Jasper Spring Bucket List

Jasper has great adventures all year long, but there’s a special joy in exploring the Rocky Mountains when the landscape begins to wake up and become green once more.

The birds are singing, the trees are budding and the snow is melting (except for at the mountaintops). Spring has arrived in Jasper and we are so here for it.

Celebrate the season with this list of must-do activities:

SPOT WILDLIFE

People aren’t the only ones waking up and exploring the park with renewed vigor — the bears, elk and plenty of other wild creatures are out and about. Book a wildlife tour with SunDog Tour Co., Maligne Adventures, or Jasper Photo Tours to have an experienced guide take you to the best spots at the best times.

RAFT THE RIVERS

Did you know that most of Jasper’s rafting companies open in the early spring and stay open until after snow has fallen in the fall? Spring is a particularly great time, as the snow melts and gives new energy to the Athabasca and Sunwapta rivers. Whether you prefer a raucous ride or a mellow float, there’s a raft tour for you.

HIKE THE TRAILS

Although some of Jasper’s mountain peaks are impassible up until the heart of summer, many trails melt enough in the spring that with proper preparations and clothing hikers can have a lovely adventure. Some great spring trails include: Old Fort Point, Lake Annette Loop and the Discovery trail around the Jasper townsite. Remember to always check Parks Canada trail reports before hitting the trails on the shoulder season. Make the experience even better by booking a guided hike with one of Jasper's experienced local operators.

TRY SOMETHING NEW

Springtime in Jasper marks the return of exciting seasonal activities — the perfect opportunity to try something new. Consider rock climbing with Rockaboo Mountain Adventures, Horseback Riding with Jasper Riding Stables, Fishing with Jasper Park Fishing, or riding an e-bike with Jasper Food Tours while learning about the area's unique ecology. If you're in Jasper in early spring, head to Marmot Basin ski resort to experience the absolute glory that is spring skiing.

Or, try out some new cuisine at one of Jasper's delicious restaurants.

SOAR ON THE SKYTRAM

The Jasper SkyTram whisks you up Whistler’s Mountain to an elevation of 2,263 metres, showing you stunning vistas over mountain ranges stretching up to 80 kilometres away. On a clear day, you can even see the white pyramid of Mount Robson in nearby British Columbia. Interpretive exhibits explain the high alpine environment, and a hiking trail leads you to the summit of the mountain. Complete the experience with a light meal at the on-site Summit Restaurant.

ATTEND EVENTS

Springtime in Jasper is packed with exciting events of all kinds! Here’s what’s happening this season:

• UpLift Mural Festival: May 1 - 18
• Trail Running Film Festival: May 17