Destination inspiration: Jasper, Alberta, Canada

Why go?

Jasper’s jaw-dropping, translucent lakes stretch endlessly past the kind of scenery outdoorsy types can never tire of. With the Rockies’ snow-streaked peaks looming overhead, icefields climbing their way up mountainsides, and trails luring in hikers and cyclists, the region is prime adrenaline-guzzling territory.

If you go down to the woods … you’ll have a very good shot at seeing elk, goats, moose and the odd black or brown bear dotted across Jasper National Park’s 11,000 km². Capture a view usually exclusive to the owls, ospreys and grouse that soar through Jasper’s clear skies, as you take a trip to the stunning 270-metre-high, glass-bottomed Glacier Skywalk. The view from the Jasper SkyTram proves just as captivating.

Back on solid ground, paths and bridges skirt by Maligne Canyon’s 50-metre drops and a rainbow of colours mingles in streams that flow over ancient limestone. Whistler’s ski slopes fill up as they head skywards, while below, adventurous travellers can hop inside the sturdy shell of an Ice Explorer as it traverses the Athabasca Glacier’s formidable terrain. When the sun goes down, the stars really come out to play, and Jasper’s Dark Sky Preserve provides an inky-tinged canvas for a display of twinkling, million-strong constellations.

When to go?

Summer sees walkers and bikers flock to enjoy Jasper’s gorgeous panoramas, while December to March entices snow-goers to the pistes. So, travel during September and October’s shoulder season, when you can snap up cheaper prices and share this slither of Canadian idyll with slightly fewer travellers.

Where to stay?

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge – Jasper, Alberta, Canada

With the mountains of Jasper National Park as a backdrop, this abode combines the best of the outdoors and provides an inviting indoor retreat. Roaring log fires battle the chill, while rooms are modern and spacious. The outdoor pool, golf course and restaurant offer options for unwinding after a jam-packed day of exploring.

Whistler’s Inn – Jasper, Alberta, Canada

In the midst of Jasper National Park, Whistler’s Inn is within a short walk of Jasper’s main street, while the SkyTram is just eight kilometres away. Choose from Italian fine dining, or comforting diner fare in the onsite restaurants, or soak up live music and a great atmosphere in the Whistle Stop Pub.

Pyramid Lake Resort – Jasper, Alberta, Canada

The great outdoors is right on your doorstep in this Rockies retreat. Once you leave your spacious room, you can choose to take a boat out on the lake, or scale the nearby biking trails. When the water freezes over, the resort offers skating, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to make the most of its amazing location.