Category: tourism

Enjoy views from top of the World!

The Jasper Tramway, located only 3.5 km south of the Jasper town site and 3.5 km north of Becker’s Chalets, is an unforgettable experience and attraction for the whole family. 

With astonishing and breathtaking mountain and panoramic views, you’re sure to experience Jasper National Park and the Canadian Rockies like never before.  You begin your gondola tramway trip at the lower chalet (at an elevation of 1,304 meters) in a completely enclosed tram.

A trained and knowledgeable guide will accompany you, while pointing out sites and answering questions, throughout your 7 minute journey to the top of Whistlers Mountain and home of the upper chalet (at an elevation of 2,277 meters).

Due to the elevation, the top of Whistlers Mountain will be much cooler than down below, so it is highly recommended to dress accordingly. Once you’ve reached the top you are more than welcome to hike along the path to the summit of Whistlers Mountain, take in the panoramic views, or watch the small wild animals that habitat the area, including the hoary marmot.

From the top you will see the Jasper town site, similarly shaped to the letter “J”, you will see the mountains, which seem to never end. The many lakes that surround the town of Jasper are also things that can be easily seen, especially due to their vibrant color. The outlines of Jasper Park Lodge can also be seen, closer to some of these vibrant lakes. Looking in a slightly different direction, you can also see Becker’s Chalets which is located along the Athabasca River. With such breathtaking scenic views, you are sure to have a memorable experience that lasts a lifetime.

http://www.jasperskytram.com/

Near Jasper Alberta!

Miette Hot Springs is located approximately 45 km east of the Jasper town site followed by another 15km south on Miette road; still within the Jasper National Park parameters. Originally introduced in the 1800’s by the First Nations people, with construction in 1913, followed by construction of a proper road in 1934 and new facilities in 1986, Miette Hot Springs has become one of Jasper’s top intriguing and relaxing tourist attractions.

Flowing at 54 degrees Celsius from the top of Sulphur Mountain, then gradually cooled by the time it reaches the hot springs pools, to a comfortable 40 degrees Celsius, it’s no wonder why Miette Hot Springs is classified as being the hottest natural hot springs in the Canadian Rockies. The natural minerals that can be found in the spring water pools are: sodium, magnesium, bicarbonate, calcium and Sulphur.

With very reasonable rates, lounge chairs on the pool decks, and 4 different pools to offer (a main large hot pool, a main large warm pool, small cold pool and a small freezing pool), this attraction is great for the whole family. On a side note: they say that the pores of your skin become stimulated and give you a luxurious experience when combining the hot and cold pools. It might be worth your while to try soaking in one of the hot pools, followed by a brief dip in a cold pool, to feel the difference it makes in your energy levels and mood.

These facilities also have swim rentals, towel rentals along with a great cafeteria with lots of variety. The change rooms are separated by male and female – unfortunately they do not have family change rooms, and they do have coin operated lockers for your convenience.

Although the views at the hot springs are phenomenal, it is highly recommended to take a half day hike along the Sulphur Skyline (if you like hiking). This hike is approximately an 8 km round trip hike to the summit and back, and has a 700 meter elevation gain. With stunning panoramic views from Sulphur Ridge, being able to see the hot springs way below, among the many varied wildflowers blooming along the trail, there’s no wonder why this hike is classified as one of the best half day hikes in the Jasper area.

http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/voyage-travel/sources-springs/miette/miette.aspx

Near Jasper Alberta!

Within the Canadian Rockies, Maligne Lake is the largest lake glacially fed, completely surrounded by vast mountain peaks and is home to the world famous spirit island.  With a distance of 48 km from the Jasper town-site, this lake is 22 km long and is home to many types of wildlife, including the moose, caribou and Harlequin Ducks, to name a few. Once up at Maligne Lake, lots of different activities awaits you including but not limited to interpretive boat tours, paddle boat rentals, hiking trails, a gift shop and large cafeteria and numerous photo opportunities to capture its vastness and breathtaking scenery.

Spirit Island is approximately 14 km up-lake from the main buildings and can only be accessed by tour boats or paddle boats; there are no trails or roads leading to the island.  The interpretive boat tour that Maligne Lake has to offer is one like no other and has been classified by the Reader’s digest subscribers as “Canada’s best boat cruise.” With 7 different boats that run throughout its opening season (from May to October), tours depart every hour from the main lodge and is approximately a 1 ½ hour return tip. These boats are heated, wheelchair-accessible and are completely glass-enclosed to ensure that nobody gets left behind on any day of the season – rain or shine. To ensure minimal wait times, reserving your interpretive tour tickets in advance is highly recommended especially during peak season.

During this interpretive boat tour, you will learn about the different wildlife that frequent the area, you will learn about the different mountain peaks, along with being explained the story of Maligne Lake, formerly known as “Chaba Imne” (Beaver Lake) and the story of Mary Schaeffer and how she came about the lake. You will learn more about the lake itself, including the way Maligne Lake was created: the Opal Hills landslide caused 700 million cubic yards of rocks and dirt produced a natural dam in the lower valley. When the water backed up, Maligne Lake was created!

Maligne Lake also has many rentals available for your private enjoyment. From canoes and aluminum rowboats to sea kayaks, Maligne Lake Boathouse has you covered. They also have fishing licenses available for purchase, as many fish are known to live in the lake. Before leaving the doc with your boat rental, it is highly advised to get used to the lake and have some knowledge about boat safety, especially considering the coldness of this lake; if the boat capsizes, hypothermia can be of great concern. It is suggested to paddle close to the shore line along with always wearing a life jacket. If you decide to rent a boat while up at Maligne Lake, it is extremely important to know and understand that small watercraft have the right of way (on the rare occasions that they were to land or scoop up water).

With stunning views and relaxing atmosphere, Maligne Lake has lots to offer. Whether it be renting a boat and exploring the lake on your own, taking a guided tour to Spirit Island, hiking, or just relaxing at the main lodge (and enjoying the fantastic food and cappuccino bar or shopping in the gift shop), this is one attraction suitable for families of all ages.

http://www.malignelake.com/

Hiking In Jasper National Park!

Known as the most interesting canyon within the Canadian Rockies, Maligne Canyon is a must see tourist attraction in Jasper National Park. This canyon was formed when the soluble limestone bed rock became whittled away from the underground streams of the Maligne River, (which originates at Maligne Lake, flowing beneath the surface from Medicine Lake until it reaches Maligne Canyon).  This canyon has a maximum depth of 50 meters and is built across six bridges, the first one being built in 1914.

Beginning at the sixth bridge, the bottom of the canyon, the trail is clearly marked for your convenience. You will see many springs, some of which are extremely unique to Jasper National Park because under your hiking trail is where the Maligne river joins. This is quite an experience on its own. As you hike upstream, you will notice that the Maligne valley becomes a narrow canyon towards the fourth bridge. At this point the scenery becomes much more vivid and breathtaking. As you approach the third bridge and beyond, typically more foot traffic becomes apparent.

As you hike upstream, due to the mist that occasionally floats upwards among other environmental factors, some of the trail edges can become quite slippery. It is advised to take lots of caution while on the hiking trails along with being careful of your footing, due to the many tree branches and rocks that are along the path.

While at Maligne Canyon, be sure to stop in at the Maligne Canyon Restaurant and Gift Shop. Although it holds one of Canada’s premier art galleries, here you will also find many souvenirs from your trip to Jasper along with having the ability to take advantage of the exquisite restaurant that it has. While serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, it also has a coffee bar and sweets and offers happy hour. The Maligne Canyon Restaurant also does has complete catering abilities for special events (including banquets, weddings and private functions). 

Maligne Canyon offers a very large parking lot, free of charge. Although the hike itself is not wheelchair accessible, as the path is mainly made up of relatively smooth bedrock, the restaurant and gift shop are wheelchair friendly. While visiting Maligne Canyon, or while travelling anywhere within Jasper National Park for that matter, it’s a great idea to always have your camera ready. Black bears, grizzly bears, elk, moose, deer, coyotes, and wolves (among all of the other wildlife that Jasper has to offer) might show themselves to you – it’s fairly common to come across one of these beautiful animals.

http://hikejasper.com/Hiking-Maligne-Canyon-in-Jasper.html

Rafting Trips in Jasper National Park!

Jasper’s White Water Rafting Company is one way of taking in some of the spectacular views that Jasper National Park has to offer.

With the choice of three different rafting tour trips, you are sure to find one that best suits you – from an introductory white water rafting trip (with class II rapids) to a more intense and challenging trip (with up to class III + rapids). No matter what rafting trip you partake in, you will most likely see some of the many famous animals Jasper is known for (such as the black bear, grizzly bear, elk, deer, coyotes and wolves), and will be surrounded by a breathtaking mountainous backdrop. 

If you’re looking to go rafting within the wilderness, with only nature to see, then definitely the Athabasca Falls and the Sunwapta River rafting trips are for you. If however, you would like to see some of beautiful resorts and Mother Nature that Jasper has to offer, the Mile 5 – Athabasca River trip is suggested.

While travelling down the Athabasca River on the Mile 5 trip, you will pass right in front of Jasper’s famous Becker’s Chalets. Known for having Marilyn Munroe stay there, they offer more than 23 different rooms types ranging from Riverfront and Riverside chalets (which you will on your rafting trip), they also offer log duplex chalets, deluxe 4-plex chalets, heritage chalets and your basic hotel type sleeping rooms. They offer a top notch gourmet restaurant and gift shop at their front office building. There you can also purchase your White Water Rafting trip, take brochures and ask for information – the welcoming and friendly front desk agents are always ready and happy to help you!

Trip Advisor has given a certificate of excellence to the Jasper White Water Rafting Company for its continued great feedback which past rafters have provided. This rafting company does everything to ensure that you have a very remarkable, fun and safe white water rafting experience. They provide you with you licensed and experienced rafting guides, life jackets, wet suits and booties, but also with toques, mitts and wind pants (weather permitting)! All you need to bring is your bathing suit, towel, and enthusiasm to ensure that you have a positive rafting experience from start to finish.

With over 45 year experience (beginning in 1971), The Jasper White Water Rafting Company will provide you and your family with an unforgettable mountainous experience.

http://www.whitewaterraftingjasper.com/

In Jasper National Park!

Mt. Edith Cavell is one of the supreme tourist attractions and hikes in Jasper National Park, with the most noticeable peak entirely within Alberta. Located only 20 km from Becker’s Chalets (approximately 26 km from Jasper) on highway 93A, Mt. Edith Cavell has spectacular views that you do not want to miss. With several variations of this hike, you have the ability to choose the type of hike you wish to partake in. For something light and easy, hiking towards Cavell pond or towards Kettle Lake is recommended and is most common. If you’re interested in doing something more demanding, hiking towards Cavell Meadows Summit is suggested: it’s about a half day hike (with the first portion being paved).

While traveling up to the parking lot of Mt. Edith Cavell, where all of the glacial views and hikes are located, do not be surprised to see wildlife. Due to the location and popularity of highway 93A (compared to highway 93), many animals prefer to graze on this road. Many locals that provide information to tourists highly suggest traveling on this road (highway 93A) for optimal wildlife viewings. Although there are a variety of wildlife to see in Jasper National Park, this particular stretch of highway is particularly known for black bear and grizzly bear sightings.

Once up at the parking lot at Mt. Edith Cavell, the most common hike which many tourists prefer to do, is the Cavell Meadows trail. It provides you with close sights of Angel Glacier, Mount Edith Cavell, and its glacial deposit lake. During the early season (spring and the beginning of summer), many wildflowers are in full bloom, making the scenery even more breathtaking. With lots of benches along the path to stop, take pictures and take in the magnificent scenery, this 1.8 km trail is suitable for anyone and everyone of all ages.

If hiking something more challenging suits you, you can escape many tourists by hiking up the rocky trail to the top of Cavell Meadows Summit. Once you’ve reached the summit, you’re at the top of the world (so to speak). You have the best views – you can see the tops of Cavell Glacier, Cavell Kettle Lake (down below) along with Angel Glacier. These are among the greatest panoramic views you will ever encounter!

The story of Mount Edith Cavell is posted on one of the information boards located in the parking lot where all of the hiking trails begin. Here you will learn that Mount Edith Cavell was an English nurse, who assisted allied soldiers escape from Belgium to the Netherlands in World War One. Since this was a violation of German military law, she was executed by the Germans for her beliefs and her honorable actions. This mountain, which was previously known as the Mountain of the Great Crossing, became named after her in 1916.

Mt. Edith Cavell is mainly known for its vast glaciers and incredible panoramic views, however it also holds one of the few hostels that Jasper National Park has to offer. Located at the base of Mt. Edith Cavell, the Hi-Mount Edith Cavell Wilderness Hostel offers accommodations with competitive and affordable prices. It’s important to keep in mind that this hostel does not have running water, which means no showers nor flush toilets are available. They do however have clean water for cooking, a fridge, lights and propane based stove for your convenience. This hostel is situated in a unique location, which enables its guests to take advantage of its spectacular views of both Cavell Meadows and Angel Glacier, while having the opportunity to relax in the middle of nature and enjoy the peace and quiet.

In 2012, a large piece of Ghost Glacier broke off of the mountain face, in turn landing in the tarn lake that lay below, causing a huge surge of water. Due to this gush of water, the day use trails, areas, viewpoints and parking lot had significate damage done to them. In 2014, something similar happened, although much smaller in size. In order to ensure visitor safety, lots of restoration work and repair was done, while creating more parking space and updating the facilities that were once there – with a reopening time period of spring of 2017!

http://www.albertawow.com/hikes/mount_edith_cavell_hike/mount_edith_cavell_hike.htm

In Jasper National Park!

Among Jasper’s top tourist attractions is the snow coach tour at the Columbia Icefields. Located only 87 km south of Becker’s Chalets (approximately 93 km from Jasper) on highway 93, the Icefields Parkway as it is often referred to, this once in a lifetime expedition is a must when travelling to Jasper National Park.

The Icefields Parkway, highway 93, is one that is known worldwide. Due to its immense jagged mountain peaks, blanketed in snow and ice, along with the variety of wildlife (including but not limited to mountain goats and mountain sheep,) this scenic drive has been rated among one of the best in the world.

It all begins with bus ride on an immense ice explorer (a vehicle that resemble a bus, however specifically designed to travel on glaciers), which brings you up on the Athabasca Glacier. Throughout this exhilarating bus trip, your guide will provide you with plenty of  captivating information regarding the Columbia Icefields, Angel Glacier, and surrounding mountains to name a few. Once there, you have the opportunity to walk on the glacial ice and snow, while taking as many memorable photos as you wish.

At the main information building, where you can purchase your tickets to go on the snow coach tour, you have access to a variety of very informative and interesting information, bathrooms, restaurant, hotel, and gift shop. Here you will find all sorts of paraphernalia to remind you of your exciting adventure, from clothing to snow coach bus toys to snow globes, to name a few. The restaurant has a variety of items to offer, including hot tea, coffee and hot chocolate to warm you after a cool excursion on the glacier.

Among the information that you will find here is the story of how the Columbia Icefields began. It will explain that during the Great Glaciation is when the Columbia Icefield was originally formed. About the time man began to roam the earth, during the Early Wisconsinan period, the initial advancement of the icefield ended. Following this is the Late Wisconsinan period, which was the icefields next major advancement. Civilization and farming by man was learned during the Crowfoot Glacier advancement. Following this is the Little Ice Age, which was the last major period of advancement for the icefield. The Athabasca Glacier peaked about 1800, then went through a recession period. Until 1840, the icefield advanced its final time. Since then it has been receding and continues to do to this day.

During the summer months, it is ideal to visit the Columbia Icefields somewhat prepared. Due to its elevation, most times the temperatures are significantly cooler compared to nearby towns and attractions, at lower elevations. The Columbia Icefields feeds both the North Saskatchewan River and the Athabasca River. Since these rivers are glacially fed, it is no surprise that the risk of hypothermia is significant when going into these waters (such as for rafting).

With lots of things to see and explore, this is one attraction like no other. Being able to touch and feel snow and ice (possibly for the first time, depending on where you’re coming from), travelling on a gigantic ice explorer and seeing the vast mountain peaks along with a historical glacier, this is one experience that you do not want to miss!

https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/columbia-icefield/

Near Jasper Alberta!

Among one of Jasper National Park’s newest attractions is the Glacier Skywalk. This one km walkway off the edge of a cliff, directs you to a glass floor platform (918 feet above the ground). Here you will have the ability to see a variety of wildlife below you (which you can also see through the glass floor and walls), with vast glaciers above and waterfalls in the distance, this is one rare and unique attraction, which is sure to create an adrenalin rush experience you do not want to miss.

This attraction requires you to drive to the Columbia Icefields and park your vehicle in the large (free) parking lot. The Icefields Parkway, highway 93, is one that is known worldwide. Due to its immense jagged mountain peaks, blanketed in snow and ice, along with the variety of wildlife (including but not limited to mountain goats and mountain sheep,) this scenic drive has been rated among one of the best in the world.

Once at the Columbia Icefields building, you can purchase your skywalk tickets and board one of their buses, which will bring you to the Glacier Skywalk area (as no parking is permitted at this site). Once here, you are free to leisure at your own pace while enjoying the spectacular views and interpretive tour (by means of private story telling). Have your camera ready, as this attraction has lots of natural panoramic views for you to enjoy.

Throughout this walk, several benches are placed for you to sit and enjoy the peace, quiet and vastness of this beautiful location. With buses returning back to the Columbia Icefields center quiet often, you can take in your fill of this magnificent beauty.

https://www.banffjaspercollection.com/attractions/columbia-icefield/skywalk/

In Jasper National Park!

The Athabasca Falls are among the major, most favorite and most common attraction within the Jasper area. It is the most powerful waterfall, despite it not being the widest nor the highest within the Canadian Rockies. Located only 24 km south of Becker’s Chalets (30 km south of Jasper) on highway 93 or highway 93a, it’s one attraction that you do not want to miss.

If travelling through highway 93a, you will be sure to see all sorts of wildlife known to Jasper National Park. The most common animals to be seen on this stretch of highway are the black bear and grizzly bear; be sure to have your camera ready for action. Many well marked signs will assist you in arriving to the Athabasca Falls with no difficulty. A large parking lot is available for you to park, and enjoy the natural beauty that this waterfall and surrounding sites provide.

As this is a major tourist attraction, it is fairly busy with people coming and going. To avoid some of the rush, it is advised to visit this attraction either early in the morning or later in the evening (after dinner), which will give you an added bonus of seeing more animals (as this is generally the time they come out of the bush to graze on grass and berries). Unfortunately due to stairs at the waterfalls itself, wheelchair access is limited although most of the trail is paved. Many picnic tables and a kitchen shelter are available for your enjoyment along with washrooms.  This gives you a great opportunity to have a picnic breakfast, lunch or dinner while taking in the magnificent sights around you, while hearing the roar of the falls from a short distance.

With only a three meter opening at the edge of the falls (18 meters wide near the center), all of the water from the wide Athabasca River is funneled through the Athabasca Falls. This creates an enormous pressure and powerful class 5 waterfall, with a 24 meter drop. Over the years, the force of this waterfall has produced its unique shape and form of the rocks. Some of the rock at the Athabasca Falls is limestone, however most is made up of quartzite, which is very comparable to the strength of steel (ounce for ounce). One can only envision how powerful this waterfall can be to erode, break and cut through this type of rock.

Athabasca Falls has many great things to enjoy; from the views and mist of the Athabasca Falls, to the vast Athabasca River above, to the canyons the falls has created down blow, to the towering Mount Kerkeslin, situated above the falls, to the setting of this natural beauty. The atmosphere created here is vast and relaxation.

Although this site is so beautiful, do not let its beauty and eagerness to get the best picture possible get the best of you. Guard rails around the Athabasca Falls are there for your safety – do not cross them. The mist from the falls makes the rocks extremely slippery, despite their inviting nature to stand on. Sadly, many unfortunate individuals have realized this too late.

https://trailpeak.com/trails/athabasca-falls-near-jasper-ab-1679

In Jasper National Park!

Sunwapta Falls is only 48 km south of Becker’s Chalets (approximately 55 km south of the Jasper town-site) on highway 93. With such breathtaking views, it is unquestionably among the most popular tourist stops within Jasper National Park. These falls, similarly to the Athabasca Falls, are extremely powerful as a significant amount of water is being squeezed through a rather small gorge, creating a waterfall with an immense force. Although some people believe the Athabasca Falls are more impressive in comparison, these falls are definitely more photogenic.

Originating from the Sunwapta Lake and glacial melt from the Athabasca Glacier, the Sunwapta Falls consists of two falls: an upper waterfall, which is most common and has the easiest access, and a lower waterfall, which is fairly unknown by many and a short walk away (approximately a 15 minute walk – 1km distance downstream). 

The upper falls are most common and well known worldwide. It currently fosters an 18.5 meter drop (approximately 60 feet), with an approximate width of 9 meters – classified as a class 6 waterfall. These waters are known for being extremely turbulent (Assiniboine in the Native Language). Due to the significant glacial melt in late spring, this is the ideal time to visit the falls as much more water accesses the tight gorge, creating an even more powerful and spectacular waterfall. 

The lower falls are an added bonus to your Sunwapta Falls visit. With fewer tourists around, mainly due to a lack of knowledge that these lower falls even exist, it shines a new light on these magnificent falls as a whole.  These falls are roughly half the size of the upper falls, 9 meters (30 feet) and are also beautiful to see. Although these lower falls will require an additional amount of effort to view them (as they are approximately 1km downstream (and downhill) from the upper falls), they are definitely well worth your while.

As this is a major tourist attraction, it is fairly busy with people coming and going. To avoid some of the rush, it is advised to visit this attraction either early in the morning or later in the evening (after dinner), which will give you an added bonus of seeing more animals (as this is generally the time they come out of the bush to graze on grass and berries). Having said that, all sorts of wildlife (with black bears and grizzly bears being the most common) roam the area at all times of the day, so have your camera ready!

https://trailpeak.com/trails/sunwapta-falls-near-jasper-ab-1696

Hiking In Jasper National Park!

Although Jasper National Park has many different beautiful hikes for you to explore and many magnificent lakes for you to relax by, the Valley of the Five Lakes offers the best of both worlds. Not only does it have a fairly easy hike, approximately 1.5 – 2 hours round trip (approximately a 4.5 km loop), you pass by five different lakes, one more beautiful than the other with varied colors and backdrops at each one. Although there are no mountainous views throughout this hike, the lakes and panoramic views of nature at its finest makes it very well worth it. Valley of the Five Lakes is among one of the most beautiful hiking trails in Jasper, and although the parking lot may always seem full, the trails are not over congested making for a nice relaxing walk in the wilderness.  No matter what your hiking abilities are, this is a great walk as there is no climbing nor high altitude terrain – it’s an easy hike to partake in!

Valley of the Five Lakes is only located 3 km south of Becker’s Chalets (approximately 9 km south of the Jasper town-site) on highway 93. Typically on this stretch of highway, a variety of wildlife frequent it (with elk, black bears, grizzly bears, coyotes, deer and many birds being the most common). This hiking trail forms one big loop, you start and finish in the same spot while encountering 5 beautiful and unique lakes along its path.

Throughout this trail, you will encounter five glorious lakes, each with a different shade of greeny turquoise due to the varied lake depths. Several streams and viewpoints will be encountered on this trail, along with a great possibility of seeing wildlife, especially beavers!!!  As you walk the five lakes, it is very important to make lots of noise (talk, wear a bear bell, etc.), to ensure that any wildlife on the trails are aware of your presence and not startled nor surprised. As you walk along the trail, the first lake is somewhat difficult to get a great view of, however it is the longest amongst the five lakes at Valley of the Five Lakes. The second lake is among the smallest of lakes on this trail, although very beautiful. The third lake is known for having many ducks in it, diving their heads in search for food, in this clear turquoise water. The fourth lake is also very beautiful with yet another hue of turquoise. The last and final lake, the fifth lake, is very heavenly and can be travelled by boat.

Boats are already at the fifth lake and are available for a minimal rental fee. Unfortunately this must be done prior to traveling to the Valley of the Five Lakes, as nobody is there to rent them to you on site. Online Sport and Tackle along with Curries Guiding both have boats available for rent for a minimal fee. Curries Guiding also has fishing tours available for tourists (reserved in advance as nobody is on site for bookings: the reservations office is located in Jasper). This fifth lake is known to have brook trout (fish), although the fish populations have decreased over the years.

In fall of 2016, Parks Canada did lots of upgrades and repairs to the parking lot site for this high demand attraction. What used to hold only 32 vehicles (when demand parking spots reached 80+ vehicles during peak season), this new, expanded, and improved parking lot will now hold 83 vehicles and 11 RV’s.  Previously only one picnic table and one outhouse were available for guests. After all of the updates were completed, Valley of the Five Lakes now houses a total of three picnic tables for everyone to enjoy, along with a double unit outhouse! Other updates that have been done to this site include (but are not limited to) repaired hiking trails, new log benches being added along the trail, a new dock at the fifth lake for yoga, paddle boarding and boating, along with moving the trail info kiosk and public phone (which existed previously) closer to the trailhead.

http://hikejasper.com/Hiking-Valley-of-the-Five-Lakes-in-Jasper.html

Pyramid Riding Stables and Outfitters, Jasper Alberta!

Pyramid Riding Stables and Outfitters is one of the companies that provides its guests with a western horseback riding adventure within the Canadian Rockies. Open from May to October (conditions permitting) and located only 5 minutes north from the Jasper town-site, with either one, two or three hour rides to choose from, this is a unique way to explore Jasper and all of its natural beauty it has to offer.

The looped trails that Pyramid Riding Stables and Outfitters follow, provide you with magnificent panoramic mountainous views. Through means of horseback, at higher elevations and out in the wilderness, you have ability to photograph not only the vast mountain ranges, but also the numerous greeny turquoise lakes which are nearby and the diverse wildlife that frequent these forests (with the most common wildlife being black bears). 

Throughout your horseback trip, you will be given insightful information by your knowledgeable horseback tour guides of the area, mountain peaks, wildlife, history, along with answering any questions that you have about the area. With over 50 experienced horses that vary in color, personalities, age and size, no matter what experience level you have (from novice/beginner to advanced), Pyramid Riding Stables and outfitters is sure to be able to accommodate you and match you with one of these great horses (based on your riding ability and profile).

If horseback riding is not a great match for you, take advantage of Pyramid Riding Stables and Outfitters wagon/carriage ride. This ride operates from June until September (Weather permitting) and brings you on a 15-20 minute ride around the Jasper town-site.

Planning a special event, wanting a western theme for a smaller wedding or maybe just wanting to arrive in style? This company has you covered. They can pick you and up and drop you off (with their western wagon), and bring you to your special occasion/dinner reservations. Or rent their open-air gazebo, offering an authentic western BBQ. From great food, western music and majestic wood burning fire, you are sure to have a great time! This BBQ/Gazebo is exceptional for reunions, retreats, weddings and all other special events you might be planning!

http://www.jasperstables.com/

Alberta’s most fascinating wildlife!

Jasper National Park is world famous for the diverse number of species that habitat it, among other things, and has been classified as a World Heritage Site by the United Nations partly for this reason. 

With over 53 different types of species of mammals that live in the National Park, it is almost guaranteed that you will see one during your visit to Jasper; it might be one of the most exciting aspects of your trip. 

Although many of the wild animals seem sweet and possibly cuddly, such as baby bears, it is extremely important to remember that all of the wildlife in Jasper National Park are just that, wild. Visitors to the park need to ensure they keep a safe distance from the animals to ensure both the animal and the visitor’s safety.

Although Jasper National Park inhabits such a diverse array of animals, not all of them frequent the areas closer to the Jasper town site.  For example, moose (the largest member of the deer family) generally live in the wetlands and can be typically seen around Maligne Lake, Pocahontas and Yellowhead Pass.  Big horn sheep and mountain goats can generally be found on highway 16 east or south on the Icefields parkway. These are a few of the animals in which you might see while visiting Jasper, however may only see them away from the town itself.

Among the 53 different types of species found in Jasper, some species are very unlikely to see. For example, the Woodland Caribou typically hide from visitors during the summer and retreat to the high alpine meadows.  The lynx, which is nocturnal, and the mountain lion (also known as a cougar) are both known to stay at higher elevations and away from people.

The wildlife that typically roam closer to the Jasper town site and are almost guaranteed to see include the white tailed deer, mule deer, elk, coyotes, wolves, black bear, and grizzly bear to name a few. Many of these animals roam the national park and have a tendency to frequent Becker’s Chalets. Throughout the year, elk can be seen playing, grazing or sleeping in the large grassy area near the center of Becker’s Chalets.  Herds of elk will gather on property and just roam the property. A black bear or grizzly bear (depending on whose first) tends to mark its territory there as well, making the possibility of seeing it on property quite high.  Many of the hotel guests love seeing so many wild animals from the comfort and safety of their cabin, with lots of picture opportunities for them to have.

Although it is very exciting to see the wildlife that Jasper National Park has to offer, please remember that this is their home.  We need to remember to treat these animals with the respect and space that they deserve and demand.

http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/ab/jasper/natcul/animaux-animals.aspx

Nanny Care that Comes to You!

In need of someone to watch over your children for a few hours while you and your family are on holidays? My Jasper Nanny has you covered. Among Jasper’s finest is this unique company that comes to your accommodation (both within the Jasper town site and outside of town), to take care of your babysitting needs. With a variety of skills to offer, safety courses taken and many great fun filled ideas – you can rest assured that Jasper’s best babysitting service will take the best of care of your children while ensuring that these children have tons of fun. 

My Jasper Nanny accepts children from newborns up until 13 years of age.  Each nanny (babysitter) is hired based on a variety of aspects including (but not limited to): childcare professionalism, reliability, outgoing attitude, and for their fun personality. They must love and be passionate for children of all ages, be over the age of 16 (and have a driver’s license if providing services outside of the Jasper town site), have current first aid and CPR training along with having a clear criminal record check. Each nanny also has many background and reference checks performed to ensure that each child receives the best care possible – giving you some peace of mind!

My Jasper Nanny ensures that your children are matched with the correct babysitter, enabling you to enjoy some alone time.  Whether you are traveling as a family and need childcare, or providing care during a family gathering, corporate event or wedding, My Jasper Nanny can take care of your childcare needs. Each nanny will ensure that your children are fully entertained through excursions to the playground (Becker’s Chalets has a playground and large field near the center of their property), crafts, games, movies, toys and nature walks. Each nanny is prepared with a backpack filled with age appropriate craft supplies, books and toys.

Planning on being away during meal time? Staying out later than bedtime? No problem. You provide the schedule and it will be followed. For meals, Becker’s Chalets does have a takeout menu to offer for dinner or the Jasper town site does have many restaurants that deliver to your door.

My Jasper Nanny offers your children the best babysitting services that Jasper has to offer. You will not be disappointed by the amount of fun your children are sure to have without you. To reserve your Jasper Nanny, please call them directly or make a booking through the My Jasper Nanny website.

http://myjaspernanny.ca/

Discover the top things to do in Jasper including riding up a mountain on the Jasper Tramway, hiking, canoeing, or shopping. Jasper offers incredible activities, tours, sightseeing, rafting, golf opportunities and more. Here is a list of some of things to do while staying with us... read more