National park in Alberta, Canada
Photo: Aude, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Jasper National Park is in the Alberta Rockies region of Alberta, Canada. It has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park is the largest of Canada's Rocky Mountain Parks, spanning 10,878 km² (4200 square miles) of broad valleys, rugged mountains, glaciers, forests, alpine meadows and wild rivers along the eastern slopes of the Rockies in western Alberta. There are more than 1200 km (660 miles) of hiking trails (both overnight and day trips), and a number of spectacular mountain drives.
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Take the Jasper Tramway half way up the mountain. From there it is a relatively short but very steep walk to the peak. On a clear day there are some superb views of the mountains ranges of the area and back into the valley below. May people get a false sense of security in the summer walking from the cable-car but be aware the weather can change quickly and you can find yourself in clouds or a small whirlwind.
Regular boat trips to see the wonder of a lake with water two different colours in different parts. Spirit Island, made famous by a photography competition, is in the middle of Maligne Lake. The only way to see the island is to take the boat cruise (1.5 hours round trip). Below the car park and gift shop area it can be crowded with visitors in the summer, just south past the buildings is a raised view point providing an excellent view of the lake. A little walk along the northern shore passed the boat house takes you to a trail with fewer people. It follows the lake shore for a while before heading inland and looping back to the car park. It provides a chance to experience the local flora and fauna as well as see a glacial kettle.
Closed until further notice (as of 2026) Parks Canada is assessing conditions and what is needed to safely reopen the area. You can view the Maligne Canyon area from the Maligne Overlook, which is along Maligne Lake Road.
Not strictly speaking a lake but the point where water backups from the Maligne River before disappearing underground through sink holes. There is no river running out of the lake, the depth depending on the inflow rate from ice melt. A pull-off at western end of the lake provides a spectacular view of the valley and hills.
A 1.5-km hike along a broad slightly climbing trail through bush and woodland brings you to a beautifully clear lake teaming with fish between the Colin and Queen Elizabeth Ranges. For the more intrepid continue along the Jaques Lake Trail South of Boundary Trail. Be aware that although you will not see many people along this trail, there is a good chance of meeting bears.
An impressive waterfall. The Athabasca River thunders through a narrow gorge where the walls have been smoothed and potholes are created by the sheer force of the rushing water carrying sand and rock. There are parking and toilet facilities. Paved trail and picnic sites are available.
Chance of seeing mountain goats at the side of the road
Small waterfall but worth a brief visit. Only a short walk from the car park
Picturesque waterfall that is right on the side of the road.
One of the largest and most accessible glaciers in the Rockies.
A place to relax after a day of hiking, the hottest mineral springs in the Rockies flow from the mountain at 54ºC. The water is cooled to a comfortable 40ºC as it enters the pools. There are two hot pools and two cool pools, a café, a souvenir shop, a picnic ground and interpretive exhibits. Suits, towels and lockers are available for rent. It is open May to mid-October, and located between Jasper and Hinton.
Basic cafeteria.
Restaurant and cafeteria options.
This small rustic hostel is a favourite stop for cyclists between Jasper and Banff. Located adjacent the gentle waters of the Sunwapta River, the location is spectacular! Sleeping is in two dorms, nestled either side of the small kitchen and semi-outside common room. There is no running water and no electricity. Full kitchen facilities and refrigerator with propane gas. Toilets are outside. In summer (May to Oct) a manager lives on-site. Closed in winter. Expect snow any time of year here.
Full-service hotel outside of Jasper Township. Has a world-class golf course on site, and a world-class restaurant. Expect to pay world-class prices.
Quality lodges, restaurant.
Reservable.
Can accommodate most sizes of motorhomes and trailers. This is the only campground open in winter. Summer: reservable. Winter: first come, first served.
Closed due to the 2024 wildfires.
formerly Pocahontas
Can accommodate motorhomes and trailers under 27 feet long. Reservable.
Snaring River Overflow
Can accommodate most sizes of motorhomes and trailers. First come, first served.
Snaring River
Can accommodate motorhomes and trailers under 27 feet long. First come, first served.
Mount Kerkeslin
Can accommodate motorhomes and trailers under 27 feet long. First come, first served.
Can accommodate motorhomes and trailers under 27 feet long. First come, first served.
Jonas Creek
First come, first served.
Columbia Ice Field
RV and trailers only. First come, first served.
Columbia Ice Field
Tents only. First come, first served.
Can accommodate motorhomes and trailers under 27 feet long. First come, first served.
By train
By plane
The closest International Airports are in Edmonton (YEG), 350 km east of the park (390 km from Jasper townsite) and Calgary (YYC) 350 km southeast of the park (430 km from Jasper townsite).
Car is the only way to really cover the distances involved, although you do see the odd intrepid cyclist. The only fuel stations in the park are in Jasper town.
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Whitecourt · Regional · YZU
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