I know this might sound crazy but winter is kind of my favourite time to visit Jasper. This season brings it’s own level of quiet and peace, nothing beats the sound of snow flakes falling and the crunch underfoot, but the fact that the area isn’t packed with visitors during this time of year is a big part of the draw for me as well. Jasper still falls within the “hidden gem” category and you can still find Rocky Mountain solitude at the following locations this winter;
- Marmot Basin
Sometimes I wonder if people outside of Alberta know there is a world class ski hill right outside the town of Jasper? Marmot Basin is really special as the highest base elevation of all Canadian ski hills. Just driving up to it is half the fun. It’s not crawling with people like its counterparts in Banff and offers just as much natural powder and snow. It’s a must visit.
- 2. Edge Of the World
While you’re up the Marmot Basin road, make sure you have your snowshoes in your vehicle and park as close to the entrance as you can. Throw your snowshoes on and make your way toward the Edge of the World trail head. This is a nice short trail that I’ve previously written about but the views make it worth mentioning again for my Winter Top 5. Check out my blog post on this specific spot for more tips and click the All Trails link above for finer details.
- 3. Athabasca Falls
Athabasca Falls is another world renowned location that I feel lucky to be able to visit year round. The falls are magnificent when we get our spring melt, likewise, in summer they’re surrounded by lush alpine forest. In the winter not only are the falls peaceful and the most brilliant turquoise but you can find yourself enjoying them all alone. You can get the shot that you’ve been wanting without having to edit crowds of people out in the background. Honourable mention to snow capped mount Kerkeslin in the Athabasca Valley transforming any photo of the falls into a scenic winter wonderland.
- 4. Old Fort Point
I can’t even count the number of times we’ve hiked this location. Old Fort Point is a must see while you’re in Jasper this winter if you’re wanting to spot some big horn sheep up close. It just makes sense to include this hike in my list due to its location alone. If it’s snowing and you don’t want to travel far from the town, grab your ice cleats and snowshoes or rent some at Pure Outdoors (don’t even get me started on how great this store is, they’ve got the best adventure tips in town too) and head a few minutes away to Old Fort Point. You’ll have to be prepared because this area can be snow covered and require shoes, but more than likely it will be packed down and wind blown and your cleats will be the gear you want to have on hand. The elevation is minimal and gradual so it’s a great choice for winter but it is enough that you’ll want to set aside a few hours to complete the loop in snowy conditions. I also recommend going clockwise around the loop to end at the most gorgeous views of the Athabasca River and the chance to spot the family of sheep that always seem to be around. Check All Trails for specifics and I recommend checking the comments for current trail conditions before you head out.
- 5. Maligne Canyon
Maligne Canyon is another Jasper hike that has you braving the crowds to visit in the summer (it’s worth it for the views) but when I tell you it’s even better in the winter, I mean it. You need to grab your ice cleats and head there first thing in the morning because you will not want to leave. It is a slippery descent to the bottom of the canyon but once you’re there, walking along the canyon floor is unmatched and I’m convinced there aren’t many places in the world where you can walk the floor of such a deep canyon, passing by frozen waterfalls and enjoying the history painted across the walls of the canyon. I only recommend taking the trip on your own if you’re a seasoned winter adventurer. There are just too many hazards if you’re inexperienced, but not to worry, Sun Dog Tours offers a guided tour of the canyon and they provide the expertise and supply the gear that you will need.
Winter hiking brings extra hazards so I can’t stress enough that you check the reviews on All Trails. People are great with posting reviews and current conditions on these trails. I always use the app as a point of reference to see if there is wildlife in the area that will make travel unsafe. Secondarily, checking the reviews can help with being prepared with the right gear or involving an expert. We always choose shorter hikes in the winter and we still bring our bear spray, bear bells and our hike N strike hiking stick for predator safety. Bring plenty of water, warm layers and go get that mountain air.
My recommendations on where to stay while you’re visiting the park in the linked blog post. Happy travelling!
This is great information, really appreciate the content and expertise behind your recommendations.
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I didn’t realize how beautiful Edge of the World is during winter. Time to get the snow shoes out! Thanks for the recommendations!