Families relaxing and soaking in the warm waters of a hot spring
If you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing Jasper National Park yet, it’s time to add it to your Canadian Rockies adventure. With so much to explore and enjoy in this vast natural playground, you might find yourself spoiled for choice.
But that’s why we’re here! Trim down your options with the best of the best using our list of top things to do in Jasper National Park.
Table of Contents
- Hike Maligne Canyon
- Ride the Jasper SkyTram
- Join an evening wildlife tour
- Relax with a Maligne Lake Cruise
- See the Sunwapta Falls
- Visit Medicine Lake
- Go whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River
- Chill out at Miette Hot Springs
- Take a drive on the Icefields Parkway
- See glaciers at Mount Edith Cavell
- Try dogsledding
- Stargaze at Jasper National Park’s Dark Sky Preserve
Hike Maligne Canyon
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Address: Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-852-6176
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Maligne Canyon is an awesome gorge, the deepest in Jasper National Park, going down as much as 160 feet (48 meters). You can start from different points along the canyon, with six bridges to cross for the entire trail.
Some people cut the hike short, but if you’re up for it all, begin at the trailhead near the parking or picnic area by the sixth bridge. Cross the bridge, turn right at the trailhead, and head east on the marked path.
You’ll see the river on your right, and soon you’ll come across several springs where water flows beneath limestone boulders. Keep your eyes peeled – you might even catch a rainbow from the misty water below!
When you hit the first bridge, prepare to be wowed by the views. The canyon walls are made of limestone, and the water in the Maligne River is this incredible turquoise color.
Ride the Jasper SkyTram
Website: http://www.jasperskytram.com/
Address: Whistlers Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-852-3093
Jasper’s beauty is breathtaking no matter where you are, but there’s something magical about seeing it from above. You don’t even need to be a mountaineer – just hop on the Jasper SkyTram, the longest and highest tramway in the country.
In just seven minutes, you’ll reach the peak of Whistlers Mountain, offering a whole new perspective on Jasper’s stunning national park. Plus, you’ll have a friendly guide sharing cool facts along the way.
At the top, take your time exploring: enjoy panoramic views of six mountain ranges, sparkling lakes, winding rivers, and just appreciate the whole charming town of Jasper.
This epic experience, along with other fun such as dining, hiking, and spotting wildlife, starts at $67 per adult.
Join an evening wildlife tour
Website: https://maligneadventures.com/wildlife-tours/
Address: 610 Patricia St, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-852-3331
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Your chances of spotting wildlife in Jasper National Park are high. After all, the park is a haven for elk, deer, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, coyotes, wolves, and even grizzly bears!
An evening wildlife tour is your best bet to see wildlife in their natural surroundings, especially alongside a knowledgeable guide.
Maligne Adventures offers just that experience. Here, you’ll ride in a comfortable minibus for three hours right after sunset (priced at $79 per adult).
You’ll have sweeping views of the mountains and wilderness through large windows, perfect for snapping some memorable photos. Throughout the journey, the guides will also share insights into wildlife management and conservation efforts in the park.
Success rate for spotting wildlife is 95%, so we bet you won’t be disappointed!
Relax with a Maligne Lake Cruise
Website: https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/maligne-lake-cruise/
Address: Maligne Lake Rd, Improvement District No. 12, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Contact details: +1 866-606-6700
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM
Maligne Lake is undeniably one of Jasper National Park’s gems, and it’s not hard to see why. With its awe-inspiring views, it’s a hotspot for activities like hiking, canoeing, and fishing.
But if you’re looking for an unforgettable experience, consider a guided cruise on Maligne Lake.
You can easily book a tour with Maligne Lake Cruise and embark on a leisurely journey across the pristine waters. As you cruise, you’ll be treated to scenic shores lined with towering peaks, eventually arriving at a stunning overlook of Spirit Island.
For a perfect day trip in Jasper’s Canadian Rockies, this cruise is hard to beat.
See the Sunwapta Falls
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Website: https://www.alltrails.com/trail/canada/alberta/sunwapta-falls
Address: Improvement District No. 12, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Nestled along the Sunwapta River and fed by the Athabasca Glacier, Sunwapta Falls is a highlight of Jasper National Park. The upper waterfall plunges about 59 feet into a pool below, creating a mesmerizing view.
Conveniently located near the main road and parking lot, these falls are easily accessible to all travelers. However, simply driving by won’t do justice to their beauty. To truly immerse yourself, opt for a hike.
Start at the Upper Falls parking lot and take a leisurely walk along the falls, perhaps extending your journey to reach the Lower Falls for an even more enchanting experience.
And be sure to snap some photos when you reach the falls – proof (and bragging trophy) to show that you’ve been here!
Visit Medicine Lake
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Website: https://www.travelalberta.com/listings/medicine-lake-2004
Address: Improvement District No. 12, AB T0E 0E0, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
Heading to Jasper National Park this summer? Don’t overlook a visit to Medicine Lake – it’s a must-do activity during the season.
Situated in the Maligne Valley area, this alpine lake is renowned for its shallow waters that vanish during the winter.
It’s just a quick 20-minute drive from Jasper townsite, so adding it to your list of things to do in the park won’t take up much time.
There are plenty of ways to enjoy the lake: take in the stunning views from the roadside lookout, go for a quick hike to the shoreline, or simply relax by the water’s edge (which might just be the best option).
P.S.: Don’t forget your binoculars – there’s plenty of wildlife and birds to spot while you’re there!
Go whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River
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Website: https://www.athabascariverrafting.com/
Address: Athabasca River, Improvement District No. 12, AB, Canada
If you’re a thrill-seeker craving an adrenaline rush, whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River is a must-do activity in Jasper National Park.
With a variety of rafting adventures available, Athabasca River Rafting is your go-to option. They offer activities suitable for families and beginners, including gentle Athabasca River Scenic Rafting and Mile 5 Rafting, both providing 1.5 hours on the water.
No matter which option you go for, you’re in for an unforgettable Jasper experience, with a mix of thrilling rapids and tranquil stretches. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the stunning views of the park’s snow-capped mountains and glaciers.
To book, simply visit their website, where you can also check if the activity is available during your visit to the park.
Chill out at Miette Hot Springs
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Website: https://www.hotsprings.ca/miette
Address: Miette Rd Jasper, Miette Hotsprings, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Contact details: +1 800-767-1611
After a fun-filled day exploring Jasper National Park, unwind at Miette Hot Springs. These hot springs are open from May to October and are known for being the hottest in the Canadian Rockies, reaching temperatures of up to 54 degrees Celsius.
But don’t worry; the water is cooled down to a comfy temperature before it fills the pool. Here, you can choose from four different pools, each offering a unique soaking experience amidst tranquil peaks and roaming wildlife.
If you’re up for it, you can easily spend an entire day here, with plenty of activities besides soaking in the hot springs. Explore the interpretive trail around a historic mine site or visit the original pools located at the source of the springs along Sulphur Creek.
For a more challenging adventure, consider hiking the popular Sulphur Skyline Trail, which offers spectacular views as a reward.
Admission is affordable, starting at $27 per adult for a day pass. Plus, if you’re with a group, you might snag some group discounts.
Take a drive on the Icefields Parkway
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Address: Icefield Parkway Highway 93, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
If you love scenic road trips, you absolutely have to experience the Icefields Parkway.
Named after the Columbia Icefield and the glaciers it hosts, this captivating stretch of highway winds through Banff National Park and Jasper National Park, making it one of Canada’s most breathtaking routes.
In the summer, driving here treats you to sweeping views of the Rocky Mountains and the lush green river valleys.
If you feel like taking a break from driving, there are plenty of opportunities for exploration along the way. The parkway offers numerous hiking trails, biking routes, spots for canoeing, and great fishing spots.
Even in colder months, there’s no shortage of activities to enjoy. You can snowshoe along various trails, try ice climbing at the Weeping Wall, or embark on a cross-country skiing adventure.
See glaciers at Mount Edith Cavell
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Website: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/itineraires-itineraries/cavell
Address: Edith Cavell Mountain, Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
One of the most breathtaking sights near Jasper is Mount Edith Cavell. Named after a courageous nurse from World War I, this massive Rocky Mountain marvel is a must-visit when you’re in town.
To reach it, take a scenic drive on a winding road from Jasper, leading to a parking area near the mountain’s base. From there, enjoy a leisurely walk along the easy 1.6-kilometer (round trip) Path of the Glacier trail.
This trail winds through rocky terrain to Cavell Pond, with signs along the way providing interesting information about the area. Keep an eye out for rock piles – you might spot the adorable pika going about its day!
Eventually, you’ll reach several viewpoints overlooking the pond. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of icebergs that have broken off from the Angel Glacier high above.
Just a heads up, when you come here, trailers and big motorhomes can’t go on the access road.
Try dogsledding
Website: https://www.dogsleddinginjasper.com/our-tours
Address: 11865 Hwy 16, Valemount, BC V0E 2Z0, Canada
Contact details: +1 250-968-6808
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Visiting Jasper National Park in winter is a blast, and dogsledding is a must-try activity for winter lovers. It’s a fantastic chance to hang out with some adorable huskies while exploring Jasper’s winter wonderland.
If you’re keen to give dogsledding a go during your Jasper trip, consider Cold Fire Creek Dog Sledding Tours. They’re just a short drive from Jasper and offer various options, from quick hour-long trips to overnight adventures in cozy log cabins deep in the woods.
Prices start at $225 per adult, which might seem a bit steep, but it’s an unforgettable experience in the park. Plus, it’s loads of fun – sometimes, they even let passengers try their hand at mushing the sled!
These dogsledding tours run all through the winter, so make sure to bundle up warmly before you head out.
Stargaze at Jasper National Park’s Dark Sky Preserve
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Website: https://www.travelalberta.com/listings/jasper-dark-sky-preserve-1479
Address: Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Contact details: +1 780-852-6176
Operating hours: Open 24 hours
When was the last time you stopped to admire the beauty of a starry night sky? Here in Jasper National Park, you can do just that. This park is officially recognized as a Dark Sky Preserve, making it the second largest in the world.
That means you can enjoy a sky filled with sparkling stars. While you can enjoy the night sky any time of year, the best time to soak it all in is during the Jasper Dark Sky Festival, held every October.
During the festival, you can join in on moon viewing events. Or you can visit the planetarium, learn how to capture stunning night sky photos, enjoy live music under the stars, and listen to talks by experts in the field.
