Overview
Jasper covers about 11,000 square kilometres, making it the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies. It is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site and a designated dark sky preserve.
The town of Jasper is the base for exploring lakes, canyons and wildlife such as elk, bighorn sheep and bears.
Best time to visit
June to September for hiking and lake cruises; winter brings skiing and ice walks in Maligne Canyon.
Highlights
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1
Columbia Icefield
The Athabasca Glacier reaches close to the Icefields Parkway; guided tours go onto the ice.
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2
Maligne Lake
A long mountain lake with boat cruises to Spirit Island.
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3
Maligne Canyon
A deep limestone gorge with footbridges and trails.
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4
Jasper SkyTram
An aerial tramway up Whistlers Mountain.
Getting there
Jasper is about four hours' drive west of Edmonton, or about four hours north of Lake Louise on the Icefields Parkway. VIA Rail trains stop at Jasper station.
Practical tips
- Opening & tickets
- Opening times, permits and any fees change, so check the official website before you go.
- Time needed
- Allow two to four days.
Official information: Parks Canada: Jasper National Park. Check opening hours, prices and entry rules there before you go.
Map
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