Jasper National Park is one of Canada's most beloved national parks, located in the province of Alberta. This vast natural playground is home to stunning mountain ranges, glaciers, lakes, and a variety of wildlife, making it a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, adventurers, and nature lovers alike.

Getting There

Jasper National Park is located approximately 370 km west of Edmonton, Alberta's capital city. If you're flying in from out of town, the closest airport is the Edmonton International Airport. From there, you can rent a car and drive to Jasper, which takes approximately 4.5 hours. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus or book a tour from Edmonton.

Sights to See

Jasper National Park is home to a number of breathtaking sights and activities, including:

• Athabasca Glacier: One of the largest glaciers in North America, the Athabasca Glacier is located in the Columbia Icefield, which straddles the border between Banff and Jasper National Parks. Visitors can take a guided tour onto the glacier or enjoy the views from a nearby observation deck.
• Maligne Lake: This stunning glacier-fed lake is known for its turquoise-blue waters and surrounding mountain scenery. Visitors can take a scenic boat tour or hike along the trails that lead to nearby landmarks such as Spirit Island.
• Mount Edith Cavell: This iconic mountain peak is located near the town of Jasper and is a popular spot for hiking and photography. The nearby Angel Glacier is also a must-see.
• Wildlife Viewing: Jasper National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, moose, wolves, and bighorn sheep. Visitors can often spot these animals along the park's many hiking trails or from the comfort of their car.

Accommodations

Jasper National Park offers a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly campsites to luxury lodges. Here are some popular options:

• Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge: This luxury resort offers a range of accommodation options, including rooms, suites, and cabins. It also has a golf course, spa, and multiple dining options.
• Whistlers Campground: This large campground offers over 780 sites, each suitable for a vehicle and a tent. The campground also has electrical hookups, water, and washroom facilities.
• HI Jasper Hostel: This budget-friendly hostel offers dormitory-style accommodations and private rooms. It also has a shared kitchen, lounge, and laundry facilities.

Camping

Jasper National Park has several campgrounds with various amenities, including electrical hookups, water, and washroom facilities. Some popular campgrounds include:

• Wapiti Campground: This campground has 362 sites, each suitable for a vehicle and a tent. It also has electrical hookups, water, and washroom facilities.
• Pocahontas Campground: This quieter campground is located 50 km from Jasper and has 140 sites, each suitable for a vehicle and a tent. It also has electrical hookups, water, and washroom facilities.
• Overflow Camping: For those who prefer a more primitive camping experience, Jasper National Park has overflow camping areas that are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Things to Keep in Mind

Jasper National Park is a wilderness area, and visitors should be mindful of the following:

• Wildlife: Jasper National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, moose, and wolves. Visitors should take precautions to avoid confrontations with these animals, such as hiking in groups and making noise.
• Hiking: Visitors should wear appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking, as trails can berocky and uneven. It's also a good idea to bring a map, plenty of water, and bear spray.
• Weather: Jasper National Park's weather can be unpredictable, and visitors should be prepared for a range of conditions, including rain, snow, and sunshine. It's a good idea to dress in layers and bring rain gear, especially during the summer months.
• Leave No Trace: Visitors should practice the Leave No Trace principles, which include packing out all garbage and leaving natural areas as they were found. This helps to preserve the park's beauty and wildlife habitat for future generations.

 Jasper National Park Map:

How to Get There:

Jasper National Park is located in western Canada, in the province of Alberta. The closest airport to the park is the Edmonton International Airport, which is about a four-hour drive away. There are several airlines that offer flights to Edmonton, including Air Canada, WestJet, and Delta. From Edmonton, visitors can rent a car or take a bus to Jasper National Park.

Visitors coming from the United States can fly into Edmonton or Calgary International Airport, which is about a five-hour drive from Jasper. Some airlines that offer flights to Calgary include United Airlines, Delta, and Air Canada.

Visitors coming from Europe can fly into either Edmonton or Calgary International Airport, with airlines such as Lufthansa, Air France, and British Airways.

Visitors coming from Japan can fly into Edmonton International Airport via airlines such as Air Canada or ANA.

Average Airfare Prices:

The average airfare prices to Edmonton International Airport from major cities are as follows:

• From New York City: $400-$700 USD
• From London: £500-£800 GBP
• From Tokyo: ¥80,000-¥130,000 JPY
• From Vancouver: $100-$300 CAD

It's worth noting that prices can vary significantly depending on the time of year and how far in advance tickets are purchased. Visitors should check with airlines directly for the most up-to-date pricing information.

Conclusion

Jasper National Park is an incredible destination that offers something for everyone, from stunning natural scenery to a range of outdoor activities. With a variety of accommodations and campgrounds, visitors can easily tailor their experience to their budget and preferences. Just remember to be mindful of the park's wildlife and environment, and you're sure to have an unforgettable experience in this beautiful part of Canada.