How to Experience Winter in Jasper

Along the magnificent Icefields Parkway, past the Athabasca Glacier and down the Athabasca River, you’ll find the quaint town of Jasper. Even before the devastating forest fire that ravaged the town in 2024, Jasper was not nearly as busy as Banff or Lake Louise. However, Jasper holds the same appeal for tourists and adventurers, with picturesque, snow-blanketed landscapes, streets full of delicious dining options, the nearby Marmot Basin ski area featuring 3,000 feet of vertical elevation, and a variety of winter activities.

Those looking for a getaway where quiet reprieve meets a good time need look no further.

Quiet among the trees

At more than 11,000 square kilometres in size, Jasper National Park is the largest park in the
Canadian Rockies and the world’s second-largest dark-sky preserve. On a clear night, stars shine wherever you are in the park, but, for prime visibility, visit Pyramid Island, Jasper Lake, Old Fort Point or the toe of the Athabasca Glacier.

Climbing is a year-round affair in Jasper. Take on a multi-hour excursion with Rockaboo Mountain Adventures to climb a frozen waterfall — no previous experience needed! Or stay close to town and conquer the new 15-metre ice sculpture in the heart of Jasper.

Good eats

Jasper Brewing Company, Canada’s first national-park brewery and a Jasper staple, opened its doors in 2005. After closing due to damage from the 2024 wildfires, it reopened last spring. Swing by and taste the beloved brewskies for yourself, and order a bite while you’re at it.

Just over a year old, The Maligne Range is one of Jasper’s newest restaurants and distillers. The upscale rustic ambiance invites you to savour a drink at the bar or by the fireplace and stay for a while. The menu is inspired by Canadian flavours and includes redefined boozy beverages.

For a taste of history, wander to De’d Dog Bar & Grill, where you’ll find pub classics like a Canadian burger, nachos and poutine. The establishment has been serving pints and bites since 1927.

And for a taste of the variety of great food in Jasper, book the Downtown Foodie Tour and discover gourmet stops within central Jasper.

A variety of accomodation

After a day out exploring the trails, hitting the slopes or relaxing with spa services — whatever a rejuvenating getaway looks like for you — turn in at an accommodation that suits you, too. You’ll find everything from luxury lodges to cozy cabins, historic hotels and humble hostels in Jasper.

Built in 1925, the Astoria Hotel is a local landmark and one of Jasper’s original hotels. Enjoy modern accommodation in a historic environment with its newly renovated rooms. Book the Record Room to indulge in the vintage feel and spin some tunes in your room with the record player and vinyl record selection.

Forty-five minutes from Jasper, you’ll find the newly opened Jasper East Hostel. While outside of town proper, the hostel has a trailhead right outside your door and a brewery only a two-minute walk away. It offers single-occupancy rooms, two fully stocked kitchens and a sanctuary space with infrared therapy lights. The upper floor features red-light therapy throughout, including all upper-floor bedrooms, making for a calming and comfortable environment.

Fresh powder

Marmot Basin is among the most underrated marvels of Jasper National Park. The ski resort is not as well known as other Alberta and British Columbia slopes, meaning you’re more likely to shred some pow without serious wait times. The Knob Quad Chair, completed two years ago, takes skiers and boarders up to 8,261 feet in elevation, providing access to vast terrain above the treeline, complete with exceptional views. A 20-minute hike from the top of the chair, you can summit Marmot Peak.

The Jasper in January winter festival returns in 2026 from January 16 to February 1. Watch for food and beverage activations on the mountain, live music and various promotions on ski packages. The townsite will also offer plenty of après-ski fun.

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