The perfect two-day Jasper itinerary, according to Alex Derksen

If you want to learn from a local, Alex Derksen is as local as it gets. Born and raised in town by parents who first met while working at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Derksen also opened the Jasper Brewing Co. with his two childhood friends: Socrates Korogonas and Brett Ireland. And now he's raising his three kids in town. All that to say, Derksen knows Jasper.

Take some tips from his ideal itinerary below and learn his story in the twelfth episode of Venture Beyond: The Series.

Day 1

Morning – Dog walk around Lake Annette

Lake Annette is a short ten minute drive from town, and offers beautiful views. With a paved trail ringing the lake, it makes for a peaceful and easy walk to enjoy with man's best friend. Once frozen, it can also be a nice destination for a short cross-country ski.

Skating - Lake Mildred Large - Mike Seehagel/ Travel Alberta

Afternoon - Family skate at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is the epitome of cozy luxury in winter. Head to Mildred Lake to skate their groomed oval (rentals are available if needed), followed by an indulgent hot chocolate in the Emerald Lounge.

Skating on Lake Mildred

We have a groomed skating rink on Lake Mildred offering round-the-lake oval and hockey rink for pick-up games.

Evening - Dinner at Evil Dave's

With funky interior designs, a delicious menu and extensive cocktail list, dinner at Evil Dave's Grill is a must-try. Family owned and operated, the restaurant recently relocated to a wide-open, beautiful space at 86 Connaught Drive.

Evil Dave's Grill

Evil Dave’s Grill is a funky, upbeat, family-owned restaurant with a globally inspired menu.

Day 2

Morning – Grab coffee and breakfast downtown

As an authentic mountain town, Jasper prides itself on its cozy downtown. Stroll the streets and sample some java at one of the unique local coffee shops. Fuel up for the adventure ahead by grabbing breakfast to go.

Afternoon - Ski at Marmot Basin

Explore the slopes at one of the best ski resorts in the world! Get beautiful panoramic views and plenty of runs for every skill level at Marmot Basin. Thanks to an intuitive layout and wide-open layout, there are rarely lift lines which means more time skiing and less time waiting. Don't forget to take breaks at one of the chalets!

Skiing and Snowboarding

Located in the breathtaking Canadian Rocky Mountains, Marmot Basin ski resort inspires lasting memories, not to mention stunning photos.

Evening - Dinner at Jasper Pizza Place

Finish the day with a mouth-watering slice of 'za at one of Jasper's favourite pizza joints. Big-group friendly and boasting a wood-fired oven, this restaurant will hit the spot. Pro tip: return in the summer to try out their lovely rooftop patio!

Jasper Pizza Place

Jasper Pizza Place is a favorite for casual dining.

2023 Visitor's Guide

The perfect two-day Jasper itinerary, according to Alex Derksen

Day 1

Morning – Dog walk around Lake Annette