From blogs to my own personal web projects, feel free to take a look around.
Connect with me above!
Out of this world
Jasper
A trip so memorable, I had to write about it. Jasper, Canada, is a remarkable place for anyone looking to explore the Canadian Rockies. Here's a bit more about it, though:
Thinking about visiting Jasper? Smart move. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Jasper might not get as much hype as its southern neighbor Banff, but that's precisely what makes it special. Let me break down everything you need to know about this stunning wilderness playground.
Where Exactly Is This Place?
Jasper sits in western Alberta, about 4 hours west of Edmonton and roughly 3.5 hours north of Banff. The town itself is smack in the middle of Jasper National Park—Canada's largest Rocky Mountain national park and part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Think small-town charm (population around 5,000) surrounded by over 4,000 square miles of jaw-dropping wilderness.
A Bit of Backstory
This area has been home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, including the Beaver, Cree, and Shuswap Nations. The European history kicked off when fur trader Jasper Hawes set up shop here in the early 1800s, lending his name to the place. The railroad arrived in 1911, and by 1930, Jasper National Park was officially established. Unlike some overdeveloped mountain towns, Jasper has kept its rugged, authentic character—there's a reason locals proudly call it "the real Rockies."
When Should You Visit?
Summer (June-August) brings warm days perfect for hiking, canoeing, and wildlife watching. It's peak season, with long daylight hours (up to 17 hours!) for exploring.
Fall (September-October) offers spectacular colors, fewer crowds, and the elk rutting season—when male elk bugle and battle for dominance.
Winter (November-March) transforms Jasper into a snow-covered wonderland with skiing, ice climbing, and snowshoeing. Plus, the dark skies make it perfect for northern lights viewing.
Spring (April-May) is quieter with unpredictable weather, but wildlife becomes more active and waterfalls roar with snowmelt.
Must-Do Adventures
Drive the Icefields Parkway—often rated one of the world's most scenic roads
Take the Jasper SkyTram up Whistlers Mountain for panoramic views
Paddle Maligne Lake to Spirit Island, one of Canada's most photographed spots
Soak in the natural Miette Hot Springs
Explore the otherworldly landscape of Maligne Canyon
Stargaze in the world's second-largest Dark Sky Preserve
Wildlife Encounters
Jasper is home to an incredible array of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elk (they literally walk through town), black bears, grizzlies, bighorn sheep, and mountain goats. Just remember to keep a respectful distance and never feed the animals—that peanut butter sandwich isn't worth a $25,000 fine!
Where to Rest Your Head
Accommodation options range from the iconic Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge to cozy mountain cabins, reliable hotels, and several campgrounds. If you're visiting in summer, book well in advance—like, months ahead.
Local Flavors
For a small mountain town, Jasper's food scene punches above its weight with everything from upscale Canadian cuisine at The Raven Bistro to perfect post-hike burgers at Jasper Brewing Co. Don't miss sampling Canadian classics like poutine, Alberta beef, or bison dishes.
Getting Around
Having your own vehicle gives you the most freedom, but there are shuttle services from Edmonton and Calgary airports. Once in town, Jasper is quite walkable, and tour operators can take you to major attractions.
Insider Tips
  • Download offline maps before you go—cell service can be spotty
  • Wildlife is most active at dawn and dusk
  • Visit popular spots early morning or evening to avoid crowds
  • The visitor center has the most up-to-date info on trails and wildlife sightings
  • Dress in layers—mountain weather can change in minutes
Jasper isn't trying to be the fanciest mountain destination. Instead, it offers something increasingly rare—an authentic wilderness experience with just enough amenities to keep you comfortable. Whether you're watching stars reflect off pristine lakes or encountering wildlife on a quiet trail, Jasper has a way of making you feel like you've discovered something special. And in many ways, you have.