Jasper sits deep in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, yet its trails hold a special appeal for hikers from the United States seeking raw, uncrowded wilderness. Unlike more commercialized mountain towns, Jasper National Park offers a rugged, authentic experience where wildlife sightings often outnumber human encounters. The landscape here is shaped by glaciers, ancient forests, and turquoise rivers, creating a dramatic backdrop for every step you take.
Planning a hiking trip from the U.S. means preparing for variable mountain weather and understanding that trail conditions can shift quickly. Summer months from June through September provide the most reliable access, though higher elevation routes may still hold snow into July. Fall brings brilliant golden larch trees and fewer visitors, while spring offers rushing waterfalls and emerging wildflowers.
Safety is paramount in this remote terrain, where cell service is limited and trailheads can be far from town. Carrying bear spray, checking trail reports at the Jasper Information Centre, and informing someone of your route are essential habits. The park’s trail network is well-marked, but hikers should always carry a physical map and plenty of water.
Your effort is rewarded with some of North America’s most spectacular scenery, from alpine meadows bursting with color to ridgelines overlooking endless peaks. Whether you are chasing summit views, serene lakes, or family-friendly strolls, Jasper delivers an unforgettable backcountry experience. The trails below represent the very best the region has to offer for every skill level.
Each hike listed includes practical details about difficulty, distance, and what makes it special so you can choose the right adventure. Remember that national park entry passes are required, and parking lots fill early during peak season. Arrive before 8 a.m. for popular trailheads or use the park shuttle where available.
Now, lace up your boots and discover the twelve best hiking trails that showcase Jasper’s wild heart.
Sulphur Skyline Trail
| Address | Improvement District No. 12, AB T7V 1Z1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
Awesome hike. The last bit to the summit was tiring and it was pretty cloudy, but definitely worth it. A little tiring and the hot springs afterwards were a nice treat.
If you are a local, my advice is go in the shoulder season when there are less people, as it was exceptionally crowded.
I had to endure a big group of people playing "come to jesus" music at high volume all the way up the hike. Every time I stopped to let them by, they stopped too. Otherwise, this is a straightforward climb with ultra amazing views at the top and the familiar chipmunks hoping for a bit of your lunch.
I would suggest taking a warm layer and hat for the summit as it usually gets a bit windy and cold up there.
Our first summit in Canada, the views were amazing the whole way, the climb was easy and we had a lot of fun with the chipmunks at the top 🙃🙂
Oh wow, the view is incredible. I wouldn’t say the hike is easy, but if you’re properly equipped, the summit view is absolutely worth it. Definitely recommend it!
Great trail. It was a pretty easy hike up to the summit. We started early so our wasn't busy up top. Epic views. I would say the best views for the effort. Extremely busy on the way down. Passed SOOOOO many groups. Ended with a cold plunge at the hot springs.
Jasper National Park
| Address | Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | (780) 852-6176 |
This is such a magical place, and I wish I could live here again. We and my wife went for Christmas 🎄 and it was great to show her where I lived for years. Everyone is friendly, there are amazing views, the animals, skiing, and so much more. I wish everyone could spend some time here so they could see how beautiful it is and how the animals and people can live closely together. I can't wait to be back 💯
It's so beautiful, more than Banff I would say. It's pleasant, not too commercial and yet you find everything, less tourists than banff and more things to do, hikes camping waterfalls sand dunes and just casual swimming or even night parks at medicine lake. I feel like regular photos cannot do justice to the beauty you see with your eye
Satisfied. Jasper National Park is so awesome. There’s a lot of beautiful places to visit to. Traveling within these places would be difficult if you do not have a friend/family who can drive for you. Unless of course you join arranged tours but you have to pay sum of money and it’s not cheap. Always wear a comfortable shoes because you’ll hike a lot and it is not a choice 😉.
Wild and isolated
Stayed in the park for 2 days in mid April
We walked on a glacier, saw elk and bighorn sheep, and were encompassed by towering mountains and the sense that we were in a wild place.
We did a few small hikes which were very rewarding.
This is a wonderful place to see., surrounded by mountains and wild animals. We got to see lots of elk, plenty of does with babies and ever a few studs. We also seen a couple of brown and black adolescent bears. The only thing is people need to use extreme caution when seeing these animals and do not drive up to them so close and definitely do not get out of your car.
Jasper SkyTram
| Address | Whistlers Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Tuesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Thursday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Friday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | — |
There is a ride up and down the sky tram every 9 minutes, so it is easy to get up the mountain without a reservation. The views are spectacular. Even better if you walk to the very top of the mountain (1.5kms).
The only downside is it is expensive! The ride was $180+ for 2 adults and 1 small hot chocolate and 1 small coffee was $12+.
An incredible experience with breathtaking views and a rewarding hike to the summit, which takes approximately one hour at a relaxed pace. The trail can become quite slippery in snowy conditions, so I would strongly recommend wearing boots or cleats rather than running shoes, as compacted snow can be hazardous. Definitely bring mittens, a jacket, scarf, and a toque, the higher up you hike the colder it gets.
We visited at the end of April and were very grateful to have had the opportunity to experience it. The gentleman operating the SkyTram was highly knowledgeable and shared extensive information about Jasper’s forests, town, mountains, and surrounding area. A formal and informative presentation was provided during the ride up, while the ride down offered a chance to simply relax and enjoy the scenery.
The staff were excellent throughout the experience (check-in, giftshop @ top, and riding). We booked for 3 hours which was a perfect amount of time to hike, and eat.
(Although, I do NOT recommend eating at the restaurant!! Save your $. While the views and overall experience were excellent, the restaurants service at the top was very disappointing. The staff seemed inexperienced, and service was slower than expected. Food was wayyy overpriced for tiny portions. $10 for a bottle of water, so definitely pack your own).
The Jasper SkyTram is definitely worth experiencing at least once. The ride to Whistlers Summit is only about 7–8 minutes, but the views are spectacular. The tram operator was an excellent guide, sharing interesting facts about Jasper throughout the ride and happily answering any questions.
The summit area isn’t very large, but it didn’t feel crowded when we visited. We took the 8:40 AM tram up and the 9:50 AM tram back down, which I highly recommend especially if you’re bringing a dog. Going early helps avoid the larger crowds later in the day, making the experience much less stressful for your pet.
The tickets are on the expensive side, but the scenery, informative staff, and unique experience make it worthwhile.
Amazing ride up and down. Staff was great as to telling us about the surroundings. Answered questions completely. View is breath taking. We'll worth the cost for the experience. Wait staff was great. Lady from Australia who waited on us shared fun tidbits about the place.
Each season offers a different view. The scenery on this trip was absolutely stunning. Every peak was capped with snow, highlighting the rugged beauty of the mountains. It was a truly enjoyable journey. Although the entrance fee was a bit high, I hope it will help with the reconstruction efforts following the Jasper forest fires!
Opal Hills Loop Trailhead
| Address | Maligne Lake Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 1E1, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | (780) 852-6176 |
Quite steep to get to the viewpoint. I recommend going through the meadow on the way down. It's longer, but softer on the knees to go down, and we saw 2 deers. Eventhough it was a bit rainy when we did it, it was manageable.
May 2022 - Unmarked trail in current conditions. You will sink without snowshoes. Snowpack is weak, moderate risk of avalanches. Summit is cold and windy. Still, nothing beats the feeling of standing on untouched snow in this expansive winter landscape. Reach the top of the loop trail and you can walk straight up the summit without much resistance. Grade is 50⁰ average to the peak. Otherwise, enjoy in summer months.
This hike is hard as they didnt create switchbacks and you just go straight up. Also there is no map that explains the options. In the loop itself there is zero view as its in the forest. In the upper part of the loop you can go further up a 100 meters and there would be a beautiful look out point which overlooks lake maligne. It was worth it.
Going to the peak of Opal is VERY hard.
Did the whole loop and opal peak. Definitely the steepest hike in Jasper national park!
There are walks and hikes for all levels from the trailhead car park. Can have an easy stroll along the paved path by the lake, walk into the wood trails away from the lake or hike up into the hills above.
Car park is busy but a little walk away from the jetty and shop and it gets quieter.
Lac Beauvert
| Address | Jasper National Park, Old Fort Point Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: Open 24 hours Tuesday: Open 24 hours Wednesday: Open 24 hours Thursday: Open 24 hours Friday: Open 24 hours Saturday: Open 24 hours Sunday: Open 24 hours |
| Phone | — |
Lac Beauvert is a hidden gem in Jasper with some of the most stunning crystal-clear turquoise water I've ever seen. Surrounded by majestic mountains, lush forests, and peaceful trails, the lake offers a picture-perfect view from every angle. The reflection of the mountains on the calm water is absolutely breathtaking, making it a perfect spot for photography, a relaxing walk, or simply enjoying nature. A truly peaceful and unforgettable experience in Jasper National Park.
Drove here as my midway icefields parkway point - super beautiful. And surprisingly warm given how cold the rest of the trip was. Wanted to photograph some elk as mentioned they like it here - and there they were as a big group in the woods. Also lots of beautiful birds.
Though the trees were destroyed by the fire. The lake is still very beautiful and calm. Good for a walk in the morning
total hidden gem! I drove past without expecting much, but the view completely blew me away. The best part? No crowds fighting for photos.
Wow what a beautiful lake.No word is there to explain the beauty 😍.
Jasper Hikes and Tours Inc.
| Address | 1004 Patricia St #6, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Thursday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Friday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Saturday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM Sunday: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 931-4453 |
My wife and I (who had never climbed outside before) got a four hour climbing experience with Sara. What an amazing experience! Even before we met up with guide Sara, they were super communicative and accommodating when our timing got a little mixed up. Sara was wonderfully supportive and helpful as we tackled the rock walls. We always felt 100% safe and her demeanor made the whole thing feel like we were out with a dear friend. The next time we are in Jasper, we will be calling again.
Had a wonderful hike with Alison to the Pyramid Lake overlook. Great conversations, learned about the local area, and she checked to be sure I was doing OK and not exceeding my physical limitations. Would highly recommend.
Can’t say enough of good thing’s about Sean. Very knowledgeable. Very interesting hikes. Sean tells lots of interesting stories and facts about every hike and place visited. Very accommodating in regards of choosing a hike with appropriate difficulty and suggesting appropriate changes. Well prepared for any changes or situations.
My husband and I did the full day private tour with Jeff as our guide, we did the ice walk to Pleckaitis Canyon, we were so lucky with the wildlife findings throughout the day, we saw mooses so close by, mountain sheeps and elks.
Our guide Jeff was super friendly and helpful, we loved learning everything he shared with us about the history of the place and also about the rock formation of the land.
Everything was nice and easily arranged through email.
We were glad to see Jasper recovering from a really hard time after the wildfires, I truly recommend their services.
We opted for a private tour and had Sara as our guide and it was 110% worth every penny! Although we are both outdoorsy, felt it was safer to do the ice hike with a guide and now having done it, definitely stand by that. With changes in temperatures etc, it was assuring to go with Sara as she helped us navigate through some trickier spots of the canyon but also avoid any areas that could be dangerous. She was super knowledgeable and funny and we had an absolute blast with her. Booking was easy to arrange, and we are so glad we were able to make it happen and that the weather held out! Whether you are a confident hiker or a newbie, definitely recommend getting a guide like Sara for the canyon because it will make your experience that much more enjoyable (and she snapped some great pics for us too!)
Burnt Mountain Preserve
| Address | 2686-2964 GA-136, Jasper, GA 30143 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
White creek trail Definitely harder than I thought. I walk 4 miles a day up and down mountains. This was way harder for a 2 mile hike. It was a loop but wasn’t sure at first. Very steep climb back up. I’m not one to take breaks, but many were taken😂. Being that it is summer and we went very early, we encountered tons of spider webs. The trail was not marked well going back up. Got off course a bit.
Loved it! But, I will warn you, you definitely need to have your hiking shoes on. This was the first time I went and there were a lot of wet leaves on steep parts of the trail. Very serene. Beautiful creek.
Nice spot to hike in the mountains.
Trails were we'll marked and had options for easy or more difficult.
This has three trails with the Champions Creek Trail being the longest of the three at around 2.4 miles. They all start and end in the same location. The Champions Creek Trail basically is a hike down to Champions Creek - steep at times - and then loops around with a steep climb out. Nice scenery and rock slide waterfalls in the bottom Creek area. It can be hiked in less than an hour or you can take your time along the way and get in the Creek on hot days. The Trail is medium difficulty because of the steepness going in and out but not strenuous for people in decent shape...
5 stars for location! We did the 2 mile loop and saw a nice little waterfall and nice creeks along the way. The way down is easy and takes a good while, the way back is VERY steep, do not recommend if no used to strenuous hikes. There's a very nice overlook view down the road on the way to the Fainting Goat Vineyards.
Old Fort Point
| Address | Old Fort Point Rd, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
This hike is worth it, however I would strongly advise hikers to be fully aware of their surroundings. Once we reached the top, we saw four bighorn sheep from a safe distance, however then we heard trotting coming out of nowhere. We turned to the left and saw a huge, muscular male RUNNING ON THE PATH, which forced us to step off it and it ran by us (photos 3 & 4), leaving around 1 meter in between us and him.
Steep uphill climb, my favorite! With outstanding views all around. Wonderful place we love to stop and stretch the legs at. Keep going, it's got a great view from the top. 2 min from the highway.
A great hike to an viewpoint of Jasper town. You can do the short version up the stairs and hill, or do the loop through the forest. The short version is fairly steep. The longer version is a slower incline through a nice forest.
I’ve been here before but thoroughly enjoyed the hike today. We saw some cool wildlife and the area was pristine with no litter laying around. Will be back again to see if we can make it to the top. This time we had to turn around to not get too close to the wildlife! We saw some sheep and a nice big horn which was watching us closely.
A very short hike of, maybe 30 minutes, and you are on a short hill, with Panoramic views of Rockies and bird's eye view of Jasper town.
These days people are seeing bears more frequently. So, go in groups and make noise.
Round Top Mountain Trail
| Address | Jasper, AR 72641 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
I'm sure this can be a great trail but in the summer time the trail is too thick and is so overgrown in areas that it made me feel uncomfortable. We went a very short distance and then it got too thick and there were tons of downed trees. I just didn't want to go any further so we turned back. I might try this again in the fall.
Great hike! Beautiful views. We went in the winter so the trail was covered with fallen leaves but you could still tell where the trail was. Pretty easy for the majority of it.
Great place to hike. We went during the recent snow storm and there was nobody there!!! It was awesome to see it all covered in snow. We plan on going back again once the weather clears.
Great hike beautiful views defently felt the forest vibes. Some parts are bush wack but it's worth it
This is a moderate hike. I recommend bringing at least one trekking pole, backpack with supplies, snack and water. I did the 1.67 miles loop. At the start it had benches every once in a while but later did not.
A few places are inclined and you will have to climb over some fallen trees. This is not a well marked trail.
I did this hike on October 18,2024 the leaves were starting to turn. Sadly not good views due to many trees with the leaves. If you are wanting to see a good view I would suggest in going during November.
Also there are a few rocks you will have to use on the trail so go during dry spells.
The crash site was interesting along with Indian area.
Kids would need to be watched as the trails are narrow.
This trail is a one time for me mostly because I love the ones with waterfalls.
Indian Creek Trail
| Address | AR-21, Jasper, AR 72641 |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | — |
| Phone | — |
This is not a trail for kids and weaklings! Do not get off the trail or you can be lost.This trail will put you to the test and watch out for sleeping bears! Everyone be safe out their I could have pet the bear sleeping!
WOW!! This trail was absolutely stunning with nonstop views. Like the other reviews, this is a “social” trail without a clearly defined path. Your best route is to start at Kyle’s Landing and take the series of trails all the way left of the bathrooms. From there, we traveled straight ahead on the “ORT” trail and took 2 big lefts until we got to the large creek bed and went left (away from the river). Then you just continue on up the creek—eventually you will find different trail markings showing popular ways for hikers to go long (either along the bluff or through the creek bed). Finally, you will come across the series of ropes to climb to the right of where the waterfall and cave are located (the first rope set is by far the most difficult to climb with a secondary rope available to wrap around our waists). You will take those up and past the “cave” to get the the needle which is about 1/3 of a mile back.
It is true that there is absolutely no cell service, and that the trail itself is for experienced hikers. YOU WILL GET WET! We ended up in water that went at least 2 feet deep, and the rocks were very slick in the summer. But, on a good note, the trail is pretty shaded so it wasn’t too hot! It took us about 5 hours to complete the whole hike, so plan accordingly. Definitely worth the trip over all!
This is one of the more technical (if not the most technical) trails in the Ozarks. The trail follows Indian Creek and if you go during the rainy season you will most likely get wet. Wear appropriate footwear, carry water or some type of water filter, and allow enough time for all of the incredible things there are to see on this hike.
One of the best trails in the region. There are so many waterfalls and cave features on this trail, I would love to go back and do it again. I wouldn't recommend taking kids or pets on this trail. There is a rope section where you climb up using a rope and no harness which makes it super difficult to assist a pet or a child while going up to the eye of the needle.
The trail starts on Kyle’s landing which was very beautiful and had clean restrooms it well marked pretty view the hike was a lot of uphill definitely plan ahead there is no cell service so make sure you plan your route before you go and read the trail markings well
Walks & Talks Jasper
| Address | 618 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 852-4994 |
We booked the 5 Bridges maligne Canyon Tour. Paula was great as a guide, very helpful and explanatory. We even saw a black bear on our tour. Paula picked us up from the hotel and made the walk a great experience. Would book again
I feel like it was a blessing that things didn't work out with Walks n Talks. Paula did not communicate well with us, even though we had made contact 5 months prior to our hiking adventure. She gave the indication that she was available for our time space, but she actually had paid for tours booked already! As it got closer to our hiking dates (the week of our hike start date), she informed us that she was booked for the days we had wanted her, but we could join some of those hiking groups if we wanted. All in all, things worked out as we found that most of the hikes we wanted to do, we could without a guide. Yay!
We had a hike this past Monday to Edith Cavell with Paula. She is terrific; she has lived in Jasper her whole life and is very knowledgeable about the area and all things hiking- whether it be forest, flowers, animals, glaciers or rocks, Paula really helps you understand and enjoy what you are seeing. We highly recommend her and will definitely contact her again for future hikes!
Paula was extremely kind and knowledgeable, readily sharing her in depth expertise of the area while bringing us through the breathtaking views.
Jasper Park Information Centre
| Address | 500 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 0A8, Canada |
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| Maps | Click here |
| Website | Click here |
| Opening Hours | Monday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Thursday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Friday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Saturday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Sunday: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Phone | (780) 852-6176 |
Jasper town has been gradually recovering after the wildfire, and it was encouraging to see the community coming back to life. Compared with Banff, Jasper feels much quieter and less crowded, offering a more relaxed and peaceful atmosphere. The town’s services, restaurants, and local businesses are all well prepared and welcoming, making the visit very comfortable and enjoyable. Surrounded by beautiful mountains and nature, Jasper has a unique charm that feels more authentic and laid-back. I would definitely come back again in the future to explore more of this beautiful area.
Jasper Park Information Centre is one of the best places to visit when arriving in Jasper. The staff are extremely knowledgeable, welcoming, and always ready to help visitors with maps, travel advice, sightseeing recommendations, and local information.
The building itself is beautiful and located in a perfect area surrounded by stunning mountain views. The atmosphere is very friendly and organized, making it easy for tourists to plan their trip and enjoy Jasper National Park with confidence.
It’s clear that the team truly cares about creating a great experience for every visitor. Highly recommended for anyone visiting Jasper for the first time or even returning again!
Those guys at the desk full of life wonderful and the park is always beautiful saw a bear on the way up it was so cool!
Unfortunately random people kept cashing the bear and doing things that could injure other people and themselves
( Remember to LEAVE THE WILD LIFE ALONE )
A beautiful lodge building with a cute gift shop and very helpful guides, providing information on the national park and all the best activites and hikes. The perfect place to start your Jasper adventure.
They sort of visitor centre and gift shop. Very busy when we are out there for Canada Day.
Essential Tips for Hiking Jasper’s Trails
A successful hike in Jasper depends on more than just choosing a great trail. The remote nature of this national park means preparation directly impacts your safety and enjoyment. These practical tips will help you navigate the landscape with confidence and respect.
Start early to secure parking and enjoy cooler temperatures, especially on exposed alpine routes. Carry at least two liters of water per person and high-energy snacks, as backcountry water sources require filtration. Always pack layers including a waterproof shell, since mountain weather can shift from sunshine to snow within hours. Make noise while hiking to avoid surprising wildlife, and carry bear spray in an accessible holster, not buried in your pack. Finally, check current trail conditions at the Jasper Information Centre before heading out, as closures due to bears or maintenance are common.
Exploring Jasper’s trails offers an unmatched opportunity to disconnect from daily life and reconnect with nature’s raw power. Every switchback reveals a new perspective on the ancient glaciers and towering summits that define this UNESCO World Heritage Site. The memories you create among these peaks will stay with you long after your boots are packed away.
