"Opened in 1915 as Tent City—a string of luxury canvas tents along Lac Beauvert, with vistas of Whistlers Peak and Pyramid Mountain—the iconic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge was possibly North America’s first “glamping” site. The destination proved wildly popular, and in 1922 a main lodge was opened, as well as a series of luxury log cabins spread across 700 acres in the heart of Jasper National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Bristling with Douglas firs and pine trees, the property sees herds of elk nibbling the grass, chipmunks scurrying through the trees, and even the occasional bear. The 442 rooming options—all of which were renovated between 2015 and 2017—include cozy spots in the main building, fireplace-equipped Junior Suites, and bring-the-whole-family Signature Cabins, all with views across the lake or the forest and mountains. The newly introduced Estate Cabins, located near the golf course, feature a private gated entrance for a more residential feel. Classic lodge-style interior design is the order of the day in the cabins, with wood beams and a combination of earthy and granite tones, while rooms and suites are clean-lined and decked out in fresh white bedding and light wood accents. Play a few rounds on the Stanley Thompson-designed 18-hole golf course—regularly voted among the best in Canada—enjoy scenic walks and mountain hikes, or take advantage of the 10-room spa, which includes a sauna, steam room, and panoramic relaxation lounge. The restaurants celebrate regional flavors and fresh local produce, thanks to partnerships with local farms; don’t miss a sunset drink at The Emerald Lounge & Patio, which overlooks the lake, Whistler’s Range, and the east face of Mount Edith Cavell.Thanks to the picture-perfect views and the family-friendly accommodations, the Lodge is also a popular venue for destination weddings."

"It takes patience and good fortune to create a unique image in a place considered Canada’s second-most-photographed landscape. The Through the Lens Cruise on Maligne Lake gives amateur and professional shutterbugs such an opportunity. While in the boat, the onboard instructor talks technique and composition with aspiring photographers and challenges seasoned veterans to try new perspectives. Once the group arrives at Spirit Island, everyone spends an hour framing the perfect shot. The cruise experience hasn’t changed much since Jasper National Park pioneers Curly Philips and Fred Brewster set up shop at Maligne Lake in the 1920s."

"Hiking Wilcox Pass in Jasper National Park Even after being chased off by strong winds and an incoming storm, Wilcox Pass is currently holding the title of my favorite day hike in the Canadian Rockies. Beginning just north of the Banff National Park border, this eight kilometer trail wanders through the forest and quickly emerges above the tree line to some outstanding views of surrounding peaks and glaciers."

"The jewel of Jasper National Forest, Angel Glacier is a remnant of a retreating glacier on Mount Edith Cavell's north face. (The glacier's name is a reference to its white "wings" of ice.) Venture to the bottom and you'll find a small, jade-colored glacial pool called Cavell Pond, where icebergs bob serenely in the water, refusing to reveal the secrets they've witnessed over thousands of years. The hike from the parking lot itself is quite fascinating, as the paved trail takes you through a lunar, rocky moraine. This is an experience to be treasured: Given the rapid pace at which the world's glaciers are vanishing, there may no longer be an angel to see in the near future. By Chris Franek"

"Maligne Canyon Icewalk Slide into your warmest winter boots, strap on a pair of ice cleats, and bundle on an extra layer before descending into the Maligne Canyon for a unique Jasper experience. Curving rock walls create the perfect labyrinth to explore the depths of this frozen winter wonderland. Dazzling towers of blue-green ice stretch 50 meters overhead, fossils dot the canyon floor, and caverns drop into the abyss. The three major highlights all dazzle in their own way. The Grotto is a fast-flowing waterfall hidden beneath a giant curtain of ice. Angel Falls is a training ground for local ice climbers, and the Queen of the Maligne is a giant, freestanding ice tower. It’s ever-changing, but it’s often good to slip behind the entire column for a truly unique view. Designated as a Canadian Signature Experience by the Canadian Tourism Commission, the entire adventure is led by qualified guides who are familiar with the local geography—the canyon is part of the largest Karst System in North America—wildlife, and, perhaps most importantly, ice conditions. It’s also Jasper’s most popular winter tour because it’s fascinating for every member of the family. The Maligne Canyon Ice Walk season typically lasts from December to March, weather dependent. The tours last three hours, including two hours outside. All tours offer hotel pickup, too, so visiting Maligne Canyon is as easy as booking online."

"Ski Marmot Basin As the only ski area in Jasper National Park, Ski Marmot Basin is surrounded by pristine wilderness. And the mountain, with plenty of above-treeline skiing, offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies from the top of every chairlift. It’s also one of the few resorts to have a beginner or intermediate run from the top of every chairlift, so the entire family will be able to explore the mountain together. Expert skiers will find adventure either from the Knob Chair or in Eagle Ridge East, where steep treed runs descend all the way to the base area. Intermediate and beginner skiiers often favor the Canadian Rockies Express (the longest high-speed quad chair in the Rockies) and Paradise lifts, which access wide-open groomed runs. For anyone looking to improve their skiing, Ski Marmot Basin’s ski school offers programs for all level of skiers. Whether it’s a group or private lesson, the class will focus on improving technique and learning the mountain. In need of a break? Marmot Basin’s mid-mountain Paradise Chalet and base area Caribou Chalet each serve classic western fare and full bar services. Ski Marmot Basin’s season lasts six months, from early November until May."

"National Park Pilsner Opened in 2005, the Jasper Brewing Company was the first brewpub within a Canadian national park. It is now a local’s staple hangout. Seven different beers—like the Rockhopper IPA and Honey Bear Ale—are brewed on location, so make sure to order a brewery tour along with a fresh pint. The food menu is pub fare with a special flare to help bring out the flavors of the beer. The brewpub, open daily from 11:30am to 1:00am, is child-friendly, too, as the venue is divided into two, with both a restaurant and pub. Beer from $5.50. Contact 1-780-852-4111."

"Exploring a Glacier - from Mid-Air Jasper National Park’s newest attraction, the Glacier Skywalk, opened earlier this year as part of several features at the Glacier Discovery Center. After parking at the center, take a quick bus ride to the Skywalk. A free audio tour introduces the local ecosystem - it's a nice accompaniment to the stroll along the nature exhibits on the way to the platform. Once you finally reach the engineering marvel – anticipation building – take a step out onto the 1.5-inch thick glass that hovers over the Sunwapta Valley below. Peering down the valley reveals a glimpse of the Athabasca Glacier (though you’ll have to head down the road to get a good view of the whole thing). From the Skywalk you’ll see waterfalls, endless trees, and maybe even a mountain goat or two. Visiting first thing in the morning means less crowds and more freedom to really explore the Skywalk. The best thing about the attraction? The view is still amazing even if you are too nervous to go out very far on the glass. Photo and travel courtesy of Travel Alberta ."

"Stretching a formidable 27 miles, Jasper's Skyline Trail is a challenge for all but the most seasoned hikers. The journey is worth undertaking—nearly two-thirds of the route is above the tree line, which means you'll enjoy stunning panoramic views as the rule rather than the exception. The path runs from Maligne Lake back to the town of Jasper at the foot of Signal Mountain, traversing the Maligne Range mountains in the middle. There's a short window during which you can enjoy this trail, typically from late July until mid-September. The classic trip includes two nights of camping at Snowbowl and Tekarra campgrounds, but if you're pressed for time, hike like the locals: Many Jasperites choose to start early and finish late, conquering the entire length in a single day."

"Road Cycling in Jasper National Park When the 2015 Tour of Alberta passed through Jasper, it showed the world what many locals already knew: Jasper National Park is one of Canada 's best cycling destinations and likely the most underrated. Parks Canada is buying into cycling in a big way and the Marmot Basin road is now designated as a Tour of Alberta classic. Signs were recently put in place, counting down the 10-km distance and listing the current road grades. Aside from the Marmot Basin Road, absolute classic rides include the Edith Cavell Road, the Athabasca Falls Loop and the out-and-back to Maligne Lake. Contact the Jasper National Park information centre for more details: +1 780-852-6176"

"Curry in the Canadian Rockies Jasper National Park recently received a solid boost to its tastebuds when Jasper Curry Place opened its doors. It's the first indian-inspired restaurant in Jasper and its been a booming success it opened its doors in June 2015. The lunch menu is a series of entress from Butter Chicken to Korma Masala, while the dinner is served buffet-style with a rotating selection of mains."

"Best Western Jasper Inn and Suites Ask a local where to stay in Jasper and you'll likely hear more recommendations for the Jasper Inn and Suites than any other property. Thanks to Best Western's recent reinvention, which puts the chain among industry leaders for cleanliness and comfort, you can bank on a quality room for the price. And the part the locals enjoy most? The Inn Grill, which is the Best Western's onsite restaurant. Serving up a killer mix of pub fare and pizza, alongside quality Alberta beef main courses, it's one of the few hotel restaurants in town that sees familiar faces returning again and again. Room rates vary throughout the year. Call to inquire: 1-800-661-1933 | Located at 98 Geikie St, Jasper, Alberta"