The perfect two-day Jasper itinerary, according to Colin Borrow

If Colin Borrow had his way, he'd have 11 months of winter per year, and spend most of that time skiing. As the Director of Skiing at Marmot Basin, his life is pretty much as close as possible to that ideal. In the seventh episode of Venture Beyond: The Series, this lifelong ski instructor tells his story.

Follow in his tracks with this two-day Jasper itinerary that straddles the line between late winter and early spring.

Day 1

Morning - Ski at Marmot Basin

On the way to Marmot Basin stop in at a local Jasper coffee shop to grab a java-to-go. Borrow says be ready to ski when the lifts first open. If you're visiting earlier in the winter, around Christmas and the shortest days of the year, he recommends getting to the top of the Eagle Ridge chair lift before the street lights in town go off. "It reminds me of the Grinch looking down on Whoville," he says. Then, ski the morning away.

Skiing and Snowboarding

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

Afternoon - Lunch at the Eagle

Rest the legs and refuel with lunch at the Eagle Restaurant in Marmot's Eagle Chalet, the most quintessential ski in, ski out alpine eatery in the Canadian Rockies.

After finishing his meal, Borrow likes to ski to the end of the day and maybe do a walk up to Cornice.

Evening - Apres ski

After a full day on the slopes, Borrow likes to engage in one of Jasper's finest mountain town traditions: apres ski.

He grabs a beer at a local watering hole and rehashes the day's glorious moments. Then it's time for bed.

Jasper Brewing Company

Jasper Brewing Co. focuses on developing well crafted beer and Alberta inspired cuisine for locals and tourists alike.

Day 2

Morning - Hike to Marmot Peak

Getting panoramic views from an alpine environment can be tricky and exhausting in the winter. But after a leisurely breakfast, and if the weather is cooperating, then Borrow might hike to the top of the mountain: Marmot Peak. "Some days it’s hard to decide what’s better... the skiing or the view," he says.

Skiing and Snowboarding

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

Afternoon - Lunch at Caribou Grill

Grab a late lunch at Caribou Grill, Marmot Basin's main restaurant at the base chalet.

Afterwards, Borrow might take on Tres Hombres, the (relatively newly opened) section of the mountain dedicated to very advanced skiers who want steep, deep, heart-racing runs.

Evening - Dinner in town

After two full days of skiing, it's time to lean into Jasper's local food scene. From hearty mountain platters to elegant alpine dinners for two — friendly pubs to charming pizzerias, discover where to eat in Jasper and find your new favourite restaurant.

Evil Dave's Grill

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

2023 Visitor's Guide

The perfect two-day Jasper itinerary, according to Colin Borrow