THE ULTIMATE (JASPER) WINTER BUCKET LIST
As the entry point to epic adventure, Jasper is the perfect place to check some long-awaited adventures off your bucket list. We challenge you to venture beyond your comfort zone and accomplish some epic winter activities before the season is over!
1. SHRED THE SLOPES AT MARMOT BASIN
Known for its spectacular views, varied runs and laid-back atmosphere, Marmot Basin lays claim to the highest base elevation of all Canadian ski areas. With the mountain averaging over 400cm of natural snow from November to May, along with a state-of-the-art snowmaking system, skiers and snowboarders can enjoy superb conditions until the very last day of the season.
2. COZY UP FOR A DOG SLEDDING ADVENTURE
With surrounding views of snow-capped trees and mountain-silhouetted horizons, climb aboard one of Canada’s oldest forms of winter transportation: a dog sled. As you glide over the snow, sit back and relax with a guide from Cold Fire Creek Dogsledding and team of friendly Alaskan Huskies.
3. EXPLORE THE FROZEN WONDERS OF THE MALIGNE CANYON
Along with viewing majestic wildlife, you can choose to venture with anti-slip cleats in Maligne Canyon to explore frozen waterfalls, ice caves and incredible ice formations. Named for its haunting atmosphere, Maligne Canyon is the deepest canyon in the park, and is a must-see in the wintertime.
4. TAKE IN JASPER’S WILDEST INHABITANTS
The frozen lakes and rivers provide a great backdrop and contrast for the elk, deer, moose, wolves, sheep and coyotes that are still very active in winter. You can choose to go on the lookout yourself for wildlife, or increase your chances of finding epic animals by booking a winter wildlife tour with Maligne Adventures or Sundog Tours.
5. COUNT SHOOTING STARS
Renowned for its breathtaking dark sky, Jasper is the perfect place to embrace the night – whether you want to stare into the mesmerizing milky way or watch an awe-inspiring aurora.
Jasper’s dark sky is especially exceptional during the winter, so bundle up with some hot chocolate and watch it come alive!
Don’t know where to stargaze? Here are some suggestions to get you started.
For those who find the cool winter night air a bit daunting, the stars aren’t off limits! Gather under the dome of the Jasper Planetarium inside at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge instead! Offering special events, digital planetarium tours, and guided telescope viewing opportunities, the Planetarium’s experienced astronomy guides will personally take you on a tour or the cosmos. Specializing in the night sky above Jasper, visitors have the chance to see the stars above Jasper regardless of the weather. Don’t miss the chance to take in this exclusive look at the heavens over the lakes, canyons, glaciers and mountain tops of the second largest Dark Sky Preserve in the world.
6. CELEBRATE ALL WINTER HAS TO OFFER DURING JASPER IN JANUARY
Exploring otherwise unreachable paths has never been easier, especially during Jasper in January, where brave explorers can test their winter adventure skills throughout three core action-packed weekends.
From January 11-28, 2018, Jasper welcomes visitors to shred the slopes at Marmot Basin, savour the flavours at Jasper’s culinary establishments, and celebrate the 29th anniversary of Jasper in January at the annual ATCO Street Party and fireworks display.
Jasper in January has deals, events and activities to turn the biggest cold-weather humbug into a winter champion!
7. CONQUER A FROZEN WATERFALL
Challenge yourself with one of winter’s most exhilarating sports: ice climbing. In the winter, Jasper National Park is a mecca for ice climbers. Every type of climb can be found for climbers at all skill levels, from long alpine ice routes to short bolted mix and dry tooling routes.
No experience? No problem! Grab a guide from Rockaboo Mountain Adventures and learn for yourself that ice climbing is easier but just as fun as it looks!
8. TAKE IN THE MOST BEAUTIFUL DRIVE IN NORTH AMERICA
Considered one of the most spectacular drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway allows visitors to experience the awe-inspiring mountains, epic glaciers, frozen waterfalls and ice-covered lakes that define the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Make sure you’re prepared for winter driving and for the epic experience ahead by checking out our blog post: 5 Ways to Prepare for Your Winter Journey Down the Icefields Parkway!
9. GLIDE THROUGH JASPER’S TRAILS ON CROSS COUNTRY SKIS
Whether you enjoy short cross-country ski loops with gentle slopes or longer, more challenging routes, Jasper has a cross-country skiing adventure for you. The trails take you through scores of beautiful valleys and past magnificent lakes and mountain scenery.
10. PUT A SPIN ON WINTER WITH FAT BIKING
The mountains are no longer off-limits for adventurous winter cyclists!
Don’t know much about this new winter sport? Well, fat bike tires are almost twice the size of regular summer mountain biking tires, allowing the cyclist to stay on top of the snow rather than fighting against it to move. With the extra accessibility to this wintery new cycling terrain, it’s no surprise that fat biking has been quickly rising in popularity over the past few years.
If you’re looking to compete against other fat biking enthusiasts, participate in Frosty’s Fat Bike Race and Summit, happening during Jasper in January.