Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, spanning an impressive 11,000 square kilometers (4,200 square miles) of spectacular wilderness. Established in 1907, this UNESCO World Heritage site represents the untamed side of the Rockies, where vast forests, powerful glaciers, crystal-clear lakes, and rugged mountains create an ecological sanctuary that remains largely untouched by human development.
Unlike its more famous neighbor to the south, Banff National Park, Jasper offers a more tranquil, less crowded experience. The town of Jasper at its heart maintains a laid-back, authentic mountain town atmosphere that stands in contrast to the more commercialized feel of Banff. This remoteness is part of Jasper's enduring appeal for those seeking a more intimate connection with the Canadian wilderness.
The park is renowned for its extraordinary wildlife viewing opportunities. Home to grizzly and black bears, elk, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, wolves, and numerous bird species, Jasper provides natural habitat for these animals to thrive. It's also celebrated for its dark sky preserve status, offering some of the best stargazing in North America, particularly during the annual Dark Sky Festival in October.
The Columbia Icefield is the largest ice field in the Rocky Mountains, spanning 325 square kilometers and feeding eight major glaciers. The Athabasca Glacier, its most accessible section, offers visitors the unique opportunity to walk on ancient ice via guided tours. The Columbia Icefield Skywalk, a glass-floored observation platform jutting from the cliff edge, provides breathtaking views over the Sunwapta Valley from 280 meters above.
Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies and one of the most photographed locations in Jasper. Its crystal-clear turquoise waters are surrounded by snow-capped mountains and dense forests. At the heart of the lake lies Spirit Island, a tiny islet that has become an iconic symbol of the Canadian Rockies. Accessible only by boat tour or kayak, this small island set against the Victoria Glacier creates one of the most spectacular views in all of Canada.
While not particularly high at 23 meters (75 feet), Athabasca Falls impresses with the sheer force and volume of water that thunders through its narrow gorge. The Athabasca River has carved intricate formations into the limestone, creating a dramatic landscape of potholes and channels. Well-maintained walkways and viewing platforms allow visitors to safely experience the raw power of the falls from various angles.
Canada's highest and longest aerial tramway takes visitors to an elevation of 2,263 meters (7,425 feet) on Whistlers Mountain. The seven-minute journey offers spectacular panoramic views of the Jasper townsite, surrounding mountain ranges, and pristine alpine landscapes. At the upper station, hiking trails lead to the summit for even more breathtaking vistas, with interpretive signs explaining the alpine environment.
Often ranked among the world's most scenic drives, the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) connects Jasper and Banff National Parks with 232 kilometers (144 miles) of awe-inspiring mountain scenery. The route parallels the Continental Divide, passing more than 100 ancient glaciers, cascading waterfalls, dramatic rock formations, and emerald lakes. Numerous pullouts and viewpoints allow travelers to safely stop and take in the magnificent landscapes.
Over 1,000 km of trails from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes.
Observe bears, elk, moose, bighorn sheep and more in their natural habitat.
Canoeing, kayaking, rafting, and fishing on pristine lakes and rivers.
Skiing, snowshoeing, ice climbing, and winter wildlife tours.
Experience the Dark Sky Preserve with some of the world's best night sky viewing.
The Icefields Parkway and other stunning routes with panoramic viewpoints.
Jasper National Park is located in the Canadian Rockies in western Alberta, approximately 365 km west of Edmonton and 415 km northwest of Calgary. It borders Banff National Park to the south.
