The Jasper Visitor Experience Centre is open from 9am to 7pm, 7 days a week. For the most current hours, you can also check from May 15 to September 21, when it might be 10:30 am to 5 pm, but generally, it’s 9am to 7pm daily.
At Jasper National Park, the daily entrance fees are $11 for adults, $9.50 for seniors, and free for youth under 18. A family/group pass is $22 per day. Annual Discovery Passes are $75.25 for adults, $64.50 for seniors, and $145 for families/group.
Visitors can drive via the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), fly into Edmonton or Calgary and rent a car, or take VIA Rail or a bus from major Canadian cities.
In Jasper National Park, paid parking is $4.50/hour on-street and $3.50/hour or $17/day in lots. Long-term parking for RVs (up to 22 feet) is available at the Commercial Parking Lot on Stan Wright Drive, with a minimum 3-day stay at $45 every 3 days. Overnight parking is allowed in designated campsites like Whistlers Campground. Motorcycles can use regular parking spots. No overnight parking in downtown lots.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Tucked in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park spans over 11,000 km² of turquoise lakes, ancient glaciers, alpine meadows, and wildlife-rich forests. From stargazing in a Dark Sky Preserve to hiking the Icefields Parkway, it’s a playground for explorers and a sanctuary for nature lovers.
- Area (km²)
- 6759.23
- Annual visitors
- 2 480 000
- Established year
- 1907
Top 3 Facts about Jasper National Park
This park is home to nearly 2,000 lakes, with only 107 of them named, and it features the world’s second largest dark sky preserve.
Located within the park, the Athabasca Glacier is one of the most accessible glaciers in North America. Visitors can explore this ancient ice mass on guided tours, learning about its formation, movement, and the impacts of climate change on its size and shape.
The Icefields Parkway, often dubbed as one of the most scenic drives in the world, traverses through Jasper National Park, offering jaw-dropping vistas of rugged mountain ranges, ancient glaciers, and pristine alpine lakes. This iconic highway stretches for 232 kilometers, connecting Jasper to Banff National Park and providing countless opportunities for exploration and adventure along the way.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research the park’s attractions, activities, and accommodations in advance. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) to avoid crowds and secure accommodations.
Pack Appropriately
Dress in layers and bring waterproof clothing, especially if you plan to explore hiking trails or participate in outdoor activities. Pack essentials such as sunscreen, insect repellent, water bottles, and snacks.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance from wildlife and never feed or approach animals. Be bear aware by carrying bear spray, making noise while hiking, and properly storing food to prevent attracting bears.
Stay Informed
Mountain weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for sudden changes in conditions. Check weather forecasts before heading out and carry essentials like rain gear, warm clothing, and extra food and water.
Seasons
Spring is a magical time in Jasper National Park as the snow begins to melt, giving way to vibrant displays of wildflowers and cascading waterfalls. This season, which typically spans from April to June, offers milder temperatures and fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months. It’s an excellent time for wildlife viewing, as animals emerge from hibernation and the forests come alive with activity. Hiking trails start to thaw out, making it an ideal time for exploring the park’s breathtaking landscapes while enjoying the tranquility of the shoulder season.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Jasper National Park, and for good reason. From June to August, the park experiences long daylight hours, warm temperatures, and an abundance of outdoor activities. Visitors can hike along alpine trails, paddle on crystal-clear lakes, and marvel at iconic sights such as Athabasca Falls and Maligne Lake. With numerous festivals, guided tours, and events happening throughout the summer, there’s never a dull moment in Jasper. However, be prepared for larger crowds and book accommodations and activities well in advance.
As the temperatures begin to cool and the leaves change color, Jasper National Park transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of autumn hues. From September to November, the park is adorned with golden aspen trees and fiery red shrubs, creating a stunning backdrop for outdoor adventures. Fall is an excellent time for photography enthusiasts, with the changing landscapes providing endless opportunities for capturing the beauty of the season. Wildlife viewing remains popular, as animals prepare for winter, and visitors can enjoy the park’s attractions with fewer crowds compared to the busy summer months.
Winter casts a magical spell over Jasper National Park, turning it into a winter wonderland of snow-covered forests, frozen waterfalls, and sparkling icefields. From December to March, the park offers a wide range of winter activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, ice skating, and wildlife tracking. The Maligne Canyon Icewalk is a highlight, allowing visitors to explore the stunning ice formations of the frozen canyon. With fewer tourists and the chance to witness the northern lights dancing in the night sky, winter is a serene and enchanting time to visit Jasper National Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Jasper National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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Stay in the town of Jasper, which is located in the heart of Jasper National Park and offers easy access to all amenities and attractions. Downtown Jasper is well-connected with major highways and has a variety of accommodations, including hotels, hostels, and cabin properties. This central location makes it ideal for exploring the area.
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The Valley of the Five Lakes trail is highly recommended for kids. It is an easy, family-friendly hike with a short circuit of 4.3 km and minimal elevation change of 80 metres. The trail is scenic, close to the townsite, and offers a sense of accomplishment for kids as they explore the five lakes.
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No, you cannot take your dog on all the trails. Dogs are prohibited on trails and areas in sensitive habitat, such as those in caribou territory and certain alpine meadows, to protect sensitive species. Where dogs are allowed, they must be kept on a leash at all times.
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There are parking fees in the town of Jasper, but these fees are not part of the national park entry fees. Parking in the town costs $4.50 an hour on-street and $3.50 an hour or $17 a day in parking lots. Long-term parking is also available for larger vehicles like motorhomes and campervans.
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The top attraction is the Icefields Parkway, a scenic route through the Canadian Rockies known for its stunning photo ops, short hikes, and glacier walks, featuring weeping walls and turquoise lakes.