Jasper National Park Ticket & Guide

Want to walk on a 10,000-year-old glacier, instead of seeing it from your car? At Jasper National Park, you can actually stand on the Athabasca Glacier with the Columbia Icefield Adventure!

This guide is all about visiting Jasper like a pro: when to go, what tickets you need, what the best sights are, and how to spot wild animals. Enjoying epic hikes to blue-green lakes in summer, frozen waterfalls in winter, and the best stargazing on the planet year-round.

About Jasper National Park: Key Facts & Location

Jasper National Park, the jewel of the Canadian Rockies, covers 4,200 square miles in Alberta, Canada. This spectacular park offers:

Jasper National Park Ticket Prices & Opening Hours

Glacier Skywalk Experience

Ice Explorer Tour

Key Booking Details:

• 🚫 Non-refundable
• 📅 Date-specific price
• 🖨️ Printed voucher required
• 🔢 Limited availability (numbers update live)

Opening Hours & Duration:

• Open: 24/7 year-round
• Recommended Visit Duration: 0.5-1 day

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What to See in Jasper National Park

Columbia Icefield Adventure (Glacier & Skywalk)

Two world-class attractions one time- walking on a 10,000-year-old glacier and stepping onto a glass-floored platform above the Sunwapta Valley. Taking Ice Explorer vehicle to the Athabasca Glacier for authentic pure glacial water; admiring stunning mountain views on the cliff edge glass.

Pro Tip: Book the day tour combo for a Small group tour and comfortable air-conditioned bus trip.

Maligne Lake & Spirit Island (Famous Photo Spot)

There is nothing like its unreal turquoise waters in the world, not to mention the famous Spirit Island at its heart. The Maligne Lake Cruise offers the most signature experience - head straight to the island's viewpoint while learning about the fascinating glacial geology. In the early morning, the lake transforms into a mirror, creating those iconic reflection shots. You can find several hiking trails on the lakeshore, ranging from easy walks to challenging climbs, offering different perspectives of this natural wonder.

Photography Tip: Book the morning cruise for the best conditions for taking iconic pictures with the calm water and soft light.

Athabasca Falls (The Rockies' Most Powerful Waterfall)

Carved by Athabasca River, this 23-meter waterfall thunderously plunges through the ancient quartzite cliffs, sculpting deep potholes into the rock walls. Passing by the area, you’ll feel constant mist and spray cooling your naked skin. The Upper Falls Lookout offers a panoramic view of the powerful river squeezing into the narrow canyon. For a closer look, the Narrow Canyon Overlook is the best viewpoint for the sculpted potholes and ancient rock walls carved by the rushing water.

Safety Note: The waterfall spray makes all surrounding rocks slippery - we strongly recommend wearing rain gear even on sunny days.

Best Wild Animal Encounter Areas

How to Get to Jasper National Park

By Car (Most Popular Option)

• From Edmonton: ~4-hour drive via Highway 16 (Yellowhead Highway)
• From Banff: 3.5-hour scenic drive via Icefields Parkway (Highway 93)
• Road Conditions:
• • Speed limit: max 90 km/h for all main roads
  • Steep 8-11% grades near the Columbia Icefield
  • Avoid sharp hairpin turns at Mt. Edith Cavell Road
• Fuel Tip: Last gas stations in Hinton (east) or Jasper townsite

By Air

Alternative Transportation

• Train: VIA Vancouver/Edmonton
• Shuttles:
• • Brewster Express (Banff/Jasper via Icefields Parkway)
  • SunDog Tours (Edmonton-Jasper daily)
• Rental Cars: Available in Jasper/Banff

Pro Tips:

• Download offline maps in case of bad cell service
• Winter travelers: Carry tire chains
• Slow your car speed for wildlife’s safety

Jasper National Park Activities

Summer Activities (June-September)

• Hiking: All ranges of trails from easy to challenging 
• Biking: Scenic routes along parkways and mountain bike trails
• Water Activities: Canoeing, kayaking and fishing on lakes

Winter Activities (December-March)

• Skiing/Snowboarding: Marmot Basin is the best spot
• Snowshoeing: Guided tours are available, or rent equipment to explore by yourself
• Frozen Waterfall Walks: Explore Maligne Canyon’s icy wonderland

Year-Round Experiences

• Stargazing: Pyramid Island, Jasper Lake, and Old Fort Point are the top 3 locations
• Photography: Wildlife shots and iconic landscape shots
• Interpretive programs: Touring with expert insights

Plan Like a Pro: Jasper Park Checklist

Maps & Navigation

• Download offline maps - cell service is limited in the park
• Pick up a paper map at park gates or visitor centers

Accommodation Options

Jasper offers a range of lodging options, including wilderness campgrounds, mountain lodges, and hotels in the townsite. Select properties as you like!

Packing Checklist

• Bear spray (can be rented in Jasper)
• Layers for changeable mountain weather
• Sturdy hiking boots with ankle support
• Reusable water bottle