Jasper National Park of Canada

Community of Jasper Travel Guide

Directions

Jasper is 370 km west of Edmonton, Alberta; 438 km northeast of Kamloops, British Columbia; and 226 km north of Lake Louise, in Banff National Park. Make sure to factor in plenty of time for breaks, slow traffic, and inclement weather conditions. The maximum speed limit inside the national parks is 90 km/hr, but is reduced near areas where wildlife commonly gathers. A walking tour of Jasper takes only two hours but most visitors spend at least a day in the area.

Map of Jasper Townsite

Safety

Do not approach the elk!

There are high numbers of elk in the community of Jasper, attracted by easy access to food sources (lawns and gardens) and an absence of predators. Elk can be aggressive and may attack without warning. People have been kicked, knocked down and seriously injured. Elk have even attacked vehicles. In September and October, during the rut (the mating season), males are particularly aggressive. In May and June, during the calving season, females aggressively defend their young. Whatever the season, do not approach elk. Always maintain a distance of at least 30 metres (3 bus lengths) from elk and other large animals (100 metres or ten bus lengths away from bears).

Learning Experiences

The Whistlers Outdoor Theatre is 2 km south of Jasper Townsite along the Icefields Parkway in Whistlers Campground. Non-campers are welcome to attend interpretive programs at the theatre, located in the large meadow in the centre if the campground.

The Jasper-Yellowhead Museum and Archives has a spectacular new gallery that brings visitors back in time. Discover the events and people that shaped Jasper.

The Friends of Jasper National Park offer junior naturalist programs, guided hikes in Jasper and at Pocahontas, campfire programs at Wabasso Campground and 1-3 day Jasper Institute courses.

Highlights

• Pyramid Bench area, many easily accessible hiking trails and lakes.
• Lac Beauvert, lakes Annette and Edith, popular picnicking and hiking spots.
• Old Fort Point, great views and the starting point for an extensive trail network.
• Jasper Yellowhead Museum and Archives.
• Jasper Activity Centre and Aquatic Centre.

Tips

The Jasper Information Centre, managed by Parks Canada and located at 500 Connaught Drive, is a handy beginning point for visitors to the community and park. Parking for large vehicles is available on Connaught Drive one block to the east and two blocks to the west of the Jasper Information Centre and directly behind the building on Patricia Street.

Services

The main service centre in Jasper National Park is the community of Jasper. A variety of hotels, restaurants, shops, gas stations and grocery and convenience stores are located mostly along Connaught Drive and in the downtown core.