Jasper National Park

Jasper National Park, established in 1907 as Canada’s fifth national park, stands as the largest protected area in the Canadian Rockies. Located approximately 370 kilometers west of Edmonton, Alberta, this vast wilderness covers almost 11,000 square kilometres, offering a rugged landscape defined by towering peaks, ancient glaciers, and pristine lakes. Since 1984 it has been part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, and in 2011 it was designated a dark-sky preserve by the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, celebrated each October with the Jasper Dark Sky Festival.

Visitors arrive in the town of Jasper, an intimate community that began as a railway hub and trading post along the Athabasca River. Today, it serves as a gateway to outdoor adventures, with the Icefields Parkway and Yellowhead Highway providing access to remote trails and scenic viewpoints. The area has been inhabited by Indigenous peoples, including the Nakoda, Cree, Secwépemc, and Dane-zaa, for thousands of years, with archaeological evidence dating back to 8000–7000 BCE. This deep cultural history adds a layer of respect and context to the natural environment.

The park features diverse ecosystems, from the Columbia Icefield and the Athabasca Glacier to the Miette Hot Springs, Maligne Lake and Spirit Island, Maligne Canyon and Athabasca Falls. Hikers, wildlife enthusiasts, and nature lovers explore miles of trails, encountering species such as elk, bears, and mountain goats. In July 2024 a major wildfire burned through parts of the park and destroyed around a third of the buildings in the town of Jasper; the town has reopened and is rebuilding, but some trails, roads and facilities may still be closed, so check Parks Canada before you travel. Accommodations range from campgrounds to hotels, catering to those seeking immersion in the wilderness. The town offers amenities while maintaining its character as a quiet retreat amidst the mountains. Whether stargazing in the dark skies or hiking through alpine meadows, Jasper provides a profound connection to the natural world, preserving the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies for future generations.