6 Things to Do in Jasper National Park
Best Jasper Attractions & Activities
Canada’s largest Rocky Mountain park has an untamed quality to it. Discover it for yourself thanks to our travel guide breaking down what to see and do in and around Jasper National Park.
1. Road Trip!
Even the drive to Jasper is unforgettable! Take a road trip from Edmonton, keeping your eyes peeled and cameras ready for the wildlife that are often spotted on the way to Jasper. Alternately, you could also head up the Icefields Parkway from Banff–one of the best and most scenic drives in the world. Expect incredible scenery as you drive from Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, including Peyto Lake and the Columbia Icefield, the largest of its kind in North America. Book a spot on the Ice Explorer tour to see the Athabasca Glacier up-close, or experience the breathtaking view of the Columbia Icefield Skywalk. The one-kilometre, glass-bottomed walkway is situated 280 m (918 ft) above the Sunwapta Valley.
2. Maligne Lake and Canyon
In Jasper, take a boat tour of Maligne Lake, the second-largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. The tour makes a stop at Spirit Island, one of the most photographed places on the planet. Maligne Canyon is the deepest canyon in the Canadian Rockies, but it can be explored by hikers of all levels. There are six bridges that cross different points along the canyon; the second bridge is the highest point of the canyon, and the third bridge offers the best view of a roaring waterfall. Fuel up afterwards at the Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen.
3. Jasper Planetarium
Jasper National Park is not only Canada’s largest Rocky Mountain Park–it’s the world’s second-largest dark sky preserve (the largest is Wood Buffalo National Park, also found in Alberta). Visit the Jasper Planetarium to learn all about Indigenous constellation stories, the aurora borealis, and take part in hands-on programming – like a Dinner and Telescope Experience at Pyramid
4. Cavell Meadows
The Canadian Rockies in Alberta are stunning, but Mount Edith Cavell has the distinction of being the highest peak in the Athabasca Valley. A hike to Cavell Meadows means unforgettable, close-up views of the mountain’s north face. The Cavell Meadows Trail is among the most popular hikes in the area and includes stunning panoramic views and lush wildflowers (they’re most colourful in late June and early August). All in all, it’s 8.5 km out and back and well worth the trek.
5. Beaver Lake and Summit Lake
While the long hike to Jacques Lake is a popular choice for ambitious hikers around here, you’ll still be treated by lush scenery and quiet wilderness even if you don’t opt for the overnight trek. In fact, the first half of the trail will lead you to Beaver and Summit lakes, two of Jasper’s hidden gems tucked between mountains.
6. Jasper Skytram
See Jasper from the best seat in the house. The Jasper SkyTram will take you up 2,263 metres (7,424 feet), with unbeatable views of the town of Jasper and the surrounding mountain scenery. You’ll even have a trained operator along for the ride, who will share their knowledge of the area’s cultural heritage, geology and wildlife. At the top, spend some time strolling along the boardwalk and exploring the surrounding hiking trails. The Summit Trail will take you to the top of Whistlers Mountain, where 360-degree mountain views await. Before you head down, savour the views and refuel at the Summit Restaurant.
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