Is Jasper Worth Visiting After the 2024 Wildfire?

I know that after the 2024 wildfire many of you are wondering “Is Jasper worth visiting?” Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway, a romantic retreat or a week long Jasper and Banff itinerary I’ve got you covered. Here’s my honest report on what I found during a recent visit to the area including pictures and video of what has changed.

In mid-July 2024, Graham and I went on a road trip along the stunning Icefields Parkway for a camping trip at Wapiti Campground in Jasper National Park. During our stay, we explored some of Jasper’s most iconic spots — hiking through Maligne Canyon, boating on Maligne Lake, soaking in Miette Hot Springs, wildlife watching near Pyramid and Patricia Lakes, walking along the paths of Athabasca Falls, and soaking in the sun during a day on the beach at Lake Annette. We wandered the streets of Jasper townsite and snapped photos from the Skytram viewpoint, soaking in all the beauty the park had to offer.

Just a week after we returned home, we learned that a devastating wildfire had swept through Jasper, leaving parts of the park forever changed. In the spring of 2025, as the park had reopened to visitors, we knew we had to return — both to support the local community and to see for ourselves what Jasper looked like after the fires. During our trip, we returned to many of the same sites we visited in 2024, giving us the chance to see the differences firsthand.

🤩 If you are short on time and want to combine a trip to Banff, Yoho and Jasper National Parks and see all of the highlights I would recommend this highly rated 4-day Canadian Rockies tour will take you to all three national parks with tours, transport, and accommodation covered.

Is Jasper Ready for Visitors in 2025?

Yes—Jasper is open and ready to welcome visitors, but things have changed.

On July 22, 2024, lightning sparked three wildfires that quickly merged into one massive blaze due to hot, dry, and windy conditions. By the time the fire was brought under control on September 7, it had burned 32,722 hectares of Jasper National Park. The townsite and nearby areas were evacuated, and visitors were asked to stay away for safety.

What we found when we entered the town in 2025 was that Jasper was preparing to welcome visitors back. The community and Parks Canada have been working tirelessly to recover—clearing dangerous trees, restoring infrastructure, and reopening services.

During our visit to Jasper, the town felt bustling with activity and a renewed sense of optimism. However, people are still grieving what has been lost, and for many residents—and returning visitors—the start of the summer season will reopen those emotional wounds. We saw large construction sites, crews clearing burnt trees from campgrounds, electrical system upgrades in progress, and several businesses preparing to reopen for the first time in May. While Jasper is absolutely open to visitors, this is also a period of healing and rebuilding.

Despite the challenges, Jasper remains the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies—over 11,000 square kilometres of stunning wilderness, rugged peaks, and iconic wildlife. People from across Canada and around the world continue to come here to experience its natural beauty and unique spirit.

Welcome back to Jasper—a place changed, but still very much alive.

🤩 This best selling Jasper to Lake Louise tour will take you to all of the top stops along the Icefield Parkway through Jasper National Park and Banff National park.

Commercial areas and businesses

Many local businesses are back in operation or partially reopened, while others are still rebuilding or may not open anytime soon. You’ll see signs of both resilience and recovery across town. When we arrived in early May 2025 we noticed that many businesses were preparing to reopen for the summer season and a lot of “help wanted” signs were in the windows.

In the Jasper townsite, there’s a striking contrast between the East and West side of town. Much of the East side appears untouched, but as you move West, you’ll see entire sections of the town that were severely damaged or razed by the fire. Fortunately, most of the town’s key infrastructure—including the hospital, fire hall, municipal buildings, train station, information centre, and schools—remained intact, though not all churches were spared.

In the commercial district, most hotels, restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, and shops are still standing and fully operational. However, several businesses on the West side of town and along the Icefields Parkway suffered significant damage or were completely destroyed. It’s a strange and sobering sight—streets that look almost normal, with open businesses and daily activity, suddenly interrupted by a burned-out building or empty lot where fire embers took hold.

Wildlife

We were pleased to see that Jasper’s abundant wildlife has returned. Bears were out of hibernation, eagles were nesting, marmots were active near Medicine Lake, and we spotted spring baby elk and mountain sheep along the roadsides.

🤩 Jasper is well known for its abundant wildlife throughout the park. Join a guided tour to learn more about the animals that live here. Elk, bears, moose, and mountain sheep are frequently spotted during these morning and evening tours.

Jasper National Park landscape and trails

While parts of Jasper National Park appear almost unchanged from a year ago, others were deeply impacted. In some places, the forest is now a stark, barren landscape—where lush, green trees once stood, scorched trunks stretch to the horizon. It was both shocking and devastating as we drove through the fire damaged areas for the first time.

In severely affected zones, the landscape has changed dramatically. The soil is loose, and it’s not uncommon to see entire trees uprooted, unstable boulders and logs, and there is an increased risk of falling trees or branches—especially on windy days. Flooding is a concern in burned areas where vegetation no longer helps absorb rainfall, and hazards like hidden burned-out holes and jagged stumps make some terrain unsafe.

Some services and trails remain limited or temporarily closed due to lingering hazards like unstable trees, debris, and sensitive recovering ecosystems. Seasonal closures like the Edith Cavell area, will be assessed by Parks Canada as road access becomes possible with improving weather. Other areas, such as Maligne Canyon, will take longer to safely reopen due to the extent of fire damage and the challenges of restoring infrastructure.

Parks Canada continues to work hard, reopening more of the park each day. We were amazed at how many facilities had been replaced and with the repair and clean up work that had already been completed. However, exact timelines remain uncertain, so for the most current information on trail conditions and area closures, it’s best to check the Parks Canada website before your visit.

The Valley of the Five Lakes, once celebrated as one of Jasper National Park’s most picturesque hikes, was closed when we visited in May 2025 due to extensive wildfire damage. Before the wildfire, this trail was renowned for its vibrant turquoise lakes, lush forests, and serene boardwalks. Now, the landscape is completely transformed—charred and blackened, with slender, scorched tree trunks resembling toothpicks scattered across the terrain. The once-dense forest canopy is gone, exposing the area to more sunlight and altering the ecosystem. There were early signs of ecological recovery in early May, and green shoots have begun to emerge on the forest floor, offering a hopeful glimpse into the area’s natural regeneration.

🤩 If you are looking for an amazing hiking experience in the Canadian Rockies Wilcox Pass is open! Join this guided day tour to see unique flora and fauna in an alpine environment and enjoy amazing vistas of the Athabasca Glacier and Columbia Icefield.

Campgrounds after the wildfire

For the 2025 camping season, the majority of Jasper’s frontcountry campsites and all backcountry campsites will be open or partially open. We stayed at Wapiti campground in July 2024 and were completely shocked by the changed landscape of the campground. Whistler campground had not reopened when we visited in May 2025 so we were only able to take pictures from outside the entrance. Parks Canada staff were busy working in the area, clearing fallen trees and hazards, repairing infrastructure, and preparing for a full reopening for the summer season.

Click here for prices

Renting an RV or Motorhome

I highly recommend Motorhome Republic for motorhome and RV rentals. They are one of the world’s largest sites, very reputable, and they have an extensive inventory to choose from. You can easily compare prices of different types of RV’s as well as different rental companies.

Summer is busy and there are limited campground sites available, especially on weekends, so be sure to reserve a spot well in advance. Parks Canada reservations start in January and Alberta Parks reservations can be booked a maximum of 90 days in advance.

Specific updates include:

• Whistlers Campground is expected to be fully open
• Wapiti Campground will operate at reduced capacity
• Miette Campground will be fully open
• Several self-registration campgrounds will be available, including Snaring River, Kerkeslin, Jonas, Honeymoon Lake, Wilcox, Icefield Tent, and Icefield Centre RV
• Wabasso Campground and Whirlpool Group Campground will remain closed for 2025 due to significant fire damage

Icefield Parkway

The Icefields Parkway, which stretches 230 kilometers (143 miles) between Lake Louise and Jasper in the Canadian Rockies, is still one of the most breathtaking drives in the world. Every curve of the highway reveals a new marvel of nature—towering peaks, massive glaciers, turquoise lakes, cascading waterfalls, and sweeping valleys carved by ice over millennia. As we drove along the Icefield Parkway in early May many lakes and mountain peaks were still ice covered but the area was melting quickly and Tangle Creek Falls were flowing fast and powerfully.

Columbia Icefield

The glaciers are among the most dramatic sights along the route and the Columbia Icefield, one of the largest accumulations of ice south of the Arctic Circle, sprawls across the Great Divide and feeds several major rivers. The Athabasca Glacier, a tongue of the icefield, is easily accessible by walking near its toe or by buying a ticket for the Columbia Icefield Adventure which includes a ride on a massive Ice Explorer all-terrain vehicle which ascends the Athabasca Glacier.

🤩 Enjoy the unique experience of walking on a glacier on this small-group interpretative ice walk tour across the majestic Athabasca Glacier. For safety reasons you can only complete an ice walk and see its many incredible ice formations such as crevasses, mill wells, meltwater streams, and icefalls on a tour.

Since many areas along the Icefield Parkway were not impacted by the wildfire almost everything is still open and operating at full capacity. Most Icefield Parkway campgrounds, hostels and hotels like the Glacier View Lodge are open. The Glacier Discovery Centre, Columbia Icefield Adventure, and Glacier Skywalk are fully operational.

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Pursuit Pass Lite

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Banff Gondola

Glacier Skywalk

Icefield Explorer Adventure

Lake Minnewanka Cruise

🤩Click for prices and availability of this once in a lifetime half-day excursion from Jasper which includes a ride aboard the all-terrain Ice Explorer on the surface of the Athabasca Glacier, tickets to the Glacier Skywalk attraction, a stop at Athabasca Falls, and a buffet lunch. This is a great option if you don’t have a vehicle and want a pick up from Jasper townsite.

Sunwapta Falls

We first noticed a difference in the landscape as we were approaching Sunwapta Falls. We started to notice some pine trees that were red coloured and the forest was a bit sparser than before in some spots. The Sunwapta Falls Lodge main building was boarded up and guest buildings were fenced off but the twin totem poles at the entrance were standing proud. We noticed many people working in the guest buildings and making final preparations to welcome visitors to the lodge for the upcoming summer season. It was not open yet but they were accepting bookings from the May long weekend on so it should be at least partially open soon.

After passing the Sunwapta Falls Lodge to the falls we noticed the first significant damage visible from the roadside. Blackened trees had fallen or were cut to keep the road clear from falling debris. The treed area near the parking lot was particularly damaged but the Sunwapta Falls themselves were still beautiful and infrastructure like walkways, bridges, washrooms, and roadways were fully functional.

🤩 If you are looking for excitement I highly recommend this this half-day rafting adventure from Jasper on the Class II and Class III white-water rapids of the Sunwapta River. It’s beginner friendly and you’ll paddle alongside an experienced river guide with all equipment provided.

Athabasca Falls

The fire damage to Jasper National Park became more apparent as we entered the zone near Athabasca Falls. Athabasca Falls are still amazing and well worth a visit but the surrounding landscape has changed significantly since the fire so it will be a different experience. Amenities such as pathways, bridges, and viewing areas have mostly reopened and the parking lot and washroom facilities were fully functional.

Accommodations between Athabasca Falls and the Jasper townsite were in the path of the fire, with some surviving and others not. Several cabins, lodges, and hostels were either damaged or completely destroyed. Becker’s Chalets remain open, while Tekarra Lodge and Alpine Village sustained partial damage. Jasper House, however, was completely lost. Even for the properties that survived, the surrounding landscape has been significantly changed.

🤩 If you are interested in an outdoor adventure I would recommend learning to rock climb on this introductory rock climbing tour on the shores of the Athabasca River. Professional training, transportation and all safety equipment will be provided.

Area Around Jasper Townsite

You can expect to find most essential amenities and facilities up and running in 2025:

• Information Centre and public washrooms – Key visitor facilities, including the Parks Canada Information Centre, are open and fully functional.
• Essential services like grocery stores and gas stations – Many remain open and stocked, though not all gas stations survived the fire.
• Transit services – Local transportation is running, making it easier for visitors to get around the town and park. During the peak summer season, I highly recommend taking public transit to busy areas like Lakes Annette and Edith, Pyramid and Patricia Lakes, and throughout the townsite because parking is extremely limited.
• Jasper train station – Undamaged and in service, continuing to connect visitors via rail.

What to do around Jasper townsite

The good news is that many of the activities you enjoyed in Jasper before the fire are still available now. Jasper’s iconic attractions and most key tourist sites are open and accessible, ready for visitors to enjoy once again:

• Jasper the Bear statue – A resilient and welcoming figure, still in place and popular with visitors.
• Jasper Skytram – Open and operating, offering stunning panoramic views from the top of Whistlers Mountain. Alberta residents are eligible for a discounted ticket price.
• Marmot Basin ski hill – Fully operational and ready to welcome skiers and snowboarders in season.
• Haida Totem Pole – Still proudly standing, symbolizing Indigenous heritage in Jasper.
• Jasper Park golf course – Open for the summer season, offering a scenic and challenging course.
• Pyramid Lake & Patricia Lake – Both lakes remain accessible and are great for canoeing, walking, and scenic photography.
• Lake Annette & Lake Edith – Popular spots for swimming, picnicking, and relaxing by the water, these lakes are open and welcoming visitors.
• Horseback riding stables – Jasper’s trail riding experiences are available again, with stables open for guided rides through the surrounding wilderness.
• Jasper Planetarium – Open and offering immersive night sky experiences in one of the world’s largest dark sky preserves.
• Jasper-Yellowhead Museum and Archives – Open to the public, sharing Jasper’s natural, cultural, and historical stories.

The Jasper Skytram is fully operational but the views and landscape look different after the wildfire.

🤩 Don’t miss out on an incredible panoramic view of the townsite of Jasper, six different mountain ranges, numerous lakes, and the Athabasca River. Be sure to reserve a ticket for the Jasper Skytram in advance.

Patricia Lake and Pyramid Lake

Patricia Lake and Pyramid Lake were untouched by the 2024 wildfires and remain as lush and vibrant as ever, with abundant wildlife and the same stunning turquoise waters. The winding road is surrounded by green pine forests that are thriving, offering the classic Jasper experience. Jasper Riding Stables will reopen seasonally (May to October), and both Patricia Lake Bungalows (open seasonally May to October) and Pyramid Lake Resort are fully operational for the upcoming season. Pyramid Island continues to be a beautiful spot to visit. Swimming and boating are allowed on both lakes, but the area gets extremely busy in summer—taking public transit is highly recommended.

🤩 Paddle across the beautiful blue-green waters of Pyramid Lake on this highly recommended small-group canoe tour. The water is calm and ideal for beginners and people often spot wildlife along the shoreline.

Lake Edith and Lake Annette

In July 2024, we spent a relaxing day at Lake Annette swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying a picnic. It is one of our favorite spots in Jasper to unwind, with its clear turquoise water and beautiful mountain views. Driving in, we weren’t sure what to expect, but found that while some sections of the access road showed visible fire damage, much of the surrounding area was still green and unaffected. The picnic tables, beach, and amenities were largely unchanged, and washrooms were fully operational.

The areas immediately surrounding Lake Edith and Lake Annette show a mix of wildfire impact and unaffected forest. At Lake Annette, you’ll notice a clear contrast—one side of the lake is bordered by lush, unburned forest, while the opposite shore features trees with blackened trunks and scorched foliage. In contrast, the fire damage is less noticable around Lake Edith and most of the forest looks the same as before. Despite the fire’s presence in some stretches, much of the landscape around the lakes themselves is green and lush, with clear turquoise waters, forested trails, and mountain views.

The lakes remain popular spots for walking, picnicking, swimming, and paddling, and wildlife is still commonly seen in the area. When we drove through we noticed a secondary road in the area was still closed. Parking is extremely limited during the busy summer months, so using public transit is strongly recommended.

🤩 A few years ago my son and I flew by helicoptor over the Canadian Rockies and I highly recommend this experience. It was a truly exhilirating experience to fly over the Canadian Rocky Mountains and see glaciers, waterfalls, and 10,000-foot peaks from above.

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, one of Canada’s historic grand railway hotels established in 1921 by the Canadian National Railway, was impacted by the 2024 wildfires but remained largely intact. The main lodge and most guest buildings were not damaged, but two guest accommodations—Milligan Manor and one Beaver Suite—were lost in the fire, along with two employee housing buildings, and several operations buildings, including the engineering and golf maintenance shed. There was widespread vegetation loss across the property, including many trees. While the lodge did experience some fire impact, the majority of the resort’s structures are still standing and functional and the hotel was open when we visited the area.

The golf course, which was not yet open in Spring 2025, is being restored, with the 2025 season scheduled from July 1 to October. Because the course was closed, we couldn’t assess the extent of damage, but based on views of the surrounding landscape, a mix of scorched and unaffected areas with some blackened terrain is likely. The golf course is scheduled to reopen in 2025 in time for its 100th anniversary and tee times can currently be booked.

Maligne Valley

Parts of the Maligne Valley were heavily damaged by the wildfire, while other areas remained untouched.

Maligne Canyon

The area around Maligne Canyon was among the most heavily damaged by the wildfire. Witnessing the devastation was a sobering experience — blackened tree stumps, charred tree trunks, and flattened sections of forest floor paint a stark picture of the fire’s impact. In the spring of 2025, Maligne Canyon remained closed due to damage, but you can still take in views of the valley, the Athabasca River, and glimpses of the canyon trails through the now leafless trees from the Maligne Lake Lookout. Sadly, the Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen was completely destroyed.

Despite the changes, many trails in the area remain open and offer a unique opportunity to walk through a dramatically altered landscape. By early May, patches of green growth were already emerging on the forest floor, offering a hopeful sign of renewal and the beginning of a new ecosystem. During our stay in Jasper interpretative walks were offered to learn more about the Jasper wildfire and we hope that this will become a regular offering for visitors.

Despite the changes, many trails in the area remain open and offer a unique opportunity to walk through a dramatically altered landscape. By early May, patches of green growth were already emerging on the forest floor, offering a hopeful sign of renewal and the beginning of a new ecosystem. During our visit interpretative walks were offered to learn more about the Jasper wildfire and we hope that this will become a regular offering.

🤩 Click here for schedules of Friends of Jasper fire ecology walks and other interpretative programs.

Medicine Lake

As we drove closer to Medicine Lake, the forest grew denser and the damage to the trees became less severe. The same eagles we had seen nesting the previous year had returned to their protected spot, and a lone marmot wandered among the nearby rocks. The lake itself was lower than before, due to a recurring natural phenomenon in which its waters drain through a network of underground caves and tunnels—making Medicine Lake truly unique among Canadian lakes.

🤩 Parking is very limited in the Maligne Valley so I highly recommend this best selling full day guided tour of the Maligne Valley, Medicine Lake, Maligne Lake and a boat trip to Spirit Island or a guided hike. These are the top sights in the park that you do not want to miss.

Maligne Lake and Spirit Island

On the final stretch to Maligne Lake the road becomes narrower and more remote as you approach the lake. You’ll pass through denser forest, where the air feels cooler and quieter and we found the forest here was healthy and vibrant, especially closer to the lake. Since we arrived early in the season this year Maligne Lake was still frozen over but the facilities, including the iconic Maligne Lake boathouse, was undamaged and the area was bascially unchanged since before the fire.

Maligne Lake is still one of the crown jewels of Jasper National Park and one of the most iconic lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Famous for its vivid turquoise waters, dramatic mountain backdrop, and the legendary Spirit Island, it offers a truly breathtaking setting that attracts photographers, paddlers, and nature lovers from around the world. If you have never been to Spirit Island it is a tiny, picturesque island near the middle of the lake, only accessible by boat and it’s one of the most photographed locations in Canada.

The twisty paved Maligne Lake Road has always been one of the best places in Jasper to see wildlife. It’s common to spot elk, mule deer, black bears, grizzly bears, moose, and even bighorn sheep or wolves particularly during early mornings or near dusk.

🤩 One of the most photographed places in the Canadian Rockies is Spirit Island. Reserve your cruise early to avoid disappointment.

Jasper East and Miette Area

The drive from Jasper townsite to Jasper East along Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway) passes through a section of the 2024 wildfire zone, which extended east of the townsite near the railroad tracks. However, once you pass beyond the wildfire perimeter—located not far outside the townsite—there is no visible fire damage from the highway.

The rest of the route offers a mix of natural scenery and on our recent visit, we spotted bighorn sheep and mountain goats, which are often seen in this area. The Athabasca River Valley offered stunning views, with its winding waters and backdrop of snow topped mountain peaks. We passed by Jasper Lake, a broad section of the river with the only sand dune ecosystem in the Canadian Rockies, and further along the highway was the Jasper Palisade, with its sheer, fortress-like cliffs.

The route to Miette Hot Springs begins by turning off Highway 16 at the junction near Miette Mountain Cabins. From there, a 17 km (10.5 mil) narrow winding road leads you through the picturesque Fiddle Valley. Along the way, the road passes through dense forests and open meadows. The area is known for sightings of black bears, elk, and deer, especially during the early morning or late evening hours.

The Miette Road ends at Miette Hot Springs, which are the hottest mineral springs in the Canadian Rockies, with water temperatures averaging around 40°C (104°F). The facility features several outdoor pools that offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Miette Hot Springs open seasonally from May to October.

Campgrounds in Miette and East of Jasper are open for the 2025 season, along with fully operational accommodations such as the Jasper East Hostel, Overlander Mountain Lodge, Jasper East Cabins, Miette Mountain Cabins, Jasper Gates Resort, and the Miette Hot Springs Bungalows near the hot springs.

🤩 Miette Hot Springs, located in Alberta’s Jasper National Park, feature the hottest hot springs in the Canadian Rockies. Check prices and schedules for one of the top attractions in the park.

Mount Edith Cavell and Area

The Mount Edith Cavell area in Jasper National Park has been a highlight for many visitors, known for its stunning views of Mount Edith Cavell and the hanging Angel Glacier, as well as its alpine meadows and recently retreated glacier in the valley below. Popular hikes in the area include the Path of the Glacier Trail, which offers an accessible route to viewpoints of the glacier and surrounding peaks.

Cavell Road was closed until further notice after the 2024 wildfire. As of our visit in early spring 2025, the 14 km (8.7mi) Cavell Road was still closed, and we were unable to drive the narrow road with tight switchbacks. According to Parks Canada staff at the Jasper Information Centre, a full assessment of the area—including any damage from the 2024 wildfires—will take place once the snow melts and the area becomes more accessible (likely around mid-June). For further information of reopening of this area visit the Parks Canada site for updates on road restrictions and seasonal closures.

2. Stunning landscapes

Jasper continues to offer turquoise lakes, towering snow capped mountain peaks, glaciers, and lush pine forests. Scenic drives like Maligne Lake Road, Icefields Parkway, and the road to Miette Hot Springs offer incredible views and photo opportunities.

3. Abundant wildlife

We always see a lot of wildlife when we visit Jasper, definitely much more than when we visit Banff. Our visit in 2025 was no different and wildlife is still thriving in many parts of the park and the townsite.

Wildlife is a regular part of the experience in Jasper National Park. You might spot elk in town, bighorn sheep along the cliffs, or black bears grazing near the road—all within their natural habitat. There are regular sightings of moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, eagles, marmots, and sometimes grizzlies, especially in more remote areas.

🤩 Not all animals hibernate for the winter. This peaceful and quiet time of the year is a great time to go on a winter wildlife discovery tour with an experienced guide to find  Elk, deer, sheep, goats, coyotes, wolves, and moose.

4. Popular attractions in Jasper are open

Most of Jasper National Park’s most popular attractions remain open after the 2024 wildfire. Visitors can still enjoy Maligne Lake and a cruise to Spirit Island, canoeing on Pyramid and Patricia Lakes, swimming or picnicking at Lake Edith or Annette, soaking in Miette Hot Springs, and Athabasca and Sunwapta Falls along the Icefields Parkway. The Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is open and daily tours are being offered to the Glacier Skywalk and Athabasca Glacier on the Ice Explorer vehicles. Many hiking trails and campgrounds are accessible and fully operational and the areas that were closed are rapidly reopening.

Jasper townsite continues to welcome visitors, with the majority of restaurants, shops, and businesses reopened. Jasper SkyTram is open, offering panoramic views from Whistlers Mountain. The Jasper Planetarium is open in 2025, offering nightly experiences that combine immersive dome theatre shows with guided telescope tours. The Jasper Park Lodge golf course and Jasper Riding Stables horseback riding will be open in 2025. Jasper-Yellowhead Museum & Archives and the Jasper Park Information Centre are accessible for those interested in the area’s history and visitor information. Marmot Basin ski area remains a key destination for winter sports enthusiasts and dogsledding is available at nearby Cold Fire Creek Dogsledding.

🤩 If you have never been dogsledding before be sure to check out my complete guide and video about the best dogsledding tours in Alberta.

5. Unique opportunity to witness nature’s renewal

Visiting after the fire gives you a rare chance to see how landscapes recover—with wildflowers, new growth, and early signs of regrowth already visible in some burned areas.

Wildfire is a natural part of many ecosystems and, while becoming more frequent and intense due to climate change, it also plays a vital role in renewing landscapes. Fire clears out dead vegetation, allows sunlight to reach the forest floor, and promotes the growth of new plants—helping restore biodiversity and strengthen ecosystems against future fires. Indigenous communities have long used fire as a tool to support healthy landscapes. In Jasper National Park, Parks Canada offers interpretive talks and walks to help visitors understand the role of wildfire in nature and how regrowth contributes to a balanced, thriving environment.

6. Hot springs, lakes, rivers, and beaches are open

Lakes like Maligne, Pyramid, Patricia, and Annette offer everything from paddling and swimming to lakeside picnics with mountain views. Spirit Island on Maligne Lake is one of the most photographed spots in Canada. The Miette Hot Springs offer the perfect place to soak after a day outdoors.

Jasper National Park offers a diverse array of water-based activities that cater to both adventure seekers and those looking for a tranquil experience amidst stunning natural landscapes.

Rafting: The park’s rivers, including the Athabasca and Sunwapta, provide excellent opportunities for whitewater rafting. These rivers offer varying levels of rapids, making them suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters. Guided rafting tours are available, allowing visitors to navigate the rapids safely while enjoying the scenic beauty of the surrounding wilderness.

Canoeing and Kayaking: Jasper’s pristine lakes, such as Maligne Lake and Pyramid Lake, are ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Maligne Lake, renowned for its crystal-clear waters and the iconic Spirit Island, offers canoe and kayak rentals, allowing visitors to explore at their own pace. Pyramid Lake provides a serene setting for paddling, with the chance to spot local wildlife along the shoreline.

Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP): For those interested in stand-up paddleboarding, lakes like Lac Beauvert offer calm waters perfect for this activity. SUP rentals are available, providing an enjoyable way to experience the park’s aquatic environments.

7. Outdoor adventures for all levels

Whether you’re a casual walker or an experienced backcountry hiker, Jasper has options—from gentle trails to challenging climbs. Many hiking and walking trails, such as those at Old Fort Point, Pyramid Island, Mary Schäffer Loop, Bald Hills, Wilcox Pass, Mine Trail, Toe of the Glacier, Sulpher Skyline and near Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls are open and safe to explore in 2025. Parks Canada is assessing and restoring new areas every day and you can expect even more open trails over the summer.

Jasper National Park offers a wide range of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts including over 200 km of mountain biking trails, rock climbing, alpine climbing, and scrambling. Enjoy scenic bike rides on the Pyramid Bench trails, Athabasca River trail system, and other multi-use paths.

Play a round at the world-renowned Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Golf Course, nestled among mountains and wildlife. Explore Jasper’s trail network by horseback and enjoy the stunning views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains.

In the summer there are a wide range of water sports including rafting, canoeing, kayaking and stand up paddle boarding. Anglers can enjoy fishing in lakes and rivers like Maligne Lake and Talbot Lake if they purchase a national park fishing permit.

In the winter there is still plenty to do as the Marmot Basin offers excellent skiing and snowboarding from November to May. Groomed cross-country ski trails and snowshoeing are available near the townsite and in areas like Pyramid Lake. Learn to ice climb up a frozen waterfall. Skate on Pyramid Lake or Lake Mildred when conditions allow or enjoy an exhilarating dogsled or sleigh ride.

🤩 In the winter months I highly recommend this snowshoeing tour will take you through snowy forests, frozen lakes, and tranquil mountain meadows to discover some of the secret places of Jasper.

8. Spectacular mountains and thundering falls

Jasper National Park is home to some of the most impressive mountain landscapes and waterfalls in the Canadian Rockies, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers. Towering peaks like Mount Edith Cavell, Pyramid Mountain, and the Columbia Icefield offer dramatic scenery and hiking opportunities with breathtaking views.

The park also features spectacular waterfalls, including Athabasca Falls, known for its powerful flow and deeply carved canyon, and Sunwapta Falls, which is especially dramatic in spring and early summer. These natural features highlight the park’s rugged beauty and provide accessible and memorable experiences for visitors of all ages.

9. Campgrounds and lodging are available

Numerous hotels, lodges, cabins, and campgrounds are fully operational, including those in Jasper East, Miette, and the townsite area.

🤩 The Municipality of Jasper has maintained a list of all of the accommodations open to visitors.

10. Improved access and public transit

Access to Jasper National Park without a car has become more convenient in recent years thanks to improved public transportation options. VIA Rail offers year-round train service to Jasper, while several bus companies, including Sundog Tours and Brewster Express, provide regular connections from Edmonton, Calgary, and Banff.

Once in Jasper, the Jasper Transit service, which launched in 2023, offers seasonal public transit routes to popular sites like Pyramid Lake, Lake Annette, Maligne Canyon, and the Jasper Skytram, making it easier than ever for visitors to explore without needing a vehicle. With high summer visitation, Parks Canada continues to encourage the use of public transit, which helps visitors to explore popular areas without parking stress.

Bike rentals and guided tours also offer great alternatives for getting around. Vicious Cycle and Snow offfers a variety of ebikes and traditional bikes and bike trailers for rent.

🤩 Explore the park on an amazing guided 25 km E-Bike Safari Eco Tour to discover spectacular view points inaccessible by bus and tour Lake Edith, Lake Annette and the Jasper Park Golf Course.

11. Unesco World Heritage site and historic locations in the park

Jasper National Park is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its stunning natural beauty, geological significance, and diverse ecosystems. The park preserves not only breathtaking landscapes but also important cultural and historical sites.

Highlights include the Jasper House National Historic Site, a former fur trade post along the Athabasca River, and the Jasper Park Information Centre, built in 1914, is itself a National Historic Site and one of the park’s most iconic buildings. These historic sites offer insight into the human history of the region and its significance in the development of Canada’s national parks.

The Jasper Yellowhead Museum & Archives is a key institution preserving the rich history of Jasper National Park and its surrounding areas. Located in the town of Jasper, the museum showcases exhibits that delve into the lives of Indigenous and Métis peoples of the Athabasca Valley, the fur trade era—including figures like David Thompson—and the development of the railway and tourism in the region.

12. Unique photo and learning opportunities

Jasper National Park offers unique photography opportunities, especially in areas affected by the 2024 wildfire. Top photography spots in Jasper National Park include:

• Spirit Island (Maligne Lake)
• Pyramid Lake & Pyramid Island
• Mount Edith Cavell & Angel Glacier
• Athabasca Falls
• Sunwapta Falls
• Columbia Icefield & Athabasca Glacier
• Jasper Lake & Sand Dunes
• Maligne Canyon
• Medicine Lake
• Tonquin Valley
• Patricia Lake
• Mount Tekarra viewpoint
• Old Fort Point
• Valley of the Five Lakes
• Jasper SkyTram upper station (for panoramic and night sky shots)

These spots offer a mix of mountain vistas, waterfalls, lakes, wildlife, and night skies—ideal for landscape and nature photographers. In 2025 it will look different and the contrast of of lush forests and fire-affected landscapes will create dramatic visuals.

Jasper National Park offers unique opportunities for cultural learning, particularly through Indigenous-led experiences. The Warrior Women, a Cree mother-daughter duo, provide immersive cultural programs and experiences that help visitors learn about Jasper from an Indigenous perspective. Their Indigenous Cultural Tour takes you around town to see murals, statues, and the Indigenous Art Park, while sharig the stories behind them. Their Fireside Chats include drumming, singing, and storytelling, with Cree legends and traditions. These activities give people a better understanding of Indigenous culture and a deeper appreciation of the land.

13. Dark sky preserve

As one of the world’s largest dark sky preserves, Jasper is ideal for stargazing and witnessing the Northern Lights, especially during the fall and winter months. Jasper offers incredible stargazing, with the Milky Way clearly visible on a clear night and events like the Jasper Dark Sky Festival drawing astronomy lovers from around the globe.

🤩 I highly recommend this unique experience which combines a wildlife discovery tour with an interactive planetarium tour led by a local astronomy guide. Learn how to photograph the night sky and look through the largest telescope in the Canadian Rockies!

14. Tranquility and space

Unlike more crowded mountain towns like Banff, Jasper is quieter and more laid-back, making it easier to find moments of solitude and to connect with nature. Jasper is a place where you can truly slow down and enjoy a sense of peace and space both in its vast wilderness and its relaxed atmosphere. With wide valleys, quiet trails, and stunning scenery in every direction, it’s easy to find solitude, whether you’re hiking, paddling on a calm lake, or simply sitting by the river. Jasper’s quiet charm makes it a perfect destination for those looking to disconnect and recharge in nature.

15. Charming small town atmosphere

The town of Jasper offers a laid-back vibe with unique local eateries, shops, and accommodations, providing a cozy base for exploring the park. It is welcoming and worth visiting for its friendly, small-town charm nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Many travellers find Jasper a refreshing alternative to busier Banff with its walkable streets framed by mountain views. It has a down-to-earth vibe where you can browse bookstores, enjoy homemade treats, or chat with locals who know the trails and stories of the area. Jasper offers all the beauty of a mountain destination without the rush

Getting To and Around Jasper

You can get to Jasper in several ways, whether you’re driving, taking the train, or using bus or shuttle services:

• By Car: Jasper is accessible via the scenic Icefields Parkway (Highway 93) from Lake Louise/Banff or Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway) from Edmonton. Both routes offer stunning mountain views and wildlife sightings.
• It is 288km (179mi) from Banff to Jasper plus another 127km (79mi) if you are starting from Calgary. Driving time is at least 4.5 hours from Calgary and from Edmonton to Jasper is 366km (227mi) and it will take at least 4 hours to drive. It usually takes longer based on traffic, weather conditions, and how many stops you make along the way.
• By Train: VIA Rail’s Canadian route stops in Jasper and it’s a scenic and relaxing way to arrive, right into the center of town.
• From Vancouver: Approximately 19 hours and 731km (454mi) with 2 departures a week.
• From Toronto: Approximately 3 days, 3654km (2270mi) with 2 departures a week.
• From Edmonton: Approximately 6.5 hours and 390km (242mi) with 2 departures a week.
• By Bus or Shuttle: Several shuttle services operate to Jasper from Edmonton, Calgary, Banff, and Lake Louise. Companies like SunDog Tours and Brewster Express offer regular service, especially in peak seasons.
• By Air: Jasper doesn’t have a commercial airport. The nearest major airport is in Edmonton (YEG), about 4–5 hours away by car or shuttle.

Once in Jasper, you can explore without a car by walking, using local transit, tours, and bike or e-bike rentals. In Jasper, taxi services are available through Mr. Taxi and Tours or Caribou Cabs.

If you are driving major highways and major roads have been cleared of debris and are reopened.

Best Time to Visit Jasper

The best time to visit Jasper depends on what you want to experience:

• Summer (June to August): Ideal for hiking, canoeing, wildlife viewing, and scenic drives. The weather is warmest, all trails are open, and lakes are at their clearest. It’s the busiest season, so expect crowds at top attractions.
• Fall (September to October): Fewer visitors, golden larch trees, crisp air, and active wildlife (especially elk during rutting season). A great time for photography and quieter exploration.
• Winter (November to March): Perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, skating, and stargazing under dark skies. Marmot Basin offers downhill skiing, and the town is peaceful and festive.
• Spring (April to May): Quieter with fewer crowds, wildlife emerging, and waterfalls flowing strong with snowmelt. Some higher elevation trails may still be snow-covered.

Each season offers a unique experience—summer for adventure, fall for color and calm, winter for snow and stars, and spring for renewal and wildlife. It is important to note that some roads and attractions are only open seasonally so check ahead for opening and closing dates.

All Visitors Need a Parks Canada National Park Pass to Visit Jasper:

2026

Parks Canada National Park Pass Fees

Daily Pass for all National Parks

UPDATE: Canada Strong Pass allows for free or discounted admission and camping in all Canadian National Parks during select dates in 2026.

Adult – Person 18 to 64 years of age – $12.25CDN/$8.80USD
Senior – Person 65 years of age or over – $10.75CDN/$7.75USD
Youth – Person 6 to 17 years of age – Free for age 17 or younger
Family/Group – Up to seven people arriving in a single vehicle in a national park – $24.50CDN/$17.60USD

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Annual Pass for all National Parks

Adult – Person 18 to 64 years of age – $83.50CDN/$60USD
Senior – Person 65 years of age or over – $71.50CDN/$51.50USD
Youth – Person 6 to 17 years of age – Free for age 17 or younger
Family/Group – Up to seven people arriving in a single vehicle in a national park – $167.50CDN/$120.40USD

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You will be able to buy single-location passes in person where available or online starting in Fall 2026.

FAQs

Final Thoughts: Is Jasper Worth Visiting?

After visiting Jasper in May 2025, I can say I would definitely return again in the future. Much of what makes Jasper special—the stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere—remains unchanged.

Jasper National Park is special because it offers an unmatched combination of wild natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a sense of peaceful solitude that’s hard to find elsewhere. As the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it’s a place where you can truly feel immersed in nature.

Even after a challenging wildfire season, Jasper National Park offers unforgettable experiences, natural beauty, and a unique wilderness experience. While the park has been impacted by the wildfire and things have changed in some areas, Jasper is very much open and ready to welcome visitors with open arms. If you’re planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies, don’t miss out on this incredible destination.

Ready to explore both Jasper and Banff? Check out my Banff itinerary to see how you can experience the best of both parks in one unforgettable trip!