These 9 relaxing winter activities will make you look forward to snow

Winter is a time when things slow down, so it’s the perfect time to find relaxation. From spa visits to firelit cabins to gentle skiing through snowy forests, Jasper offers a special type of peaceful serenity that can be found nowhere other than in the mountains.

Soak in a tub

Call us crazy, but hot tubs in summer are no fun. The real way to enjoy a warm soak is when the air has a refreshing chill to it, meanwhile you’re as comfy as can be. Bonus points when there’s snow-covered peaks in the picture. Pro tip: the hot tub at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge gets many bonus points.

Spa

Go ahead, pamper yourself. In addition to a full and diverse treatment list that includes facials, manicures and pedicures, body wraps and much more, The Spa at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge boast calming atmospheres that’ll sooth away your stress.

Massage

Whatever type of massage you prefer -- from hot stone massage, Thai massage or the classic full body massage – there's a massage therapist in Jasper who will work their magic.

Snowshoe

This calming, scenic activity is gaining in popularity, and for good reason! It’s a gentle way to enjoy nature, while also getting a small taste of one of Canada’s earliest transportation methods.

Cross-country ski

Although downhill skiing or snowboarding might be relaxing to some, a slower way to glide is via the sport’s more horizontal cousin. Cross-country skis can be rented at multiple places around town, and there are set tracks laid throughout the national park that traverse forests, frozen lakes and open meadows.

Retail therapy

It's true that money can't buy happiness, but it can buy gear and souvenirs and that's basically the same thing. Stock up on all your outdoorsy goodies at these unique local shops or if you prefer your retail therapy infused with an extra dose of heritage then head to the Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archives, which sells an astonishing variety of books, art, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs.

Comfort food

Nothing soothes a shattered nerve like pizza; head to Famoso Pizzeria or Jasper Pizza Place for their mouthwatering and authentic neapolitan creations. Other local favourites in the comfort food category include the bison meatloaf from Evil Dave's Grill, or a classic burger from Jasper Brewing Co.

Fireside relaxation

If we could spend every evening cuddled up by the fireplace in a cozy wood cabin, we would not be mad. Jasper's cabin heritage is felt in many of the local accommodations, whether it's through the building's overall structure or in the aesthetic decor. Bear Hill Lodge offers the only cabins located in town that are open year-round.

Yoga

This self-care option should surprise precisely no one. Both novice yogis and dedicated downward doggers both should inquire about drop-in yoga classes at Jasper Wellness.