Mountain biking
Jasper National Park
In most places, ‘Mountain biking’ either means one of two things; finding some dirt next to the sidewalk to ride on, or expert level downhill riding. However, if you bike in Jasper, you get that rare third option; cruisy, cross-country fun.
Jasper has what might be the best trail system in the world. Ask any cyclist why they come back to Jasper, and you’ll likely hear that it’s because the park’s well-connected, well-maintained trails are the perfect way to actually experience nature while at the same time avoiding crowds.
Mountain Biking Guide (PDF 1.32 MB) - Download a printable version
BYOB
There’s no better time to “BYOB”…that is, ‘Bring your own bike!’ If you don’t have a bike, no sweat, there are many bike shops in town that you can rent from.
Why should you bring your own bike? Well, one of Jasper’s most unique and convenient offerings include our easy connector trails from either the townsite or campgrounds. These trails are family friendly and can get you from Whistlers and Wapiti campground to town in less than fifteen minutes, or from the townsite to some of our most popular locations in under an hour!
Experience Jasper as most locals do, with the fresh mountain air at your back, getting your daily dose of exercise and Vitamin D and reducing the carbon footprint. Now that’s a win-win for all! Plus, during the summer months, finding a parking spot can be challenging. If you want to avoid the crowds, best to go bright and early in the day, or later in the afternoon. Most importantly, be attentive to wildlife. Make lots of noise (belt out your favourite tune or let your vocals echo in the Rockies!). Bring bear spray and know how to use it.
Can I use a pedal assist e-bike in Jasper National Park?
As a pilot, pedal assist e-bikes are permitted on all trails and areas that bicycles are permitted in Jasper National Park.
What does pedal assist mean?
Power assistance is only provided when the bike is being pedalled. When pedalling stops, the power assistance also stops. Authorized pedal assist e-bikes also need to:
- generate 500W or less;
- stop power assistance when travelling 32km/h.
A bike that has an accelerator (a throttle) is not a pedal assist e-bike; it may only be ridden on roads, not on trails.
For Parks Canada‘s full definition on e-bikes, visit: parkscanada.gc.ca/ebikes
Share the trails
Be wildlife aware.
Follow proper trail etiquette.
Ride within your capability.
Remember, you are responsible for your own safety
- Always wear a helmet and safety gear. Know your equipment
- Stay informed. Visit the trail conditions report and check the weather forecast
- Pack adequate water, food, gear, maps, first aid
- Carry bear spray and know how to use it
- Tell someone where you are going and when you are expected back
- Do not travel alone
Emergency
Call 911 or, if using a satellite phone, call the park dispatch office (780-852-3100). Cell phone reception is unreliable.Rules of the trail
Most trails in Jasper are multi-use. Please share them with other users, and follow these rules developed by the International Mountain Bike Association.
Mountain Biking in Jasper © N. Gaboury-
Ride designated trails. Mountain biking is allowed only on trails designated for cycling. If a trail is not signed, you’re not allowed to ride it.
- Respect trail closures. Trails can be temporarily or permanently closed for ecological or safety reasons.
- Ride within your limits. Inattention for even a moment could put yourself and others at risk.
- Yield appropriately. Let your fellow trail users know you’re coming. Make each pass a safe and courteous one. Cyclists traveling downhill should yield to ones headed uphill.
- Respect horses, they are easily startled. When passing, use extra care and follow directions from the horse riders (ask if uncertain).
- Leave no trace. Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage than dry ones. When the trail is soft, consider other riding options. This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in. Leave natural and cultural objects undisturbed for others to discover.
Trail signs
Official trails around the town of Jasper are marked with yellow diamonds. This extensive trail system is maintained by park staff.
Wildland trails are marked differently. You are welcome to use these trails, but they are not maintained or shown on park maps. If a trail is not signed, you’re not allowed to ride it.
To decrease erosion, give wildlife the space they need and avoid becoming lost, please return to the signed trail system.
Trail maintenance
Trail maintenance crews clear the trails each spring but wind storms can fell trees all summer long. If your ride involved more bike carrying than riding, please report problems to the Information Centre. If you want to help out, inquire about getting involved with trail volunteers.
Bike bear aware
Cyclists are particularly susceptible to sudden, dangerous bear encounters because of the speed and silence of their travel. Slow down, stay alert and scan ahead. Yell and let bears know you are coming, especially when biking through dense vegetation, near streams, on windy days, or when approaching corners. Bear bells are not enough.
Looking to rent a bike?
| Name | Phone | Address |
|---|---|---|
| The Bench Bike Shop | 780-852-7768 | 606 Patricia Street |
| Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge | 780-852-3301 | 1 Old Lodge Road |
| Journey Bike Guides | 780-852-7738 | 630 Connaught Drive |
| Pyramid Lake Resort | 780-852-4900 | 5 km North on Pyramid Lake Road |
| Source for Sports | 780-852-3654 | 406 Patricia Street |
| Vicious Cycle | 780-852-1111 | 630 Connaught Drive |
How was your trip?
Please send your comments to pc.jasperinfo.pc@canada.ca and report trail conditions to the Information Centre.
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