15 Free Things to Do in Jasper

There are plenty of free things to do in Jasper. From hiking on picturesque trails to fishing in its clear rivers, the options are endless. This national park is famous for its mountain town, abundant nature, and wildlife. Get ready to make memories and experience the natural splendor of Jasper with these activities that have no charge beyond your park pass. They will give you a taste of the natural beauty and outdoor adventures the park and town have to offer — without breaking the bank.

Do know that all visitors to Jasper National Park are required to have a valid National Park Pass. Many tour operators do provide passes on visitors' behalf.

At Canadian Train Vacations, we specialize in making personalized itineraries. Our travel experts know how to help you get the most out of your trip to Jasper. The following guide outlines some of our top picks for things to do in Jasper for free.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your friends and family and get exploring!

1. Athabasca Falls

If you're looking for an incredible sight that's free to enjoy while in Jasper, head to Athabasca Falls. This thundering waterfall is located in the heart of Jasper National Park and is accessible by car or shuttle bus.

Athabasca Falls is best visited in the morning or evening when the light is best for photography. The waterfall is located just a short walk from the parking lot, making it easy to get to. Be sure to bring your camera along, as you'll want to want to capture the beauty of this spot!

Explore Jasper National Park: Rocky Mountaineer Train Canada

2. Maligne Canyon

There are plenty of hikes, but one of the best things to do in Jasper Canada is to visit Maligne Canyon. This stunning natural attraction is located northeast of the town and offers a scenic hike.
The canyon is filled with all sorts of incredible geological features, including waterfalls, limestone caves, and fossil beds. There's also a lot of wildlife to be seen in the canyon, so keep your eyes peeled for bears, deer, and even coyotes. A visit to the canyon is also one of the best free things to do in Jasper in the winter.

Getting to Maligne Canyon is fairly easy, as it is located just 10 minutes from the Jasper townsite and 5 minutes from Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge on the Maligne Lake Road. From the east end of the town site of Jasper, get onto Highway 16 east for 3 km and take the turnoff for Maligne Lake Road to the right. Head over the iron bridge across the Athabasca River and keep left at the fork in the road. Continue on Maligne Road until you see signs for Maligne Canyon, which will be on your left. If you son't have a vehicle, many tours can picke you up from your hotel.

The canyon is open every day during the summer and winter months. Make sure to leave plenty of time to explore this amazing natural attraction - allocate between 2-3 hours to see Maligne Canyon.

[ Read: Places to visit in Canada in Summer ]

3. Pyramid and Patricia Lakes

Pyramid and Patricia Lakes are great places to spend a day. This beautiful outdoor spot has mesmerizing views, great places to take pictures, and lots of room to explore. You can take a Canadian Train Vacations tour or a bus from the Jasper town station to get there. The lake is open every day, with the busiest times being from 10 am to 5 pm during the summer. The best time to go is in the morning or early afternoon.

You will love every minute of your time here, whether you take a slow walk around the emerald waters or ride a boat along them. If you have an hour to kill, this is a great place to spend some quiet time in nature.

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4. Bald Hills

The next thing to do in Jasper is to the Bald Hills trail. Taking the Jasper SkyTram will bring you up to the top of Maligne Range, where you can enjoy the panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies, including Mount Edith Cavell and Pyramid Mountain. While the SkyTram is not free, the hike itself is. The Bald Hills are accessible from 9 am – 5 pm each day, and it's best to visit around mid-day for optimal visibility. Taking the tramway up there should take about 35 minutes, and you're likely to spend 1–2 hours exploring the area and taking in all its beauty. So put on your hiking boots and get ready to explore one of Jasper's most majestic spots!

5. Jasper Information Centre

The Jasper Information Center is a great place to start exploring the city for free. It's open daily from 9 am to 7 pm in the peak summer months starting early May to late September. The rest of the year, it's open from 9 am to 5 pm from late September to early May. This center is the perfect place for visitors and locals alike, with knowledgeable staff and helpful displays that provide information on events, attractions, hiking trails, and more. You can also pick up free brochures, maps, and an up-to-date list of activities that are either free or discounted throughout Jasper. It's worth visiting to make the most of your trip!

6. Old Fort Point Loop Trail

Ready for a nature hike? The Old Fort Point Loop Trail is the perfect activity for you!
This challenging hike will take you through a variety of landscapes, from forests to river gorges. The trail is a 4 km loop and takes around 1-2 hours to complete, so be sure to bring plenty of water and snacks.

To reach the trailhead, take highway 16 to the east gate of Jasper National Park. The trail begins just past the information center. Be sure to visit during the daytime, as the trail is not well-lit at night.

The Old Fort Point Loop Trail is a must-do for any nature lover visiting Jasper National Park!

7. Mountain Galleries Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

The stunning views of the Canadian Rockies are an extra perk of visiting the Mountain Galleries at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. This world-famous art gallery showcases an impressive and diverse collection of authentic Canadian fine art, all with a focus on nature and the outdoors.

The gallery is open from 10 am to 6 pm daily, so there's plenty of time to fit it into your sightseeing schedule. And don't forget to take a stroll through the exquisite grounds of the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge while you're there!

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8. Jasper Discovery Trail

The Jasper Discovery Trail is a must-see for any tourist. It is a moderate, 8.3km loop that takes you around scenic spots including Patricia Lake, Pyramid Island, and the Whistlers Mountain Valley. You can access the trail from several points in downtown Jasper. The best time to visit is from May to October, either sunrise or sunset, as it offers incredible views of the lake and mountains in the area. On average, it takes two hours to complete the loop but you can spend as much time as you want, taking in the stunning landscape.

9. Jasper Art Gallery

For art lovers, a visit to the Jasper Art Gallery should be at the top of your list. This gallery is located in the heart of Jasper and boasts a wide range of artwork from local and international artists. Visitors can browse a variety of paintings, sculptures, and photographs from some of Canada's best up-and-coming talents. The gallery is open Monday to Saturday from 10 am - 6 pm, so if you're looking for something to do during those hours come on in and explore! Transportation options like Canadian Train Vacations' train tour packages can get you there in no time, so don't miss out on this unique opportunity.

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10. Two Brothers Totem Pole

This famous landmark stands across from the Jasper visitor centre. The pole is approximately 13.7 metres tall and is painted in traditional Haida colours of red, black and blue. It tells the story of two Haida brothers who travelled from Haida Gwaii off the west coast of Canada to the Rocky Mountains.

Behind the totem pole is a spectacular mountain backdrop. It's perfect for photo opportunities, so make sure to have your camera on you.

[ Read: Free Things to do in Calgary ]

11. Jasper Train Station

The Jasper Station, which is right in the middle of town, is a must-see. It was built in 1925 and has been designated a heritage railway station because of its historical, architectural and environmental significance. Visitors can look around the building on their own and learn all about the station's history and what it means to the town of Jasper.

[Experience: The Canadian Train]

12. Mount Edith Cavell

Mount Edith Cavell is one of the most beautiful places in Jasper. It's a great destination for a day trip because it's only a 40-minute drive from downtown Jasper. The mountain's north face is famous for interesting moraines, alpine flowers and spectacular views of Angel Glacier. Get an up-close view of this stunning mountain from Cavell Meadows, just a short hike on the Cavell Meadows trail.

13. Sunwapta Falls

You won’t want to miss out on Sunwapta Falls, one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the Canadian Rockies. Sunwapta Falls offers a breathtaking view of the Athabasca River. The view of the upper falls is easily accessed from the parking lot. A short hike 1.3 km hike will take you to the lower falls. It's recommended you visit early in the morning or in the late afternoon to avoid crowds and to get your incredible scenic photos - so don’t forget to bring your camera!

14. Maligne Lake

Take a trip to Maligne Lake, one of the most beautiful bodies of freshwater in the world! This emerald-green lake is easily accessible from Jasper and is a great spot for nature lovers to come and explore. If you come right at sunset, you’re likely to witness a breathtakingly beautiful view of clear blue waters surrounded by lush green mountains. Although there isn’t an official time limit for how long you should stay here, it’s suggested that visitors plan to spend at least two hours exploring the area.

15. Jasper National Park of Canada

This stunning park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, and moose. Take a hike on one of the many trails that wind through the park, or go for a drive along the scenic Icefields Parkway. The park is open year-round, and visitors can enjoy activities such as camping, fishing, and skiing in the winter. With over 11,000 square kilometers of stunning natural beauty, Jasper National Park is a must-see destination for any traveler to Jasper.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to exploring the beautiful Canadian Rockies, Canadian Train Vacations can help you plan your best trip. Our train tours take you through some of the most scenic routes in Canada, including Jasper National Park. With our expertly curated packages, you can enjoy the best of Jasper's activities without having to worry about transportation or planning. Treat yourself to a stress-free and unforgettable vacation with Canadian Train Vacations.