Jasper Park Information Centre
Jasper Park Information Centre: Your gateway to stunning mountain vistas, wildlife, and essential travel tips for Jasper National Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Jasper Park Information Centre
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Jasper Park Information Centre: Your gateway to stunning mountain vistas, wildlife, and essential travel tips for Jasper National Park.
"The beauty of this place cannot be described in words, it's a glimpse of Jannat ul firdouse."
📸 Snap the Landmark
Don't miss the new landmark on the Information Centre lawn for a perfect photo op! #MyJasper
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle offers flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Jasper Park Information Centre Landmark
Jasper Park Information Centre lawn
A must-stop photo opportunity right in the heart of Jasper. Strike a pose and capture your visit!
Maligne Lake Road
Maligne Lake Road
Experience the solemn beauty of this road, often accessible after wildfire recovery efforts.
Sunwapta Falls
Sunwapta Falls
Witness the powerful beauty of these falls, a memorable stop on your Jasper journey.
Wildlife Encounters
Various locations within Jasper National Park
Keep an eye out for incredible wildlife like grizzlies, elk, moose, and mountain goats. Always maintain a safe distance.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Post-Wildfire Jasper: What to Expect
Embrace the Outdoors: Trails & Wildlife
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Snap the Landmark
Don't miss the new landmark on the Information Centre lawn for a perfect photo op! #MyJasper
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle offers flexibility to explore at your own pace.
🌲 Check Trail Conditions
Always verify trail status and warnings before hiking.
🐻 Wildlife Safety First
Admire wildlife from a safe distance; never feed them.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Snap the Landmark
Don't miss the new landmark on the Information Centre lawn for a perfect photo op! #MyJasper
🚗 Rent a Car for Freedom
Having your own vehicle offers flexibility to explore at your own pace.
🌲 Check Trail Conditions
Always verify trail status and warnings before hiking.
🐻 Wildlife Safety First
Admire wildlife from a safe distance; never feed them.
🛍️ Support the Park
Shop at the Information Centre gift shop; proceeds help the park.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Jasper National Park for its unparalleled natural beauty, describing it as one of the most beautiful places on Earth with stunning mountains, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. The peaceful atmosphere and extensive trail network are major draws, though some find parking and overall costs to be high. Many wish they could stay longer to explore more of its wonders.
"The Jasper Information Centre is an absolute treasure and the perfect starting point for any adventure in Jasper National Park. Housed in a beautifully preserved heritage building right in the heart of town, the centre offers not only practical information but a warm, welcoming atmosphere that immediately makes you feel connected to the spirit of the Rockies.
The staff here are phenomenal—knowledgeable, friendly, and truly passionate about the area. Whether you’re planning a multi-day hike, looking for hidden gem viewpoints, or just trying to figure out where to spot wildlife, they go above and beyond to help you tailor your visit. Their insider tips made our trip unforgettable.
Beyond the helpful advice, the building itself is worth a visit. The rustic stone-and-log architecture is iconic, and there's a real sense of history in its walls. There are informative displays about the park’s geology, wildlife, and history, which make it a great little stop even on a rainy day.
We left with detailed maps, new hiking ideas, and a deeper appreciation for Jasper. This place sets the tone for everything that makes the park so special—nature, heritage, and warm Canadian hospitality.
Don’t miss it—your Jasper experience will be so much better if you start here."
Vipul Bhongade
"Compared to Banff town, this place feels much quieter. There are fewer busy shopping streets and more residential areas surrounded by mountains, creating a peaceful atmosphere. The restaurants are a bit pricey, but the environment is very pleasant and a good place to enjoy dinner after coming down from the mountains. Just keep in mind that most shops close around 9pm"
Judy Huang
"I love HWY93, we start from Bang but next winter we will go from Jasper, I really think this is one of the most magnificent drive in NA, Jasper Park also has quite a lot to offer, from fine dining tp casual cafes, lots and lots of trails to bike, hike, walk, amazing lakes, even if you are at! 5% to go there, trust you will not regret it."
Aleksandar Hristov
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Jasper National Park is accessible by car via the Icefields Parkway from Banff or Highway 16 from Edmonton. Many visitors opt to rent a car for flexibility.
While there isn't extensive public transit within the park, shuttle services are available for popular attractions like Maligne Canyon and Lake.
The Icefields Parkway is a scenic drive connecting Banff and Jasper, offering breathtaking views and numerous stops. It's recommended to drive this route.
The closest major airport is Edmonton International Airport (YEG), about a 3.5-hour drive away. Calgary International Airport (YYC) is further, around a 5-hour drive.
Yes, helicopter tours are available, offering unique aerial perspectives of the Rockies. Some tours even include landings in remote areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Jasper National Park. These can be purchased online or at park gates.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check the official Parks Canada website for the most up-to-date information.
While park entry requires a pass, some specific attractions or activities, like boat tours or guided hikes, may have separate fees.
Yes, the Jasper Park Information Centre has a gift shop where you can purchase souvenirs, with proceeds supporting the park.
Yes, many areas of Jasper are open and worth visiting post-wildfire. Recovery efforts are ongoing, and more attractions are reopening.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Key attractions include Maligne Lake, Maligne Canyon, Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls, and the stunning lakes like Pyramid Lake and Patricia Lake. +1
Jasper is home to a wide array of wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, bears (grizzly and black), bighorn sheep, mountain goats, and various bird species. +1
Yes, trails like the Maligne Canyon loop and the Valley of the Five Lakes offer relatively easy hikes suitable for beginners. +1
Popular activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, photography, scenic drives, canoeing, kayaking, and stargazing in the Dark Sky Preserve. +1
Absolutely! Jasper is a photographer's paradise with its dramatic mountain landscapes, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Jasper townsite offers a range of dining options, from casual cafes and pubs to fine dining restaurants, catering to various tastes and budgets.
Several lodges and restaurants within and around the park offer stunning mountain or lake views with your meal.
Most restaurants in Jasper townsite are accommodating and offer vegetarian and vegan options on their menus.
Yes, numerous picnic areas are scattered throughout the park, often with beautiful views, perfect for a scenic lunch.
Dining prices can vary, but expect mid-range to higher prices, especially at lodges and more upscale restaurants. Casual eateries offer more budget-friendly options.
📸 📸 Photography
Iconic spots include Maligne Lake, Peyto Lake (though technically in Banff, often visited on the way), Athabasca Falls, Sunwapta Falls, and any pull-off with a mountain vista. +1
Sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but good for wildlife.
A wide-angle lens for landscapes, a telephoto lens for wildlife, and a sturdy tripod are highly recommended.
Yes, guided photography tours can help you find the best locations and capture stunning shots, especially during optimal light conditions.
Consider capturing reflections in the lakes, the vastness of the Dark Sky Preserve at night, or the aftermath of the wildfires for a different perspective. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider a boat tour on Maligne Lake for a memorable experience. Many lodges and hotels in Jasper townsite are family-friendly, and the town itself is walkable with parks and playgrounds. Pack layers, as mountain weather can change quickly, and bring plenty of snacks and water for your excursions.
🚗 Road Trippers & Self-Drivers
Be prepared for potential parking challenges at popular spots, especially during peak season. Consider starting your day early to secure parking. Always have a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, and keep it visible. Utilize the Jasper Park Information Centre for detailed maps and to get the latest on road conditions and any wildfire-related advisories.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider a tripod for low-light conditions, especially if you plan to capture the night sky in the Dark Sky Preserve. The Jasper Park Information Centre can provide insights into less-crowded, yet equally photogenic, spots. Remember to check for any post-wildfire impacts that might offer unique photographic perspectives.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Jasper National Park Post-Wildfire
Despite the challenges, the post-wildfire landscape can offer a unique perspective. Wildlife often becomes more visible as they adapt to the changing environment, providing incredible viewing opportunities, though always from a safe distance. The quieter atmosphere in some areas can also lead to more serene experiences. As recovery progresses, more of the park will undoubtedly reopen, making it an ever-evolving destination.
Visitors are encouraged to plan their trips with flexibility and a spirit of adventure. The Jasper Park Information Centre remains a valuable resource for up-to-date information, maps, and local insights. Supporting local businesses in Jasper townsite also plays a vital role in the community's recovery.
The Majesty of Jasper's Wildlife
Observing wildlife in their natural habitat is a highlight for many, but it's imperative to prioritize safety and respect. Always maintain a significant distance from animals, never feed them, and be aware of your surroundings, especially when hiking. Designated viewing areas and pull-offs are often the safest places to observe wildlife. Remember that these animals are wild, and their behavior can be unpredictable.
Specific areas like Maligne Lake Road and the Icefields Parkway are known for frequent wildlife sightings. Early mornings and late evenings often present the best opportunities to spot animals as they are more active during these cooler parts of the day. Always carry binoculars or a telephoto lens to get a closer look without disturbing the animals.
Photography Hotspots in Jasper
Don't miss the powerful cascades of Athabasca Falls and Sunwapta Falls, which offer dynamic subjects for capturing motion and spray. For reflective shots, Pyramid Lake and Patricia Lake are excellent choices, especially during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset when the light paints the landscape in warm hues. The Jasper Park Information Centre lawn also features a new landmark perfect for capturing your visit.
For those interested in astrophotography, Jasper's designation as a Dark Sky Preserve makes it an unparalleled location for capturing the Milky Way and starry skies. Away from light pollution, the celestial displays are simply spectacular. Remember to pack a tripod and a wide-angle lens to make the most of these incredible photographic opportunities.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit