Jasper

A mountain town in Jasper National Park offering stunning alpine scenery, excellent hiking trails, and wildlife viewing opportunities in a less crowded alternative to Banff. The town serves as a hub for exploring turquoise lakes, glaciers, and backcountry wilderness.

Things to do

• Hike to Maligne Lake — A stunning turquoise glacial lake surrounded by peaks, accessible via a scenic 3.5 km trail or by car to the shoreline for boat tours and further hiking.
• Athabasca Falls — A powerful waterfall where the Athabasca River plunges through a narrow canyon, featuring accessible boardwalks and viewpoints just south of town.
• Mount Edith Cavell Trail — A moderate day hike offering views of Angel Glacier and a pristine alpine lake, starting from the scenic Cavell Road.
• Columbia Icefield Adventure — Explore one of Canada's largest icefields via guided tours, including walking on the Athabasca Glacier with specialized vehicles and interpretive programs.
• Wildlife Viewing on Maligne Lake Road — Drive or cycle the scenic Maligne Lake Road early morning or dusk for opportunities to spot elk, mule deer, bighorn sheep, and occasionally bears.
• Miette Hot Springs — A naturally heated geothermal pool nestled in the mountains where visitors can soak in warm mineral waters surrounded by forest.

Food to try

• Bison Burger — A local specialty featuring grass-fed Alberta bison meat, leaner and richer than beef, served at restaurants throughout Jasper.
• Rainbow Trout — Fresh-caught local trout from Jasper's pristine lakes, typically grilled or pan-seared and featured on fine dining menus.
• Poutine with Elk Gravy — A Canadian classic elevated with rich elk or bison gravy over crispy fries, reflecting both local game and national comfort food culture.
• Wild Berry Pie — Seasonal dessert made with locally foraged saskatoon berries, huckleberries, and other mountain berries in a flaky crust.

Local customs & good to know

• Respect Wildlife Distances — Keep at least 100 meters from large animals like bears and elk and 25 meters from smaller wildlife; photography should never put animals at risk.
• Bear Awareness is Essential — Carry bear spray on all backcountry hikes, make noise on trails, and store food properly; bear encounters are a real possibility in the park.
• Plan Around Seasonal Closures — Many roads and trails close in winter; check Parks Canada advisories before visiting as conditions change rapidly in the mountains.
• Indigenous Land Acknowledgment — Jasper National Park sits on the traditional territories of the Secwepemc, Ktunaxa, and other Indigenous nations; visitors are encouraged to learn about this history at the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum.