Jasper National Park is located in the heart of Western Canada and was part of our tour of western canada, in which we also include Banff-, Glacier- and Yoho National Park visited. Jasper National Park is the second most popular national park in Canada. Like Banff, Jasper is known for its spectacular scenery of lakes, mountains, waterfalls and glaciers – but it is often just a little quieter. Ideal for those looking for more space and less crowds.
In Jasper, rugged mountain landscapes, crystal clear lakes and wildlife come together in an environment that surprises you time and time again. In this article, we share the most beautiful sights, practical tips and personal experiences to prepare your visit to Jasper National Park.
Our journey through the United States and Canada
This article is part of a large one-year tour the United States en Canada, with a Dutch 4×4 camper that we shipped ourselves… It is a bucket list worthy expats must register with the local municipality and obtain a once in a lifetime experience that will never be forgotten.
We wrote almost 100 articles about this ultimate tour. Visit our North America page for more information.
Are you thinking of following our footsteps and renting a camper(van) with friends, your partner or with your whole family? Then ask free of charge and without obligation a quote or compare and book directly at Travelhome. Travelhome is the most affordable provider with also the largest offer. They have both campervans and full-fledged family campers in the offer.
- Large selection, low prices
- Independent or Customized
- Expert advice from specialists
- Full quote with no hidden costs
About Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park is located in the province of Alberta and is the largest national park of the Canadian Rockies. With over 11.000 square kilometres of rugged nature, it is even larger than the better-known Banff. Yet it is often a bit quieter here, which makes the park so attractive for those who like to experience a bit more space and silence during a trip.
The scenery is spectacular: think glaciers, clear blue lakes, cascading waterfalls, mountain peaks and vast forests where wildlife is regularly spotted. Jasper is part of the UNESCO World Heritage “Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks” and feels like a place where nature is still truly in charge.
What makes Jasper so special
In Jasper you have the freedom to explore at your own pace: with a quiet drive along impressive viewpoints, a relaxing walk to a mountain lake or a tough hike to a glacier. That variety, combined with the peace and the feeling of space, makes Jasper a place where you really get lost in nature.
Where Banff Known for its iconic lakes and bustling tourist town, Jasper offers more peace, space and untouched nature. It is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and you can feel that vastness immediately. The roads are quieter, the views are wider and the chance of spotting bears, moose or deer is great. As soon as you drive onto the Icefields Parkway, the landscape changes: rougher, quieter and impressive.
The highlights in Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park is bursting with impressive nature and diverse landscapes: from glaciers and mountain lakes to deep ravines and vast forests. Below you will find our personal highlights – places that we have visited ourselves and that you should not miss during your visit to Jasper.
1. Icefields Parkway – Canada's most beautiful road trip
De Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) connects Banff to Jasper and winds through the Rockies. This 230-kilometre route is considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world for good reason. Along the way you pass mountain peaks, glaciers, lakes and vast valleys – and there is a good chance that you will encounter wildlife, from mountain goats to black bears.
If you are driving from Banff to Jasper, the Icefields Parkway is the perfect introduction to the national park. It is not a route that you just drive; really take your time. There are dozens of viewpoints and short hiking trails along the way, and some highlights, such as the Athabasca Glacier or Sunwapta Falls, are right on it.
We drove the route from the south, from Glacier National Park. In three hours we saw more natural beauty than we encounter in weeks on some trips: glaciers you can almost touch, emerald lakes and deserted mountain roads where suddenly a moose stands by the side. And that before we even drove into Jasper.
Tip:: Start your day early so you can drive at a leisurely pace and have time to stop regularly. Download an offline map beforehand, as there is little reception along the way.
2. Columbia Icefield – impressive icy landscape
The Columbia Icefield is one of the most impressive natural phenomena of the Canadian Rockies. This enormous ice field, which stretches across the border of Jasper and Banff National Parks, feeds several glaciers and is even visible from the road.
The best known and most accessible is the Athabasca Glacier. You can walk right up to the ice, but entering it is only permitted with a guide, due to the danger of deep crevasses. Special Ice Explorer tours leave from the Icefield Centre for those who really want to get on the ice.
In addition to the Athabasca Glacier, the Stutfield Glacier part of the Columbia Icefield, along with the Dome, Castleguard, Columbia and Saskatchewan Glaciers. Some are visible from the Icefields Parkway, offering spectacular panoramas of ice masses jutting out from between rock faces.
The landscape here is rugged, silent and imposing. Even if you don’t go up the glaciers, it’s worth the drive – a place that makes you feel how powerful and changing nature can be.
Tip:: Stop at the lookout points along the way and see if you can distinguish the different glaciers. Especially in clear weather they are clearly visible from the road.
3. Athabasca Falls – raw power in a photogenic spot
De Athabasca Falls may not be the tallest or widest waterfalls in Canada, but they are certainly some of the most impressive. The water here crashes down a narrow gorge with enormous force, creating deep ravines and slippery potholes (called potholes) have been worn into the rock. This erosion is beautifully visible here – a textbook example of what water can do over thousands of years.
What makes this place so special is the combination of rugged nature and photogenic views. Everywhere you can hear the roar of the water, while a network of paths and bridges allows you to discover different corners of the waterfalls.
Tip:: Arrive early in the day or late afternoon to avoid the crowds – this is one of the most popular stops along the Icefields Parkway.
4. Maligne Lake – Clear blue water between towering peaks
Maligne Lake is without a doubt one of the most iconic places in Jasper National Park. The lake is known for its bright blue color, surrounded by steep mountain peaks and glaciers that seem to disappear into the water. The road to it alone is a must: a winding route through an increasingly rugged landscape, where you can easily spot wildlife.
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A popular activity is the boat ride to Spirit Island, a small island in the middle of the lake that you've probably seen on postcards. The tours are pricey (around CAD 65 per person), but many travelers find the views well worth it.
We chose a walk along the banks, where you can enjoy the view at your own pace - and take beautiful photos. A nice alternative if you prefer something a bit quieter or more budget-friendly.
Tip:: Along the way you will also pass Medicine Lake, a mysterious place where the water partly disappears into the ground. Definitely stop there!
5. Edith Cavell Meadows – short hike, great views
The walk to Edith Cavell Meadows is one of the most beautiful short hikes in Jasper National Park. You walk between rugged cliffs, alpine meadows full of flowers and end at an impressive glacial lake at the foot of the Angel Glacier.
The first (short) stage quickly takes you to the viewpoint, where you have a view of the glacier lake and regularly see ice blocks calving into the water. Want more of a challenge? Then you can do the full loop of 8,5 kilometers, which takes you higher up the mountain with even more spectacular views.
Please note: the hiking trail ends at a safe distance from the lake. This is not without reason: large chunks of ice can break off unexpectedly and cause a sudden rise in the water level. Warning signs are there for a reason, although unfortunately not everyone adheres to them.
6. Sunwapta Falls – compact power
De Sunwapta Falls are located a little further south in Jasper National Park and are a nice short stop on the way to the Icefields Parkway. The meltwater of the Athabasca Glacier thunders through a narrow gorge here, which is particularly spectacular in spring and early summer due to the high water level.
The main waterfall, also known as Upper Sunwapta Falls, is just a few minutes walk from the parking lot. A little further on, you can also reach the Lower Falls walking, where it is usually a lot quieter.
Despite its relatively low height (18 meters) the power and setting are impressive. The rocks, the greenery and the fast flowing water make for a wild piece of nature that you really want to experience, even if you have less time in Jasper.
6. The town of Jasper – relaxing base
The town of the same name is located on the northern side of the national park JasperIt is the ideal base for exploring the park – not only because of its location, but also because of its facilities and atmosphere.
The village is touristy, but feels friendly. You will find everything you need for your stay: from supermarkets and gas stations to cozy bars, restaurants and outdoor shops. After a day in nature, it is a nice place to relax with a beer on a terrace or to stroll through the streets.
Jasper is uncluttered, charming and surrounded by mountains, just what you need between your hikes and roadtrip-moments.
Practical and prepared on the road in Jasper
1. How do you get there?
The best way to explore Jasper National Park is with your own (rental) camper or car. We drove our own shipped camper, but for most travelers renting a camper in Calgary or Vancouver is a logical choice. Travel specialists like Travelhome (ANWB) offer routes and vehicles for 2 to 10 weeks. Also ideal if you want to visit Banff, Jasper and Vancouver Island want to combine.
Are you thinking of following our footsteps and renting a camper(van) with friends, your partner or with your whole family? Then ask free of charge and without obligation a quote or compare and book directly at Travelhome. Travelhome is the most affordable provider with also the largest offer. They have both campervans and full-fledged family campers in the offer.
- Large selection, low prices
- Independent or Customized
- Expert advice from specialists
- Full quote with no hidden costs
2. Park Passes & Reservations
For Jasper National Park you need an entrance pass from Parks Canada. You can buy these per day, but if you visit multiple parks the Discovery Pass more advantageous.
Are you camping at Parks Canada campgrounds? If so, book through the official website, especially during high season.
3. Camping
There are two large Parks Canada campgrounds in and around Jasper:
- Whistlers Campground (781 places)
- Wapiti Campground (across from Whistlers)
Whistlers is beautifully situated in the forest, with spacious pitches and brand new facilities. We paid around 30 CAD (23 euros) per night in high season without electricity. Do you want to be here in July or August? Then book in time via the Parks Canada website, these places are popular.
Was everything booked? No stress. Whistlers Campground has a overflow camping, about a 20-minute drive away. Here you can always find a spot. For about 17 CAD per night (via self-registration) you get a simple pitch without facilities, but with peace and a view. There are dry toilets, but no showers.
3. Staying without a camper
Not traveling with a camper? Don't worry, even without a house on wheels there are plenty of nice places to stay. In and around the town of Jasper you will find a wide range of hotels, B&Bs and cozy lodges. Keep in mind that accommodations within the park fill up quickly, especially in high season. Book in advance via platforms such as Booking.com is therefore recommended.
Some accommodation tips:
- Luxury – Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
A classic among luxury accommodations. Directly on the lake, with a view of the mountains. Spacious, atmospheric and ideal if you really want to treat yourself. - Middle class+ – Overlander Mountain Lodge
Small-scale and atmospheric accommodation just outside the park. Perfect if you want a quieter overnight stay, with a good restaurant on site. - Middle class – Pyramid Lake Lodge
Comfortable lodges on the water, close to Jasper. Beautifully situated and popular with nature lovers who are looking for a little more comfort. - Middle class – Jasper East Cabins
Spacious, modern cabins with private kitchens, close to the eastern entrance of Jasper National Park. Convenient for families or self-catering travellers. - Budget - Jasper Gates Resort
Rustic cabins and basic motel rooms just outside the park. A practical and affordable choice if you are mainly on the road.
4. Groceries and refueling
Within the national park, supermarkets and gas stations are scarce and expensive.
- The best place to refuel is in the village of Jasper, just outside the park.
- Ideally, you should do your shopping before you enter Banff or Jasper. In Jasper itself, you will only find small, more expensive supermarkets.
So make sure your cool box is well stocked and your tank is full, especially if you plan to spend a longer period of time in nature.
Closing comments
Jasper National Park is not a destination you simply drive through, it is a place you experience. You wake up to views of snow-capped mountains, walk past turquoise lakes or catch a glimpse of a bear in the undergrowth. Moments that linger.
For us Jasper felt like a breather during the roadtrip: a place where you are truly outdoors, far from the hustle and bustle, and where behind every bend a new view is hidden. It gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace, and that is exactly what makes this place so special.
Our journey through the United States and Canada
This article is part of a large one-year tour the United States en Canada, with a Dutch 4×4 camper that we shipped ourselves… It is a bucket list worthy expats must register with the local municipality and obtain a once in a lifetime experience that will never be forgotten.
We wrote almost 100 articles about this ultimate tour. Visit our North America page for more information.
