Jasper is quieter and wilder than Banff, with Maligne Lake, the Icefields Parkway, glaciers and one of the world's largest dark-sky preserves. Wildfire recovery means checking trail and facility status.
Good to know
- Check Parks Canada for wildfire and road status before booking.
- Buy a Parks Canada Discovery Pass for multiple days.
- Elk and bears roam town; keep 30 metres from wildlife.
Eat this
Places the planner can use
Mark places as a must or something to skip. The itinerary is built only from this list; ★ marks the destination’s highlights.
Gondola to the summit of Whistlers Mountain, with a boardwalk and views over six mountain ranges.
Lakeside trails and a footbridge to an island; sunset is lovely.
Pleasant mountain town of cafes, outfitters and a historic train station, good for an evening stroll.
One of the world's largest dark-sky preserves.
Local brewpub serving Rockies-inspired meals and craft beers in a relaxed lodge setting.
Local history and mountaineering exhibits, from the railway era to the national park.
230-km road through glacier country between Jasper and Banff.
Powerful waterfall that thunders through a narrow rock canyon, with accessible viewing platforms.
Ride an ice explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier.
Famous glacial lake; boat cruises to Spirit Island.
Hottest springs in the Rockies, in an alpine valley.