Discover 115 tours and activities in Jasper, Alberta
These thrilling Jasper tours take you into the heart of the Canadian Rockies in search of celestial adventures. Here, in Jasper National Park, you'll be inside one of the world's largest dark sky preserves. There's nowhere better to observe the heavens and learn about our dazzling galaxy.
Inside the Dome Theater, you'll see the Milky Way and discover the secrets of the First Nations constellations. Find out more about our mysterious universe and how Earth fits into it. Get hands-on and touch real meteorites as well as rocks from the Moon and Mars that have fallen all the way from space.
The star of the show is the Jasper Telescope Experience. Head outside and gaze at the skies through one of the biggest telescopes in North America. You'll be able to spot everything from planets to nebulas through the lens.
If you're visiting in winter, you might be lucky enough to see the Aurora Borealis. Affectionately known as the Northern Lights, this enchanting green night display will send shivers down your spine.
Famed for its abundant nature and dramatic landscapes, Jasper National Park draws travelers from across the world to experience a slice of the wild. Hiking tours are the most popular way to explore – there's an extensive trail network to discover.
As you walk through the dense forests and alongside glassy lakes, keep an eye out for wildlife. Deer, moose and elk roam these woods, while bald eagles soar overhead. It's also possible to see black and grizzly bears although they can be a little elusive.
Swap dry land for water with one of the Jasper National Park boat tours. You'll cruise around Maligne Lake, gazing upon alpine glaciers, snow-capped peaks and tree-clad slopes. You will also visit the famous Spirit Island for a short walk along a nature trail.
Another highlight of the trip is Medicine Lake, which is known for its summer vanishing act. The water drains away into the underground karst bedrock, leaving behind an unusual landscape. You can also venture across the Maligne Canyon bridge for epic waterfall views.
Many Jasper tours in the national park focus on wildlife spotting. If you fancy getting back to nature, this is the way to do it. By booking a morning or evening excursion, your chance of seeing animals increases – this is when they are most active.
There are several iconic Canadian creatures here in Jasper. Moose and bears are sometimes found along the side of the road, while bighorn sheep and mountain goats can be spotted on the rocky cliffs. Deer and elk can be a little shy, but if you remain quiet you might just get lucky.
As you travel through the Rocky Mountains, you'll be heading deeper into the wilderness. Your guide will tell you about the species that live here and share stories about past encounters.
Many trips take place by coach, with easy viewing out of the panoramic windows. The driver will follow the best route for the season, as wildlife movements vary throughout the year. You'll have the chance to stretch your legs on short walks along the way.
If you want to explore further afield, Jasper makes a great base for day trips to the surrounding region. Banff is a popular choice, with options for an overnight stay to fully experience the resort town. You can also opt for a one-way trip to Banff if you have onward travel planned.
The journey to Banff is an adventure in itself. You'll drive along the Icefields Parkway, stopping at the region's top natural attractions along the way. This is one of the most scenic road trips in the world, so make sure you get a window seat.
Enjoy a wander at the Crowfoot Glacier, before continuing to the tumbling torrents at Athabasca Falls. Next up is the quintessential Canadian landscape around Bow Lake, while the Weeping Wall resembles a mountain crying rivers of tears.
Finish your day on a high with a cliff-edge stroll at Columbia Icefield Skywalk. The platform's glass floor gives you a unique perspective of the landscape below. After a fun-packed day, you'll arrive in Banff for dinner.
Feel the wind in your hair and the spray on your face as you take on the glacial rivers of Jasper National Park. These Jasper tours are aimed at everyone from families to adrenaline junkies, so there's an adventure for all, no matter your ability.
The Athabasca River is a good choice for first-timers and those who want time to take in the scenery. There are a few Class II rapids to negotiate, but nothing too terrifying.
Enjoy a gentle float along the water, listening to wilderness stories being recounted by your guide. Back in the day, fur traders used the river to transport their goods, so you'll be going on a historical journey.
For something to get the heart racing, choose an excursion on the Sunwapta River. This is the only river that offers Class III rapids, taking you on a rollercoaster ride through the churning white water. Your guide will do the hard work, but you'll need to paddle furiously to keep the raft on track.
The alpine town of Jasper is a popular jumping-off point for exploring the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Surrounded by snow-capped peaks, dense forests and glacial lakes, Jasper provides a wilderness escape for adventurous travelers.
Situated on the Athabasca River, Jasper was established as a fur trading outpost in the early 19th century. The arrival of the railway brought commerce and tourism, and today the town is one of the most-visited places in the Rockies.
Jasper National Park is the main draw for visitors, with its wild expanses of iconic scenery. Hiking, wildlife tours and boat rides are all favorite pastimes here. This is also a dark sky preserve and offers some of the world's best stargazing conditions.
A stay in Jasper is often included on road-trip itineraries in this part of western Canada. Many people come here to drive along the famous Icefields Parkway that runs between Banff and Jasper. While you're in the area, Lake Louise and Calgary are well worth visiting too.
If you're flying into Jasper, the nearest airport is in Edmonton. From here you can join a tour or rent a car – it takes around 3.5 hours to reach Jasper by road.
There is no public transport network in Jasper, but if you don't have a car, there are taxis on hand to drive you short distances. Depending on where you're staying, you'll be able to get around the town on foot. To explore the surrounding national park, guided tours are your best bet, and most will collect you from your hotel.
If you want to be in the heart of town with access to restaurants, shops and bars, then the downtown area is perfect. Here, you'll find accommodation to suit all budgets, and it's well-connected – always a bonus if you don't have a car.
If you prefer a peaceful stay in the heart of nature, there are plenty of resort and lodge options out in the national park. Just bear in mind that you'll need a taxi if you want to head back into town. Camping is another option for a truly wild experience, but make sure you book sites well ahead during summer.
Jasper is an outdoor destination, so make sure you're properly prepared. Pack for all weathers as things can change in an instant here in the mountains. Hiking boots, a warm jacket and sunscreen are all suitcase essentials.
Jasper tours to the national park are a must while you're in town. This is where you'll find all the best scenery, as well as hiking trails and boat trips. You can visit independently if you have a car but going with a local guide will make the experience even richer.
For epic views of the town and surrounding valley, take the Jasper SkyTram up to the top of Whistlers Mountain. On a clear day, you can see up to 80 kilometers across the Rockies. This is a great activity for families looking for adventure without too much exertion.
History buffs will enjoy visiting the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum and Archives to learn about the fur trade which put this area on the map. Meanwhile, if you're looking for a creative fix, head to Jasper Art Gallery and admire the work of local exhibitors. It's free to enter and there's a shop selling souvenir crafts too.
Jasper isn't just a summer destination, it's popular in winter too. Put on your snowshoes and take to the backcountry or try an ice walk in Maligne Canyon. Dog sledding and skating are also fun diversions and show off the Jasper landscape in all its icy glory.