The best way to learn about Jasper is through the eyes of a local. And Paul and Helene Hardy are two of the best.
As the owner of SunDog Transportation and Tours (a local company that provides a variety of guided experiences and shuttle options for visitors) Paul knows Jasper very well. Here, he shares a sample of his perfect spring day in Jasper. From dog walks along otherworldly Maligne Canyon to spotting wildlife to scenic dining, these recommendations are perfect for any traveller seeking a mix of gentle outdoor adventures and refined relaxation.
Follow Paul and Helene as they explore the national park in the video below.
Maligne Canyon
This amazing landmark is one of Jasper National Park’s most otherworldly year-round attractions. In the spring, the water that had frozen and drained at the bottom of the canyon melts and recreates a series of dramatic waterfalls, all viewable from a series of scenic bridges and footpaths. Located a brief 15-minute drive from the town of Jasper, Maligne Canyon is magical all year round. This popular trail also tends to be emptier during the shoulder season, and well-suited to families, dog-walkers, and more.
More ways to explore Maligne Canyon:
- Guided hike: Go with a local expert who will explain hidden features of the canyon (did you catch that fossil in the rock)
- From a patio: Get a grab and go lunch from Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen and enjoy it on the large patio overlooking the churning water that has, over time, carved out the canyon.
- Icewalk in the winter: Walk the frozen bottom of the canyon and see natural ice sculptures like frozen waterfalls cascading down the 50-metre-high walls (even more adventurous explorers can book an ice climbing tour and clamber up these slippery slopes).
Learn more about Maligne Canyon here.
Wildlife sightseeing
Part of the reason Jasper was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site is because of the abundant fauna that call the national park home. And spring is one of the best times to see wildlife, particularly if you enjoy seeing baby animals. While there’s always the possibility of spotting an elk or bear on your own, a professional wildlife watching tour will take guests to lesser-known areas of the park and increase your chances of a sighting. They’ll also give a more well-rounded understanding of region’s local fauna, rich history, and fascinating geology.
SunDog Tour Co. schedules their wildlife tours for morning and evening times when animals are most likely to be up and about. Primarily a mini-coach tour with minimal walking (total duration is three to three and a half hours), this tour is also a great way to see some of the park’s most beautiful scenery.
Photographers will appreciate the tour bus’ oversized sightseeing windows. Some vehicles even have sliding windows so you can get that perfectly unobstructed, once-in-a-lifetime shot. Tip: SunDog Tour Co. also has tours for general sightseeing, train tours, as well as shuttles that connect Jasper to Edmonton, Calgary, Banff and more.
Learn more about wildlife tours in Jasper here.
Dinner at Aalto
There’s lots of scenic places to eat in Jasper. But for an exquisite pairing of views with gourmet food, few can match the refinement of Aalto Restaurant. Located on the shores of Pyramid Lake, this Nordic-inspired restaurant is relatively new on the scene but has already made a big splash with its alpine-meets-shoreline menu. Enjoy exquisite seafood next to large windows looking over Pyramid Mountain, or sip signature by the stone fireplace. Open for breakfast/brunch and dinner with happy hour from 4pm to 5pm, it has options for diners with gluten free, vegetarian and vegan dietary preferences.
Learn more about Jasper's many dining options here.
