Your guide to the hidden treasures in Jasper National Park – some of Jasper’s best-kept secrets are now out.
Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is often forgotten as a remote part of central Alberta, with the adjacent Banff National Park taking the spotlight for most visitors. As the relatively quiet and secluded cousin of tourist hotspots in Lake Louise and Banff, Jasper’s charm is unrivalled, from the quaint town frozen in time to ancient glaciers along one of the most scenic drives in the world. Not to mention the thrill of discovering Jasper’s best-kept secrets.
Among the allure of visiting Jasper is the solitude it provides away from the hubbub of crowded national parks in spring, summer, and fall, as well as vast snowy slopes in the winter for skiing and snowboarding, which you can get all to yourself.
Once you have decided to visit this laid-back haven, we suggest exploring these hidden gems, off-the-beaten-path and experiencing the park’s pristine preserved natural beauty.
Cover photo credit: Ryan Bray
1. Old Fort Point
Old Fort Point (#1 on the map) is at the top of our list for this hour-long hike loop, which provides the absolute best view of Jasper. You will encounter some very steep climbs to get to the highest point. But it’s worth the extra effort to take in the spectacle of 360-degree views. Starting at the Athabasca River, the hike starts nice and easy, with several sights on the way to the top. Once at the peak, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of the town of Jasper, the Athabasca River Basin, Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, and Lac Beauvert.
Even more spectacular is doing this hike at night to bask in the starlit sky and watch the Milky Way twinkling.
Expert Tip from Parks Canada: Your guide to spotting and naming all the mountains from this viewpoint and impressing a few friends:
- “Mt. Edith Cavell (always snow-streaked) to the south,
- The Whistlers (mountain with the tramway terminal near the top) to the southwest,
- the valley of the Miette River leading west toward Yellowhead Pass and B.C.,
- the town of Jasper across the Athabasca River,
- the reddish quartzite of the Victoria Cross Range to the northwest beyond the town (the peak with a microwave relay station on top is Pyramid Mountain),
- Lac Beauvert and Jasper Park Lodge to the north (other lakes visible northward: Annette and Edith),
- the gray limestone of the Colin Range to the northeast,
- rounded Signal Mountain and the cliffs of Mt. Tekarra to the east, and to the southeast,
- Mt. Hardisty (sloping layers)
- and Mt. Kerkeslin (layers bowed gently down).”
2. Bighorn Sheep
The population of these beautiful Bighorn sheep are abundant throughout Jasper National Park – and Jasper’s best-kept secret in every season. They can be spotted on slopes and along the famous Icefield Parkway in all seasons – watch the Rams butt heads in the fall during mating season. Experience the wildlife via self-guided or expert-guided tours.
Best-Kept Secret: Disaster Point (#2 on the map) is great for spotting mountain goats and Bighorn Sheep.
3. Tonquin Valley
This is heaven for backcountry lovers. The landscape in Tonquin Valley (#3 on the map) is out of sci-fi movies – vast barren mountains of unmistakable Ramparts, acres of wildflowers, Amethyst Lake and massive glaciers.
There are several trail options for both medium to hard hikes. Opal Hills and Cavell Meadows are shorter, quicker trips, and those seeking longer, more challenging hikes can choose Maccarib Pass. None are likely to disappoint.
Best-Kept Secret: The valley is home to bears, caribou, marmots, and a large, diverse wildlife.
Always check Parks Canada before embarking on any backcountry outing. They will have the most up-to-date information regarding the area.
4. Geraldine Lakes
Chasing lakes and waterfalls in Jasper National Park is an adventure sport. The hike to the first Geraldine Lake (trailhead #4 on the map) is a 3.6 forested km loop, with the first waterfall visible just off the lake. The climbs get steep from hereon to the second Geraldine Lake. There are two additional Geraldine Lakes to continue this hike for the super adventurous looking to up the challenge.
Best-Kept Secret: A short detour from the upper lake reveals a small, secluded island perfect for quiet reflection or a scenic lunch spot. Few hikers venture here, making it a pristine escape surrounded by stunning mountain views. Follow the shoreline trail beyond the main lookout, and you’ll spot a narrow natural bridge leading to the island. Be sure to tread carefully and leave no trace.
5. Horseriding in Jasper
Did you know you could get private horse riding lessons at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge (#5 on the map)? The experience of going around Lake Annette and the Athabasca River trails is enhanced on horseback as you meander through old-growth forests and learn the equestrian art. Try your beginner or intermediate course today.
Jasper’s best-kept secrets offer a quieter, more intimate side of this world-renowned national park. From panoramic viewpoints to secluded alpine lakes, these hidden gems promise unforgettable experiences for every kind of traveller. So, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and get ready to explore the wild heart of Jasper like never before.
