Welcome to Jasper! Start your adventure by exploring the breathtaking Jasper National Park. In the morning, hike to the stunning Athabasca Falls, where you can witness the powerful force of the cascading waterfall. Afterward, venture to Maligne Lake and take a boat tour to Spirit Island, surrounded by majestic mountains and crystal-clear waters. In the evening, relax at Miette Hot Springs, known for its rejuvenating mineral-rich waters.
Athabasca Falls: Free, 1-2 hours
Maligne Lake Boat Tour: $80 per person, 3 hours
Miette Hot Springs: $10 per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Bear's Paw Bakery: A charming bakery in Jasper that offers delicious pastries and breakfast items. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
The Raven Bistro: A cozy restaurant in Jasper that serves a variety of gourmet sandwiches and salads for lunch. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
The Jasper Brewing Co: A popular brewery and restaurant in Jasper offering a diverse menu of burgers, pizzas, and ribs for dinner. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
Friday, September 8: Exploring Jasper
Embark on an adrenaline-filled day in Jasper. Start your morning by hiking the challenging but rewarding Sulphur Skyline Trail, where you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. In the afternoon, head to the Columbia Icefield and take a thrilling Ice Explorer ride onto the Athabasca Glacier. End your day with a visit to the Jasper SkyTram, where you can enjoy a scenic ride to the top of Whistlers Mountain.
Sulphur Skyline Trail: Free, 4-5 hours
Columbia Icefield and Ice Explorer Ride: $100 per person, 2-3 hours
Jasper SkyTram: $50 per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at the Bear's Paw Bakery. This charming bakery offers freshly baked pastries and breakfast sandwiches. Average cost for a meal is about $10 per person.
For lunch, head to the Olive Bistro, a cozy restaurant known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes. Enjoy a variety of salads, sandwiches, and pasta options. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience for dinner at Evil Dave's Grill. This upscale restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring seafood, steak, and gourmet burgers. Average cost for a meal is about $30 per person.
Saturday, September 9: Road Trip to Banff
Today, embark on a scenic road trip from Jasper to Banff. Explore the stunning Icefields Parkway, stopping at attractions such as the Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, and the iconic Athabasca Glacier. Enjoy breathtaking views of snow-capped peaks and turquoise lakes along the way. In the afternoon, arrive in Banff and visit the Banff National Park Visitor Centre for information about the park. In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along Banff Avenue, lined with shops, galleries, and restaurants.
Icefields Parkway: Free, 6-8 hours
Banff National Park Visitor Centre: Free, 1-2 hours
Banff Avenue: Free, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Bear Street Tavern is a cozy breakfast spot in Banff, serving delicious breakfast pizzas and omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Nourish Bistro where you can enjoy their flavorful plant-based dishes and refreshing smoothies. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For dinner, try The Bison Restaurant and Terrace for a taste of Rocky Mountain cuisine, featuring dishes like bison carpaccio and Alberta beef. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Sunday, September 10: Thrills in Banff
Indulge in thrilling adventures in Banff National Park. Begin your day by hiking the challenging but rewarding Tunnel Mountain Trail, offering panoramic views of the Banff townsite. In the afternoon, experience the rush of white-water rafting on the Kicking Horse River, surrounded by stunning Rocky Mountain scenery. As the evening approaches, unwind and relax at the Upper Hot Springs, enjoying the warm mineral-rich waters while taking in the mountain vistas.
Tunnel Mountain Trail: Free, 2-3 hours
White-water rafting on Kicking Horse River: $120 per person, 4-5 hours
Upper Hot Springs: $10 per person, 2-3 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
If you're seeking off the beaten path adventures, consider exploring Tonquin Valley in Jasper National Park. This remote and untouched wilderness offers stunning alpine scenery, pristine lakes, and abundant wildlife. For a unique experience, try heli-hiking in Banff, where a helicopter will take you to remote locations for exhilarating hikes in otherwise inaccessible areas. Locals also love hiking to the Ink Pots in Johnston Canyon, where you can discover a series of colorful mineral springs. These hidden gems will surely satisfy your craving for adventure.