Jasper The Bear Statue

The Jasper the Bear Statue has welcomed visitors to Jasper National Park since 1962. However, the character was created in 1948 by Jim Simpkins, a cartoonist working for Maclean’s magazine. Jasper appeared in hundreds of cartoons and reminded readers of the importance of environmental stewardship. The town of Jasper adopted him as an official symbol in 1962, and the Jasper the Bear statue was built that year. Jasper the Bear originally stood at the town’s train station. Today, the original statue stands at the top of the Jasper Skytram. A replica can be found just north of the Jasper Information Centre on Connaught Drive. Visitors may also encounter Jasper as a mascot at community events and special occasions. Wherever visitors meet him, Jasper’s friendly presence is a warm welcome and a sure sign that you’re in for a fun visit amidst the splendour of Jasper National Park.