Nine Must-Do Experiences in Jasper National Park This Summer

Did you know Jasper is the largest of the Canadian Rockies' national parks? Take a road trip there from Edmonton or drive the jaw-dropping Icefields Parkway from Banff. It's rated as one of the best drives in the entire world. When you arrive at this easygoing alpine getaway, you'll be greeted with charming restaurants, breweries and cozy accommodations.

Take a boat cruise to Spirit Island

Jasper is chock-full of gorgeous scenery, including one of the most photographed places on the planet. Spirit Island can only be reached by boat, but you're in luck. The Maligne Lake boat cruise is one of the best ways to take in the mountains surrounding the glacier-fed lake. Interpretive guides will also share all the interesting tidbits about Maligne's history. And Spirit Island is more than a photo op. The island has held significance for the Stoney Nakoda people for centuries because of the experiences their ancestors had there.

Ride to new heights on the Jasper SkyTram

The views are stunning no matter where you look in Jasper, but there's something special about seeing it all from above. You don't even have to climb a mountain to do it. The Jasper SkyTram is the longest and highest-guarded aerial tramway in the entire country. It only takes seven minutes to climb 2,263 m (7,424 ft) to the peak of Whistlers Mountain. You'll be accompanied by an expert flight attendant who'll share fun facts along the way. At the top, spend some time exploring or take it all in from the restaurant.

Get to know Jasper's wildlife

Your chances of spotting wildlife in Jasper National Park are high. The park is a haven for elk, deer, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, coyotes, wolves, moose and even grizzly bears. One of the safest ways to go is on a guided wildlife tour. An evening wildlife tour is your best bet to see wildlife in their natural surroundings, especially alongside a knowledgeable guide. Remember: Never feed or approach wildlife.

Hike to Mount Edith Cavell

The mountain ranges in Alberta boast some seriously impressive peaks. Take Mount Edith Cavell, named after a heroic British nurse who saved soldiers during WWI. At a whopping 3,363 metres (11,033 feet) tall, it's the most prominent peak located entirely within the province. Hike the Cavell Meadows trail for incredible views of the north face.

Explore the Columbia Icefields

Whether you're driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff or day-tripping from Jasper, the Columbia Icefields are a must-see. The best way to experience the jaw-dropping Athabasca Glacier is to climb aboard the Ice Explorer. This giant vehicle traverses over the icy terrain to the best spots for exploring along the glacier. The area is steeped in fascinating history, too, which you'll learn about on the drive. The expedition starts and ends at the Glacier Discovery Centre, a quick drive away from the Glacier Skywalk. The glass-floored walkway is situated a staggering 280 m (918 ft) above the Sunwapta Valley. It's both thrilling and completely safe. You'll want to take in this view.

Stargaze at the Jasper Planetarium

Alberta is where you'll find the world's two largest dark-sky preserves – Jasper National Park and Wood Buffalo National Park. The Jasper Planetarium is where you'll want to go to experience the park's dark-sky wonders. Check out the domed theatre or try the telescope and planetarium combo. That'll grant you access to the largest, most powerful telescopes in the Rockies.

Learn about Indigenous cultures with Warrior Women

Indigenous peoples have called the lands now known as Alberta home since time immemorial. You can learn about Cree culture and traditions with Warrior Women, a mother-daughter duo based in Jasper and Edmonton. Join a weekly fireside chat for storytelling, drumming, singing and friendly conversation. You'll even learn how to say some phrases in Cree. Or join Warrior Women for a Wapakwanis Plant Walk, Make and Take. During this wellness experience, a Cree Knowledge Keeper reveals the plant medicines and food that grows within Jasper National Park.

Unwind in the Miette Hot Springs

The all-natural Miette Hot Springs can be a destination for a day or a stop while adventuring in the area. The hot springs are open from May to October, and they're known for being the hottest in the Canadian Rockies. Don't worry, the water is cooled to a cozy temperature before it enters the hot springs pool.