Jasper National Park

A vast wilderness park with alpine meadows, deep canyons, and pristine mountain lakes larger and less crowded than Banff. It's ideal for backcountry hiking, wildlife viewing, and experiencing untamed Rocky Mountain scenery.

Things to do

• Athabasca Falls — A dramatic 23-meter waterfall where glacial meltwater crashes through a narrow canyon, accessible via a short walk from the Icefields Parkway.
• Maligne Lake Canoeing — Paddle on one of the largest glacially-fed lakes in the Canadian Rockies, renowned for pristine turquoise waters and mountain reflections.
• Skyline Trail Backpacking — A challenging 44-km multi-day trek offering alpine meadows, wildlife encounters, and sweeping views of the Jasper backcountry.
• Glacier Skywalk — A glass-floored observation platform suspended 935 meters above the Sunwapta Valley with views of the Columbia Icefield.
• Wildlife Viewing at Miette Hot Springs Road — Drive or hike the scenic corridor known for sightings of elk, bighorn sheep, and occasionally grizzly bears, especially at dawn and dusk.
• Valley of the Five Lakes — A moderate 4.8-km loop hike through subalpine forest connecting five pristine turquoise lakes with mountain vistas.
• Horseshoe Lake Trail — A peaceful day hike to a remote mountain lake surrounded by coniferous forest, ideal for solitude and reflection.

Food to try

• Wild Game Dishes — Local restaurants serve Alberta elk, venison, and bison sourced from the region, reflecting the mountain wilderness heritage.
• Freshwater Arctic Char — This cold-water fish from pristine Jasper lakes is featured on menus at mountain lodges and serves as a signature local protein.
• Bannock Bread — Indigenous-inspired fried bread served with sweet toppings or savory accompaniments at local cafés and visitor centers.
• Mountain Lodge Comfort Fare — Hearty dishes like wild mushroom stews and root vegetable preparations designed to fuel backcountry visitors and hikers.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Bear Country Rules — Always carry bear spray, make noise on trails, and store food properly—wildlife has priority in this remote ecosystem.
• Plan for Weather Variability — Mountain conditions change rapidly; check forecasts daily and be prepared with layers even in summer, as snow is possible year-round at higher elevations.
• Indigenous Land Acknowledgment — Jasper sits on ancestral territory of the Nakota Sioux, Dene, and Anishinaabe peoples; visitors should respect cultural heritage sites and learn about First Nations history.
• Reserve Activities in Advance — Popular backcountry campsites, guided hikes, and accommodation fill quickly, especially July through September, requiring early booking.