculars and a camera to capture the best moments during your tour. Consider joining a local guided tour to learn about rare species you haven’t seen before.

Photo by James Wheeler

 

Stargaze at Jasper Planetarium

Stargazing at the Planetarium is another great thing to do in Jasper, Alberta, and a unique experience not to be missed. Enjoy an interactive show at the Theatre with exclusive audience participation and live space experts. Shows include stories about constellations, indigenous beliefs about the stars, and images of the Northern Lights.

Observe celestial bodies up close using the largest telescopes in the Canadian Rockies. If you’re interested in capturing breathtaking landscapes by starlight or moonlight, join one of the night photography tours at the Jasper Dark Sky Preserve.

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Drive the Scenic Icefields Parkway

Drive the Icefields Parkway and experience one of the world’s most spectacular road trips connecting Banff National Park to Jasper National Park. The 232-kilometer route offers breathtaking views of glaciers, turquoise lakes, mountain peaks, waterfalls, and canyons.

Start at Lake Louise, a beautiful lake surrounded by mountains, and enjoy canoeing or a walk along its shores. Visit the overlooks that offer panoramic views of glacier-covered peaks, such as the Wilcox Pass Trail near the Athabasca Glacier. End your trip at Jasper Townsite, where you can explore Maligne Canyon or enjoy stargazing at the Jasper Planetarium.

Photo by Patrik Jensen on Unsplash

 

Climb Rocks at Hidden Valley

Rock climbing in Hidden Valley, inside Joshua Tree National Park, is one of the best things to do in Jasper, Alberta. Her,e you’ll find impressive and popular rock formations such as The Sentinel and Sports Challenge Rock. It is suitable for climbers of all levels, with routes suitable for beginners and experts.

Get detailed information about the routes at the park’s visitor centers to facilitate your orientation. Make sure you have the necessary skills before attempting to climb; many formations require specific descents.

 

Raft the Rapids on the Athabasca River

Athabasca River is in Jasper National Park, Alberta, and offers an exciting rafting experience. Several companies provide access to services, such as Jasper Raft Tours Ltd, which offers tours with experienced guides, or Maligne Adventures, which provides a tour of the Athabasca Falls Canyon with panoramic views of the valley.

Most tours last between 1.5 and 2 hours on the water and include safety briefings. Companies usually provide full equipment, such as life jackets, waterproof suits, and helmets if necessary. Check weather conditions before the trip; some tours may be canceled due to bad weather or low water levels.

 

Picnic with Family at Old Fort Point

Plan a picnic with your family at Old Fort Point. This delightful combination of beautiful scenery and outdoor adventure is one of the activities to do in Jasper, Alberta. From here, you can take in the breathtaking views of the Athabasca River, Beauvert Lake, Jasper Park Lodge, and the surrounding mountains, such as Mount Edith Cavell and Mount Pyramid.

Keep an eye out for wildlife. You may spot bighorn sheep on the summit or bears in the valley below. Pack your picnic basket with your favorite foods or order from Fitzhugh’s Fine Foods at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge to ensure the food is fresh.

 

Catch the Northern Lights in Jasper

Catching the Northern Lights in Jasper National Park is a thrilling experience not to be missed. The best time to see this natural phenomenon in Jasper is from September to April, when the nights are longer and darker. They are usually visible at dusk, between 11:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m., although they sometimes appear earlier during intense nights.

If it coincides with your visit, attend the annual Dark Sky Festival in October for stargazing sessions and educational workshops. Consider guided photo tours if you’re unfamiliar with capturing nightscapes.

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Photo by Vincent Guth on Unsplash

 

View Waterfalls at Sunwapta Falls

Visiting Sunwapta Falls is one of the must-do things to do in Jasper, Alberta. The Upper Falls offers breathtaking views from a bridge over a deep canyon carved by the turbulent current of the Sunwapta River. While the Lower Falls consist of three successive falls over the Sunwapta River.

Take a short hike for an hour and a half to enjoy the surroundings. Be sure to follow the marked trails to avoid accidents. There are tables available near the parking lot where you can enjoy a picnic while watching the falls. Bring your camera to capture breathtaking moments, especially during the spring months when there is more flow due to snowmelt.

Photo by James Wheeler

 

Expert Tips for Visitors in Jasper National Park

1. Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during the high season. Make sure you have a valid pass for Jasper National Park, which tends to be busy at certain times.

2. Bring adequate layers of clothing because the weather can change quickly in the mountains. Include a raincoat or jacket in your luggage for cooler temperatures.

3. Do not feed the wild animals you see during your tour, as this can be harmful to them. Keep the environment clean and pick up any garbage you generate.

4. Join a guided tour to get a more in-depth experience, especially if you are interested in geology or natural history.

5. Don’t miss some attractions such as Maligne Lake, where you can go canoeing or kayaking in its crystal clear waters; Athabasca Falls, an impressive waterfall; or Jasper SkyTram, ideal for observing natural landscapes.

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