This week marks the unofficial start to summer in Jasper National Park. The streets of Jasper will get busier and busier as visitors from around the world come to experience one of Canada’s unique places.
As the country's largest tourism provider, we are committed to providing visitors with exceptional and meaningful experiences. Parks Canada is continually looking for innovative ways to engage Canadians in their natural and cultural heritage. Here are some must do’s that will make your summer one to remember.
What’s New?
Red Chairs
Parks Canada’s ‘Red Chairs’ Experience Program is intended to provide opportunities to connect with nature, and to experience the most unique and treasured places within Canada.
Take time to connect: there will be three new sets of Red Chairs in the park for you to find. Go explore, relax and enjoy the scenery: pc.gc.ca/jasperredchair
Columbia Icefield Centre - Glacier Gallery
Visit the Icefields Parkway historical photo exhibit at the Glacier Gallery. Also, don’t miss the screening of “Through Ice and Time” by internationally-acclaimed director Alar Kivilo in the theatre. This short film contains stunning visuals that will connect you with the wild glaciated landscapes of this special place.
Wedding Venues
Say “I do” in Jasper National Park in 2016. New this year, you can rent venues at Pyramid Island, Athabasca Day-Use Area and Maligne Overlook. Each location offers a variety of amenities to host you and your guests on your special day.
Your Fees at Work
Over the next four years, Parks Canada will be investing heavily to repair and upgrade aging infrastructure in our national parks and historic sites. Investments in visitor infrastructure will ensure the quality and reliability of visitor facilities and continue to allow Canadians to connect with nature.
Visit pc.gc.ca/infrastructure to see if any road or facility work might impact your trip. Make sure to use Alberta 511 to plan your travel in and out of the park.
Must Do’s!
Beaches
Looking for a beach with a view? It doesn’t get any better than taking a dip in Lake Edith, Lake Annette or Pyramid Lake.
Paddle Sports
Test your balance and core strength, and try stand up paddleboarding on pristine and crystal clear lakes. If you prefer to sit and let your arms do the work, grab a canoe or kayak and just savour the abundant, raw wilderness that Jasper has to offer.
Hiking and Biking
With nearly 1,000 km of official hiking and biking trails, Jasper National Park has a trail for all levels and abilities.
If you are looking for a short family hike, visit any of the Pyramid Bench trails, the Lower Sunwapta Falls or the beautiful alpine hike at Parker Ridge.
Biking trails are rated by ability level, much like a ski hill rates their terrain. There are lots of choices if you are looking for an adrenaline filled ride, with several connected easier routes that link up town with the best of Jasper’s viewpoints.
Don’t miss multi use trails like the Overlook Loop for great views and the Bighorn Alley to access Lake Annette Beach.
Backcountry Camping
For outdoor and camping enthusiasts, Jasper National Park is home to 84 spectacular backcountry sites catering to all levels of users. For those new to the backcountry, try hiking or biking into Big Bend (13 km return) or paddle along the stunning Maligne Lake into Hidden Cove Campground (7 km return). You can now book your backcountry trip online at reservation.pc.gc.ca
Miette Hot Springs
Soak in the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies. For the adventurous type, hike the magnificent Sulphur Skyline Trail and then treat yourself to a relaxing and rewarding soak at Miette Hot Springs afterwards.
Icefields Parkway
Known as one of the most scenic drives on the planet, the Icefields Parkway is still a must see. Visit the numerous iconic stops along the way: Athabasca and Sunwapta Falls, Goats and Glaciers pull-off and the Columbia Icefield Centre. If you are up for a bit of an adventure and stunning views of the Athabasca Glacier, hike Wilcox Pass to the beautiful Red Chair location, which is closer to the road then you may think.
Parks Canada Programming
Throughout the summer months, Parks Canada interpreters and wildlife guardians deliver exciting and fun experiential programs for all ages. Expect interactive displays, evening music, street theatre, historical walks, as well as a showcase of the indigenous connection to the land through song, dance and stories.
Parks Canada
Special to the Fitzhugh
