Jasper is a small alpine town of about 4,600 people in the middle of Jasper National Park. It is the perfect place to stay for all of the activities available in the park. The town has everything you will need for your stay – grocery stores, restaurants, breweries, and of course, gift shops.
On this trip we stayed at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge – a luxury resort on the shores of Lac Beauvert. I have never stayed at a luxury hotel or resort before so this was a treat. Even though it was for just one night, it was a wonderful experience. If I had the means, I would travel this way all the time.
While there are a myriad of things do to in Jasper such as hiking, biking, river rafting, skiing (in the winter), I generally come to view the wildlife and dramatic scenery.
One of the best places to see wildlife is along the Maligne (pronounced Ma-leen) Lake Road between Jasper and Maligne Lake. It is a winding road about 35 miles but allow yourself one to one and a half hours to make the drive because you will probably want to stop for the wildlife and scenery. On this trip we saw four sightings of moose and two black bear. On our last trip two years ago, we had two grizzly sightings. Being that we were there in late May, it was light out until well after 10:00.
If you are in Jasper in late spring or summer, you can take the Maligne Lake cruise to Spirit Island. It is only accessible by boat or canoe. If you’re up for it, the canoe ride will take you about 4 hours each way.
The first time I was in Jasper, we asked one of the locals where the best place to get coffee was and we were directed to the Snowdome Coffee Bar. It is a coffee bar inside of a laundromat so you can wash your clothes and have some of the best coffee around. And I was impressed by the talented barista who allowed me to video her talent. And while you’re at it, enjoy one of their muffins or cookies. And if you want a sugar rush – have a Naniamo bar.
Next time I go to Jasper, it will be for more than one night.
Through My Lens 
Wonderful pictures. I never stayed at the Lodge, but I did play at the golf course a few times. Once play was interrupted by coyotes wandering into the fairway. Another time our tee time was delayed until the frost melted on the fairways–that was in late August. A different climate, for sure!
The golf course at that resort is supposed to be one of the best in Canada. We were told that they’ve had just about every animal in that area on the golf course at one time or another. It was extraordinarily hot while we were there – in the upper 80’s.
It certainly looks like a place that would repay a visit of several days. Beautiful pictures all round. today.
I will go back again. I just don’t know when. 🙂
I can absolutely see why you’d want to stay longer next time, Maralee!
It may be a couple of years from now, but I will go back.
I also think that it is the best way to feel the NP when you’re staying in a lodge although it is more expensive. But no money in world can beat the feelings to be in the heart of this breathtaking landscape! Thanks for showing Maralee!
There are a lot of resorts and cabins in the area so next time I will book several days so I can see and do more.
Great trip…so pleased you are taking us along. I guess it is one of those places where you feel that however long you are visiting for …it is never long enough 🙂
Next time I will spend more time there.
Epic photos!!! Inspiring.
Thank you very much.
Love the reflections shots.
Thank you, Teri.