Top 10 Best Things to Do in Jasper National Park This Weekend

Last Updated on January 22, 2025

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is a paradise for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and those yearning for tranquility. Renowned for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and a charming small-town vibe, Jasper is a must-visit destination for travelers worldwide. Established in 1907, Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, covering an area of over 11,000 square kilometers (4,200 square miles). This guide delves into the top 13 best things to do in Jasper National Park, providing you with essential travel tips, guides, and insider information to make your visit truly unforgettable.

Jasper National Park offers a diverse range of activities and experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re seeking thrilling outdoor adventures, peaceful moments in nature, or a deep connection to the park’s rich cultural and natural heritage, Jasper has something for everyone. Join us as we explore the wonders of Jasper and discover the top 13 activities and attractions that make this destination so extraordinary.

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What to Do in Jasper National Park?

Jasper offers a plethora of activities and experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie seeking outdoor adventures, a nature lover exploring pristine landscapes, or a history buff eager to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage, Jasper has something for everyone. From hiking and skiing to soaking in hot springs and wildlife spotting, the options are endless.

Jasper National Park Travel Tips and Guides

Best Time to Visit

Jasper is a year-round destination, each season offering its unique charm:

Summer (June to August): Summer is the peak tourist season in Jasper, and for good reason. The weather is warm, the days are long, and the outdoor activities are plentiful. This is the best time for hiking, canoeing, and exploring the stunning landscapes. Popular trails like the Skyline Trail, Maligne Canyon, and Valley of the Five Lakes are accessible and offer breathtaking views. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher accommodation prices during this time.

Fall (September to November): Fall in Jasper is a magical time when the landscapes are painted with vibrant hues of orange, red, and gold. The cooler temperatures and fewer crowds make it an ideal time for hiking and photography. The fall season is also a great time to spot wildlife as animals prepare for winter.

Winter (December to February): Jasper transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months. The snow-covered landscapes offer a perfect setting for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and other snow sports. Jasper is home to the Marmot Basin ski resort, known for its diverse terrain and excellent snow conditions. The Jasper in January festival celebrates winter with various events and activities, making it a fantastic time to visit.

Spring (March to May): Spring is a season of renewal in Jasper, as the snow begins to melt and wildflowers start to bloom. The trails become accessible again, and wildlife emerges from hibernation. This is a great time for scenic drives, hiking, and enjoying the awakening beauty of nature. Spring also offers the advantage of fewer crowds and lower accommodation prices compared to summer.

Some of the popular events and festivals in Jasper National Park include:

• Jasper in January (January 10-26, 2025): A winter festival celebrating the season with everything from live music, street parties, and fireworks to skiing and cozy comfort food.
• Jasper Pride & Ski Festival (April 4-13, 2025): A festival combining the excitement of skiing with LGBTQ+ pride events, including parties, concerts, and outdoor adventures.
• Jasper Dark Sky Festival (October 17-26, 2025): A celebration of the night sky with stargazing, astronomy talks, and special events under Jasper’s dark sky.
• Jasper Folk Music Festival (June 7, 2024): A family-friendly festival featuring folk music performances in the heart of the Rockies.
• Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon (April 26, 2025): A scenic half marathon race through the stunning landscapes of Jasper National Park.
• Gran Fondo Jasper (June 7, 2025): A boutique fondo bike ride through the majestic Rocky Mountains.
• Taste of Spring (May 2-11, 2025): A celebration of culinary delights, artistic wonders, and thrilling adventures in Jasper National Park.
• Jasper Pond Hockey Tournament (January 24-26, 2025): A fun and unique hockey tournament on a frozen pond.
• Devour! The Canadian Rockies Food Film Festival (April 4-6, 2025): A festival celebrating cinema, food, and wine in the heart of Jasper National Park.
• Banff Jasper Relay (June 7, 2025): A beautiful relay race through the stunning landscapes of Banff and Jasper National Parks.

No matter when you visit Jasper National Park, you will find something to enjoy in this breathtaking and diverse natural wonderland.

How to Get Around Jasper National Park

Navigating Jasper is relatively easy, with several transportation options available:

Car Rentals: Renting a car provides the most flexibility for exploring Jasper and its surrounding areas. With a car, you can easily access trailheads, scenic viewpoints, and attractions that may be off the beaten path. The Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) connects Jasper to other major destinations in the Canadian Rockies and is considered one of the most scenic drives in the world.

Public Transit: Jasper offers limited public transit options, so having a car is recommended for exploring the park. However, during the summer months, shuttle services are available to popular destinations such as Maligne Lake and Athabasca Falls.

Biking and Walking: Jasper is pedestrian and bike-friendly, with many trails and paths throughout the town and park. The Jasper Discovery Trail is a popular 8.3-kilometer (5.2-mile) loop around the townsite, offering scenic views and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Guided Tours: Many tour operators offer guided tours and shuttle services to popular sites such as the Athabasca Glacier, Maligne Lake, and the Glacier Skywalk. These tours provide valuable insights from knowledgeable guides and eliminate the hassle of parking and navigation.

10 Fun Things to Do in Jasper National Park

Now, let’s dive into the top 10 activities and attractions that make Jasper a standout destination:

1. Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is one of the most iconic and picturesque destinations in Jasper National Park. Its stunning turquoise waters, surrounded by towering peaks, make it a must-visit spot.

Boat Cruise: One of the best ways to experience Maligne Lake is by taking a boat cruise to Spirit Island, one of the most photographed locations in the Canadian Rockies. The cruise offers breathtaking views and provides insightful commentary about the lake’s history and geology.

Hiking Trails: The area around Maligne Lake offers several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. The Mary Schaffer Loop is a gentle 3.2-kilometer (2-mile) trail that provides scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains. For a more strenuous hike, the Bald Hills trail offers panoramic views of the lake and the surrounding peaks.

Canoeing and Kayaking: Renting a canoe or kayak is a fantastic way to explore the tranquil waters of Maligne Lake at your own pace. Paddling on the lake allows you to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the surroundings and offers opportunities for wildlife sightings.

2. Jasper SkyTram

The Jasper SkyTram offers a unique and breathtaking way to experience the Canadian Rockies. As the longest and highest guided aerial tramway in Canada, it provides unparalleled views of Jasper National Park.

Scenic Ride: The SkyTram takes you from the valley floor to an elevation of 2,277 meters (7,472 feet) on the Whistlers Mountain. The seven-minute ride offers stunning vistas of the park, including views of the Athabasca River, Pyramid Lake, and the town of Jasper.

Summit Experience: At the upper station, visitors can explore the interpretive boardwalk, which offers information about the area’s geology, wildlife, and history. For those seeking a bit more adventure, a short hike to the summit of Whistlers Mountain provides 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

Dining and Amenities: The upper station features the Summit Restaurant, where you can enjoy a meal while taking in the breathtaking views. The tramway also offers guided hikes and star-gazing events, providing a memorable experience for visitors of all ages.

3. Athabasca Glacier

The Athabasca Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in North America and a highlight of Jasper National Park. Part of the Columbia Icefield, the glacier offers a unique opportunity to explore an ancient ice formation.

Glacier Adventure Tour: The Columbia Icefield Adventure offers a thrilling experience aboard an Ice Explorer, a specially designed vehicle that takes you onto the glacier. During the tour, knowledgeable guides provide insights into the glacier’s formation, ecology, and the impact of climate change. You’ll have the chance to step out onto the glacier and drink pure, cold water from ancient ice.

Glacier Skywalk: The Glacier Skywalk is a glass-floored observation platform that extends 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley. The skywalk offers breathtaking views of the valley, surrounding peaks, and the glacier-fed rivers below. Interpretive displays along the walkway provide information about the area’s geology, wildlife, and indigenous history.

Hiking and Exploration: For those who prefer a more independent experience, guided glacier hikes are available. These hikes offer a deeper exploration of the glacier and its features, including crevasses, ice caves, and meltwater streams.

4. Maligne Canyon

Maligne Canyon is one of the most impressive geological features in Jasper National Park. Carved by the Maligne River, the canyon offers stunning views and a series of picturesque waterfalls.

Hiking Trails: The Maligne Canyon trail system features several well-maintained trails and bridges that allow visitors to explore the depths of the canyon. The trail from the first bridge to the sixth bridge offers various viewpoints and interpretive signs that explain the canyon’s geology and history. The hike can be tailored to different fitness levels, with shorter options for those seeking a leisurely stroll.

Ice Walks: In the winter, Maligne Canyon transforms into a magical ice wonderland. Guided ice walk tours are available, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore the frozen waterfalls, ice formations, and underground caverns. Ice cleats and safety equipment are provided, ensuring a safe and unforgettable experience.

Photography: Maligne Canyon is a photographer’s paradise, with its dramatic rock formations, rushing waterfalls, and lush vegetation. The changing seasons offer unique photographic opportunities, from vibrant autumn colors to the icy beauty of winter.

5. Lake Annette and Lake Edith

Lake Annette and Lake Edith are two beautiful glacial lakes located near the town of Jasper. These lakes offer a peaceful and scenic setting for a variety of recreational activities.

Swimming and Picnicking: Both lakes have sandy beaches and designated swimming areas, making them popular spots for a refreshing dip in the summer. Picnic areas with tables and barbecue facilities are available, providing a perfect setting for a family outing or a relaxing day by the water.

Hiking and Biking: The area around Lake Annette and Lake Edith features several easy hiking and biking trails.

The Lake Annette Loop is a gentle 2.4-kilometer (1.5-mile) trail that circles the lake and offers scenic views of the water and surrounding mountains. The trail is accessible to all fitness levels and is suitable for families with young children. For those looking for a longer adventure, the Lake Edith Loop is a 4.5-kilometer (2.8-mile) trail that connects to Lake Annette and provides beautiful vistas of both lakes and the surrounding forests. The trails are well-maintained and provide opportunities for birdwatching and wildlife spotting.

6. Athabasca Falls

Athabasca Falls is one of the most powerful and awe-inspiring waterfalls in Jasper National Park. The falls are located on the Athabasca River, which originates from the Columbia Icefield.

Scenic Viewing Areas: The falls are easily accessible via a short walk from the parking area. Several viewing platforms and trails provide different perspectives of the falls and the surrounding canyon. The thundering sound and mist from the falls create a dramatic and mesmerizing experience.

Hiking and Exploration: The Athabasca Falls area offers several short hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the lush forests and riverbanks. The Athabasca Falls Trail is a 1-kilometer (0.6-mile) loop that takes you to various viewpoints and interpretive signs that explain the geology and history of the falls.

Photography: Athabasca Falls is a popular spot for photography, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light creates beautiful reflections and colors. The falls are particularly impressive during the spring and early summer when the river flow is at its peak due to snowmelt from the mountains.

7. Whitewater Rafting

For an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable adventure, try whitewater rafting on the rivers of Jasper National Park. The park offers several rafting experiences that cater to different skill levels and preferences.

Athabasca River: The Athabasca River is perfect for beginners and families looking for a scenic and relatively gentle rafting experience. The river offers Class II rapids that provide a fun and safe adventure while allowing you to enjoy the stunning scenery of the surrounding mountains and forests.

Sunwapta River: For a more thrilling experience, the Sunwapta River offers Class III rapids that provide an exciting ride for those seeking more adventure. The river’s name, which means “turbulent river” in the Stoney Nakoda language, perfectly describes the exhilarating rapids and twists that await.

Fraser River: The Fraser River, located near the park’s border, offers some of the most challenging and intense whitewater rafting experiences in the Canadian Rockies. The river features Class IV rapids that require teamwork, skill, and bravery. Guided tours provide safety equipment and expert instruction to ensure a safe and thrilling adventure.

8. Glacier Skywalk

The Glacier Skywalk is a remarkable engineering feat and a must-visit attraction in Jasper National Park. The skywalk offers a unique perspective of the Canadian Rockies and the stunning landscapes below.

Glass-Floored Observation Platform: The Glacier Skywalk extends 280 meters (918 feet) above the Sunwapta Valley and features a glass-floored platform that allows you to see the valley floor directly beneath your feet. The experience is both exhilarating and awe-inspiring, providing a bird’s-eye view of the rugged terrain and glacier-fed rivers below.

Interpretive Displays: The walkway leading to the skywalk is lined with interpretive displays that provide information about the geology, wildlife, and history of the area. The displays feature interactive elements, audio guides, and detailed explanations that enhance your understanding of the natural environment.

Wildlife Viewing: The Glacier Skywalk is an excellent spot for wildlife viewing, as the valley below is home to a variety of animals, including mountain goats, elk, and eagles. The glass platform and elevated position allow for unobstructed views of the wildlife in their natural habitat.

9. Marmot Basin

Marmot Basin is Jasper’s premier ski resort, offering excellent skiing and snowboarding opportunities in the winter and beautiful hiking trails in the summer.

Winter Activities: Marmot Basin boasts over 1,700 acres of skiable terrain with runs suitable for all skill levels, from gentle beginner slopes to challenging expert trails. The resort receives abundant snowfall each season, ensuring fantastic snow conditions. The Marmot Basin Snow School offers lessons for beginners and advanced skiers alike, making it a great place to learn or improve your skills.

Summer Activities: In the summer, Marmot Basin transforms into a hiking paradise with trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The Skyline Trail is a popular hike that provides panoramic vistas of the park and the chance to spot wildlife such as bighorn sheep and marmots. The resort also offers guided hikes and interpretive programs that provide insights into the area’s flora, fauna, and geology.

10. Miette Hot Springs

Relax and rejuvenate at the Miette Hot Springs, where you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters while enjoying stunning mountain views. The historic hot springs are located in the Fiddle Valley and have been a popular attraction for over a century.

Mineral-Rich Waters: The Miette Hot Springs are renowned for their therapeutic mineral-rich waters, which are naturally heated by geothermal activity. The water temperatures range from 37°C to 40°C (98°F to 104°F), making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a day of exploring.

Historical Significance: The Miette Hot Springs have a rich history, dating back to their discovery by fur traders in the 19th century. The hot springs played a significant role in the development of Jasper National Park and have been a popular destination for visitors seeking relaxation and wellness. The bathhouse and spa facilities have been modernized over the years, offering a comfortable and enjoyable experience while preserving their historical charm.

Hiking and Exploration: The area around Miette Hot Springs features several hiking trails, including the Sulphur Skyline Trail, which offers spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and valleys. The trail is a challenging hike but rewards hikers with breathtaking vistas and the chance to see wildlife such as mountain goats and marmots.

More Facts About Jasper National Park

What Time Is It in Jasper National Park

How Old is Jasper National Park

How Long is the Flight from Toronto to Jasper National Park

How Many People Live in Jasper National Park

How Big is Jasper National Park

What is the Temperature in Jasper National Park

Conclusion

Jasper National Park is a destination that truly has it all—breathtaking landscapes, thrilling outdoor adventures, rich cultural heritage, and a welcoming community. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or an extended stay, the top 13 things to do in Jasper National Park will ensure you have an unforgettable experience. From canoeing on pristine lakes and exploring dramatic canyons to relaxing in mineral-rich hot springs and marveling at the night sky, Jasper offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and adventure. Start planning your trip to Jasper National Park today and discover the magic of this incredible destination.

With its stunning scenery, diverse activities, and rich history, Jasper National Park is a place where memories are made and dreams come true. Whether you’re seeking solitude in the wilderness, excitement on the slopes, or a deep connection to nature and culture, Jasper has something to offer everyone. We hope this comprehensive guide helps you make the most of your visit and inspires you to explore the wonders of Jasper. Safe travels and happy adventuring!