A Complete Guide to Jasper National Park, Canada
Read our Jasper National Park travel guide when planning your trip to this incredible part of the Canadian Rockies in Alberta province. We share tips on the best things to do in Jasper, both town and its surroundings, where to stay, how to get, entrance fee, what to pack, or when to visit.
Jasper National Park is an enormous wilderness area in Alberta, Canada. Canadian Rockies' largest national park is a truly unique place that offers a great network of hiking trails, incredible scenery and natural sights.
Based on our multiple visits, we've put together all the practical information you might need before packing bags and including Jasper in your final Canadian Rockies itinerary.
It would not be possible to visit the national park so easily without Jasper town, which serves as a perfect base for exploring the area. We visited Jasper a few times in the recent years and always enjoyed its small-town vibe.
Even though we were very well aware of its popularity and the fact we need to reserve our stay in advance, we still twice ended up in a campsite several kilometers behind Jasper's perimeter.
Nowadays, it is really hard to imagine a settlement that was established in 1813 that was one of the first abandoned stops on the fur trade route.
Maybe in the winter, when the tourism slows down a bit, but in the summer, Jasper is a buzzing point welcoming visitors from all over the world, visitors keen to see some of the country's most iconic spots.
When traveling to this part of the world, we assume you're a nature lover, which means you'll have a blast in Jasper.
For all of you planning your trip, we've put together this ultimate Jasper travel guide for first-time visitors.
We share tips on the best things to do, how to get to Jasper and plan your visit, when is the best time to visit, how to get around, and much more.
In a nutshell, our goal is to ensure your time in Jasper will be as smooth as possible.
WHERE IS JASPER NATIONAL PARK
Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian province of Alberta in the southwest of the country.
Jasper town is the gateway to Jasper National Park that sits at the intersection of two roads.
Yellowhead Highway that connects the west coast with Edmonton is the less-traveled road by visitors that features, for example, Mount Robson Provincial Park.
The second road is the famous Icefields Parkway, which is the destination on its own.
Icefields Parkway is a synonym for road trip in Canada, and Jasper is either the first or last stop on this route dotted with the insane number of must-visit sights.
When looking on the map, you will soon understand that Jasper, hadn't it been for the natural beauty that made the town famous, would have otherwise been easily overlooked, as it literally sits in the middle of nowhere.
Well, in the middle of the valley surrounded by mountainous peaks.
The closest large cities, Edmonton and Calgary, are 365 kilometers and 413 kilometers away, respectively.
This is also the reason why Jasper is a popular getaway for people traveling locally, who love to escape the hustle and bustle, especially on weekends.
HOW TO GET TO JASPER
There are several options for getting to Jasper, given the fact the town is a traditional tourist destination. The truth is that every alternative has pros and cons, but one thing is unavoidable.
Because of the location deep in the Canadian Rockies, it takes time to get to Jasper National Park.
On the other hand, if Jasper is one of the stops on your road trip itinerary, we believe that the journey is also the destination, and the time on the road will be rewarding and well-spent.
RENTAL CAR
Public transport in the area is not very reliable and frequent, and because of the very nature of the trip, we think we would miss out a lot if we were exploring the Canadian Rockies without a rental car or campervan.
Of course, you can prove us wrong, but based on our two visits, we know our trip would not be that flexible, and we would not be able to see as much as we did without the car.
The most common way is renting a car at the airport (Edmonton or Calgary) and then drive towards Jasper.
If you drive from Edmonton, the scenery becomes interesting closer to Jasper, so you'll be able to reach the town in one day.
On the other hand, if you land in Calgary, there are many places to see along the route - Banff, Lake Louise, and Icefields Parkway.
As you surely do not want to rush things, you should allocate several days for this drive.
SHUTTLE
If you do not want to drive or simply want to get to Jasper without any hassle, it is possible to book a shuttle bus from either Calgary or Edmonton directly to Jasper.
It is also a perfect alternative for travelers who plan on staying in the Jasper area and making one or multi-day hiking trips without the necessity to have their own car all the time.
Transfer between Calgary and Jasper takes 7.5 hours and offers comfortable service and great views.
It is very similar to transfer between Edmonton and Jasper, that is a bit shorter.
It is possible to book this service even when you travel in the opposite direction.
Another option is to book directly with Sundog Tours that leave quite regularly from the center of Edmonton.
TRAIN
If you prefer traveling by train over a bus, there is one train line daily that connects Edmonton Railway Station with Jasper. The ride takes 6 hours and 30 minutes and is provided by ViaRail.
PLANE
There's no airport in Jasper, which means the closest international airports are either in Calgary or Edmonton.
It is, of course, possible to land in Seattle in the USA (this is what we actually did during our first visit) or in Vancouver, but these cities are much further.
Once you land, no matter where, you need to either arrange transport or rent a car.
GETTING AROUND
Jasper is an easily walkable town, and there is no need to have own transport, but the situation changes once you decide to explore the surroundings, which is frankly what the whole visit is all about.
Because public transport is almost non-existent in Jasper National Park and you would be limited by the number of sights you could see in one day, it makes sense to consider other transport types for getting around.
The most convenient option is having a rental car that gives you flexibility, especially if time is your main concern.
Thanks to it is getting around Jasper National Park painless, and it is also much easier to create an itinerary and follow it.
Also, parking in the park is free of charge, which is an advantage, although spots fill up quickly
If you do not have a car or campervan, do not despair.
You can either book a taxi in Jasper that will take you to hike trailheads or arrange a driver for the full day that will show you the top attractions in the vicinity.
Last but not least, it is possible to book a tour either in Jasper or online in advance.
TOURS
Various tours are an interesting way to explore Jasper National Park, and they combine the advantage of having transport arranged and a knowledgeable guide on board.
Here is our pick of the best tours in Jasper.
Wildlife Watching Tour | Search for wildlife such as bears, moose, elk, or deer and watch it safely in their natural habitat with this guided tour.
Jasper Downtown Foodie Tour | Before you head out into the wilderness, visit some local restaurants for a plate of delicious food and hear some local stories of a small mountainous town.
Whitewater Rafting Tour | Rafting is one of the most popular activities to do in Jasper National Park. Class 2 rapids are perfect even for families with kids.
Bike Tour in Jasper National Park | Enjoy one of many great routes Jasper National Park offers on a biking tour with a guide.
Wildlife and Waterfall Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise | Take a scenic tour along the Maligne Valley, see Maligne Canyon, and enjoy the Maligne Lake cruise.
Also, the town offers in the summer season a shuttle bus to Maligne Lake.
Ask about the current timetable at Jasper's Visitors Center, where you can get essential information on the trails and safety.
WHERE TO STAY IN JASPER
In the summer and early autumn, between June and September, accommodation is a scarce commodity in Jasper. The town has its capacity, and the capacity fills up extremely quickly.
Finding accommodation is often mission impossible, so you should make a reservation once you establish your next trip destination is the Canadian Rockies. It applies especially if you travel around the Rockies on a budget.
Hotel rooms are often overpriced in the season, and it is always better to secure first-time deals.
Honestly, we would not dare to travel in the summer months to Jasper without hotel or campsite reservations. It is simply too risky, and if you find a last-minute deal, it will possibly break your bank account (and heart).
Another possibility is to stay in towns nearby within Jasper National Park.
We've handpicked the best hotels in Jasper for every type of traveler; feel free to get inspired.
Budget | Jasper Downtown Hostel - If you're traveling on a budget, this hostel is by far your best bet. Of course, in case you do not mind sleeping in dormitories. Private rooms are also available and more expensive, so check out the alternative that suits you the best. Another similar accommodation is HI Jasper that offers more modern facilities and both private and shared rooms.
Mid-range | Pine Bungalows - This very stylish hotel is one of Jasper's best accommodations in the given category. The property is a bit outside the town's center, but it should not be a problem if you have a car. Also, the views from the lodge give you the feeling you're in the wilderness.
Luxury | Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge - Honestly, we did not find many hotels that could justify the high price tag. Fairmont is an international brand, which is an exception because it adds excellent service you can expect throughout the world. The hotel is truly different in a good sense of the term and if you're looking for something special, check it out.
CAMPGROUNDS
If you travel in the Rockies by car or campervan, camping opens up a whole new world for you, in terms of accommodation.
There are several bigger or smaller campgrounds spread across Jasper National Park, and it is a more budget-friendly alternative for people traveling on a budget.
Of course, the lower price means the demand is high as well, and although some of the campgrounds work on a first-come, first-served basis, you need to make an early reservation on Parks Canada for most of them.
For more detailed camping information, check out our Camping in the Canadian Rockies Guide.
BEST THINGS TO DO IN JASPER NATIONAL PARK
The majority of the best things to do in Jasper are closely connected with soaking up the views and exploring the area actively.
We are not afraid to say that no traveler can be resistant to this part of the Canadian Rockies' beauty.
If you are looking for what to do in Jasper, there are plenty of natural attractions to choose from, but there's no problem finding a less-trodden path and connect with the real Canadian wilderness.
No matter what your program will be, it is good to know that a cozy room or a romantic camping spot is waiting for you in Jasper.
We've put together a list of places we think are worth visiting and activities you should not miss doing in Jasper. Select what suits you the best and create your own perfect Jasper itinerary.
MALIGNE LAKE
Jasper National Park surely has no shortage of beautiful, crystal clear lakes. One of the most iconic lakes is Maligne Lake, which is located on the very end of Maligne Lake Road.
Maligne Lake is 22.5 kilometers long, and the waters feed the canyon beneath.
This lake often makes it to the list of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies, so be prepared to be blown away.
When the sky is clear, you can admire the mountains in the backdrop, but even when the weather does not play along, the moody scenery will take your breath away.
Except for admiring the scenery, there are a few more things to do at Maligne Lake.
The lake's shore is popular for leisurely walking along the shore, but you can also pack a picnic or book a boat tour.
It is also possible to rent a kayak and paddle to Spirit Island, which is one of the most famous photo spots in the park.
Be prepared that canoe rentals on Maligne Lake are ridiculously overpriced as prices start from $75 per hour. Still, it’s a bit cheaper than paddling across Moraine Lake or Lake Louise in Banff National Park.
MALIGNE CANYON
Maligne Canyon is one of the best places in Jasper National Park, which is worth visiting both in the summer and winter.
The narrow canyon and the strongly blue swirling water are very photogenic, and the network of pathways along the canyon will allow you to explore the site from every angle possible.
For some travelers, Maligne Canyon is a short photo stop; others can easily spend here a few hours walking on the designated trails. Either way, the Maligne Canyon is worth a visit.
Maligne means in French wicked because of the turbulent, possibly dangerous waters.
The deepest canyon in the Canadian Rockies is undoubtedly an excellent warm-up for exploring the area, same as Johnston Canyon in Banff National Park.
The road that leads to Maligne Canyon is known for wildlife spotting, so drive slowly.
Getting to the canyon is super-easy. From Jasper, follow Yellowhead Highway and then turn onto Maligne Lake Road that will take you to this point of interest in no time.
In case you do not have a rental car but still want to visit this part of Jasper National Park, consider booking Maligne Valley Tour that includes a short stop by the canyon and then continues to Maligne Lake.
Maligne Canyon is magical in the summer, but a completely different experience awaits you here in the winter when the water freezes.
It is recommended to join Maligne Canyon Icewalk Tour for your safety.
MEDICINE LAKE
To be honest, when we traveled around Jasper National Park for the first time, we almost missed Medicine Lake. The reason was quite simple.
At the time of our visit, there was virtually no water in the lake, and we started to search for information about where all the water did go.
Apparently, Medicine Lake is known for mirror-like effects, but also for a unique underground drainage system, which causes the water level to vary from month to month.
Medicine Lake sits between Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake, and it is a welcoming stop on this beautiful road.
OPAL HILLS TRAIL
Among others is Maligne Lake area a popular hiking destination. You can park your car here and choose a trail according to your preferences and level of fitness.
We have opted for Opal Hills Trail, a moderately difficult 8 kilometers long loop that will take you to an alpine meadow surrounded by hills on each side.
The meadow is at its best in late spring when flowers are in bloom, but you can visit the place any time, and you won't be disappointed.
We were pleasantly surprised that we left the crowds behind and met only a few people on the trail. The first section is pretty demanding, but the path gets much easier once you get above tree line.
For the hike back, which leads downhill all the time, it is a good idea to bring trekking poles for knee support.
Among other alternatives belong Mary Schaffer Loop, a 3.5 kilometers long flat loop, or Moose Trail that is exceptional because of the high possibility of wildlife spotting.
Speaking of which. Jasper and, by extension, Jasper National Park is very safe, but you should always keep in mind this is a bear country.
Although spotting wildlife is one of the best activities in Jasper, always keep your distance.
For hiking in the berry season, it is essential to have a bear spray on you, and you should hike in a group of people for your safety.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
SULPHUR SKYLINE TRAIL
Why did we love hiking in the Jasper area so much? One of the reasons was that breathtaking views were never too far away. This was also the case of Sulphur Skyline Trail.
This not that well-known hike offers from the summit 360-degree views, and all keen travelers should definitely consider including this trail on the itinerary.
Sulphur Skyline is 8 kilometers long roundtrip, but the elevation gain on the first 4 kilometers is 685 meters, so it is not exactly a piece of cake.
On the other hand, the reward is sweet, and it is worth pushing hard for a while.
The trail is easy to follow; only the loose rocks on the trail can sometimes be slippery, so be careful.
Another reason why is Sulphur Skyline Trail one of the top activities is that it ends by Miette Hot Springs.
MIETTE HOT SPRINGS
We visited Miette Hot Springs twice, and although the conditions were each time diametrically opposed - once it was sunny and once it snowed - nothing changed the fact that this activity has a lot to offer, especially in combination with the hike we had described above.
What can you expect from the Miette hot pools?
In general, there are several pools, each with a different temperature, from a very hot ones (the water temperature is cooled down from the original 54°C to 40°C) to a cold one.
The entrance fee is only CAD 7.21, which is very cheap for Canadian standards. The low entrance fee makes it one of the best budget things to do in Jasper.
The trailhead for Sulphur Skyline Trail and Miette Hot Springs car park is 61 kilometers from Jasper.
The road is often closed in the winter because of the icy conditions, so always check the up-to-date information before you set off.
Do not forget to pack a travel towel and swimsuit, but it is possible to rent both at the reception.
MOUNT EDITH CAVELL
Only 33 kilometers from Jasper town is located another shining star, Mount Edith Cavell. To get to the pristine area and closer to this easily recognizable 3363 high mountain, you need to drive via a series of switchbacks, so drive slowly and enjoy the scenery.
This part of the national park has many aces up its sleeve and you should read our Mount Edith Cavell guide to get the most of your trip.
First, there's the meadow. If you want to explore it more closely, allow yourself three to five hours, as the trail to this tundra-like environment is quite long.
As you would expect, the best time to visit Mt. Edith Cavell is in early spring when the flowers are in full bloom.
But travelers short on time should not miss this place as well, because not far from the parking lot is the Path of the Glacier Trail that will take you to the viewpoint of Angel Glacier, Cavell Glacier, Cavell Pond, and Mount Edith Cavell itself.
The views are hard to beat, so it does not come as a surprise that this area is very touristy, especially because it is properly accessible only a few months in the year.
Visiting Mt. Edith Cavell by car in the winter is off-limits as the road is closed. Cross country skiing is the only way to get there during this period.
ICEFIELDS PARKWAY
It is impossible to talk about Jasper and the national park and not to mention Canada's most famous road, Icefields Parkway.
For many, is Jasper either the starting or ending point of this ultimate adventure as Highway 93 basically ends/begins just before Jasper.
It could almost seem that this road was designed for road tripping, as it is dotted with incredible scenery and an endless list of top natural attractions.
It is possible to drive along the Icefields Parkway and see some of the best sights in one day (it is better because the accommodation along the route is scarce), but if you can, spend in this location even longer.
By now, we traveled this scenic road a few times and would not mind coming back as we surely did not see it all.
A part of the Icefields Parkway belongs to Jasper National Park, while the other, approximately half, is already within Banff National Park.
If you travel the route south to north, we cannot emphasize enough how important it is to have your accommodation booked in Jasper because you will likely arrive late in the evening.
SUNWAPTA FALLS
Sunwapta Falls is one of the most beautiful waterfalls along Icefields Parkway, only about 40 minutes drive from Jasper.
One would think that the location and easy accessibility would mean that the site is overcrowded from morning till evening, but the reality is a bit different.
Travelers arriving in Jasper are often after the whole day on the road tired and cannot wait to check-in in the hotel.
Visitors traveling in the opposite direction are, on the other hand, excited to drive Icefields Parkway and often skip Sunwapta Falls because there are many more renowned places about to come. Do not make the same common mistake.
Sunwapta means in local Stoney language turbulent water, and you're about to get a powerful experience.
The waterfall is only a short walk from the parking lot, so follow the trail to Upper Falls, and if you have more time, feel free to extend the hike to Lower Falls too.
ATHABASCA FALLS
You would not probably find a more famous waterfall near Jasper than Athabasca Falls when it comes to waterfalls. The popularity of this waterfall has many reasons, but it is certainly helpful that the viewing platform is only a few steps away from the parking lot.
This is why parking fills up quickly, especially by large tour buses.
Although Athabasca Falls is definitely worth it, be patient as the first impression will not necessarily be positive when you arrive in the peak time.
Athabasca Falls is 23 meters high and 18 meters wide. When you read these stats, you might start wondering what the fuss is all about, as the numbers are not that impressive.
But this natural attraction is not about height or width; it is about the volume of crystal clear water that makes its way through a narrow canyon.
When the viewing platform is full, follow designated paths that will take you to less exposed viewpoints. Athabasca Falls is only 25 minutes drive from Jasper, so make sure you do not overlook it.
WILCOX PASS
It is beyond our limits to give you a tip on every single top hike in Jasper National Park, but we can at least recommend those we have a personal experience with.
About 100 kilometers from Jasper, not that far from the line with Banff National Park, is a Wilcox Pass trailhead.
Wilcox Pass hike is often overlooked because of a more famous Parker Ridge Trail (which is not in Jasper anymore but close), but we really enjoyed the walk through subalpine scenery and the tranquil atmosphere.
Wilcox Pass hike is 8 kilometers in-out trail. The first half climes up, but it is nothing too challenging; elevation gain is about 200 meters.
Most of the hikers turn around by the first viewpoint, which is marked by a pair of red chairs, but no matter how the view is pretty, it is definitely not the highlight, so carry on.
Once you reach the pass, you'll be blown away by the tranquil meadow lined by peaks such as Mount Athabasca, Mount Andromeda, Mount Wilcox, or Nigel Peak.
ATHABASCA GLACIER
Athabasca Glacier sits on the very border of Jasper National Park, and the local authorities are surely glad this giant belongs to the area because the glacier attracts the attention of international and local travelers alike.
There are several ways to visit the Athabasca glacier.
First, the most budget-friendly alternative is to take a 30-minute Toe of the Athabasca Glacier Hike, which will take you to the mouth of the glacier.
For those looking for a more in-depth experience, it is possible to book either Athabasca Glacier Icewalk, or another alternative is reserving a ride on an Ice Explorer.
This activity can be booked in Athabasca Discovery Center across the road.
Unsurprisingly, we had opted for the free version of seeing the glacier, and we certainly weren't disappointed.
When you walk along the path to the glacier, read informative signs.
Some of them talk more closely about safety, but some also increase awareness about our environment, as it is easy to see how much the glacier has receded in the past few decades. There's definitely a lot to think about.
Global warming is not a made-up phenomenon, and we as individuals certainly can make a difference when we travel responsibly.
MARMOT BASIN
We've already outlined that Jasper National Park is opened for visitors all-year-round, and one of the reasons is that the snow conditions in this part of Canada are often perfect.
Only 20 kilometers from Jasper is one of the most popular ski resorts in Alberta Province, Marmot Basin. It is an ideal place for skiing and snowboarding as you can find here seven lifts and about 90 kilometers of slopes.
All of that in a beautiful environment that offers views of snow-capped mountains around.
A single day Marmot Basin Ski Resort ticket costs CAD 105 without GST.
Of course, if skiing is not your thing, Jasper in winter turns into a winter sports center, and you can choose between snowshoe hiking, ski mountaineering, or cross country skiing.
JASPER SKYTRAM
We noticed the increasing popularity of gondolas in the Canadian Rockies, and although we always prefer hiking and conquering summits on foot, we can understand the logic.
Without much effort, travelers get the chance to get to an alpine zone and trails that would otherwise have been off-limits either because of an insufficient level of fitness or lack of time.
Sometimes we cannot justify the price, which is pretty high, in our opinion, but it is definitely always good to know this service exists.
Jasper SkyTram is a synonym for great views in the area because the gondola will take you to 2263 meters above sea level.
Once you get there, you can join Summit Trail, which features 360-degree views of six mountain ranges.
To get this ultimate experience, book your Jasper SkyTram ticket in advance.
WILDLIFE WATCHING
Despite the number of yearly visitors, Jasper and the area are still a real wilderness, which we should always keep in mind when walking around.
It is pretty common to see herds of elks, bighorn sheep, mountain goats along the road, and spotting a grizzly bear or black bear is not as exceptional as you would think, especially in the spring and summer season.
It is very cool to see bears in the wilderness from a distance (we saw grizzlies at Mount Assiniboine), but it is not that great to encounter mum with cubs in the woods.
If you spot wildlife, you should always keep your distance, and you should certainly not try to find bears on purpose for a simple photo opportunity.
The best advice we can give you is to book a Wildlife Watching Tour with a knowledgeable guide.
This way, your chances to see native animals are high, and this form of travel also increase your safety, plus the money goes back to the community.
DARK SKY RESERVE
Due to limited light pollution, Jasper was in 2011 designated as Dark Sky Reserve; it is actually the second-largest Dark Sky Reserve in the world.
Simply, it is an area where it is great to watch the night sky and stars.
We've already visited a Dark Sky Reserve in New Zealand in Lake Tekapo and can only encourage you to stay up late and when the sky is clear, travel, for example, to Medicine Lake or Maligne Lake.
The experience is truly unforgettable. Jasper even annually hosts Jasper Dark Sky Festival in October, so if you're in the area during this time, make sure you ask in the info center what is the program and activities you can join.
BEST TIME TO VISIT JASPER NATIONAL PARK
Jasper National Park is a destination that is possible to visit all-year-round. Without any doubt, the most popular season is summer, from June to August, closely followed by two autumn months, September and October.
These months usually guarantee warmer temperatures, although you should be prepared for ever-changing weather that can bring occasional snowstorms even in July.
The pros of visiting Jasper in summer are more stable weather, open trails, great hiking opportunities, and usually open roads.
The infrastructure and services such as shops, restaurants, and hotels are ready for customers.
The only disadvantages are full parking lots and higher rates in hotels. On the other hand, these cons aside, we always had a great time in Jasper.
Once we got on the trail, we were able to escape crowds. As we've already mentioned, early autumn has been lately becoming even more popular.
First of all, the tourism slows down, the weather is still pretty much stable, and the mountains and blue lakes in combination with trees that change color are very photogenic.
Jasper is also a place where it is possible to spend cozy winter evenings.
First of all, Marmot Basin Ski Resort is less than 30 minutes drive away, so a ski trip is definitely possible.
If you're a more experienced hiker, you can in the winter put on snowshoes or crampons and experience Jasper from a new angle.
There's only one thing you need to keep in mind. This part of Canada can get really cold, and it snows a lot, so especially if you travel to Jasper from Banff, you need to watch the daily weather forecast as Icefields Parkway can be blocked by snow.
Although wintertime, according to us, cannot compete with summer, it presents Jasper to more outdoorsy and active travelers.
Probably the slowest season in Jasper is spring, between March to May.
Trails are often muddy, there's still snow, and you need to be well-prepared for all types of weather. On the other hand, spring is the time when nature wakes up, and when lucky, you can see cubs in the wild.
To sum it up. Based on our experience, unless you want to enjoy icy scenery and skiing, we would have recommended you visiting Jasper in the shoulder season, either at the end of May, June, or then late September and October.
WHAT TO PACK
Jasper is a classic alpine town, which means that the place is quiet during the day, and it gets alive in the late afternoon when travelers return from day trips.
There's one more thing that will strike you. You'll meet here travelers wearing outdoor clothes and those wearing jeans and fancy jackets.
If you think about what to pack for visiting Jasper National Park, we can give you only one piece of advice.
First, consider the activities you plan on doing.
If you just want to drive around and from time to time get off the car to take a photo, sneakers, jeans, and a down jacket will indeed be enough.
On the other hand, if you prefer spending your time more actively, we recommend packing more carefully as Jasper is surrounded by real wilderness.
Bring hiking boots, hiking trousers, rain jacket, rain poncho, and quality daypack. Seriously, jeans are not good enough for hiking.
If you decide on camping, you are going to need a sleeping bag, sleeping mat, and probably a proper tent.
To get a more detailed insight, read our post, Canadian Rockies Packing List.
The good news is that even if you forget something essential from your packing list at home, there are plenty of outdoor shops in the town, so you can buy whatever is necessary (for higher prices, though).
ENTRANCE FEE
All visitors at Jasper National Park are required to pay an entrance fee. A daily ticket costs CAD 10 per person or CAD 20 for a group of up to 7 people arriving in a single vehicle.
As we believe Jasper National Park is not the only national park on your itinerary, it makes more sense to buy Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which is valid for multiple parks and one year.
The price for Parks Canada Discovery Pass is CAD 69.90 per person or CAD 139.40 per group.
Although it might seem high, when you take into account that all sites within national parks are free and you can travel around freely, we think it is a reasonable price that helps manage the parks' infrastructure responsibly.
As Jasper lies within Jasper National Park, you need to buy an entrance ticket even if you only want to visit the town. What we understand, it is the same even if you're driving through.
SHOPPING IN JASPER
As in any other tourist town in the mountains, you can expect to pay a surcharge in Jasper, no matter if you go shopping for food, clothes, or camping gear.
The positive aspect is that you can get almost everything in Jasper, so it is a great place to restock on your road trip.
The main pedestrian road is lined with outdoor shops, souvenir shops, coffee houses, restaurants, and shops where you can buy camping gear, all of them opened in the season till the late evening.
Yes, Jasper is touristy, but there are times when it really comes in handy.
HOW MANY DAYS YOU NEED
It is always a tough question to answer. Every person has a different travel style and travel pace. Thanks to a large number of hiking trails, it is easily possible to spend in Jasper National Park months without getting bored.
In short, Jasper is a fantastic place for outdoor lovers. But more realistically, we know that most likely, you have ten days to two weeks for the entire Canadian Rockies trip.
We would recommend you staying in Jasper for two to three full days when we put this into perspective.
It is a reasonable amount of time that will give you a chance to explore some of the best things to see and do, spend some leisure time by a lake, make one or two half-day hikes, relax in the hot pools, which is basically what the area is all about.
Of course, the more time you have, the more authentic your visit can be as you'll have time to get off the beaten path, but there's always a reason to come back and tick off your bucket list places you did not have time to see during the last visit.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
