Google Maps Jasper Alberta
Introduction
If you’re planning a trip to Jasper, Alberta, then you’re in for a treat. This small mountain town is nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies and offers visitors a wide range of attractions and activities. From hiking and skiing to cultural immersion and vibrant nightlife, there’s something for everyone in Jasper. In this comprehensive travel guide, we’ll cover the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, and much more. So, pack your bags and get ready for an adventure!
Top Attractions
Maligne Lake
One of the most popular attractions in Jasper is Maligne Lake. This stunning glacial lake is surrounded by towering peaks and offers visitors the chance to take a boat tour or hike around the lake. For the more adventurous, there are also opportunities for kayaking and canoeing.
Miette Hot Springs
If you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, then head to Miette Hot Springs. These natural hot springs are located in a beautiful mountain setting and offer visitors a chance to soak in the warm waters while enjoying stunning views of the surrounding area.
Jasper SkyTram
For a bird’s eye view of Jasper, take a ride on the Jasper SkyTram. This gondola takes visitors up to the top of Whistlers Mountain, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Hidden Gems
Valley of the Five Lakes
If you’re looking for a more secluded spot to hike, then head to the Valley of the Five Lakes. This trail is a bit off the beaten path but offers stunning views of five different glacial lakes.
Old Fort Point
For a unique perspective of Jasper, hike up to Old Fort Point. This short but challenging hike offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains.
Bald Hills
For a longer and more challenging hike, head to Bald Hills. This trail takes visitors through alpine meadows and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
Food Scene
Jasper offers visitors a wide range of dining options, from casual cafes to fine dining restaurants. Some top spots to check out include:
The Raven Bistro
This cozy bistro offers a range of international cuisine, including French, Italian, and Asian-inspired dishes.
Evil Dave’s Grill
If you’re looking for a casual spot to grab a burger or sandwich, then head to Evil Dave’s Grill. This local spot is known for its delicious food and laid-back atmosphere.
The Tekarra Restaurant
For a fine dining experience, head to The Tekarra Restaurant. This restaurant offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and serves up delicious Canadian cuisine.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Traveling to Jasper can be expensive, but there are ways to save money. Here are a few tips:
Campgrounds
Instead of staying in a hotel, consider camping. Jasper offers a range of campgrounds, from basic sites to full-service RV parks.
Free Hikes
There are plenty of great hikes in Jasper that don’t require a park pass. Some top spots to check out include Old Fort Point and Valley of the Five Lakes.
Picnic Lunches
Instead of eating out for every meal, pack a picnic lunch. Jasper has plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a meal, from lakeside beaches to mountain overlooks.
Outdoor Adventures
Jasper is known for its outdoor adventures, from hiking and skiing to kayaking and mountain biking. Here are a few top spots to check out:
Maligne Canyon
For a unique hiking experience, head to Maligne Canyon. This narrow canyon offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and waterfalls.
Marmot Basin
If you’re visiting Jasper in the winter, then head to Marmot Basin for some skiing and snowboarding. This ski resort offers a range of runs for all skill levels.
Whitewater Rafting
For an adrenaline-packed adventure, try whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River. This river offers a range of rapids for all skill levels.
Family-Friendly Activities
If you’re traveling with kids, then Jasper has plenty of family-friendly activities. Here are a few ideas:
Jasper Tramway
The Jasper Tramway is a fun way to see the town from above. Kids will love the ride up to the top of Whistlers Mountain.
Jasper Planetarium
For a unique educational experience, head to the Jasper Planetarium. This small facility offers shows on astronomy and space science.
Jasper National Park Discovery Centre
If you’re looking to learn more about the park, then head to the Jasper National Park Discovery Centre. This interactive museum offers exhibits on the park’s ecology and history.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for a unique experience in Jasper, then try one of these off-the-beaten-path activities:
Wildlife Tours
Jasper is home to a wide range of wildlife, from bears and elk to bighorn sheep and mountain goats. Take a wildlife tour to see these animals up close.
Ice Climbing
If you’re visiting Jasper in the winter, then try ice climbing. This unique activity offers a chance to climb frozen waterfalls and other icy formations.
Caving
For a truly unique experience, try caving in Jasper. There are several operators that offer guided tours of the park’s underground caves.
Natural Wonders
Jasper is home to some of the most stunning natural wonders in the world. Here are a few top spots to check out:
Athabasca Glacier
This massive glacier is one of the most popular attractions in Jasper. Visitors can take a tour to learn more about the glacier and even walk on its surface.
Maligne Canyon
As mentioned earlier, Maligne Canyon offers stunning views of the surrounding cliffs and waterfalls. This narrow canyon is a must-see for nature lovers.
Medicine Lake
Medicine Lake is a unique natural wonder that only appears during certain times of the year. This lake is fed by underground rivers and disappears in the fall and winter.
Vibrant Nightlife
Although Jasper is a small town, it still offers plenty of nightlife options. Here are a few top spots to check out:
The Jasper Brewing Company
This local brewery offers a range of craft beers and pub fare. It’s a great spot to grab a drink and socialize with locals and other travelers.
The Atha-B
The Atha-B is a popular spot for live music and dancing. Check out their events calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.
The De’d Dog Bar & Grill
This casual spot offers a range of cocktails and pub fare. It’s a great spot to relax after a long day of hiking or skiing.
Local Markets
If you’re looking for souvenirs or locally-made goods, then check out these local markets:
Jasper Farmers’ Market
This market offers a range of locally-grown produce and handmade goods. It’s a great spot to support local farmers and artisans.
The Bear’s Paw Souvenir Shop
This souvenir shop offers a range of unique gifts and souvenirs, from handmade jewelry to locally-made jams and preserves.
The Jasper Artists Guild
This gallery and gift shop features the work of local artists. It’s a great spot to pick up a unique piece of art or jewelry.
Beaches and Mountains
Jasper is home to both stunning mountain ranges and beautiful lakeside beaches. Here are a few top spots to check out:
Pyramid Lake
This beautiful lake is surrounded by mountains and offers visitors the chance to swim, kayak, or paddleboard.
Lake Annette
For a more secluded beach experience, head to Lake Annette. This lake offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and a peaceful setting.
Whistlers Mountain
As mentioned earlier, Whistlers Mountain offers stunning views of the town and surrounding mountains. It’s a great spot to watch the sunset or enjoy a picnic.
Cultural Immersion
If you’re interested in learning more about Jasper’s history and culture, then check out these spots:
Jasper Yellowhead Museum