Day hiking in Jasper National Park

Since Jasper National Park was established in 1907, its historical trail networks have been expanded and maintained for everyone wanting to experience Jasper’s wilderness. Whether you are strolling along the shores of Maligne Lake or hiking all day in the alpine, the following information will help you plan a trip that is right for you.

Take the Red Squirrel Trail from town to Old Fort Point, walking alongside the glacier-fed Athabasca River. Relax in one of our many sets of red chairs quietly tucked away at one of the most unique locations. The viewpoint at the top overlooks the town and many of Jasper’s iconic valleys and peaks.

Lake Edith and Lake Annette are a short jaunt from town and a world away from city life. Take the Bighorn Alley Trail and bring your swimsuit. Soak in some beach time under snow-capped peaks. The trail around Lake Annette is paved.

Trails along the Pyramid Bench are open year-round. Explore this area after a 10-minute drive from town, or spend a few hours and walk or bike to the top. Patricia Lake or Pyramid Lake are ideal picnic stops.

The Jasper Discovery Trail is a popular trail around the town that will introduce you to the nature and history of Jasper. This trail is an easy to moderate 8.3 km loop, with 120 m of elevation gain and loss. It can be started nearly from anywhere by following the bear symbol. There's something to suit nearly everyone. There are a few steep inclines on the northwest section of trail. Look for signs, maps, markers and kiosks to guide your way.  

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.

While we aim to achieve high standards, inclement mountain weather and events can considerably change trail conditions instantly.

How was your trip? Please send us your comments at jasperinfo@pc.gc.ca and report trail conditions to park staff.