Categories > Guides and Tips
Top 10 Things to Do in Jasper in Winter
- Marvel at the Maligne Canyon Icewalk
- Ski down the Marmot Basin mountains
- Explore the deep wonders of Athabasca Falls
- Another falls? Check out Sunwapta Falls
- Walk by Icefields Parkway
- View the stars at the Jasper Planetarium
- Grab a snack or two inside the Bear Paw Bakery
- Have a peaceful experience at the Medicine Lake
- Canadian Burgers: Enjoy some bite-sized burgers at Jasper Brewing Co.
- Witness history inside the Jasper Museum
Jasper in winter? Oh, it’s an absolute wonderland, and our recent trip there was nothing short of magical.
You know, we initially thought Jasper was all about skiing in the cold months, but boy, were we in for a pleasant surprise! This cozy mountain town transforms into a dazzling winter paradise, offering much more than just snowy slopes.
In this blog, we’re excited to share all the amazing things you can do in Jasper during the winter months. So, buckle up—we’ve got a lot to cover, and trust us, Jasper’s winter charm is something you don’t want to miss!
Marvel at the Maligne Canyon Icewalk
Address: Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/itineraires-itineraries
Contact Details: +17808526176
Opening Hours: 24/7
Visiting Jasper in winter? Then you simply can’t miss the Maligne Canyon icewalk—a real winter marvel.
The waterfalls and streams turn into stunning, icy sculptures, and the canyon walls are adorned with glistening icicles.
Here’s the exciting part—you get to walk right in the canyon! When the temperatures drop low enough, the frozen river bed becomes your path, allowing you to explore the heart of Maligne Canyon.
Pro Tip:
For a truly unforgettable experience at the Maligne Canyon icewalk, consider joining a guided tour. These tours not only provide you with the necessary equipment like crampons and helmets, but also offer expert insights into the canyon’s geology, history, and unique winter ecology.
Ski down the Marmot Basin mountains
Address: 1 Marmot Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: http://www.skimarmot.com/
Contact Details: +17808523816
Opening Hours: Daily 8 AM to 5 PM
If you’re planning a winter getaway to Jasper, you can’t miss out on the thrilling experience of hitting the slopes at Marmot Basin. It’s not just another ski resort; it’s one of Canada’s finest, boasting 1,720 skiable acres and 91 diverse runs served by 7 lifts, catering to all skill levels.
Imagine gliding over fresh snow, with more than 400 centimeters of it annually and the perfect cold temperatures—it’s a skier’s paradise!
What’s really great about Marmot Basin is how it caters to different skill levels right from each lift.
And the best part? It’s super accessible, just a 20-minute drive from Jasper town, and it’s open from mid-November until early May, giving you plenty of time to plan that perfect winter trip.
Pro Tip:
For a great experience at Marmot Basin, it’s a good idea to check the snow and weather reports before heading out. This can help you plan your day better, ensuring you hit the slopes when conditions are at their best.
Explore the deep wonders of Athabasca Falls
Address: Improvement District No. 12, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Heading to Jasper and only have time for one waterfall? Make it Athabasca Falls! This spot is a must-see in Jasper National Park, with its accessible and popular trail.
The path to the falls is a friendly 1 km hike with hardly any elevation gain, making it perfect for all fitness levels to enjoy.
As you stroll along the trail, the views are nothing short of breathtaking, leading up to the main attraction—the Athabasca Falls themselves.
These falls are not only stunning but also easily accessible, with several viewpoints along the way.
Pro Tip:
Always dress appropriately for the weather and wear sturdy footwear, as the area around the falls can be slippery, especially in winter. Enjoying Athabasca Falls in its quieter moments allows you to truly appreciate its natural beauty and grandeur.
Another falls? Check out Sunwapta Falls
Address: Improvement District No. 12, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Just a 40-minute drive from Jasper town, nestled in Jasper National Park, is the enchanting Sunwapta Falls. It’s a breeze to get to, with just a short stroll from the parking lot leading you right to the falls.
And the area around Sunwapta? It’s laced with trails and a bridge that offers the best view of the falls—perfect for those who love a little exploration.
Now, while Sunwapta Falls might be a tad less grand than its nearby sibling, Athabasca Falls, it’s still a sight to behold.
Pro Tip:
When traveling in winter, make sure your vehicle is equipped with winter tires, as the roads can get pretty icy.
Walk by Icefields Parkway
Address: Trans-Canada Hwy, Improvement District No. 9, AB, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
Driving the Icefields Parkway, recognized by National Geographic as one of the top scenic drives globally, is a journey you won’t want to miss.
Spanning 230 kilometers between Jasper and Lake Louise, this route is a feast for the eyes with its impressive mountains, numerous waterfalls, and the spectacular Columbia Icefield.
Though you could zip through this drive in about three hours, we recommend taking a whole day for it. Why rush such beauty?
Give yourself the time to stop, explore, and truly take in the splendor of this area. Plan your day with a detailed itinerary, ensuring you hit all the breathtaking spots between Jasper and Banff.
Pro Tip:
Fuel up in Jasper, as gas stations are sparse and pricey along this stretch, especially at Saskatchewan River Crossing. Stock up on snacks and water too, as amenities are limited. And if you’re venturing out in winter, be well-prepared.
View the stars at the Jasper Planetarium
Address: INSIDE the Fairmont hotel lobby, 1 Old Lodge Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: http://www.jasperplanetarium.com/
Contact Details: +17809313275
Opening Hours: Sunday and Monday, closed; Tuesday to Saturday 4 to 9:30 PM
Jasper National Park, designated as a “Dark Sky Preserve” by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada in 2011, is a stargazer’s paradise with minimal light pollution.
It’s one of just 17 Dark Sky Preserves in Canada, making it an ideal location for admiring the stars. When you visit Jasper, taking some time for stargazing on a clear night is a must-do activity.
For an enhanced stargazing experience, you can download various apps to help identify constellations and planets. But for an even deeper dive into the cosmic wonders, consider visiting the Jasper Planetarium.
During these tours, you can experience the night sky in 4K, potentially view the Northern Lights, and even hold rocks from Mars and the Moon. These tours are not only educational but also immersive, providing a unique opportunity to explore the night sky with experts.
Pro Tip:
The Jasper Planetarium offers several experiences, including a Telescope and Planetarium Combo from $65, a Planetarium Experience Only from $29, and a Telescope Experience Only from $40.
The tours are available for booking online, and if your tour happens to be on a cloudy night, they offer a 2-year “raincheck” so you can return for free another time.
Grab a snack or two inside the Bear Paw Bakery
Address: 4 Pyramid Lake Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: https://www.bearspawbakery.com/
Contact Details: +17808523233
Opening Hours: Daily 6 AM to 6 PM
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to grab a warm cup of coffee on a chilly Jasper morning, Bear Paw Bakery is the place to be. Recommended by my sister, and rightfully so, it’s a local gem that’s become a must-visit for us in Jasper.
At Bear Paw Bakery, you’re in for a treat with their wide array of mouth-watering baked goods and freshly brewed coffee. It’s the perfect place for a hearty breakfast or a coffee break while exploring Jasper.
And if you’re wondering what to try, their raspberry white chocolate scones come highly recommended—they’re absolutely delicious!
Pro Tip:
If you find one location is a bit too crowded, don’t forget that there are two Bear Paw Bakery locations in Jasper. Trying the less busy one might give you a more relaxed experience.
Have a peaceful experience at the Medicine Lake
Address: Improvement District No. 12, AB T0E 0E0, Canada
Website: N/A
Contact Details: N/A
Opening Hours: 24/7
When you’re venturing about 25 km from Jasper along Maligne Lake Road, Medicine Lake is a spot you simply can’t miss.
Known for its fascinating vanishing act, this lake is a marvel of nature. In summer, it’s a typical, serene lake, but as winter approaches, it transforms into a mudflat as the water recedes dramatically.
The reason behind this disappearing act? Medicine Lake is not your average lake. It’s essentially a part of the Maligne River that fills up like a bathtub during the summer meltwater runoff, then slowly drains away through a complex underground drainage system.
This unique phenomenon has been a source of mystery and intrigue for ages, even forming part of the local First Nations legends, who called the lake ‘Medicine’ for its seemingly magical properties.
Pro Tip:
The quieter moments of the day increase your chances of seeing local wildlife in their natural habitat. Remember, while exploring, always maintain a safe and respectful distance from any wildlife you encounter.
Canadian Burgers: Enjoy some bite-sized burgers at Jasper Brewing Co.
Address: 624 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: http://jasperbrewingco.ca/
Contact Details: +17808524111
Opening Hours: Thursday to Saturday 11:30 AM to 1 AM; Sunday to Wednesday 11:30 AM to 12 AM
Jasper Brewing Co. is a must if you’re both craft beer enthusiasts and food lovers. They boast an impressive selection of craft beers right on tap, with a favorite being the Trail Sessions IPA.
Their menu offers a variety of delicious and hearty meals, with generous portions at reasonable prices. The fried chicken burger is a standout choice.
The brewery features a spacious indoor seating area, perfect for unwinding with a cold beer, especially popular for après-ski.
Prices are around $8.50 CAD for a pint of beer and about $17 for a meal, like a burger. Located right on Connaught Drive in Jasper town, it’s a bustling spot you can’t miss! Jasper Brewing Co. is renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and tasty offerings.
Pro Tip:
For a great experience at Jasper Brewing Co., consider visiting during their late-night happy hour after 9 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy their craft beers and delicious food at reduced prices.
Witness history inside the Jasper Museum
Address: 400 Bonhomme St, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada
Website: http://www.jaspermuseum.org/
Contact Details: +17808523013
Opening Hours: Monday to Wednesday, closed; Thursday to Sunday 10 AM to 5 PM
If you’re into local history or seeking another cozy indoor activity in Jasper, the Jasper Museum is your spot.
This museum dives into Jasper’s rich history, with exhibits spotlighting the fur trade, railway, and the early exploration of the park. It’s like a window into Jasper’s past, with a vast collection of photographs that transport you back in time.
The best part? You can explore all these treasures with just a donation for entry. It’s a great way to spend some time, especially when you’re looking to get a deeper understanding of Jasper’s heritage.
Pro Tip:
For a great experience at Jasper Brewing Co., consider visiting during their late-night happy hour after 9 PM. This is a fantastic opportunity to enjoy their craft beers and delicious food at reduced prices.
