Jasper - To Do list

How often do you get the chance to see a real receding glacier, and an icefield that feeds three major river systems? I'm guessing not often, so it's worth it to pay for a guided tour or ice walk, and learn about the geography of the area while you're at it. The glacier feeds into the Athabasca Falls, which is another must-see attraction in Jasper. You can go to the falls on your own (it's a short hike from the parking lot to the falls), or take a white water...read more

How often do you get the chance to see a real receding glacier, and an icefield that feeds three major river systems? I’m guessing not often, so it’s worth it to pay for a guided tour or ice walk, and learn about the geography of the area while you’re at it. The glacier feeds into the Athabasca Falls, which is another must-see attraction in Jasper. You can go to the falls on your own (it’s a short hike from the parking lot to the falls), or take a white water rafting tour, which probably offers the best views of the falls and the surroundings.  hide

Jasper National Park is also well known for its wildlife, and people that are lucky enough to catch glimpses of wildlife leave with the best memories. You can take a guided hiking or horseback riding tour to try to view some wildlife, but there are no guarantees. Another option is to rent a car, or drive your own, and keep your eyes on the windows - animals tend to come out in the early morning or at dusk. And even if you don't see anything, the road south...read more

Jasper National Park is also well known for its wildlife, and people that are lucky enough to catch glimpses of wildlife leave with the best memories. You can take a guided hiking or horseback riding tour to try to view some wildlife, but there are no guarantees. Another option is to rent a car, or drive your own, and keep your eyes on the windows – animals tend to come out in the early morning or at dusk. And even if you don’t see anything, the road south of Jasper is well-known for its breathtaking scenery. While you’re driving around, head to Maligne Lake, about 40 km east of the town. If you want to go on a guided tour there are many options, such as cruises, and fishing and rafting tours. You can also rent canoes, or you can hike around the area on your own. Whatever you choose though, you have to see the lake, which is really unparalleled.  hide

A big part of any mountain experience is the small town culture – a mix of locals, tourists and seasonal workers. And you’ll find them all on Jasper’s main street, which is full of restaurants, cafes, shops, bars, hotels and more that reflect the local culture and traditions. You can easily spend a morning or afternoon on the street.