In a world of constant noise and screens, Jasper National Park is the perfect escape. Who needs Wi-Fi when you’ve got mountain views and endless trails? Jasper is a place where you can truly disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. Free from distractions, surrounded by pure beauty, and the peacefulness that comes with it.
Getting to Jasper is easy, too. Drive the stunning Icefields Parkway from Banff, hop on a VIA Rail train, or fly into Edmonton or Calgary. The best time to visit? Summer is great for hiking and spotting wildlife, fall brings golden forests, winter is for skiing, and spring wakes everything up again. Ready to explore? Check out these maps:
- Maligne Lake Topo Map – Jasper National Park Backroad Mapbooks
- Jasper National Park Region - Columbia Icefields Area Overview by Stoked On Waterfalls
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Jasper National Park – Alberta Park Recreation Map by Backroad Mapbooks
Now that you have the maps you’ll need to explore Jasper National Park, here’s a list of highlights you shouldn’t miss.
Maligne Lake
Home to the famous Spirit Island, Maligne Lake is one of the most photographed spots in Canada. You can take a boat cruise, rent a canoe, or hike the lakeside trails. It’s the kind of place that feels like a postcard comes to life. But keep an eye out for wildlife as moose, bears, and eagles are often spotted here. If you’re up for a real adventure, there are backcountry campsites where you can spend the night surrounded by nothing but nature.
Athabasca Falls
One of Jasper’s most powerful waterfalls, Athabasca Falls is easy to reach with a short trail leading to several viewpoints. The water crashes through a rocky canyon, making it a stunning sight in summer and a frozen wonder in winter. There’s also a picnic area nearby, making it a great stop on your trip.
Columbia Icefield & Glacier Skywalk
Ever walked on a glacier? At the Columbia Icefield, you can step onto the ancient ice of the Athabasca Glacier, either on a guided tour or in an all-terrain Ice Explorer. It’s an unforgettable experience, and you can even fill your water bottle with fresh glacial water. Just don’t forget a jacket, it’s chilly even in summer!
For a thrill, head to the Glacier Skywalk, a glass-floored walkway hanging 280 meters above the Sunwapta Valley. The views are incredible, and the interpretive signs share cool facts about the area’s geology and wildlife. If you’re up for adventure, these stops belong on your Jasper must-see list.
Jasper SkyTram
For the best panoramic views in the park, hop on the Jasper SkyTram. This gondola ride takes you up Whistlers Mountain, where you can hike a short but steep trail to the summit. The reward? Breathtaking scenery that stretches for miles. On clear days, you can even see Mount Robson, the tallest peak in the Canadian Rockies. Bring a jacket as the temperature drops as you go higher, but the crisp mountain air and views make it all worth it.
Sulphur Skyline & Miette Hot Springs
If you’re up for a challenge, the Sulphur Skyline trail is one of Jasper’s best. The steady climb leads to a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains. It’s a tough hike, but the reward at the top is worth every step. The best part? The trailhead is right near Miette Hot Springs, so after a day of exploring, there’s no better way to unwind than at Miette Hot Springs. These are the warmest natural hot springs in the Canadian Rockies, perfect for soaking tired muscles while enjoying mountain views. The water comes out of the ground at a scorching 54°C but is cooled to a comfortable 40°C for soaking. There are also cooler pools if you need a break from the heat. With changing rooms and a coffee shop on-site, it’s an easy and relaxing stop.
Valley of the Five Lakes
A great hike for all skill levels, the Valley of the Five Lakes trail takes you past five stunning lakes, each with its own unique shade of blue or green. While all five lakes are stunning, the third lake is a favorite among visitors for its striking deep green color. The loop is only about 4.5 km, but it is also rocky with frequent hills, so it’s not a flat walk. Also, you should know that in July and August, bears are often spotted near the Valley of the Five Lakes Trail as they’re drawn by the plentiful berries.
Download Avenza Maps
Jasper is all about the experience. Watch elk wander by, catch the northern lights, or just breathe in the fresh mountain air. At night, the sky comes alive, and Jasper is one of the best stargazing spots in the world. Once you visit, you’ll understand why Jasper is a place worth keeping just as it is. Before you go, don’t forget to download Avenza Maps to navigate trails, find points of interest, and explore with confidence.
Scan this QR code to download the Avenza Maps app.