From the cultural heart of Edmonton to Jasper's powdery mountain slopes, experience the diversity of Alberta’s winter wonderlands.
This itinerary is great for weekend warriors, winter sports enthusiasts and families visiting Alberta for the holidays.
At a glance
- 4 day itinerary
- 903 km (561 mi) total distance
- 10 hrs 23 mins drive time
- Your starting point is in Edmonton
Art Gallery of Alberta
Wander through original art exhibits—both contemporary and historical—at the Art Gallery of Alberta. The gallery, located in downtown Edmonton, is known for its innovative and eye-catching architecture, and features a 190 m (623 ft) steel ribbon that winds through the building's interior and exterior.
Snowshoe Rentals
On your way out of town, rent snowshoes for the whole family from Elk Island Paddle Sports Rentals. This independently owned local company offers free delivery and pickup within the Edmonton area. Book in advance by phone or email.
Snowshoe Tour at Elk Island National Park
Explore the protected habitat of Elk Island National Park on a self-guided snowshoe tour, or glide the day away on skates, cross-country skis or even your toboggan. Keep an eye out for bison, elk, deer and moose foraging for food in the snow. Warm up around a fire in one of the park’s warm-up shelters.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Grab lunch at Zinc (inside the Art Gallery of Alberta), or for more casual fare, try Rosewood Foods two blocks away.
Train Ride to Jasper
While you can also drive three and half hours to Jasper on the Yellowhead highway, you’ll be travelling in style aboard VIA Rail. The six-hour train trip gives you plenty of time to relax and take in panoramic mountain views. Plan your trip ahead of time—trains leave from Edmonton only twice a week.
Jasper Park Information Centre National Historic Site
Once you've arrived in Jasper, stop by the Visitor Information Centre to plan the rest of your stay in the Rocky Mountains. Enjoy the centre’s classic rustic architecture and learn about the area's natural attraction, guided tours, dining, shopping, weather, and current skiing and hiking conditions.
Maligne Adventures
Follow an experienced guide along Maligne Canyon’s frozen floor, past naturally formed ice sculptures and icefalls, and into its unique cave system. If you choose a night walk, be sure to take some time to admire the starlit sky—Jasper National Park is one of the world's largest dark sky preserves.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Arriving by train? Rent a car at the Jasper station or explore shuttle options at the Visitor Information Centre.
Ski or Snowboard at Marmot Basin
Whether you’re into skiing or snowboarding, you don’t want to miss a chance to experience Marmot Basin’s immaculately groomed runs, stunning views and state-of-the-art facilities. Hop on a lift! You’ll be flying down one of the 91 named runs that traverse the four faces of Marmot Mountain in no time.
Dinner at The Raven Bistro
For a refreshingly different take on the Rocky Mountain culinary scene, head to The Raven Bistro for Mediterranean fusion dishes served in a cozy, family-style dining room. Enjoy sampling their eclectic dinner menu, which runs the gamut from house-made falafel to pulled elk to halibut with harissa cream. Vegan and gluten-free options available.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
Renting skiis or a snowboard at Marmot Basin? Make sure to book rental equipment 24 hours in advance.
West Edmonton Mall
It’s not just about a shopping spree. West Edmonton Mall features over 800 shops, services and restaurants, as well as accommodations and interactive attractions. Play a few rounds of mini golf, zoom around North America’s first multi-level race kart track, or hit the waterpark with the whole family.
Dinner on BRBN Street
Stop for a meal on West Edmonton Mall’s famous BRBN st. (Bourbon Street), lined with dining establishments ranging from the ultra-casual to a sit-down comedy dinner theatre. From spaghetti to steak, Vietnamese fusion to bubble tea and waffles, BRBN st. has something for everyone.
TIP FROM A LOCAL
West Edmonton Mall is open from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily, though some attractions open later and close earlier.
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