10 Fun Things to Do in Jasper National Park

Located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is one of the most beautiful places on earth. With its breathtaking mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes, and abundant wildlife, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Jasper National Park. Whether you're looking for an adrenaline rush or a more relaxed adventure, there are plenty of options. From camping, hiking, and kayaking to skiing and fishing, this list of 10 fun things to do in Jasper National Park has something for everyone. 

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations have spent lots of time exploring Jasper. We’ve put together this list to help visitors get the most of their time in the area. Get in touch for more information. We specialize in putting together custom trips to Canada.  

Here are some of our favorite sights and activities in Jasper.

1. Old Fort Point Trail
2. Maligne Lake Cruise
3. Sunwapta Falls 
4. Moose Lake
5. Medicine Lake
6. Jasper Sky Tram
7. Columbia Icefield Skywalk
8. Wildflowers
9. Athabasca river
10. Helicopter ride

1. Go Hiking on the Old Fort Point Trail 

One of the best things to do in Jasper National Park is to go hiking on the Old Fort Point Trail. This trail is about 3.4 kilometers long and offers some stunning views of the surrounding area. On this hike, you will see a variety of wildlife, including moose, elk, and deer. The trail also offers a unique view of the Athabasca River and Miette Hot Springs. This trail is suitable for all levels of hikers, so it's a great option if you are visiting Jasper National Park with friends or family. 

To make the most of your time in Jasper National Park, you should spend at least two to three days here. During your visit, be sure to add the Old Fort Point Trail to your list of the top five things to do in Jasper National Park. You won't regret it! 

Other popular Hiking trials include: 

• Whistler’s Summit 
• Valley of 5 lakes hiking 
• Pyramid lake hiking 
• Maligne Canyon 
• Athabasca Glacier Icewalk

Explore More: Trains from Vancouver to Jasper

2. Relaxing on a Maligne Lake Cruise

Maligne Lake is one of the best places to visit in Jasper National Park. Its breathtaking views and beautiful landscapes are something to behold. A cruise on Maligne Lake is one of the top 5 things to do in Jasper National Park.  

The lake's crystal-clear water is perfect for swimming and fishing. If you're lucky, you might spot some local wildlife, such as elk, deer, bears, and moose! Book a tour with one of the many companies offering guided tours on Maligne Lake to make the most of your trip. They will provide an expert guide who will tell you about the lake's unique history and culture.  

After your cruise, there are plenty of other activities that you can enjoy in the area.  

1. Paddle a canoe on Maligne Lake. 
2. Hike the Maligne Valley

3. View Sunwapta Falls

One of the best things to do in Jasper National Park is to look at the stunning Sunwapta Falls. Located on the Athabasca River, it's one of the most popular attractions in the park, and for good reason. The two-tiered waterfall stands at an impressive height of around sixty-eight feet, and its icy waters plunge over the edge of a deep gorge into a crystal clear pool below. 

The best way to experience Sunwapta Falls's beauty is to walk along the nearby boardwalk trail. The views of the falls are absolutely breathtaking, and it’s easy to see why this is one of the top five things to do in Jasper National Park. Depending on your time constraints, you can spend anywhere from thirty minutes to a full day here. No matter how long you stay, you're sure to be amazed by the natural beauty of this incredible waterfall.

4. Check out the moose at Moose Lake

One of the best things to do in Jasper National Park is to check out the moose at Moose Lake. Moose are the largest members of the deer family and can be seen grazing on the lake's shoreline and swimming in its crystal-clear waters. You'll likely see these majestic creatures from the safety of the observation deck, but if you're feeling adventurous, you can canoe or kayak out to get a closer look.  

A visit to Moose Lake is one of the top 5 things to do in Jasper National Park, and it can be accomplished in a day or two, depending on how much time you want to spend there. So make sure to add it to your list of must-do activities when visiting Jasper National Park!

5. Visit Medicine Lake

One of the best things to do in Jasper National Park is to visit Medicine Lake. With its beautiful shoreline, abundant wildlife, and crystal clear waters, Medicine Lake is one of the top things to do in Jasper National Park. It can be visited in only one day if you plan well, so it's great for a short trip or part of a longer one. 

Medicine Lake is located at the end of Highway 16 near Maligne Lake. Visitors can enjoy activities such as fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. In addition, there are plenty of places along the shoreline to relax and enjoy the stunning views. The lake is also known for its abundance of wildlife and bird-watching opportunities, so make sure to bring your binoculars! 

It is important to note that Medicine Lake is part of the aboriginal land, and as such, visitors should show respect and observe all rules. All in all, spotting Medicine Lake is one of the top five things to do in Jasper National Park and is an experience you won't forget.

6. Take a ride on the Jasper Sky Tram

One of the best things to do in Jasper National Park is a ride on the Jasper Sky Tram. The tram takes visitors up Whistlers Mountain for panoramic views of the park and surrounding areas. Once you're at the top, you can take in the stunning views of Maligne Lake, the Rocky Mountains, and even the Columbia Icefield.  

This is one of the top 5 things to do in Jasper National Park and will surely be a highlight of your trip! You can easily spend an entire day exploring this area and taking in the breathtaking views. Whether you have a few days or just a few hours, riding the Jasper Sky Tram is one of the top things to do in Jasper National Park. 

7. Experience the Columbia Icefield Skywalk

The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is one of the best things to do in Jasper National Park. Located at the Columbia Icefields, this awe-inspiring experience takes you along a glass-floored observation platform that cantilevers out over the Sunwapta Valley for an unrivaled view of the Rocky Mountains.  

You can see ancient glaciers and mountain peaks almost 1,000 feet below! This top attraction in Jasper is a must-do for all visitors, but plan to spend at least two days in the park to get the full experience. Be sure to bring your camera for some truly unforgettable memories!

8. Delight in the Wildflowers

Wildflowers are some of the best things to do in Jasper National Park. As one of the largest national parks in Canada, Jasper boasts an incredible variety of flora, from delicate wild roses to vibrant alpine poppies. With over 600 species of wildflowers, it's easy to get lost in a world of beauty. To make the most of this spectacular landscape, try visiting in the summertime when the blooms are most colorful and plentiful.  

You could even plan to spend several days in the park, as there's so much to explore. Even if you only have a few hours, make sure you find time to marvel at the brilliant wildflowers – it’s one of the top five things to do in Jasper National Park! 

9. Go whitewater rafting on the Athabasca river

If you're looking for an exhilarating activity, whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River in Jasper National Park is definitely one of the top 5 things to do. It's one of the best ways to take in the stunning views of the snow-capped mountains and glaciers that are so prominent in Jasper National Park.  

As you journey down the river, you'll experience some of the most thrilling rapids and beautiful calm sections of the river. The river journey usually takes around 3-4 hours and will require at least one day to complete, making it a great way to spend your time in Jasper National Park.  

You can go alone or join a group tour with an experienced guide who can show you all the best spots along the river. Whether you're a thrill seeker looking for an adrenaline-filled ride, or a nature lover looking to take in the beauty of the landscape, whitewater rafting on the Athabasca River should definitely be on your list of things to do in Jasper National Park.

10. Experience a helicopter ride with a bird's eye view

A helicopter ride is one of the best things to do in Jasper National Park. On this awe-inspiring ride, you can soar above the majestic Rocky Mountains and catch stunning views of Jasper and the surrounding area. From the sky, you'll be able to spot glaciers, alpine lakes, and wildlife. This is an experience you will remember! 

If you’re looking for the ultimate adventure during your visit to Jasper National Park, a helicopter ride should be on your list of top things to do. You can take a sightseeing tour over some of the park’s most beautiful places and take photos that will last a lifetime. 

How many days are needed to visit Jasper National Park? That's up to you! Some people just come for a weekend while others stay for longer. But if you want to experience all the top 5 things to do in Jasper National Park, then it is recommended that you plan to spend at least three days in the park. That way, you can have enough time to explore, enjoy activities, and make the most of your trip! 

One can also experience other nature adventures in Jasper, such as: 

• Float down a river 
• Drive the icefields parkway 
• Dogsledding 
• Snowboarding at Marmot Basin

Explore More: Canadian Rockies Train Tours

Facts About Jasper National Park 

Jasper National Park is one of Canada's most stunning landscapes. It's home to the spectacular Rocky Mountains, rivers, glaciers, forests, and meadows. Located in Alberta, Jasper National Park has been an official national park since 1907 and is now part of UNESCO's Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. With over 10,000 square kilometers of breathtaking scenery, it's no wonder that visitors flock to Jasper National Park to experience its wonders. From hiking the picturesque trails to enjoying a leisurely canoe ride, there are plenty of activities here. 

When planning a trip to Jasper National Park, it's important to keep in mind that the park is huge! Depending on your time frame and the activities you want to enjoy, you may need anywhere from a couple of days to a week or more to fully explore the park. It also helps to know the best things to do in Jasper National Park so that you can make the most out of your visit.  

If you're looking for even more activities, then consider taking a ride on the Jasper Sky Tram or experiencing the Columbia Icefield Skywalk for a bird's eye view of the area. There's also white water rafting on the Athabasca River or marveling at the wildflowers blooming throughout the park in summer. No matter what activities you decide to enjoy while visiting Jasper National Park, you’ll be sure to take away amazing memories and beautiful photos!

How to Reach Jasper National Park? 

Jasper National Park is a stunning landscape of rugged peaks, vibrant meadows, and sparkling lakes that can be explored via several transportation options. Located in Alberta, Canada, the park is easily accessible by car, bus, train, or air. 

If traveling by car, the scenic Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) connects Jasper with Banff National Park to the south and is one of the most popular ways to visit the area. The drive takes approximately 3 hours from Calgary International Airport, but keep in mind that visitors should allow extra time to stop and explore the many breathtaking sights along the way. 

For those who prefer to leave the driving to someone else, Greyhound offers daily bus service from Calgary and Edmonton. Depending on where you're coming from, seasonal shuttle buses run from major hubs such as Vancouver and Whistler. 

Alternatively, for those looking for a more luxurious experience, the Rocky Mountaineer offers an incredible rail journey that takes travelers through the heart of the Canadian Rockies. This route is an especially great option for those short on time and wanting to maximize their experience. 

Finally, travelers who plan on flying can get to Jasper via flights into either Calgary or Edmonton International Airport. Both airports have several daily flights arriving from major cities across North America, making Jasper National Park accessible for those looking to get away. 

Overall, no matter what mode of transportation you choose, you’re sure to enjoy all the best things to do in Jasper National Park. With so many different activities and attractions, it’s possible to visit Jasper in as little as 2-3 days or extend your stay for weeks – it’s all up to you! 

Best Time to Visit Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park is one of the most spectacular national parks in Canada. With its beautiful mountain ranges, crystal clear lakes, and diverse wildlife, it's easy to see why people from all over the world come to experience the beauty of this park. So when is the best time to visit? 

The best time to visit Jasper National Park depends on what you want there. If you're looking to experience some of the best things to do in Jasper National Park, like hiking, skiing, and snowshoeing, then the winter months are your best bet. The snowy scenery during these months provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities. 

If you want to experience the stunning lakes and waterfalls of Jasper National Park, then the summer months are ideal. During this time, you can take a canoe out onto Maligne Lake or visit Sunwapta Falls. You can also spot some of the area's iconic wildlife, like elk, bighorn sheep, and moose! 

No matter what time of year you choose to visit Jasper National Park, it's important to note that it will take at least four days to explore the area. Therefore, plan to spend a week here if you want to experience all the top things to do in Jasper National Park, including the top 5 things to do - hiking the Old Fort Point Trail, going on a Maligne Lake cruise, admiring Sunwapta Falls, spotting moose at Moose Lake, and exploring Medicine Lake.