Sometimes overlooked in favor of its neighbor to the south, Banff National Park, Jasper National Park is a magnificent destination in its own right. A bit more rugged than Banff, it attracts a younger, more athletic crowd. Jasper is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, spanning about 11,000 square kilometers (4,200 square miles). Outdoor recreation is the name of the game here, and Jasper’s popularity with hikers, bikers, and other active travelers is immediately evident upon entering town.
Unlike Banff, a trip to Jasper is less about shopping at upscale stores and staying in luxury hotels, and more about immersing oneself in the beauty of the outdoors. Jasper has a more laid-back, down-to-earth vibe, though it still offers a variety of restaurants, nightspots, shops, and other amenities to cater to tourists after a day of skiing down the mountain, fishing for trout, or tackling whitewater rapids.
Many visitors to the Canadian Rockies combine trips to both Banff and Jasper, which are located about 145 miles apart. The drive between them takes approximately 5 hours along the stunning Icefields Parkway. When the weather permits, this drive is an unforgettable experience.
Active Pursuits in Jasper
Every year, around two million visitors head to Jasper National Park, mostly to take advantage of the many recreational opportunities the park offers. As part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jasper provides a wealth of outdoor activities. The town of Jasper is filled with outfitters eager to rent equipment for any sport or activity you wish to try, so there’s no need to bring your own unless you prefer. Below is a partial list of some of the most popular pursuits for visitors:
- Skiing – During the winter, skiing is king at Jasper. However, Jasper’s ski area, Ski Marmot, is often overlooked in favor of Banff’s mountains. But those who take the time to explore Marmot will discover that, although small, it is well-maintained and offers plenty of challenges for all skill levels. There are 52 runs and 7 lifts, and minimal lines even during busy months.
- Golf – While Jasper only has one golf course, located at the Jasper Park Lodge, it is frequently ranked as one of the best courses in Alberta and among the top courses in western Canada. Though challenging, it’s worth a try even for novice golfers.
- Fishing – Jasper is home to numerous beautiful lakes ideal for fishing. Patricia Lake and Pyramid Lake are especially known for trout fishing and are located near the national park. Maligne Lake, about 40 kilometers southeast of town, is the largest of Jasper’s lakes, and several outfitters offer guided fishing trips that include lunch and snacks.
- Hiking – Jasper National Park is renowned for having some of the best backcountry hikes in the Rockies, suitable for overnight hikes. These trails provide trekkers with spectacular views of western Canada’s most breathtaking scenery. It’s often advisable to take these challenging hikes with an experienced guide, especially to stay aware of potential wildlife encounters. For those not looking for multi-day hikes, there are also day hikes that vary from easy to strenuous. In winter, ice walks through locations like Maligne Canyon are incredible, but these should always be done with a guide.
- Whitewater Rafting – While Jasper’s rivers may not offer the wildest rapids in the area, they still provide an exciting run for all skill levels. The Athabasca River is ideal for novice rafters, with mostly Class II and III rapids, while the Maligne River offers Class III whitewater for a bit more adventure. Many outfitters provide rafting trips, but reservations are recommended during peak seasons.
- Trail Rides – Horseback riding enthusiasts will enjoy Jasper’s stunning equestrian trails, which cater to riders of all skill levels. You can choose from short excursions or multi-day trail rides into the park’s beautiful backcountry.
- Sleigh Rides – In winter, the same stables that offer horseback rides also offer romantic sleigh rides through the breathtaking winter scenery of Jasper National Park. This is an experience you won’t want to miss!
Attractions In and Around Jasper
While the town of Jasper itself isn’t a major tourist destination—more of a place for visitors to relax after a day of outdoor activities—it still offers some must-see attractions:
- Miette Hot Springs – If you’ve never been to a hot spring, this is a must-visit. Open year-round, Miette offers a swimming pool and two soaker pools filled with wonderfully warm mineral waters—perfect for relaxation or therapeutic purposes. The site also has a lodge and campgrounds. Miette Hot Springs is just a short drive from the park along a scenic route teeming with wildlife.
- Jasper Aerial Tramway – The highest and longest aerial tramway in Canada, the Jasper Aerial Tramway begins at the foot of Whistler’s Mountain (easy to spot off Highway 93). The tram ascends 2,200 meters (about 7,300 feet) in one breathtaking journey. Each tram holds 30 passengers, and a guide provides commentary about the area and the views below. At the top, visitors can enjoy a picnic area and a restaurant. The tramway operates from June 1 to Labor Day, and combined tickets—including lunch at the mountaintop restaurant—can be purchased. Don’t forget your camera, as you’ll want to capture the stunning views from above!
