The Ultimate Guide to Jasper National Park — Best Things To Do, See & Enjoy!

Jasper National Park is filled with majestic mountain ranges, crystal-clear blue glacial lakes, towering forests, and abundant wildlife. Each year, over 2 million visitors come to experience the beauty and wonder that fills Jasper National Park, which is one of the national treasures of Canada. This national park has something for everyone to enjoy, including mountain climbing, water activities, stargazing, and hiking.

How To Get to Jasper National Park

Where Is Jasper National Park?

Jasper National Park is located in the Canadian Rockies in the small town of Jasper. This fantastic park is a few hours from the major cities of Edmonton and Calgary. This national park stretches over 4,300 square miles of majestic mountains, wilderness, forests, rivers, and alpine meadows in Alberta, Canada.

Nearest Airports to Jasper National Park

There are 2 international airports in Edmonton and Calgary that make great options for those who plan to fly in for their Jasper National Park vacation. Both airport options are several hours from the park, but the journey is one filled with beautiful sights and landscapes, so it is well worth the time.

Calgary International Airport (YYC)

Calgary International Airport is an airport in Calgary, about 4.5 hours from Jasper National Park. This airport is an excellent option for those planning to fly into the Jasper area.

YYC offers nonstop service to dozens of locations around the U.S., Canada, and many other countries around the world. This airport services major airlines such as Air Canada, Alaska, American, British Airways, United, and WestJet. 

This airport has an amazing rental car center that offers services both on-site and off-site with companies such as Avis, Budget, Enterprise, and Hertz. These rental car kiosks are staffed with employees that are eager to help you navigate the final leg of your journey to Jasper National Park.

For ease and convenience, choose Calgary International Airport when planning your flights to and from Jasper National Park. They go above and beyond to serve travelers with unbeatable customer service and hospitality. 

Edmonton International Airport (YEG)

Edmonton International Airport is the closest major airport to Jasper National Park. It takes about 3.5 hours to travel from this airport to the park entrance. 

YEG offers nonstop flights to over 50 destinations around the world. This airline services 15 major airlines, including Air Canada, Alaska, United, and WestJet. If you are looking for the closest airport option for a trip to Jasper National Park, look no further than Edmonton International Airport. 

Driving to Jasper National Park

There are several different ways to arrive at Jasper National Park, depending on which area you are traveling from.

Visitors coming from the Edmonton area will use the Yellowhead Highway (AB-16). From Calgary, Highway 93, also known as the Icefields Parkway, will be utilized. Finally, those coming from Vancouver will use the TransCanada Highway BC-1 route, then access the Yellowhead South Highway.

Bottom Line:

No matter which area you come from, you will be able to take in mesmerizing sights of the mountains, landscapes, and wildlife along the way.

Taking the Train to Jasper National Park

A national park trip by train is a fantastic way to experience all the fun without the stress of driving. There are 2 train companies that service the Jasper National Park Area.

VIA Rail Canada and Rocky Mountaineer are ready to serve you and your travel group so that you can sit back and enjoy the scenery along the journey to the park. Both of these railway options offer luxury services, meals, and Wi-Fi so you can travel in superior comfort and style. Each service will bring you right to the station in the town of Jasper. 

Taking the Bus to Jasper National Park

Sundog Tours offers bus service to the town of Jasper. Choosing to arrive by bus allows visitors to relax on the journey to the park in a comfortable seat while taking in the majestic mountain views along the way. Taking the bus is another excellent way to let someone else take over the stress of driving to Jasper National Park. 

Getting Around Jasper National Park

There are several ways to get around Jasper National Park, but the best way to get from place to place is by personal vehicle. Having your own vehicle is the most convenient, cost-efficient way of exploring Jasper National Park. Other options for getting around include a taxi or one of the private shuttle services offered in the town of Jasper.

What To See and Do in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is a massive park with a never-ending list of activities and sights. No matter what type of adventure you seek for your national park vacation, you can find exactly what you are looking for at this national park. Let’s explore some of the most exciting opportunities and sights at Jasper National Park and see which ones make it to your must-experience list. 

Climbing and Canyoning

Jasper National Park is an incredible place for climbing and canyoning, as the park encompasses a massive portion of the Canadian Rockies. Whether you are new to climbing or an old pro, you will find exciting opportunities for climbing and canyoning throughout this national park.

Some of the best places for climbing and canyoning include Ogre Canyon, Pleckaitis Canyon, Two Valley Canyon, and Morro Canyon. If you prefer company when climbing, there are opportunities for private guided mountain and ice climbing, as well as opportunities to join groups for climbing adventures. Climbing and canyoning are thrilling activities that offer unbeatable views of the gorgeous sights at Jasper National Park.

Hiking and Biking

Hiking and biking are some of the most popular activities at Jasper National Park. No matter what your skill or experience level, there is a trail that is calling your name. From short day hikes to multiday hiking treks to biking trails, there’s something for every visitor.

Some of the most popular trails at Jasper National Park include the Opal Hills Loop Trail, the Cavell Meadows Hike, the Pyramid Overlook Loop, and the Maligne Canyon Hike.

Bottom Line:

Hiking and biking are some of the best ways to discover the natural beauty and wonder of this gorgeous Canadian national park.

Stargazing

Jasper National Park is a dark sky preserve that has an incredibly dark night sky. This dark sky showcases the stars, moon, and planets.

The park offers stargazing tours and events throughout the year where visitors can learn about the celestial objects of this dark sky, view them through top-quality telescopes, and capture brilliant pictures. The park also features a planetarium for visitors who want to learn more about Jasper’s dark skies, the stars, and other astronomy-related topics. 

Tours and Sightseeing

There are countless opportunities to participate in tours at Jasper National Park. No matter your preference of tour, Jasper has it all. Some of the tours available at this national park include touring by boat, helicopter, motorcycle, and train. There are food tours, wildlife tours, and photo tours available, which means you can find a tour that is personalized to meet your needs and interests.

This park is filled to the brim with beauty, from the crystal-clear lakes to the roaring waterfalls, and from the wildlife roaming the fields to the majestic mountains. Touring Jasper National Park will give you breathtaking views and opportunities to capture stunning photographs and memories that will last a lifetime. 

Water Activities

There is a variety of opportunities to enjoy water activities in Jasper National Park. The park allows visitors to swim, kayak, canoe, fish, whitewater raft, and scuba dive in the waters within the park boundaries.

There are several canoe tours and float tours offered in the park where visitors can experience the beauty and wonder of the park and take in the spectacular views from the water. Popular places for water activities include Lac Beauvert, the Fraser River, and Pyramid Lake. Experiencing Jasper National Park on the pristine water is an amazing way to create unforgettable park memories. 

Wildlife Viewing

Jasper National Park is teeming with wildlife throughout the year. Some of the animals that visitors love to see include bears, wolves, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, caribou, moose, and elk. There are several tours and hikes offered by the park where visitors can see these animals in their favorite areas.

Even though the animals of the park can be seen year-round, the best months for viewing wildlife are in spring and fall. The best times to see the animals that make their home in the park are in the early morning or right at dusk.

Winter Activities

Jasper National Park is a popular location for winter activities. Throughout the snowy months, visitors have countless opportunities for cold-weather adventures like snowshoeing, skiing, snowboarding, dog sledding, and ice climbing.

Enjoying Jasper National Park during the snowy months of the year offers unbelievable opportunities for thrilling activities and taking in the spectacular views of the Rockies from different vantage points throughout the park. 

Best Times To Visit Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park always has adventure and excitement, no matter when you plan a visit. If there are particular events or activities you would like to participate in, there may be better times than others to plan your visit.

Best Time To Visit Jasper National Park in Winter

Winter is an exciting time in Jasper National Park. Many visitors love to visit during the winter and participate in the abundant skiing and snowshoeing opportunities. The best winter month to visit Jasper National Park is in February.

There is a lot of snowy fun to be had in February, and there are also exciting events that take place during this month, like the Jasper Beer and Barley Summit and Devour! The Canadian Rockies Food Film Festival.

Best Time To Visit Jasper National Park To Avoid the Crowds

A national park vacation without crowds is the ultimate way to experience the park. If you are hoping to avoid crowds when visiting Jasper National Park, the best month to visit is in December. The cold weather and holiday season tend to deter visitors during this month, making it a great month to explore the park at your own pace with fewer crowds. 

Best Time To Visit Jasper National Park in Spring

The best time to visit Jasper National Park is in the spring months, from March to May. For a beautiful and exciting visit, plan your trip for April. The temperatures are starting to warm up, the wildlife is beginning to emerge from their winter slumber, the snow melting makes the waterfalls incredibly photogenic, and there are many events that appeal to tourists.

Some of the popular spring events include the Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon and the Kokanee Freeride, which both take place in April.

Cheapest Time To Visit Jasper National Park

The cheapest time to visit Jasper National Park is during its slowest season. December is the month when the fewest guests come to the park due to cold temperatures and holiday travel. Visitors who are willing to visit during these cold months will also find better pricing for flights and hotels.

Bottom Line:

Visiting Jasper National Park in the month of December is a great way to have an incredible experience and go easy on your budget. 

Annual Events in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park offers programs on a regular schedule throughout the year, but the park offers a wide variety of events on an annual basis as well. From races to dark sky events and from food events to film festivals, there’s a major event that takes place almost every month of the year.

Jasper Dark Sky Festival

Each year in October, the Jasper Dark Sky Festival takes place in Jasper National Park. This event welcomes astronomers of every level to gather and observe the celestial objects in one of the world’s largest dark sky preserves.

The park hosts many events throughout the park and offers a variety of workshops and activities to learn about astronomy. Not only will you get an incredible view of the stars and moon, but you can also see constellations, planets, the Milky Way, and stunning auroras. 

Christmas in November

One of the most magical months to visit Jasper National Park is in November. Each year, the park hosts a food and wine festival called Christmas in November. This event is held at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and provides opportunities for visitors to enjoy exquisite food and wine in a winter wonderland among hundreds of Christmas trees.

Christmas in November features meals and tastings of local dishes by renowned chefs. There are sessions where visitors can hear from chefs and authors, book signings, VIP kitchen parties, photo ops, fireside chats, and formal dinners with dancing. For an incredible weekend with amazing food, excellent company, and a stunning setting, be sure to visit Jasper National Park for Christmas in November. 

Jasper Beer and Barley Summit

The Jasper Beer and Barley Summit takes place in Jasper National Park each February. This event is held in the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and offers incredible opportunities to appreciate beers and spirits, as well as times to attend seminars and tastings of chefs from around the world.

The Jasper Beer and Barley Summit also offers time for wilderness adventure and winter activities on the snow and ice. Don’t be fooled by the name of this event. While beer and other spirits are available to sample and appreciate, there are also countless opportunities to learn, relax, and explore. 

Devour! The Canadian Rockies Food Film Festival

Food, wine, and film enthusiasts should visit Jasper National Park in March for the Devour! The Canadian Rockies Food Film Festival event. This weekend event is held at The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and is a wonderful time to enjoy incredible meals by renowned chefs from around the world.

There are cooking demonstrations, stargazing opportunities, short films, and workshops for participants to enjoy. The food, drinks, and entertainment offered during this festival creates memories that will last a lifetime. 

Jasper Nordic Fest

Jasper Nordic Fest takes place each March. This weekend event features skate skiing, classic skiing, trail running, and snowshoe races. This racing event has been taking place in Jasper National Park for 3 years and is a thrilling event for winter sports enthusiasts to participate in.

Where To Stay In and Near Jasper National Park

Whether you decide to stay in or near Jasper National Park, there’s a wide variety of accommodations to choose from. From rustic cabins to developed campgrounds to luxury resorts, there is something that appeals to every traveler. Let’s explore some of the most popular places to lodge in and near Jasper National Park.

Inside the Park

Jasper National Park has an abundance of lodging available within its boundaries. No matter what you are looking for, you can find exactly what you seek in Jasper National Park. Check out some of the top places in the park, and keep in mind there are many more than what you see below. 

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a luxury resort nestled in the mountains and on the shores of the emerald-green Lac Beauvert. This resort is comprised of cedar chalets and luxury cabins that are all connected by winding paths that provide amazing views of the Canadian Rockies.

This lodge has 442 guest rooms and cabins that are ideal for family vacations, couples retreats, or traveling with friends. The property features an incredible golf course, a health club and spa, and a heated outdoor pool and hot tub. The resort is in a phenomenal location for outdoor adventures like cross-country skiing, downhill skiing, and skate skiing. There’s something for everyone at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.

Hot Tip:

Staying at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge allows guests to appreciate the mesmerizing views of the mountains and Lac Beauvert.

Miette Mountain Cabins

Miette Mountain Cabins is the perfect option for visitors who are looking for a lodging option for families, a romantic getaway, or a weekend away with friends. These cabins have a variety of styles, so you can find exactly what you are looking for.

Miette Mountain Cabins is located on the eastern end of Jasper National Park near the remains of an old mining town and Miette Hot Springs. These cabins feature fireplaces and private decks, a heated outdoor pool and hot tub, barbecue grills, a playground and game room, mountain bikes, and an on-site gift shop. Miette Mountain Cabins is a perfect escape from the busy daily grind and a great place to retreat, soak in the views, and reconnect with friends and family.

Pyramid Lake Resort

Pyramid Lake Resort is located right on the shore of the lake and has an incredible location that is near some of the best Canadian beaches and recreational opportunities. 

There are several room styles available at Pyramid Lake Resort, including king rooms, queen suites, guest rooms, and elegant rooms. The rooms offer sofa beds, workspaces, and kitchenettes, as well as stunning panoramic views. Breakfast is served in the on-site restaurant Dale, and there is also free access to the on-site spa and fitness center. 

With Pyramid Lake Resort conveniently located within Jasper National Park, its incredible list of amenities, and its incredible location for other activities, this resort would make an ideal place to set up a home away from home during your national park vacation. 

Whistlers Campground

Whistlers Campground is one of the many campgrounds at Jasper National Park. This campground is open from early May to early October and has 781 sites available.

Visitors who choose to stay at Whistlers Campground can choose from a variety of sites, including full hookups with fire pits and unserviced and walk-in sites. Amenities at this campground include a registration center, new washroom and shower facilities, picnic tables, and stunning views. This beautiful campground allows visitors to experience the wonder and natural beauty of Jasper National Park. 

Towns Near Jasper National Park

For visitors who wish to stay somewhere other than within the park’s boundaries, there aren’t many options available. Most visitors choose to stay within the park’s boundaries, but there is an option just down the road. Take a look at the closest town near Jasper National Park to see if it works for you during your national park vacation. 

Hinton, Canada

Hinton is a lovely town about 20 minutes from Jasper National Park. This town has lots of options for lodging, dining, and recreation. There are many hotels and motels in Hinton, along with bed and breakfasts, Airbnbs, and campgrounds. No matter which type of lodging you seek, you can find the ideal solution in Hinton. 

Should hunger strike when staying in Hinton, there are several restaurants to choose from. Most of the restaurants in this town are locally owned and offer unique culinary creations that will thrill your tastebuds. From pizza parlors to steakhouses and from authentic cultural restaurants to breweries, everyone can find something they crave in Hinton. 

A wonderful location for outdoor recreation, there’s also a recreation center that offers skating, basketball courts, swimming, and bouldering. There are also several parks in Hinton for those who enjoy spending time outside with friends and family. This charming town is a wonderful place to make a base camp during your national park vacation.  

Where To Eat in Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park has an abundance of restaurants within its boundaries should hunger strike during your visit. Since there is an entire town in the park, looking for a bite to eat is never a problem. Take a look at some of the highly-ranked restaurants in Jasper National Park. 

Fiddle River Restaurant

Fiddle River Restaurant is located right in the heart of the park. Its second-story location offers incredible panoramic views of the mountains and scenery with culinary creations that will blow you away. 

This restaurant offers a menu filled with freshly-caught seafood and wild game dishes, as well as pasta, crisp and colorful salads, and options for vegetarians. Some of the favorite dishes at Fiddle River Restaurant include bourbon-glazed pork belly and coconut prawns, Earl Gray-smoked candied salmon, and fish cakes. Top off your meal with a fine wine or signature cocktail from the drink menu. 

For a culinary experience, you won’t forget to plan to dine at Fiddle River Restaurant while visiting Jasper National Park. 

Harvest Food and Drink

Harvest Food and Drink is a 5-star restaurant located in the town of Jasper in Jasper National Park. This restaurant is open for brunch and dinner throughout the week and offers a happy hour daily.

Its menu features charcuterie boards, soups, artisan breads and spreads, crisp salads, and a wide variety of dishes created with locally-sourced produce and game. Customers rave about the Alberta lamb meatballs, the goat cheese bruschetta, and the wild boar belly and scallops. There’s something for every palate, including dishes designed for those with dietary restrictions.

Bottom Line:

For a unique meal like no other, pencil in Harvest Food and Drink during your Jasper National Park vacation. Your tastebuds will surely thank you for treating them to a heavenly meal.

Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen

Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen is located in Jasper National Park at the trailhead of Maligne Canyon. This restaurant serves lunch and dinner specialties that feature locally-sourced meat and ingredients with a gorgeous view of the Maligne Valley.

The menu at Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen features smokehouse specialties, including smoked brisket, chicken, and pork, juicy burgers, and handmade sides. Popular dishes include the Wilderness Platter, the Wilderness Kitchen Burger, and the smoked pulled pork. 

Visitors can dine inside the rustic dining room by the warm hearth or outside on the patio at fire tables with the gorgeous waterfall and landscapes surrounding you. Locals and tourists all love Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen. Be sure to check this magnificent restaurant out during your Jasper National Park Vacation. 

The Raven Bistro

The Raven Bistro is located in Jasper National Park and is open daily for brunch, lunch, dinner, and drinks. 

This restaurant features incredible meals made with local produce, freshly-caught seafood, and high-quality meats. Some favorite dishes on the menu include the coconut kaffir lime seafood pot, the French country chicken pie, and the old-fashioned bison short ribs. The menu offers something for every diner, including vegans, vegetarians, and those with gluten sensitivities. 

With its convenience to many park attractions and superior customer service, The Raven Bistro is a must-try restaurant for your vacation to Jasper National Park.

Jasper National Park Facts

1. A New National Park

Jasper National Park was first established as Jasper Forest Reserve in 1907. In 1930, the reserve was designated as a national park, and the name became Jasper National Park. This park was Canada’s fifth national park.

2. Past Purpose

The town of Jasper, located within Jasper National Park, was originally a railway town. This area of Canada was a trading post that was established and managed by Hudson’s Bay Company and North West Company. 

3. World Heritage Site

In 1984, UNESCO designated Jasper National Park as a World Heritage Site. This prestigious honor means that the site has a natural or cultural significance on a global level. Since this park is comprised of lakes, glaciers, waterfalls, fossils, canyons, and other natural landforms, it is no wonder UNESCO deemed this park a World Heritage Site. 

4. Jasper SkyTram

The Jasper SkyTram is the longest guided aerial tramway. This tram offers panoramic views from an elevation of nearly a mile and a half. 

5. Dark Sky Preserve

Jasper National Park was designated a dark sky preserve in 2011. There are over 17 dark sky preserves in Canada, and Jasper National Park holds some nice titles. This park is the second-largest dark sky preserve in the world. It is also the largest accessible dark sky preserve. Viewing the night sky at Jasper National Park is an activity that will create a permanent memory. 

6. A Massive Park

Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. The park stretches over 4,200 square miles of mountains, glaciers, canyons, forests, and lakes. 

7. A Land of Lakes

Jasper National Park encompasses lots of land, but this national park also features an impressive number of lakes. There are 1,762 lakes within the boundaries of Jasper National Park. Out of all these lakes, only 107 are named. Some of the most popular lakes to explore in this national park include Pyramid Lake, Maligne Lake, and Medicine Lake. 

8. Glaciers Galore

There are several glaciers in Jasper National Park, but the most well-known and most visited glacier in the park is the Athabasca Glacier. This glacier reaches 2,700 meters in height, and visitors can walk on it, ride in an Ice Explorer, take photos, and fill their water bottles with fresh glacial water. Viewing Athabasca Glacier is an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience. 

9. An Abundance of Animals

A wide variety of animals make their home in the park. Some of the most noteworthy animals of the park include bighorn sheep, bears, foxes, mountain goats, wolves, moose, elk, and deer. There are also many types of birds in the park and unique animals like pikas and marmots. These animals can be seen year-round. Feeding the animals is prohibited, but guests are able to observe them in their natural habitat throughout their trip. 

10. What’s in a Name?

Jasper National Park was named after one of the trading post’s managers and voyagers named Jasper Haws. 

11. Highest Peak

Mount Columbia is the highest peak in Jasper National Park. This peak is the highest peak in Alberta and the second-highest in the Canadian Rockies Mountain range. 

12. Historic Sites

Jasper National Park has a great number of historic buildings and sites. Some of these historic buildings include The Jasper Park Information Center, Maligne Lake Chalet, the former Canadian National Railway Station, the Imperial Bank of Canada, and the Jasper Firehall. Some of these buildings were built as early as 1914, while others were built in the 1920s and 1930s. These historic buildings give a glimpse of what the Jasper National Park area looked like over a hundred years ago.

13. Miette Hot Springs

Jasper National Park is home to the hottest springs in the Canadian Rockies. The Miette Hot Springs offer park visitors a place to relax and soak while taking in spectacular views of the Sulphur Skyline as your body is restored and rejuvenated after all your park adventures. 

Final Thoughts

Jasper National Park is alive with adventure and exciting sights. From over 600 miles of hiking trails to climbing tall peaks and from white water rafting down a rushing river to enjoying stunning night sky performances, there’s no shortage of excitement. Book your Jasper National Park trip today and discover what brings in over 2 million visitors to this Canadian park each year.