Jasper has great adventures all year long, but there’s a special joy in exploring the Rocky Mountains when the landscape begins to wake up and become green once more.
The birds are singing, the trees are budding and the snow is melting (except for at the mountaintops). Spring has arrived in Jasper and we are so here for it.
Celebrate the season with this list of must-do activities:
SPOT WILDLIFE
People aren’t the only ones waking up and exploring the park with renewed vigor — the bears, elk and plenty of other wild creatures are out and about. Book a wildlife discovery tour with either SunDog Tour Co. or Maligne Adventures to have an experienced guide take you to the best spots at the best times.
RELAX ON A PATIO
Any patio is lovely, but a patio with a mountain view is a particular treat. Jasper has plenty of patios (don’t miss these seven winners!) and are the perfect place to grab a bevvy with pals, enjoy a delicious meal and just soak up the rays. Bring an extra layer in case the weather turns a tad chilly (your mother was right — it’s always a good idea to bring a spare sweater, whatever the situation).
RAFT THE RIVERS
Did you know that most of Jasper’s rafting companies open in the early spring and stay open until after snow has fallen in the fall? Spring is a particularly great time, as the snow melts and gives new energy to the Athabasca and Sunwapta rivers. Whether you prefer a raucous ride or a mellow float, there’s a raft tour for you.
HIKE THE TRAILS
Although some of Jasper’s mountain peaks are impassible up until the heart of summer, many trails melt enough in the spring that with proper preparations and clothing hikers can have a lovely adventure. Some great spring trails include: Old Fort Point, Valley of the Five Lakes and the Discovery trail around the Jasper townsite. Remember to always check Parks Canada trail reports before hitting the trails on the shoulder season. Make the experience even better by booking a guided hike with one of Jasper's experienced local operators.
RIDE A MOTORCYCLE
Snap an endless stream of photos from the comfort of the sidecar attached to a Harley Davidson while Jasper Motorcycle Tours takes you on the adventure of a lifetime. Feel the mountain fresh air whip around you and smell the trees and flowers in bloom. The tour guide and driver will take you to sights missed by motorcoach and car. This is a great way to experience the Icefields Parkway, one of the worlds greatest drives.
SOAR ON THE SKYTRAM
The Jasper SkyTram whisks you up Whistler’s Mountain to an elevation of 2,263 metres, showing you stunning vistas over mountain ranges stretching up to 80 kilometres away. On a clear day, you can even see the white pyramid of Mount Robson in nearby British Columbia. Interpretive exhibits explain the high alpine environment, and a hiking trail leads you to the summit of the mountain. Complete the experience with a light meal at the on-site Summit Restaurant.
