Jasper Discovery Trail
Jasper, Alberta
Easily accessible from nearly anywhere in Jasper, the Jasper Discovery Trail is a 5-mile (8-kilometer) loop trail that rises above the mountain town, offering views of the town and the Rocky Mountains. The route is a convenient way to get out into the mountains and can be used to travel from one part of town to another.
The well-marked Jasper Discovery Trail is a great way to explore the mountains surrounding Jasper and get a scenic birds-eye view of the town. The gentle trail is broken into three sections that can be explored individually (which will take you between different locations in town) or combined for a longer hike.
The trail is not only a place for recreation; it is also designed to educate hikers about the environment and wildlife in the area. Numerous signs along the way offer information about local wildlife and ecology. While the route is marked with bear trail marker signs, hikers are much more likely to spot elk, birds, and deer along the trail.
The trail's location makes it ideal for hikers who are tight on time.
Parts of the trail are steep, so wear sturdy shoes if you want to hike the entire loop.
Paved portions of the trail enable limited wheelchair and stroller access.
You can hike the whole trail or choose a shorter portion to suit your fitness level.
You can start the Jasper Discovery Trail from multiple locations throughout town. The numerous trailheads are easy to reach on foot from most Jasper accommodations, and the trail is marked with small signs that show a bear’s face.
Visit anytime between June and September for fair hiking conditions and easy, snow-free access to the mountain trail. Get started early to beat the crowds and take photos of the mountains in the morning light.
If a short trek on the trail leaves you wanting to dive deeper into the wilderness, hop on one of the many guided tours departing from Jasper: Explore Jasper National Park and see the waterfalls of Maligne Canyon, visit the largest icefield in the Rocky Mountains on a trip to the Columbia Icefield, or, for a more laid-back excursion, ride the Jasper SkyTram or take a cruise around Maligne Lake.
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!