Jasper is a rugged, awe-inspiring mountain town located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, famous for its dramatic glacier-fed lakes and vast wilderness. It is best visited between June and September for hiking and wildlife viewing, or during the winter months for world-class skiing and dark-sky stargazing.
Top Things to Do in Jasper
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Getting Around Jasper
From the Airport
Shuttle. The SunDog Connector provides daily shuttle service from the Edmonton International Airport (YEG) to Jasper, taking approximately 5-6 hours. Car Rental. Renting a car at the Calgary International Airport (YYC) or Edmonton International Airport (YEG) is the most flexible option, allowing for a scenic 4-5 hour drive into the park.
Once You're There
Car Rental. Having your own vehicle is highly recommended as most major sights like Maligne Lake and the Icefields Parkway are spread out over many kilometers. Walking. The Jasper townsite itself is very compact and easily walkable, with most shops and restaurants located within a few blocks of the train station. Shuttle. During the summer months, the Parks Canada 'Roam' or Jasper-specific shuttles provide seasonal access to popular trailheads if you prefer not to drive.
Where to Stay in Jasper
Hotel picks for Jasper are coming soon. In the meantime, search directly:
Where to Eat in Jasper
The Raven Bistro★ 4.7 (2,214)504 Patricia St, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaThis Mediterranean-fusion spot is highly regarded for its tapas-style small plates and creative use of wild-caught seafood.
Syrahs of Jasper★ 4.6 (710)606 Patricia St, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaThis upscale spot is renowned for its game-focused menu featuring elk and bison prepared with refined Canadian techniques.
Aalto★ 4.5 (352)North Pyramid Lake Road, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaLocated within the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, this restaurant provides a sophisticated setting for breakfast with panoramic views of Beauvert Lake.
Jasper Brewing Co.★ 4.4 (3,131)624 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaA local institution, it is the perfect place to pair a house-brewed craft beer with a hearty elk burger after a day on the trails.
Downstream Restaurant & Lounge★ 4.4 (3,131)624 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaThis spot offers a relaxed atmosphere with a diverse menu ranging from fresh salads to hearty steaks, perfect for groups.
Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria★ 4.3 (1,422)607 Patricia St, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaThis lively eatery serves authentic wood-fired pizzas that are consistently ranked as the best quick-bite option in town.
Evil Dave's Grill★ 4.3 (938)86 Connaught Dr #1418, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaKnown for its 'wicked' eclectic menu, this restaurant excels at blending global flavors with high-quality local ingredients.
Coco's Cafe★ 4.3 (740)608 Patricia St, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaA go-to spot for coffee lovers and health-conscious travelers looking for excellent breakfast wraps and vegan-friendly baked goods.
Tekarra Restaurant★ 4.3 (69)Highway 93A South, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaLocated at the confluence of the Athabasca and Miette rivers, this restaurant offers a romantic, upscale dining experience with stunning forest views.
Bear's Paw Bakery★ 4.2 (1,694)4 Pyramid Lk Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, CanadaYou haven't truly experienced Jasper until you've grabbed a massive, buttery cinnamon bun or a fresh scone from this local favorite.
Tours & Activities
Bookable through Viator.
3 Days in Jasper
Lakes and Iconic Vistas
Morning. Start your Jasper adventure at the iconic Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. Arrive early to beat the tour buses and head straight to the boat dock to catch a cruise toward Spirit Island, one of the most photographed spots in the world. Spend the morning soaking in the turquoise water and the towering peaks of the Queen Elizabeth Range surrounding you. After the cruise, take a short walk along the Mary Schäffer Trail to learn about the area's history. It is essential to bring a light jacket as the lake breeze can be chilly even in mid-summer.
Afternoon. Drive back toward town and stop at the Maligne Canyon, where you can walk across multiple bridges spanning the deep, narrow limestone gorge. Spend about an hour exploring the various trail loops that offer vertigo-inducing views of the rushing water below. Afterward, head to the nearby Medicine Lake to witness its mysterious disappearing waters, which drain through subterranean caves. Pack a camera, as the wildlife sightings of bighorn sheep and elk are common along this stretch of road. Make your way back to town to freshen up before the evening.
Evening. Wind down your day by visiting the tranquil Pyramid Lake, located just a short drive from the Jasper townsite. Walk across the wooden bridge to Pyramid Island, where you can sit on a bench and watch the sunset reflect off the calm water and the iconic Pyramid Mountain. Once the sun dips below the horizon, head back into town to explore the charming main street. Grab a table at a local pub to recount the day's sightings over a pint of craft beer. The atmosphere in town is relaxed and welcoming, making it the perfect end to your first day.
Glaciers and Waterfall Wonders
Morning. Head south on the Icefields Parkway, widely considered one of the most scenic drives on the planet. Your first major stop should be the powerful Sunwapta Falls, where you can walk down to the lower falls to see the water crashing into a deep canyon. Continue driving until you reach the Athabasca Falls, where the sheer volume of water churning through the rock is truly humbling. Spend time walking the paved paths that offer multiple vantage points for the best photos. Arrive by 9:00 AM to ensure you have space to park at these popular attractions.
Afternoon. Continue further south to the Columbia Icefield to witness the Athabasca Glacier. You can walk to the toe of the glacier safely on the marked trail, feeling the temperature drop as you approach the ancient ice. For a more immersive experience, consider the Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored observation deck hovering 280 meters above the valley floor. The scale of the surrounding peaks, including Mount Andromeda, is absolutely massive. Remember to bring sturdy hiking shoes, as the moraine near the glacier can be uneven and rocky.
Evening. On your way back to Jasper, make a stop at the Valley of the Five Lakes. This moderate hike takes you past five distinct lakes, each with a unique shade of blue and green due to the varying depths and mineral content. It is a peaceful way to stretch your legs after a long day of driving and sightseeing. Once you return to Jasper, treat yourself to a nice dinner at a restaurant overlooking the river. The evening light on the mountains provides a perfect backdrop for your final night in the Rockies.
Alpine Heights and Hot Springs
Morning. Start your final day by taking the Jasper SkyTram to the summit of Whistlers Mountain. This is the highest and longest aerial tramway in Canada, and the views from the top are unparalleled. Spend time walking the boardwalk and the summit trail where you might spot a hoary marmot among the rocks. On a clear day, you can see all the way to Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Be sure to book your tram ticket in advance online to avoid long wait times at the base station.
Afternoon. After descending from the mountain, head toward the Miette Hot Springs area. The drive itself is beautiful and often features wildlife like black bears or mountain goats along the roadside. Once you arrive at the hot springs, soak in the mineral-rich waters that are naturally heated and flow into the pools at a comfortable temperature. It is the perfect way to soothe your muscles after days of hiking and exploring. Spend a few hours here relaxing and enjoying the mountain air before heading back toward the townsite.
Evening. Spend your final evening strolling through the Jasper townsite, picking up some local souvenirs or artisanal gifts. Visit the Jasper Museum to learn about the history of the railroad and the early explorers who mapped this rugged terrain. For your final meal, choose a spot with a patio where you can enjoy the crisp mountain evening. As night falls, look up; Jasper is part of a massive Dark Sky Preserve, so the stargazing is world-class. It is a quiet, reflective way to end your Jasper journey.