Jasper National Park is a breathtaking expanse of pristine wilderness located in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. With its towering peaks, shimmering lakes, and abundant wildlife, it’s no wonder that Jasper is one of Canada’s most popular national parks. May is an ideal time to visit Jasper, as the weather is typically mild and the crowds are smaller than during the summer peak season. Here are 9 of the best things to do in Jasper National Park May 2024:
Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper National Park is a breathtaking wilderness playground. Its pristine lakes, towering peaks, and abundant wildlife make it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. And with its convenient location just a few hours’ drive from Edmonton and Calgary, Jasper is easily accessible for a weekend getaway or an extended vacation.
While Jasper is beautiful year-round, May is an especially magical time to visit. The weather is typically mild and sunny, with average temperatures ranging from 5 to 15 degrees Celsius (41 to 59 degrees Fahrenheit). The park is also less crowded in May, so you can enjoy the tranquility of nature without the hustle and bustle of peak season.
1. Hike the Sulphur Skyline Trail
This is one of the most popular hikes in Jasper National Park, and for good reason. The trail is relatively short and easy, but it offers stunning views of the Sulphur Mountain gondola, Maligne Canyon, and the Canadian Rockies. The trail is open year-round, but it is best to hike it in May when the weather is mild and the wildflowers are in bloom.
2. Take a Gondola Ride up Sulphur Mountain
If you’re not up for hiking, you can still enjoy the views from Sulphur Mountain by taking a gondola ride. The gondola takes you to the top of the mountain, where you’ll find a restaurant, a gift shop, and a viewing platform with panoramic views of the surrounding area. The gondola is open year-round, but it is best to visit in May when the weather is mild and the views are clear.
3. Visit Maligne Canyon
Maligne Canyon is one of the deepest canyons in the Canadian Rockies. It’s a popular spot for hiking, and there are several trails that lead to the bottom of the canyon. The most popular trail is the Maligne Canyon Trail, which is a 4.4-kilometer (2.7-mile) loop trail. The trail is open year-round, but it is best to visit in May when the water levels are lower and the waterfalls are more impressive.
4. Take a Wildlife Tour
Jasper National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, moose, elk, and bighorn sheep. There are several tour companies that offer wildlife tours, and you can choose from a variety of options, including guided hikes, bus tours, and boat tours. The best time to see wildlife is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the animals are most active.
5. Go Fishing
Jasper National Park is home to several lakes and rivers that are stocked with fish. You can fish for a variety of species, including rainbow trout, brown trout, and brook trout. Fishing is a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery, and it’s a fun activity for the whole family. Just be sure to purchase a fishing license before you go.
6. Go Camping
There are several campgrounds located within Jasper National Park. Camping is a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty and get away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. You can choose from a variety of campsites, including tent sites, RV sites, and backcountry campsites. Just be sure to reserve your campsite in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak season.
7. Go White-Water Rafting
The Athabasca River is a popular spot for white-water rafting. There are several tour companies that offer rafting trips, and you can choose from a variety of options, including full-day trips, half-day trips, and family-friendly trips. White-water rafting is a great way to experience the park’s natural beauty and get your adrenaline pumping.
8. Visit the Jasper SkyTram
The Jasper SkyTram is a gondola that takes you to the top of Whistlers Mountain. From the top of the mountain, you’ll have panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies, including Mount Robson, the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies. The SkyTram is open year-round, but it is best to visit in May when the weather is mild and the views are clear.
9. Go Skiing or Snowboarding
If you’re visiting Jasper National Park in May, you can still enjoy some winter activities. Marmot Basin, located just outside the park, is open for skiing and snowboarding until late May. Marmot Basin is a great place to ski or snowboard, with a variety of trails for all levels of skiers and snowboarders. Just be sure to check the snow conditions before you go.
Culture
Jasper National Park is located in the traditional territory of the Yellowhead Lake First Nation, and the park is home to a variety of cultural attractions. You can visit the Jasper-Yellowhead Museum and Archives to learn about the history of the park and the Yellowhead Lake First Nation. You can also visit the Jasper Art Gallery to view a collection of contemporary and historical art.
Best Months to Visit
Jasper National Park is beautiful year-round, but the best months to visit are May, June, and September. During these months, the weather is typically mild and the crowds are smaller than during the summer peak season. If you’re visiting in May, be sure to check the weather forecast before you go, as the weather can be unpredictable.
Nearby Transportation
Jasper National Park is located in the Canadian Rockies, and the nearest major airport is Edmonton International Airport (YEG). You can rent a car at the airport and drive to Jasper, which takes about 4 hours. You can also take a bus from Edmonton to Jasper, which takes about 5 hours.
Local Food
Jasper National Park is home to a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars. You can find everything from fine dining to casual dining in Jasper. Some of the most popular local dishes include poutine, bannock, and wild game. Poutine is a Canadian dish made with french fries, gravy, and cheese curds. Bannock is a traditional First Nations flatbread. Wild game is a popular dish in Jasper, and you can find it on the menu at many restaurants.
Best Hotels
There are a variety of hotels located in Jasper National Park. Some of the most popular hotels include the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, the Jasper Inn & Suites, and the Patricia Lake Bungalows. The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge is a historic hotel that offers a variety of amenities, including a golf course, a spa, and several restaurants. The Jasper Inn & Suites is a modern hotel that offers comfortable rooms and suites. The Patricia Lake Bungalows are located on the shores of Patricia Lake and offer stunning views of the Canadian Rockies.
Conclusion
Jasper National Park is a breathtaking wilderness playground that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventurous vacation, you’re sure to find it in Jasper. With its stunning scenery, abundant wildlife, and variety of activities, Jasper National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
