As of July 22, 2024 9:59 pm, Jasper townsite and Jasper National Park are under a fire evacuation order. Jasper National Park is closed until further notice. See the Alberta Emergency Alert for updates.
Experience the best of Jasper this summer from the Maligne Lake Cruise and Jasper Skytram, to Mount Edith Cavell and Miette Hot Springs. Gorgeous glaciers, waterfalls, and turquoise lakes await!
Head to Jasper this summer for an unforgettable mountain getaway. Whether you crave a food tour and soak in the hot springs, or hike into the alpine, Jasper has something for everyone! In this guide to summer fun in Jasper, we share the must-do experiences and best day hikes to help you make the most of your time in this beautiful mountain park.
Table of Contents
1. Drive the Icefields Parkway
The Icefields Parkway, one of the world’s most scenic drives, winds through the Rockies from Lake Louise to Jasper. With jagged peaks, glaciers, sparkling lakes, and waterfalls around every corner, it’s all about the journey. Fill up, grab some snacks, and keep your camera handy – the scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities are incredible! Plan to spend at least half a day exploring this iconic 232 km route (more if you want to hike or take a Columbia Icefield/Skywalk Adventure tour).
For more info, check out our story, The Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway.
2. Visit the Columbia Icefield
The Columbia Icefield, Canada’s largest icefield (and the largest in the North American Rocky Mountains), is made up of several glaciers and is known as the “Mother of Rivers.” It’s the birthplace of the Athabasca (sub-tributary of the Mackenzie River), Saskatchewan, and Columbia Rivers which flow into the Arctic Ocean, Hudson Bay (via Lake Winnipeg and the Nelson River), and Pacific Ocean.
While you can’t miss the massive icefield from the road, located halfway between Lake Louise and Jasper, we highly recommend stopping for a hike or tour. Columbia Icefield experiences include the following:
- Toe of the Glacier Trail: This 1.8 km round trip self-guided hike shows the extent of the glacier in the 1800s and how it has receded over the years. Do not continue past the end of the trail! A fall into a crevasse (deep crack in the glacier) could kill you.
- Wilcox Pass: Hike to the Red Chairs for stunning glacier views, or continue on to Wilcox Pass or Wilcox Ridge. See our story Wonderful Wilcox Pass for details.
- Columbia Icefield Adventure & Columbia Icefield Skywalk: Ride an Ice Explorer onto the Athabasca Glacier, learn how the glaciers formed, and fill your water bottle with ice-cold glacial water (we recommend filtering/boiling/treating the water before drinking it). After a few minutes on the glacier, you will be taken to the Skywalk, a glass platform perched on the edge of a cliff. Get tickets from Pursuit.
- Guided hike with Icewalks: If you’re keen to explore further, a guided hike on the glacier is the safest way to go! 3-hour and 6-hour tours available and safety gear (crampons, rope, etc.) is provided.
- Dine at the Columbia Icefield Glacier Discovery Centre: After your adventures, dine at Altitude Restaurant or Chalet Restaurant, and enjoy a beverage or meal with a view! Read about our experience dining at Altitude Restaurant for more info. (If you’re in a hurry, the Starbucks makes great coffee with local spring water!)
Know before you go: A cold wind blows off the icefield. Bring a down hoody (affiliate link) and windproof jacket (affiliate link) to keep warm!
3. Chase waterfalls
Jasper National Park has several gorgeous and accessible waterfalls on the Icefields Parkway including Tangle Creek Falls (roadside pullout), Athabasca Falls, and Sunwapta Falls. See The Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway for more info.
4. Take the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island
The Maligne Lake Cruise takes you past 3,000+ metre (9800+ feet) high peaks and glaciers to Spirit Island, a sacred spot for the Nakoda, and one of Jasper National Park’s most photographed places. Along the way, your guide will share local history and fun facts, and point out landmarks and wildlife. We loved being able to do the lake cruise and hike the Mary Schäffer Loop before lunch (3.2 km), so we had time to explore Maligne Canyon and make some stops along Maligne Lake Road (Medicine Lake is beautiful!). Dine at The View on the shore of Maligne Lake, or at Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen on your way back to Jasper.
The Maligne Lake Cruise runs from May 31, 2024 – October 13, 2024, weather permitting. Get tickets from: Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection | Maligne Lake Cruise.
Read our story for more info: Experience the Maligne Lake Cruise and Maligne Canyon, Jasper National Park.
5. Peer into the depths of Maligne Canyon
Maligne Canyon is a deep slot canyon less than 15 minutes from Jasper. Look for waterfalls, chockstones (boulders wedged between the canyon walls), and black swifts that nest in the cliffs, as you walk along the canyon’s edge. Interpretive panels reveal how the canyon formed, and what plants and animals live here. The trail is 3.7 kilometres one way with 110 metres elevation gain to 6th Bridge; but if you’re short on time, you can turn back at the 4th bridge or Wedding Cake Falls (between 4th and 5th Bridge).
For more information, read our story: Experience the Maligne Lake Cruise and Maligne Canyon, Jasper National Park.
6. Soar into the Alpine on Jasper Skytram
Ride Jasper Skytram, the longest and highest guided skytram in Canada, for a bird’s eye view of Jasper National Park! We loved the 7.5 minute ride and learned so much from our guide! From the Upper Station, it’s a breathtaking 1.2 km hike in the alpine to Whistlers Mountain Summit. Watch for marmots and enjoy the views of Mount Edith Cavell and Pyramid Mountain along the way (there are lots of scenic viewpoints), then enjoy a cold one and meal with a view at Summit Café.
If you’re keen to go further, Indian Ridge (scramble with exposure, 8 km round trip with 800 m elevation gain from Upper Station) is one of the most beautiful hikes in Jasper. Try Indian Ridge from late June until September, conditions permitting.
7. Hike at Mount Edith Cavell (Path of the Angel and Cavell Meadows Trails)
Mount Edith Cavell has two spectacular hikes, Path of the Glacier and Cavell Meadows, that promise stunning glacier and mountain views. Hike Cavell Meadows in mid to late July to see tons of wildflowers, and keep an eye out for marmots and pikas that live among the rocks in the terminal moraine (large gravel ridge left behind by the glacier – the trail will take you straight past it). Path of the Glacier is only 1.4 km round trip, and Cavell Meadows is 700 km round trip with 500 m elevation gain. Note that Cavell Road doesn’t open until late June, and the maximum vehicle length allowed is 7 metres/25 feet (use the trailer drop off parking lot near Hwy 93A).
8. Soak at Miette Hot Springs
Miette Hot Springs‘ mountainside hot pools are the perfect place to relax and recharge after a day of exploring. Enjoy some hydrotherapy with a view! Miette Hot Springs has 4 natural hot springs pools: 2 hot (40 degrees Celsius / 104 Fahrenheit, and 37 degrees Celsius / 98 Fahrenheit) and 2 cold (20 degrees Celsius / 68 Fahrenheit, and 10 degrees Celsius / 50 Fahrenheit). 55 minutes from the town of Jasper.
9. Visit Pyramid Lake & Pyramid Island
Hike, bike, or paddle at beautiful Pyramid Lake, only a few minutes drive from downtown Jasper:
- Pyramid Island, a picturesque spot with stunning views of the surrounding mountains reflected on the water, is a must see (and popular wedding spot).
- Pyramid Lake Loop takes you up onto Pyramid Bench (ridge) to a scenic overlook. It’s possible to make a longer loop with other trails in the area. 6.6 km loop, 200 m elevation gain.
- Mountain bike, e-bike, canoe, kayak, and stand-up paddleboard rentals are available at Pyramid Lake Lodge.
10. Paddle turquoise lakes
Grab a paddle and head out to the turquoise waters of Lac Beauvert, Lake Edith, and Lake Annette. Whether you choose kayaking, canoeing, or paddleboarding, you’ll be treated to stunning views and tranquil waters. These small but scenic lakes are the perfect place for a paddle and picnic! SUP rentals are available at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge’s Boathouse at Lac Beauvert.
11. Tempt your tastebuds with Jasper Food Tours
Indulge in the flavors of Jasper with a guided storytelling food tour. Sample local delicacies while learning about local history and Jasper’s thriving culinary scene. Jasper Food Tours‘ award winning tours include the Downtown Foodie Tour (2 km walking tour featuring 4 plates and 4 drinks at 4 different restaurants), Bites on e-bikes (25 km e-bike tour + 3 dishes), and Peak-nic (hike + mountaintop cooking lessons and feast). We LOVED everything about the Downtown Foodie Tour from the fascinating stories to the carefully selected restaurants and dishes!!
12. Watch wildlife
Jasper is one of the best places to see wildlife in the Canadian Rockies. Elk and deer are frequently spotted in town and in campgrounds, and we’ve seen several bears on the side of the highway and hiking trails too! Always stay in your vehicle if you see elk, moose, or bears; and never feed wildlife.
See our Bear Safety Tips for Hikers for more ways to stay safe in bear territory.
13. Explore by bike
Hop on a bike and explore Jasper’s network of scenic trails. Whether you’re a beginner or seasoned cyclist, there’s a route for you! Bike to town from the campground, around Jasper Park Lodge, or at Pyramid Bench. Download the Parks Canada biking in Jasper brochure for details.
Rent bikes and e-bikes at Jasper Source for Sports, Vicious Cycle, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, or Pyramid Lake Resort.
14. Warrior Women Tour
Warrior Women is a mother-daughter duo of knowledge keepers, drummers, and artisans (Matricia is also a singer-songwriter). Their tours offer unique experiences in Jasper from plant walks and beading classes to fireside chats.
15. Go White Water Rafting
For a wet and wild adventure, go white water rafting with Jasper’s White Water Rafting Company! Feel the rush as you navigate through stunning scenery. The company has been operating for over 50 years and has 3 exciting tours to choose from.
16. Explore Jasper on horseback
Saddle up for an unforgettable experience with Jasper Park Riding Stables. Go horseback riding with knowledgeable guides and soak in the scenery from a unique perspective. Jasper Park Riding Stables offers 0.5, 1, 1.5, and 2-hour trail rides from Pyramid Lake Road Stables and Jasper Park Lodge Stables.
17. Stargaze
End your day by marveling at the stars in Jasper National Park, a designated Dark Sky Preserve. If you’re lucky, you might even see Northern Lights and shooting stars (the Perseids meteor showers put on a great show in August). Alternatively, visit The Jasper Planetarium & Telescope Tours for an insightful celestial journey.
Stoked about stargazing? Come back in autumn for the Jasper Dark Sky Festival (October 18-November 3, 2024)!
Fun fact: Jasper National Park is the world’s second-largest Dark Sky Preserve and the largest accessible one in Canada!
18. Explore Downtown Jasper
Downtown Jasper has several great restaurants and shops where you can find souvenirs, artwork, and tasty treats. Get a photo with Jasper the Bear, the historic train station, and Visitor Information Centre (there are often elk on the front lawn – keep your distance).
When you play the FREE Jasper the Bear Scavenger Hunt and visit 15 locations, you can win an Explorer’s pack. Visit 20 to win a Jasper the Bear Plush!
Getting Here
Jasper, Alberta is located 412 km from Calgary / 364 km from Edmonton. If driving from Calgary, take the super scenic Icefields Parkway (Hwy 93N) for jaw dropping mountain views.
See our story The Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway and start planning your trip now!
Where to Stay
Disclosure: As an Expedia affiliate, I receive a small commission on bookings at no extra cost to you. Thanks for supporting our family business!
HOTELS: Jasper has a great selection of hotels and cabins. We have stayed at The Crimson (Expedia affiliate link), Jasper’s newest hotel located on the edge of downtown; as well as Pyramid Lake Resort (Expedia affiliate link), a short drive from from town. We like The Crimson for its swimming pool and proximity to dining and shopping, and Pyramid Lake Resort for the outdoor hot tub and quick access to trails and stargazing.
CAMPGROUNDS: Whistlers Campground has the most amenities including full hookups for RVs, but Wapiti and Wabasso have power sites. See our Parks Canada Camping story for more info on Jasper campgrounds (scroll down to Jasper National Park).
What to Bring
Disclosure: This section includes affiliate links through which I earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Waterproof mid-height hiking boots, a down hoody or fleece, toque, gloves, and windproof/waterproof shell are recommended year round. Trekking poles are useful for long hikes, steep descents, or when you’re carrying a fully-loaded backpack (or are babywearing). You should also carry The Ten Essentials including: water, extra food, extra clothes, a first aid kit, headlamp, GPS / compass / Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator* and map of the area, mineral sunscreen, bug spray (this DEET-free insect repellent contains 20% icaridin and will repel ticks), and bear spray. Carry bear spray in a Bear Spray Holster or Scat Griz Bear Spray Running Belt.
*A Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator is highly recommended for contacting Search & Rescue and emergency contacts in the event of an emergency, or communicating with friends and family when you are out of cell phone range. You can send text messages and your GPS coordinates via satellite, but a monthly service plan is required.
Planning on camping? Our Camping Pack List has everything you need for a great trip!
Related Posts
- The Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway
- Banff Summer Fun Guide
- Adventures at Golden Skybridge
- Camping and Hiking in David Thompson Country
