Nestled amidst the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park offers a tranquil winter escape that’s both less crowded than Banff, and equally stunning.
Jasper National Park serves as a hub for winter enthusiasts, providing a diverse array of thrilling activities and vibrant winter festivals, catering to those seeking adventure or a peaceful retreat.
Join us as we explore the wintertime wonders in Jasper, uncovering the must-do activities and hidden treasures that position this national park as one of the most enchanting winter destinations in Canada.
Throughout the year, Jasper remains a haven for hiking enthusiasts, offering an all-season paradise for those seeking adventure in its stunning landscapes.
Many might assume that the arrival of snow closes the door to hiking adventures, but in Jasper National Park, the snowy trails reveal a whole new world to explore. The snow enhances the experience, offering unique and breathtaking opportunities.
Please ensure you’re adequately equipped for winter hiking with appropriate cold-weather attire. It’s advisable to have shoe spikes or crampons to prevent slipping on icy surfaces. These precautions will help ensure a safer and more enjoyable hiking experience amidst winter conditions.
Valley of the 5 Lakes trail is one of the most popular hiking trails in Jasper – both in winter & summer! This trail is definitely a must-see and well worth a visit in Jasper National Park in all seasons.
Length: 4.5km circuit – takes approximately 2 hours to complete
Elevation Gain: 66M
A pair of the iconic Parks Canada Red Chairs provide a splendid resting point with scenic views overlooking Third Lake.
Valley of the 5 Trails hike is do-able with proper winter hiking boots, but spikes or crampons are recommended. This trail is also popular for snow-shoeing.
In every season, a visit to Pyramid Island on Pyramid Lake remains a must when exploring Jasper National Park, offering a great vantage point to admire the majestic Pyramid Mountain.
This is more a leisurely winter walk than a hike; the total walking distance including a full loop of the island is only 0.6 km.
The frozen lake does offer further exploration, and snowshoeing and cross country skiing are also popular here.
During the holidays, the Pyramid Lake Lodge offers an ice skating rink and runs magical sleigh rides around the lake.
An iconic highlight within Jasper National Park, Maligne Canyon stands as one of the park’s most sought-after destinations.
During the winter, this beautiful site transforms into a mesmerizing wonderland adorned with frozen waterfalls and sparkling icicles, solidifying its place as one of Alberta’s top attractions.
The Maligne Canyon trail is a single large loop with several optional side trails.
Round-trip distance on the main loop, from parking lot 11 (at the restaurant), is 4.4 kilometres.
Time on the trail: 2-4 hours.
Elevation Gain: 160m
Rated: moderately difficult. There are a lot of hills on this trail.
Most visitors start this hike from parking lot 11, near the Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen. This has you starting at the top of the canyon, and doing all the hard uphill hiking on the way back to the parking lot.
I recommend starting at the 5th bridge parking lot. From here, you’ll start the bottom of the canyon, and slowly work your way up as you stop and take in the sights of the trail. Then once you’ve made it to the end of the loop, it will be all downhill back to the parking lot.
Winter in Maligne Canyon offers visitors an opportunity to take an exhilarating step onto the frozen river, and explore the icy recesses within the canyon.
There are many tour companies in Jasper offering guided ice walks, but this trail is perfectly do-able on your own, so long as you come prepared and exercise caution if exploring on the ice.
Perched at an elevation of 5570 ft., Marmot Basin offers enchanting vistas of the charming town of Jasper, distinguishing itself from its more widely recognized counterparts in the Canadian Rockies.
Featuring 7 lifts, 91 named runs across four mountain faces, and a 3,000-foot vertical drop, it unquestionably ranks among the finest ski resorts in Western Canada!
The Canadian Rockies Express (CRE) stands out as Marmot Basin’s signature chairlift, boasting the title of the longest high-speed quad chair in the Canadian Rockies since its construction for the 2009/10 season, stretching an impressive 2.3 kilometers.
Enjoying an extended ski season until May 5th, Marmot Basin stands out with its consistent snow conditions year after year, making it a haven for enthusiasts seeking late spring skiing adventures.
Groomed ski trails lead you through picturesque valleys, past serene lakes, and amidst the magnificent backdrop of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Whether you prefer shorter cross-country ski loops with mild inclines and awe-inspiring vistas or embarking on more challenging, extended ski routes, Jasper offers an array of breathtaking cross-country skiing adventures to suit every level of enthusiast.
A few of the top spots to cross country ski in Jasper National Park:
Jasper National Park’s extensive trail network provides opportunities for both beginners and seasoned snowshoers, offering a unique perspective of the park’s awe-inspiring beauty.
Whether exploring the groomed trails near the townsite or venturing into more remote backcountry areas, snowshoeing in Jasper National Park is a serene and immersive experience, allowing you to connect with nature in its winter splendor.
Other great options: Moose Lake loop, Athabasca River Loop, Sunwapta Falls, and the Mary Schäffer Loop.
Take part in a classic winter pastime and feel yourself glide over a frozen Rocky Mountain lake. Jasper boasts a pair of two fantastic skating rinks.
One is situated on Lake Mildred within the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge grounds, while the other is located across from the Pyramid Lake Resort on Pyramid Lake.
Both rinks offer an oval skating rink and hockey rinks for pick-up games as well as stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Skate rentals are available at the Fairmont’s winter rental shop, at the Pyramid Lake Lodge as well as various sports stores located in Jasper town.
This fast-growing sport allows cyclists to stay on top of the snow rather than fighting against it using tires that are almost twice the size of regular mountain biking tires.
Mini Cabin Loop: From the Jasper Activity Center Parking Lot, 9.3 km return, rated difficult.
Woodpecker Trail: From Jasper Park Lodge, 3.6 km return, rated easy.
Cabin Lake Fire Rd: From Jasper Activity Center Parking Lot, 3.6 km return, rated easy.
Pyramid Lake: You can pick up a trail map at the Pyramid Lake Resort and then head off on a 20 km network of looping fat bike trails
Don’t own a fat bike? Experience this thrilling sport by renting one from The Bench Bike Shop, Jasper Source for Sports & The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge.
Make sure to look into Frosty’s Fat Bike Race Series during The Jasper in January Winter Festival!
January in Jasper is a celebration of winter in all its glory.
For decades, Jasper in January has delivered joyful mountain culture and good times in any weather. This lively festival, featuring over two weeks of events, offers something for all ages, including a kick-off party, street festival, and fireworks.
Jasper in January offers a varied array of activities, from art showings, jam nights, demo days, and avalanche awareness sessions on the ski hill to concerts, dog sledding, sleigh rides, and winter parties – just a taste of the dynamic lineup. Feel the exhilaration of downhill skiing and snowboarding at Marmot Basin, explore guided cross-country ski trails, and set out on captivating snowshoeing adventures. Guided ice walks through Maligne Canyon reveal captivating formations, and wildlife photography tours provide a distinctive view against the snowy backdrop.
Events take place at the ski hill, on the streets of town and around the park.
No trip to Jasper National Park is complete without experiencing Athabasca Falls, a captivating waterfall along the Athabasca River, the park’s largest river system.
Mount Kerkeslin, one of Icefield Parkway’s recognizable peaks, provides a stunning backdrop, making this spot among the most scenic in Jasper.
The Athabasca Falls Trail encompasses two key areas—the falls at the canyon’s top and the river at the lower end. Accessing the falls is a breeze via a short paved trail from the parking lot, requiring minimal walking.
Marvel at the falls and gorge from fenced viewpoints, including a footbridge over the canyon. The trail extends to the river, totaling 1 km, with an easy path that can be very slippery in winter. I highly recommend walking poles and ice cleats.
Sunwapta Falls is a worthwhile stop that requires a bit of extra driving but promises a rewarding experience. Located 56 km (35 mi) south of Jasper, it takes approximately 40 minutes down highway 93 to reach the falls.
Conveniently situated right off the road, the upper falls are easily accessible from the parking lot, offering a stunning viewpoint for all visitors.
A short 3.2-kilometer (2-mile) hike leads to the lower falls, taking you alongside the riverbank.
This trail provides an hour-long journey down to the river’s edge, making Sunwapta Falls a fantastic hiking area with both upper and lower falls to explore.
This path can be very slippery in winter. I highly recommend walking poles and ice cleats.
The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a top-tier luxury resort sprawling across 700 acres, making it one of Jasper’s finest accommodations. The best part? You don’t have to stay overnight to enjoy its perks – day visitors are welcomed!
The Spa at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge beckons with indulgence, featuring a heated pool and hot tub. Dive into relaxation with a signature treatment in the opulent 10,000-square-foot spa, or access to the heated pool, hot tub, saunas, and steam rooms.
Delight your palate with the lodge’s culinary delights at any of its seven on-site eateries, catering to various tastes. From a grab-and-go cafe and Italian restaurant to a classic chophouse and sushi bar, the options are diverse.
During the holiday season, the lodge transforms into a Christmas wonderland, adorned with festive decorations and giant gingerbread houses. Embark on a horseback ride with the Fairmont Stables, offering gentle horses for one to two-hour trail excursions., and over Christmas, experience the magic with a horse-drawn sleigh ride.
Lace up your skates for a delightful experience on the frozen Mildred Lake, equipped with an ice skating track and two hockey rinks. Forgot your skates? No problem – rentals are available. Alternatively, take a serene winter walk along the lake, soaking in the snowy beauty of the surroundings.
Don’t miss the Christmas in November Festival, a 30+ year tradition at the lodge. Decked out with festive decorations, giant gingerbread houses, and a lineup of celebrity chefs, the event offers activities like the Christmas Sweater Reception, Photos with Santa, Gala Dinner, and live music.
Winter or summer, The Icefields Parkway is one of the most scenic drives in the world, regardless of the season!
The Icefields Parkway unveils stunning and surreal landscapes over its 230-km span from Jasper to Lake Louise. Marvel at majestic snow-capped mountains, ancient glaciers, frozen lakes, and winter wildlife along the way.
Before you venture out on the Parkway this winter, please be prepared and check the road conditions reports. The Icefields Parkway is no ordinary road, and, in winter, drivers need to consider a few things before starting their trip.
To experience the beauty of winter on the Icefields Parkway, winter-worthy vehicles, warm clothing, patience and a little preparation will help ensure a safe and exhilarating journey. Snow tires are mandatory from November 1 to April 1.
Road conditions
Check 511 Alberta or dial 511 (in Alberta only)
Avalanche report
Be sure and check the latest avalanche conditions at pc.gc.ca/avalanche
Embark on this winter road trip to Maligne Lake, where every kilometer brings you closer to the untouched beauty of Jasper’s frozen landscapes. Yes, The road to Maligne Lake is open all winter!
This 48-kilometer scenic journey takes you through a winter wonderland.
Combine with a Winter Hike: Enhance your winter excursion by combining the drive with a hike at Maligne Canyon. Experience the crisp winter air as you explore the picturesque trails following the canyon.
Spot Wildlife: The road to Maligne lake is a great place for wildlife spotting, right from your vehicle! It’s common to see moose, big horned sheep, elk, deer and even bears. The best times for wildlife spotting are dawn and dusk, though I’ve seen plenty mid day myself!
Scenic Stop at Medicine Lake: Make a memorable pitstop at Medicine Lake, offering a perfect opportunity for a photo op.
Winter Hikes at Maligne Lake: Upon reaching Maligne Lake, embrace the opportunity to explore winter hikes such as the Mary Shäffer Loop and Moose Lake Loop.
Drive Cautiously: Navigate the winding mountain road with caution. Be prepared for wildlife encounters, as the area is known for sightings of big-horned sheep, moose, elk, and deer. Last time on this road, I encountered five moose—a testament to the abundant wildlife that calls this winter wonderland home.
Road conditions
Check 511 Alberta or dial 511 (in Alberta only)
Avalanche report
Be sure and check the latest avalanche conditions at pc.gc.ca/avalanche
Absolutely! Jasper, Alberta, is a fantastic destination in winter. While it may be colder, the magical winter ambiance and the array of activities make Jasper a worthwhile destination during the winter months.
Whether you’re a winter sports enthusiast or someone who enjoys the serene beauty of a snowy landscape, Jasper has something to offer. Just be sure to dress warmly and be prepared for winter driving conditions.
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