Jasper
Jasper is a beautiful destination that offers breathtaking natural scenery and a wide range of outdoor activities. The town is situated in the heart of the Canadian Rockies and is surrounded by mountains, lakes, and forests. Visitors can enjoy hiking, wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and exploring the charming downtown area. With a variety of accommodations, restaurants, and shops, Jasper has everything you need for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. It’s a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the outdoors and wants to experience the beauty of the Canadian Rockies. Read our Jasper travel guide for more information!
Jasper, a town located in the province of Alberta, Canada, has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. The area was originally inhabited by Indigenous peoples for thousands of years before European fur traders arrived in the early 1800s. In 1813, David Thompson, a Canadian explorer, passed through the area and named the nearby river the Athabasca River.
In the late 1800s, the Canadian Pacific Railway was built, connecting Jasper to other parts of Canada and spurring development in the area. The town of Jasper was officially established in 1911 with the opening of the Jasper Park Lodge, a luxury resort that attracted wealthy visitors from around the world. During World War II, Jasper was an important location for military training and defense. After the war, the town experienced a surge in tourism, as people sought to explore the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Today, Jasper is a popular year-round destination, attracting visitors from around the world. The town is surrounded by the stunning scenery of Jasper National Park, which is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and bears.
Jasper is known for its commitment to sustainable tourism, and many of the local businesses and attractions prioritize eco-friendly practices. The town also has a strong sense of community, with residents who are passionate about preserving the natural beauty of the area and sharing it with visitors.
- Take a scenic drive: Jasper has some incredible drives, including the Icefields Parkway and the Maligne Lake Road. The Icefields Parkway is a 232-kilometer-long highway that runs between Jasper and Banff National Parks, and it’s considered one of the most scenic drives in the world.
- Go for a hike: Jasper National Park is known for its breathtaking landscapes and offers a variety of hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. For beginners, there are plenty of easy walks, including the Valley of the Five Lakes and the Athabasca Falls trails.
- Explore Jasper’s downtown: The town of Jasper has a quaint downtown area that is full of character and charm. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the streets, stopping to browse the many boutique shops and small restaurants. Many restaurants specialize in using locally-sourced ingredients, such as elk and bison, and there are also several bakeries and coffee shops for those looking for a quick bite or a caffeine fix.
- See wildlife: The park is home to an impressive array of wildlife, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts. Visitors to Jasper can expect to see a variety of animals in their natural habitats, including elk, deer, moose, bears, and bighorn sheep.
- Jasper has a rich cultural history, with evidence of human habitation in the area dating back over 10,000 years!
- Jasper National Park is the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, covering an area of over 11,000 square kilometers.
- Jasper is home to the largest dark sky preserve in the world, making it an ideal location for stargazing.
- Bring appropriate clothing: Jasper experiences a wide range of temperatures throughout the year, with cool to mild temperatures in the summer and cold temperatures in the winter. Even in the summer months, temperatures can drop suddenly, especially in the evenings, so it’s important to bring warm layers. It’s a good idea to bring a waterproof and windproof jacket, as well as sturdy hiking shoes or boots, especially if you plan to go on a hike.
- Carry a reusable water bottle: There are many water stations throughout the park where visitors can fill up their bottles with clean, fresh mountain water. By bringing a reusable water bottle and filling up at the water stations, visitors can stay hydrated while also reducing their impact on the environment.
- Don’t forget your camera: Jasper National Park is known for its stunning natural beauty, with picturesque views around every corner. With so much to see and explore, it’s important to bring a camera to capture the memories. Whether you’re hiking in the mountains, admiring the lakes and rivers, or spotting wildlife, there are countless opportunities for breathtaking photos.
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