In Jasper National Park, there’s simply so much to do, so much to see, and so many places to go! Here are 10 key tips to help you make the most of your time exploring in Jasper this summer:
Jasper is, understandably, a popular place to visit during the summer months, meaning campgrounds and hotels book up particularly fast. Who wouldn’t want to escape to Jasper National Park, a place full of stunning mountains and pristine lakes? Don’t stress it - be sure to secure your spot to sleep once you’ve decided you’re headed our way! Want to book now? Check out our current deals for some great discounts on accommodations!
As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park has an incredible amount of places to explore. Having access to a vehicle gives visitors the freedom to venture through all the hidden treasures of the park. If you don’t have a car, however– don’t worry! Check out our blog post, Without Wheels in the Wild.
You likely have a smart phone handy, so use it! There are plenty of travel apps and maps that will come in handy in Jasper. Take a look at our blog 6 Essential Apps for your next Jasper Adventure.
Please note that you may not be able to get service in all of the park areas, so take some time to save any important information offline so that you can access it anywhere.
If you already know which activities you want to experience while in Jasper, purchase your tickets in advance! Plenty of Jasper’s attractions have online reservation systems and easy to navigate online ticket purchasing.
Save money online AND save spending time in line! It's a win-win.
Also, If you’d like to experience places such as Pyramid Island, Athabasca Falls, or Edith Cavell at your own pace and without the swell of other visitors, consider planning your visits during meal times. While the crowds are off having lunch or dinner, you’ll be enjoying some quieter quality time with Mother Nature.
Please keep in mind that during the summer of 2017, construction is taking place on the Cavell parking lot and at the end of the Mount Edith Cavell Road. This work will provide safer access, additional parking and an improved visitor experience in the area. For the safety of the public, a free parking permit will be required to travel up the road.
Lacking the essential gear for your adventures? Not to worry! There are several places around town to rent equipment and gear, so you can leave home worry free knowing we’ve got your back when it comes to your next adventure. The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge’s Outdoor Activity Centre provides canoe, kayak, and mountain bike rentals. The Maligne Lake Boat House provides rentals of canoes, kayaks, and rowboats. The Pyramid Lake Resort offers paddle-boat, kayak and canoe rentals and Wild Current Outfitters also offers boat rentals, including canoe rentals.
The Jasper Visitor Information Centre has a wealth of information for visitors of the park. When you first get to town, stop by the centre at 500 Connaught Drive to pick up some maps, use their iPad’s and get any questions that you have answered. While you’re at it, pick up one of our visitor guides to help you with any last minute planning of your adventure!
The trains roll into town on Wednesdays and Saturdays, so remember to book your hotel or cabin in advance because those days are some of the busiest in town (especially during those popular summer months). Want to really embrace a train day? Book yourself a ticket and experience the Rockies by rail!
To visit any national park in Canada, all vehicles must obtain a Parks Pass. Entry into all of Canada’s national parks is free in 2017, but you’ll still need to grab a parks pass for your vehicle when you visit. Learn more about how to get your commemorative Canada 150 parks pass and be prepared for your next adventure in Jasper!
Sometimes plans get dampened (literally) by unexpected weather conditions. Though rainy weather may inconvenience your outdoor plans, don’t be discouraged quite yet! There’s still plenty of things to do in Jasper on a rainy day. Need some ideas? Check out our blog 13 Things to Do on a Rainy Day in Jasper.
If you’re into photography, Jasper is the perfect place for you. Whether you want to capture the beauty of the park on your own, or head out on a guided photo tour, there's plenty of opportunities to take out your camera and start shooting!
Need some inspiration? Take a scroll through our Instagram or check out our previous blog post on the top photo spots in Jasper.
Now that you have everything organized, you’re fully equipped for an epic summer adventure in Jasper National Park! Don’t exactly know where to start? Visit our Canada 150 page to get some ideas.
