Begin your journey by arriving in Jasper, a charming mountain town nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. In the morning, take a scenic hike along the trails of Maligne Canyon, marveling at the roaring waterfalls and ancient limestone walls. After a delicious lunch at a local cafe, embark on a thrilling wildlife safari tour where you'll have the opportunity to spot majestic creatures like elk, moose, and bears. As the evening approaches, unwind with a relaxing soak in the Miette Hot Springs, surrounded by stunning mountain views.
Wildlife Safari Tour: Estimated Cost - $100-150 per person, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Miette Hot Springs: Estimated Cost - $10-20 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day off with a hearty breakfast at Eddie Burger + Bar, where you can enjoy delicious burgers, sandwiches, and a variety of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For lunch, head over to The Fiddle River Restaurant, known for its fresh and locally sourced ingredients. Try their mouthwatering sandwiches, salads, and seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience for dinner at Syrahs of Jasper, offering a diverse menu of international cuisine with a focus on Canadian flavors. Enjoy their exquisite dishes, paired with a selection from their extensive wine list. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Saturday September 2: Exploring Jasper National Park
Wake up early to catch the sunrise at Pyramid Lake, a serene spot with breathtaking mountain reflections. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the scenic beauty, and then head to the Jasper SkyTram for a thrilling ascent to the top of Whistlers Mountain. Take a walk along the summit trail, marveling at the panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. In the afternoon, venture into the heart of Jasper National Park to visit the stunning Athabasca Falls, known for its powerful cascades. End your day with a visit to the Jasper Brewing Company, where you can sample locally crafted beers and enjoy a delicious dinner.
Jasper Brewing Company: Estimated Cost - $20-30 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Other Paw Bakery, known for its freshly baked pastries and delicious breakfast sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Raven Bistro, a cozy restaurant offering a diverse menu of comfort foods and international cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Evil Dave's Grill, where you can savor expertly prepared seafood and steak dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Sunday September 3: Journey to Edmonton
Today, make your way to Edmonton, the vibrant capital city of Alberta. Begin your day at West Edmonton Mall, one of the largest shopping and entertainment complexes in the world. Indulge in some retail therapy, try your hand at ice skating, or take a plunge in the exhilarating water park. In the afternoon, explore the fascinating exhibits at the Royal Alberta Museum, showcasing the rich history and culture of the province. As the evening sets in, head to the Old Strathcona district, known for its lively atmosphere, charming boutiques, and delicious dining options.
West Edmonton Mall: Estimated Cost - Free (optional activities have individual costs), Time Spent - 4-6 hours
Royal Alberta Museum: Estimated Cost - $20-30 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Old Strathcona: Estimated Cost - Free (costs vary for dining and shopping), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Under the High Wheel. This cozy restaurant offers delicious brunch classics with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about $12 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Tres Carnales Taqueria. This Mexican eatery serves up mouthwatering tacos and other traditional dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Enjoy a memorable dinner at RGE RD, a farm-to-table restaurant known for its innovative Canadian cuisine. Indulge in seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Monday September 4: Exploring Edmonton
Spend your last day in Edmonton immersing yourself in its vibrant cultural scene. Start your morning with a visit to the Art Gallery of Alberta, where you can admire contemporary artworks and exhibitions. Afterward, wander through the picturesque river valley and enjoy a picnic at William Hawrelak Park, surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the historic Alberta Legislature Building, learning about the province's political history and architecture. As your trip comes to an end, savor a delicious farewell dinner at one of Edmonton's renowned restaurants.
Art Gallery of Alberta: Estimated Cost - $15-20 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
William Hawrelak Park: Estimated Cost - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Alberta Legislature Building: Estimated Cost - Free (guided tour may have a small fee), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Farewell Dinner: Estimated Cost - $30-50 per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Sugar Bowl: Start your day with a cozy breakfast at The Sugar Bowl, a local favorite known for its delicious pancakes and coffee. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
Duchess Bake Shop: For a delightful lunch, head to Duchess Bake Shop and indulge in their freshly baked pastries and sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
RGE RD: End your day with a memorable dinner at RGE RD, a farm-to-table restaurant offering a unique dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Jasper and Edmonton, be sure to check out some of the hidden gems and local favorites. In Jasper, visit the Patricia and Pyramid Lakes, tranquil spots offering stunning views and opportunities for canoeing or kayaking. In Edmonton, spend some time at the Edmonton Valley Zoo, a charming zoo with a focus on conservation and education. Additionally, the Alberta Aviation Museum is a fascinating attraction for aviation enthusiasts, showcasing historic aircraft and artifacts. Don't miss the chance to explore these off the beaten path attractions cherished by locals.