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Best Time to Visit Jasper National Park in 2025

Published May 9, 2025

8 min read

The best time to visit Jasper National Park is June through September if you want to explore the park’s walking or hiking trails during warmer weather, or December through March if you’d like to experience a winter wonderland. In every season, Jasper National Park offers breathtaking scenery, incredible wildlife viewing opportunities, and memorable train journeys. Keep reading to uncover travel tips that will help you plan an unforgettable Canadian Rockies adventure.

People hiking up a hill on a trail in Jasper, with view of mountains and river

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations are here to discuss how you can enjoy each of Canada's stunning seasons in a setting that showcases them at their best.

Here are some of Jasper's signature highlights, organized by season, to inspire your wanderlust.

Spring: March to May

Spring ushers Jasper National Park out of its cold winter and into a relatively warm summer. In this part of Canada, spring is regarded as the shoulder season. Temperatures in March can reach single digits, while daytime highs in May can reach 50 degrees. With the mild weather, visitors can enjoy being outside. The spring rainfall, combined with the snowmelt, makes the park's numerous waterfalls very photogenic. It's a great time for strolling alongside rushing rivers. In the latter half of spring, some wildflowers begin to bloom.

Outdoor Activities

Partake in adrenaline-pumping activities, such as mountain biking. Whitewater rafting tours usually start running in mid-May,
Spot bears in late spring, particularly in the early morning or late evening. Deer and elk are commonly seen during spring as well. In general, spring is an excellent time for wildlife viewing.
Explore the hiking trails around the valley bottom. Trails in the alpine are likely to still have snow during the spring and early summer.
Spring skiing at Marmot Basin is usually available until end of April.

[ Read: Things to Do in Jasper for Free ]

Temperature

Sometimes, there are blizzards, and other times the temperature is quite warm. Temperatures can vary from 30 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 to 15 degrees Celsius).

Key Events

Jasper Nordic Fest (March) The Jasper Nordic Fest (1) is a multi-day sports festival that attracts skiers and athletes from all over Western Canada. It features the newly established trails at Athabasca Falls and Whirlpool Hub. The festival has a range of events, including competitive skiing for families, leisure skiers, racers, and children.

Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon (April) Experience euphoria as you run a marathon backdropped by Jasper's stunning peaks. The most picturesque runs are frequently the most difficult. However, the Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon (2) provides runners with a well-maintained, fairly flat course. The runs are easily accessible to adoring crowds and provide some of the best scenery in the area.

[ Read: Best Time to go to Canadian Rockies ]

Kokanee Freeride (April) Marmot Basin Ski Resort hosts the greatest spring ski and snowboard party, Kokanee Freeride, in the spring.

Jasper Pride Festival (April) Over a thousand visitors travel from across the globe to participate in this 10-day pride event in the mountains. Jasper Pride Festival (3) celebrations include parties, skiing, burlesque shows, outdoor activities, and more. The opportunities for having fun are endless. The Pride Festival features a skiing parade at Marmot Basin, where the colorful rainbow flag is run down the mountain.

Explore: Canadian Rockies Train Tours

A group with a guide on a large red raft on the Athabasca River

Summer: June-August

Summer is the busiest season for tourists visiting Jasper. It is the perfect time to soak up the sun in the mountains. Temperatures range from the low 30s to the low 70s. The warm weather creates ideal conditions for water activities, like boat tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Most visitors during this season appreciate the alpine lakes. Summer is also a time when several fun events happen.

The chances of a dangerous cold front are lower in the summer than in any other season, so it is the preferable time of year for day hikes, backcountry adventures, camping, and more.

[ Read: Places to visit in Canada in Summer ]

Person in a red canoe paddling across a turquoise lake in Jasper

Outdoor Activities

Many people like to hike or bike through the rugged alpine terrain during summer. There are lots of trails to choose from.
There are many lakes to canoe or kayak on, including Lake Edith, Lac Beauvert, and Pyramid Lake.
Boat tours on Maligne Lake are possible between June and October.

[ Read: Best Time to visit Canada ]

Temperature

Ranges from 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (5 to 21 degrees Celsius).

Key Events

Gran Fondo (June) The Gran Fondo Jasper (4) is a long-distance cycling event held entirely inside the national park system. The ForteFondo category is for riders who wish to push themselves over two incredible mountain climbs: the Marmot Climb and the climb up Edith Cavell Road.

Canada Day (July 1) Canada Day (5) is a statutory holiday commemorating the founding of Canada. It is usually celebrated with fireworks shows, music events, barbecues, parades, and other patriotic activities. The country's largest Canada Day celebrations are usually held in Ottawa, directly in front of the parliament building.

Parks Day (July) Most provincial parks, as well as federal and municipal park agencies, participate in this annual event. Parks (6) host events where families can have fun while learning about the importance of parks, historical sites, the ecosystem, and habitat protection.

Explore: Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips

Fall: September to November

In September, the landscape transforms into a spectacular kaleidoscope of colours — yellow, red, and orange — and the setting is magical. Travellers can still catch 50-degree days in early fall, but temperatures drop into the tens by November. Despite the cooler temperatures, camping, hiking, and mountain biking are still relatively popular during September and October.

Tourists flock to Jasper in the fall to witness the explosion of colour. Animal lovers are likely to spot sheep and elk in this season.

View of fall colours by the river and mountains in Jasper

Outdoor Activities

This is the best time to go camping and hiking.
October is dark sky month and the northern lights might be visible.
Skiing is possible during November. Marmot Basin ski area usually opens mid-November, depending on the amount of snowfall.

Temperature

During the fall season, the temperature ranges from 50 to 17 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to -8 degrees Celsius).

Key Events

Jasper Dark Sky Festival (October) Each fall, Jasper National Park organizes its annual Dark Sky Festival (7). It is the most star-studded festival in the country, literally! A few places on the planet are better suited to host a festival devoted to the magic of stargazing. It is a great experience, away from the pollution of the big cities and surrounded by the beautiful Rockies. The Jasper SkyTram Star Sessions are one of the most popular events. The evening commences with a stargazing experience led by Jasper Planetarium experts.

Christmas in November (November) The most awaited event of the year is Christmas in November (8). In the land of a million Christmas trees, enjoy great food and wine with your friends and family. Enter through the "Home for the Holidays" gates at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and celebrate Christmas early.

Experience: Train Trip Across Canada

#1 Travel tip: Jasper Skytram Ride
Ride the Jasper Skytram, the Canadian Rockies' highest aerial tramway, between late March and October. The seven-minute journey up Whistlers Mountain offers beautiful panoramic views of Jasper National Park.

Hannah Poaros-McDermott
Travel Writer and Senior Content Coordinator

Winter: December-February

Winter is another wonderful season. Admire the snow-capped mountains and frozen lakes. Winter in Jasper National Park is cold, with highs barely reaching 20 degrees and lows falling below zero. However, those who brave the elements can participate in snowy adventures. It is the time of year for snowshoeing, skiing, and ice skating.

Three people standing on a platform looking at the snowy alpine landscape

Note that the park service closes some backcountry areas during the winter to protect the caribou. Places like Moraine Lake are inaccessible due to seasonal road closures. Sometimes the Icefields Parkway closes due to avalanche risks.

Outdoor Activities

The temperature drops during this time, creating ideal conditions for skiing.
The park has trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat biking.
It's possible to ice skate on Pyramid and Mildred lakes in the right conditions.

Temperature

Winter temperatures range from 23 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-5 to -15 degrees Celsius), with January being the coldest.

Key Events

Frosty's Fat Bike Race Series (January) Frosty's Fat Bike Race Series (9) was founded in 2014 for cyclists looking to test their mental fortitude and physical fitness. The Nordic Valley resort hosts two events in Frosty's Fat Bike Race Series: cross-country and downhill races. There are no current dates for this event.

Jasper Beer & Spirits Festival (February) The festival (10), held at the world-famous Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, offers a unique spirit/beer/food experience. It combines the spirits of beer festivals, fascinating story-time seminars, and wilderness adventures. Each evening of the two-night festival showcases different recipes of alcoholic concoctions and foods prepared by JPL's amazing chefs! Throughout the day, hear passionate tales from some of the world's best brewers, distillers, and other guests.

Devour! The Canadian Rockies Food Film Festival (February) Discover a passion for food and film in the stunning Jasper National Park. Cozy up in the Rockies while celebrating cinema and indulging in fine food and wine. This event is also hosted at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Tasty eats, artsy films, and workshops are a few of the activities to look forward to during this festival (11). There are no dates released for 2024.

Experience: The Canadian Train

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. Our brochures are here to help.

Explore our brochures

Why Jasper National Park Is Worth Visiting In Winter

Winter is an amazing time of year to visit Jasper National Park and witness its spectacular snow-covered mountain peaks. The experience is truly magical. This season generally has lower service costs, fewer crowds, and secluded snowy landscapes. Outdoor enthusiasts will find a plethora of enjoyable activities. There are paths within the park for visitors to explore. Skiing, fat biking and snowshoeing are popular activities during this season. Jasper National Park is open in the winter, and here's why you should go.

#2 Travel tip: Always have layers
No matter which month you visit Jasper, bring a range of clothing, including a windproof jacket. Even on hot summer days, temperatures and weather conditions at higher elevations can change quickly.

Louise Weiss
Director of Legendary Hospitality

Visit The Maligne Canyon

Maligne Canyon is one of the most scenic spots in Jasper National Park. It's worth visiting both in the summer and winter. Touring Maligne Canyon in winter is a memorable experience. The rock formations and frozen waterfalls are breathtaking, making this winter wonderland an incredible place to visit.

The narrow canyon and icefalls make for a very photogenic scene. The pathways along the canyon allow you to explore the site from every angle. Visitors can go ice climbing or walk around the canyon, but the safest way to do so is with a certified mountain guide. A Maligne Canyon Icewalk tour is an optional activity on our Rockies Rail Winter Wonderland trip.

Two people exploring a canyon cave in the snow

Explore The Maligne Road

Driving down the Maligne Road in the winter, you will be amazed at every turn. Along the way, there are numerous natural attractions, including Maligne Lake. The region is home to a variety of wildlife, such as bighorn sheep and moose, which tourists are likely to spot along the way.

Panoramic view of Medicine Lake covered in snow during winter

Maligne Lake

Jasper National Park has no shortage of crystal-clear lakes. The Maligne Lake, only a 45-minute drive from Jasper, is 22 kilometres (13.6 miles) long and feeds the canyon below. In the winter, you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing near the frozen, snow-covered lake. Maligne Lake is one of the most tranquil lakes in the Canadian Rockies and has received accolades for its natural beauty. When spending a few days in Jasper National Park, you must visit Maligne Lake.

Go Skiing At Marmot Basin

Skiing at Marmot Basin is an awesome winter outdoor activity in Jasper National Park. The Basin is approximately a 30-minute drive away from Jasper and is one of Western Canada's most impressive ski resorts. The location promises an incredible skiing experience. Moreover, the views from the chairlift tops are unmatched.

A skier standing at the top of a run looking at the snowy mountains ahead

Most Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need to explore Jasper National Park?

Given the abundant hiking trails, it is possible to spend months in Jasper National Park without becoming bored. We recommend that you stay in Jasper for at least two to three days. During this time, you can explore some of the best sites in the area, visit numerous lakes, relax in hot pools, and go on day-long hikes.

What is the low season in Jasper?

Low season (also known as shoulder season or off-season) in the Rockies runs from September to October and from April to May.

Is Banff better than Jasper?

Banff has more to offer in terms of convenience and accessibility to mountains. Jasper is more difficult to reach. However, Jasper is a charming mountain town, with fewer people and visitors. Banff has a more upscale feel, with high-end outdoor stores like Helly Hansen, Canada Goose, and Fjallraven lining Banff Ave.

Is the Jasper skywalk worth it?

The Icefield Skywalk is an experience you will not find anywhere else in Canada. Experience a rush as you look down from the glass bridge and see the valley below, surrounded by mountains.

Does Jasper have hot springs?

The hottest mineral springs in the Canadian Rockies can be found at Miette Hot Springs in Alberta's Jasper National Park.

About the author: Katherine is Director of Product with Fresh Tracks Canada. Having worked in the Canadian travel industry for almost 20 years, she enjoys sharing her local expertise with visitors. She is based in Calgary and one of her favourite Canadian destination is... Read more

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HomeTrue North Blog

Best Time to Visit Jasper National Park in 2025

Published May 9, 2025

8 min read

The travel experts at Canadian Train Vacations are here to discuss how you can enjoy each of Canada's stunning seasons in a setting that showcases them at their best.

Here are some of Jasper's signature highlights, organized by season, to inspire your wanderlust.

Spring: March to May

Outdoor Activities

Partake in adrenaline-pumping activities, such as mountain biking. Whitewater rafting tours usually start running in mid-May,
Spot bears in late spring, particularly in the early morning or late evening. Deer and elk are commonly seen during spring as well. In general, spring is an excellent time for wildlife viewing.
Explore the hiking trails around the valley bottom. Trails in the alpine are likely to still have snow during the spring and early summer.
Spring skiing at Marmot Basin is usually available until end of April.

[ Read: Things to Do in Jasper for Free ]

Temperature

Sometimes, there are blizzards, and other times the temperature is quite warm. Temperatures can vary from 30 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit (-1 to 15 degrees Celsius).

Key Events

Jasper Nordic Fest (March) The Jasper Nordic Fest (1) is a multi-day sports festival that attracts skiers and athletes from all over Western Canada. It features the newly established trails at Athabasca Falls and Whirlpool Hub. The festival has a range of events, including competitive skiing for families, leisure skiers, racers, and children.

Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon (April) Experience euphoria as you run a marathon backdropped by Jasper's stunning peaks. The most picturesque runs are frequently the most difficult. However, the Jasper Canadian Rockies Half Marathon (2) provides runners with a well-maintained, fairly flat course. The runs are easily accessible to adoring crowds and provide some of the best scenery in the area.

[ Read: Best Time to go to Canadian Rockies ]

Kokanee Freeride (April) Marmot Basin Ski Resort hosts the greatest spring ski and snowboard party, Kokanee Freeride, in the spring.

Jasper Pride Festival (April) Over a thousand visitors travel from across the globe to participate in this 10-day pride event in the mountains. Jasper Pride Festival (3) celebrations include parties, skiing, burlesque shows, outdoor activities, and more. The opportunities for having fun are endless. The Pride Festival features a skiing parade at Marmot Basin, where the colorful rainbow flag is run down the mountain.

Explore: Canadian Rockies Train Tours

Summer: June-August

The chances of a dangerous cold front are lower in the summer than in any other season, so it is the preferable time of year for day hikes, backcountry adventures, camping, and more.

[ Read: Places to visit in Canada in Summer ]

Outdoor Activities

Many people like to hike or bike through the rugged alpine terrain during summer. There are lots of trails to choose from.
There are many lakes to canoe or kayak on, including Lake Edith, Lac Beauvert, and Pyramid Lake.
Boat tours on Maligne Lake are possible between June and October.

[ Read: Best Time to visit Canada ]

Temperature

Ranges from 40 to 70 degrees Fahrenheit (5 to 21 degrees Celsius).

Key Events

Gran Fondo (June) The Gran Fondo Jasper (4) is a long-distance cycling event held entirely inside the national park system. The ForteFondo category is for riders who wish to push themselves over two incredible mountain climbs: the Marmot Climb and the climb up Edith Cavell Road.

Canada Day (July 1) Canada Day (5) is a statutory holiday commemorating the founding of Canada. It is usually celebrated with fireworks shows, music events, barbecues, parades, and other patriotic activities. The country's largest Canada Day celebrations are usually held in Ottawa, directly in front of the parliament building.

Parks Day (July) Most provincial parks, as well as federal and municipal park agencies, participate in this annual event. Parks (6) host events where families can have fun while learning about the importance of parks, historical sites, the ecosystem, and habitat protection.

Explore: Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips

Fall: September to November

Tourists flock to Jasper in the fall to witness the explosion of colour. Animal lovers are likely to spot sheep and elk in this season.

Outdoor Activities

This is the best time to go camping and hiking.
October is dark sky month and the northern lights might be visible.
Skiing is possible during November. Marmot Basin ski area usually opens mid-November, depending on the amount of snowfall.

Temperature

During the fall season, the temperature ranges from 50 to 17 degrees Fahrenheit (10 to -8 degrees Celsius).

Key Events

Jasper Dark Sky Festival (October) Each fall, Jasper National Park organizes its annual Dark Sky Festival (7). It is the most star-studded festival in the country, literally! A few places on the planet are better suited to host a festival devoted to the magic of stargazing. It is a great experience, away from the pollution of the big cities and surrounded by the beautiful Rockies. The Jasper SkyTram Star Sessions are one of the most popular events. The evening commences with a stargazing experience led by Jasper Planetarium experts.

Christmas in November (November) The most awaited event of the year is Christmas in November (8). In the land of a million Christmas trees, enjoy great food and wine with your friends and family. Enter through the "Home for the Holidays" gates at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge and celebrate Christmas early.

Experience: Train Trip Across Canada

#1 Travel tip: Jasper Skytram Ride
Ride the Jasper Skytram, the Canadian Rockies' highest aerial tramway, between late March and October. The seven-minute journey up Whistlers Mountain offers beautiful panoramic views of Jasper National Park.

Hannah Poaros-McDermott
Travel Writer and Senior Content Coordinator

Winter: December-February

Outdoor Activities

The temperature drops during this time, creating ideal conditions for skiing.
The park has trails for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and fat biking.
It's possible to ice skate on Pyramid and Mildred lakes in the right conditions.

Temperature

Winter temperatures range from 23 to 5 degrees Fahrenheit (-5 to -15 degrees Celsius), with January being the coldest.

Key Events

Frosty's Fat Bike Race Series (January) Frosty's Fat Bike Race Series (9) was founded in 2014 for cyclists looking to test their mental fortitude and physical fitness. The Nordic Valley resort hosts two events in Frosty's Fat Bike Race Series: cross-country and downhill races. There are no current dates for this event.

Jasper Beer & Spirits Festival (February) The festival (10), held at the world-famous Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, offers a unique spirit/beer/food experience. It combines the spirits of beer festivals, fascinating story-time seminars, and wilderness adventures. Each evening of the two-night festival showcases different recipes of alcoholic concoctions and foods prepared by JPL's amazing chefs! Throughout the day, hear passionate tales from some of the world's best brewers, distillers, and other guests.

Devour! The Canadian Rockies Food Film Festival (February) Discover a passion for food and film in the stunning Jasper National Park. Cozy up in the Rockies while celebrating cinema and indulging in fine food and wine. This event is also hosted at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Tasty eats, artsy films, and workshops are a few of the activities to look forward to during this festival (11). There are no dates released for 2024.

Experience: The Canadian Train

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Find out what is included in your trip and have all your questions answered. Our brochures are here to help.

Explore our brochures

Why Jasper National Park Is Worth Visiting In Winter

#2 Travel tip: Always have layers
No matter which month you visit Jasper, bring a range of clothing, including a windproof jacket. Even on hot summer days, temperatures and weather conditions at higher elevations can change quickly.

Louise Weiss
Director of Legendary Hospitality

Visit The Maligne Canyon

Explore The Maligne Road

Maligne Lake

Go Skiing At Marmot Basin

Most Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need to explore Jasper National Park?

What is the low season in Jasper?

Low season (also known as shoulder season or off-season) in the Rockies runs from September to October and from April to May.

Is Banff better than Jasper?

Is the Jasper skywalk worth it?

The Icefield Skywalk is an experience you will not find anywhere else in Canada. Experience a rush as you look down from the glass bridge and see the valley below, surrounded by mountains.

Does Jasper have hot springs?

The hottest mineral springs in the Canadian Rockies can be found at Miette Hot Springs in Alberta's Jasper National Park.

Discover More

About Canadian trains

Trips by interest

Explore regions

Useful Links

Explore Canada

Popular Train Trips

Canadian Train Vacations

| |

Best Time to Visit Jasper National Park in 2025

Spring: March to May

Outdoor Activities

Temperature

Key Events

Explore: Canadian Rockies Train Tours

Summer: June-August

[ Read: Places to visit in Canada in Summer ]

Outdoor Activities

Temperature

Key Events

Explore: Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips

Fall: September to November

Outdoor Activities

Temperature

Key Events

Winter: December-February

Outdoor Activities

Temperature

Key Events

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Why Jasper National Park Is Worth Visiting In Winter

Visit The Maligne Canyon

Explore The Maligne Road

Maligne Lake

Go Skiing At Marmot Basin

Most Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need to explore Jasper National Park?

What is the low season in Jasper?

Is Banff better than Jasper?

Is the Jasper skywalk worth it?

Does Jasper have hot springs?

Related Content

Fun Facts About Jasper National Park

10 Fun Things to Do in Jasper National Park

15 Most Beautiful Lakes in Jasper

Canadian Rockies in Winter

Best Things to Do in Jasper

Discover More

Spring: March to May

Outdoor Activities

Temperature

Key Events

Explore: Canadian Rockies Train Tours

Summer: June-August

[ Read: Places to visit in Canada in Summer ]

Outdoor Activities

Temperature

Key Events

Explore: Rocky Mountaineer Train Trips

Fall: September to November

Outdoor Activities

Temperature

Key Events

Winter: December-February

Outdoor Activities

Temperature

Key Events

Download our Brochures and Mini Guides

Why Jasper National Park Is Worth Visiting In Winter

Visit The Maligne Canyon

Explore The Maligne Road

Maligne Lake

Go Skiing At Marmot Basin

Most Frequently Asked Questions

How many days do you need to explore Jasper National Park?

What is the low season in Jasper?

Is Banff better than Jasper?

Is the Jasper skywalk worth it?

Does Jasper have hot springs?

Related Content

Fun Facts About Jasper National Park

10 Fun Things to Do in Jasper National Park

15 Most Beautiful Lakes in Jasper

Canadian Rockies in Winter

Best Things to Do in Jasper

Discover More

Spring: March to May

Outdoor Activities

Temperature