Edmonton & Jasper Winter Adventure

Itinerary best for

Winter Sports Enthusiasts
Families
Weekend Warriors

Pair Edmonton's culture and city life with Jasper's powdery ski slopes on a four-day winter escape through two of Alberta's snowy wonderlands.

This one balances city warmups with mountain thrills. Start in Edmonton with world-class galleries and snowshoeing among the bison at Elk Island, then drive or ride VIA Rail into the Rockies. In Jasper, carve groomed runs at Marmot Basin, try a guided winter walk and count shooting stars in one of the largest dark sky preserves.

At a glance

4-day itinerary
903 km (561 mi) total distance
10 hrs 23 mins drive time
Your starting point is in Edmonton

3 destinations

Starts in

Edmonton

Day 1 drive time: 1 hr 57 min, 134 km (83 mi)

Day 1

Edmonton & Elk Island National Park

Start your day in the cultural centre of Alberta’s capital city, then explore the outdoors on a pair of snowshoes.

Bison foraging through the snow at Elk Island National Park.

A Local Favourite

Art Gallery of Alberta

Wander through original art exhibits—both contemporary and historical—at the Art Gallery of Alberta. The gallery, located in downtown Edmonton, is known for its innovative and eye-catching architecture, and features a 190 m (623 ft) steel ribbon that winds through the building's interior and exterior.

Friends snowshoeing with a guide across snowy Astotin Lake in Elk Island National Park.

Snowshoe Rentals

On your way out of town, rent snowshoes for the whole family from Elk Island Paddle Sports Rentals. This independently owned local company offers free delivery and pickup within the Edmonton area. Book in advance by phone or email.

Snowshoe Tour at Elk Island National Park

Explore the protected habitat of Elk Island National Park on a self-guided snowshoe tour, or glide the day away on skates, cross-country skis or even your toboggan. Keep an eye out for bison, elk, deer and moose foraging for food in the snow. Warm up around a fire in one of the park’s warm-up shelters.