What to do and see in Jasper National Park, Canadian Rockies: The Best Tours

December 24, 2021 Harland Bartelt

Discover the best top things to do in Jasper National Park, Alberta including Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper, Athabasca Canyon Run Family Rafting: Class II Plus Rapids, Sunwapta River Self-Drive Rafting Trip, Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour, Rockies Special 2-Day (Banff National Park and Columbia Icefield), Sunwapta Challenge Whitewater Rafting: Class III Rapids, Ice Climbing in Maligne Canyon, Athabasca River Scenic Float Trip, Rafting on Athabasca River Mile 5 in Jasper, 5.5-Hour Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise from Jasper.
Restaurants in Jasper National Park

1. Class 3 Sunwapta River Rafting Adventure in Jasper

RV Parking Lot, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada Rocky Mountain River Guides
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

Sunwapta River – the only class 3 trip in Jasper National Park Hone your paddling skills in the calm of the beginning before it gets wet and wild. No experience is required for this thrilling, chilling, liquid adventure. Your journey ends with a full facial glacial from The Whopper- a locally renowned wave. Adventurers must be at least 12 years old and prepared to paddle.

Inclusions: Guide, Pickup and drop-off from designated meeting points, Transportation, All whitewater rafting equipment

Exclusions: Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Gratuities

Reviewed By CRC280

This trip was simply an amazing amount of fun! I couldn't really say enough good things about the guides... They know what they are doing! While keeping safety for everyone as a main concern, they do so in a way that never detracts from enjoying the experience. The great sense of humor just makes the rafting that much more enjoyable! Andre was our guide on mine and my wife's raft. Imy and Spencer were the other guides in our group. Wonderful people! I highly recommend going with these guys... You won't regret it!

2. Athabasca Canyon Run Family Rafting: Class II Plus Rapids

Jasper, AB T0E, Canada Maligne Adventures
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5.0 based on 41 reviews

Starting at the base of Athabasca Falls and plunging through numerous rapids surrounded by high canyon walls, this Class 2+ whitewater adventure is ideal for tentative first timers and those looking for an exhilarating trip to suit the whole family. After the canyon stretch, the river opens out and rafters will enjoy sweeping views of the scenic Athabasca Valley providing the perfect balance of whitewater for an introductory level trip.

Inclusions: Highly experienced, certified river guide, All necessary technical equipment, Return transfers to and from the river, departing from our Downtown Location

Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Food and drinks

Reviewed By CandiceR915

White Water Rafting on the Sunwapta River was amazing! The water was freezing, but that did not prevent us from having such a fun time. Brody, our Maligne Adventures raft guide, did an incredible job instructing us on how to steer through the rapids and how to avoid the many obstacles in the water. Rafts can normally hold 6 people plus a guide. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, our group of 4 was in our own raft with our guide which was perfect for us. We chose to not take the bus transfer from the downtown Jasper meeting point to avoid having to wear masks for the 45 minute per direction bus ride. We followed the bus in our own car. Everyone at Maligne Adventures, from Daniella in the reservations office to the rafting guides were friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. We highly recommend this tour. We would most certainly do it again.

3. Sunwapta River Self-Drive Rafting Trip

Icefields Parkway, AB-93, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada Jasper Rafting Adventures
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5.0 based on 58 reviews

The Sunwapta River is the only Class III white water offered in Jasper National Park. The river is glacial fed and is great for first time rafters if you are looking to paddle hard, get soaked, and have a lot of fun! The river trip itself begins with a float where crews can practice their paddling technique before the show begins. Once the rapids start ,they just build and build until The Whopper soaks everyone just before the take out. All trips are in 6 person-guided rafts and all the necessary equipment is provided.

Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Professional guide, All equipment for rafting

Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By leannemC2993ME

Sabrina was awesome! We enjoyed our trip down the river. Some relaxing bits with nice conversation and some exciting bits where we got to paddle and get wet! Smoke hid the mountains but it was still beautiful and fun!

4. Half-Day Jasper Culture Food Tour

500 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada Jasper Food Tours
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5.0 based on 40 reviews

Jasper is for Foodies… And for people who luuuvv their cocktails. The food culture in Jasper is eclectic and unique. From Canadian classics, locally brewed beers, wild game and globally inspired restos - there's something to tickle your palate. Join us on the Downtown Foodie Tour - a short guided walk over 3 hours where you will be visiting four restaurants and tasting four carefully handpicked dishes, each paired with an alcoholic beverage. Along the way you will learn about Jasper’s history and taking in some of the town’s tastiest tales. The goal? To leave full, in both body and mind, with memories and cravings for a lifetime! 

Inclusions: Price is all inclusive and includes fair pay for participating restaurants and tips for the staff., Food tasting, 4-alcoholic beverages, 4-courses, Alcoholic Beverages

Exclusions: Transportation to the information center, Hotel Pick-ups, Gratuities for the guide

Reviewed By Maricou426

The food tour was great! Estelle is a great guide and the little bit of history she shared with us during the tour was very interesting. 4 small yummy dishes with the perfect drinks to go with them. All 4 places were quite enjoyable! The right amount of everything!

5. Rockies Special 2-Day (Banff National Park and Columbia Icefield)

Sandman Signature Calgary Downtown Hotel, 888 7 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2P 3J3, Canada Calgary Tours
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5.0 based on 1 reviews

Explore the frozen expanses of the Columbia Icefield, snap photos of the snow-covered peaks of the Rocky Mountains, and learn about the erosive legacy around Banff and Jasper's national parks. At the edge of the Columbia Icefield, hop out to explore a small corner of the largest icefield in North America and consider consider an optional tour to the Columbia Icefield Ice Explorer. Continue on to the shores of Bow Lake, where you can snap photos of the Waputik Range's jagged peaks, and check out the icy foot of the Crowfoot Glacier, and then swing by Peyto Lake whose blue-green waters seem to glow due to their high mineral content. From the quaint mountainside town of Banff, to the must-visit natural attraction Johnston Canyon (if closed, replaced by Lake Minnwanka). Scope out the snow-dusted peaks, misty falls, and dramatic canyons around Banff as you explore this rugged slice of Alberta with an experienced guide.

Inclusions: Breakfast, Air-conditioned vehicle, GST (Goods and Services Tax), Gratuities, Bilingual English Tour Guide

Exclusions: Lunch and Dinner are not include, Personal expense and travel insurance, Optional admission package is not include (ex: Snocoach, Skywalk and Maligne Lake Cruise)

Reviewed By ShobhitN6

The trip was amazing and had a very good experience. The guide was excellent and very helpful. He explained everything about the places . Overall it was a memorable experience. Highly recommended.

6. Sunwapta Challenge Whitewater Rafting: Class III Rapids

Jasper, Jasper, Jasper National Park, Alberta Maligne Adventures
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4.9 based on 50 reviews

Take the Sunwapta challenge on Jasper’s wild whitewater rollercoaster ride. With a steep gradient and numerous rapids, this 4-hour round trip is the only Class 3 rapids located fully within Jasper National Park. It offers spectacular scenery and good wildlife opportunities. Don’t miss the high water mid-June to late July!

Inclusions: Highly experienced, certified river guide, All necessary technical equipment, Return transfers to and from the river, departing from our Downtown Location

Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase), Food and drinks

Reviewed By Sirbill24

Great commentary by our knowledgeable and engaging guide. We saw numerous elk and got the full explanation of the bull's behaviour with his harem. We also got to see a pair of bald eagles, a pair of beavers and some whitetail deer. In each case we had ample opportunity to take photos and ask questions. In addition, we learned of other wildlife such as bears despite not spotting one. Three hours flew by.

7. Ice Climbing in Maligne Canyon

610 Patricia St, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada Rockaboo Mountain Adventures
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4.9 based on 15 reviews

Join an unforgettable experience of climbing a frozen waterfall. This 6-hour tour leads an adventurous group deep into Jasper’s Maligne Canyon in search of ice walls and hidden beauty. You'll explore parts of the canyon that are inaccessible to most park visitors. Your fun, safe experience starts and ends at the tour office located in central Jasper.  Local certified guides ensure your safety while descending and climbing frozen waterfalls in a variety of spectacular locations. Beginners are encouraged! No experience necessary.

Inclusions: Transport by private vehicle, Driver/guide, Local guide, All technical gear (boots, crampons, helmets, ice tools)

Exclusions: Hotel drop-off, Gratuities, Lunch

Reviewed By travisisert

Matt was a pleasure to have lead the way. Very knowledgeable and experienced based. Would highly recommend rockaboo to anyone, second time using them and once again a great experience. If anyone’s considering an ast course don’t make any excuses and get out there and learn how to protect yourself and your group from the dangers of the backcountry!

8. Athabasca River Scenic Float Trip

607 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada Jasper Raft Tours
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4.8 based on 164 reviews

Join the fun on the Athabasca River for a unique perspective of Jasper National Park. Up to 2.5-hour round trip passes through many small sets of rapids and calm stretches, which allows your National Park licensed guide to point out the natural and human history of Jasper. This float trip is safe for the whole family, from toddlers and grandparents to swimmers and non-swimmers alike. Rivers are rated on a scale of one to six. Class 1 is considered to be calm moving water while a class 6 would be equivalent to Niagara Falls. The section of the Athabasca River that this tour rafts on is rated a Class 2; meaning that there are some sections with rapids, which may get your backside wet.

Inclusions: Local guide, Plastic rain poncho to protect you from splashes and potential rain showers, Professional photographer, Life jackets

Exclusions: Gratuities, Wetsuits (not necessary)

Reviewed By ecbischof

We went on the Athabasca falls raft tour with Austin and it was great! We weren't sure about doing it because we've never been rafting before, but we were shocked at how straightforward the guides made it and how fun it was. We had a whole raft to ourselves and the whole family had a great time, including two teenage boys, a teenage girl and two adults. The way they set everything up on the bus was efficient and all the equipment was easy to put on and was clean. It's clear that everyone there is experienced and knows exactly what they're doing. 11/10 would recommend and we're definitely coming back next year to do more with Jasper's Whitewater Rafting.

9. Rafting on Athabasca River Mile 5 in Jasper

RV Parking Lot, Jasper, AB T0E 1E0, Canada Rocky Mountain River Guides
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4.8 based on 23 reviews

Experience Jasper's Athabasca River Mile 5 run! Enjoy the beautiful mountain scenery on this 2-hour round trip adventure. The Athabasca River Mile 5 run is a perfect introduction to white water rafting, has plenty of splashes and stunning mountain vistas. It is a must-do family adventure in Jasper! Adventurers must be at least 5 years old and accompanied by an adult.

Inclusions: GST (Goods and Services Tax), Driver/guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off, call for details, All equipment and transportation

Exclusions: Gratuities, Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Reviewed By RMG3011

We just got back from our 3.5 hr white water rafting trip and it was so fabulous!!! Connor was our tour guide-great sense of humor, very knowledgeable, and very safety oriented! We can’t say enough good about him!!! He made the experience a activity of a lifetime!!! ????????????????????????

10. 5.5-Hour Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise from Jasper

Jasper, Jasper, Jasper National Park, Alberta Maligne Adventures
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4.8 based on 71 reviews

Discover why the Maligne Valley is the highlight of any visit to Jasper National Park. On this breathtakingly scenic 5.5 hour tour, take in impressive waterfalls at Maligne Canyon before continuing up the valley to Medicine Lake. Along the way, watch for iconic Canadian wildlife, frequently spotted in this area. Arriving at the valley's jewel, Maligne Lake, you'll experience the wild beauty of this vast wilderness on a 90-minute scenic boat cruise to Spirit Island.

Inclusions: Hotel pickup and drop-off from selected locations, Guide, Transport by comfortable minibus

Exclusions: Food and drinks (available to purchase at Maligne Lake)

Reviewed By CandiceR915

White Water Rafting on the Sunwapta River was amazing! The water was freezing, but that did not prevent us from having such a fun time. Brody, our Maligne Adventures raft guide, did an incredible job instructing us on how to steer through the rapids and how to avoid the many obstacles in the water. Rafts can normally hold 6 people plus a guide. Due to the Covid-19 restrictions, our group of 4 was in our own raft with our guide which was perfect for us. We chose to not take the bus transfer from the downtown Jasper meeting point to avoid having to wear masks for the 45 minute per direction bus ride. We followed the bus in our own car. Everyone at Maligne Adventures, from Daniella in the reservations office to the rafting guides were friendly, knowledgeable and helpful. We highly recommend this tour. We would most certainly do it again.

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