On weekends, Jasper, situated in one of Alberta’s top national parks, swells with crowds. Luckily, a midweek visit to this tiny mountain gem, known for its sense of adventure and fantastic dining scene, means ample room to explore.
travel: The best way to get to Jasper is by train. Via Rail’s passenger train, The Canadian, reaches the town from Toronto, Vancouver, Edmonton and points in-between, and offers a lesson in civilized journeying through its luxe sleeper class. On board, feast on duck confit eggs benedict and watch as fields become mountains from the Skyline car. You may even be treated to a chocolate-and-champagne toast upon arrival. Via Rail, 1-888-842-7245, www.viarail.ca
stay: Jasper’s newest hotel, the 99-room Crimson, is named after the colour of the iconic RCMP uniform (or a classic Alberta sunset). Suites here are chalet chic, with pop-art prints by Toronto designer Wendy Tancock, massive moose paintings and crackling gas fireplaces, plus Instagram-worthy views of Signal and Tekarra mountains. The Crimson, 200 Cannaught Dr., Jasper, 1-888-852-7737, www.mpljasper.com
shop: Chilly winter temperatures may catch some travellers off guard. Luckily, Jasper retailers like Everest Outdoor Store and Totem Ski Shop offer pint-sized thermal wear for the kids, and Mountain Air Clothing stocks gorgeous Canada Goose parkas for adults. Accessorize with an assortment of hats and scarves from Bombshell Boutique, plus Canadian-made boots, moccasins and mukluks at Our Native Land.
adventure: Celebrate, don’t hate, winter with a breathtaking ice walk at Malign Canyon, just 10 minutes from Jasper. This narrow gully features a river that flows both above and below ground, resulting in magnificent ice formations throughout the cold season. Book your walk with Sun Dog Tours and let an experienced guide teach you about local history, biology and geography (plus provide warm, waterproof boots and cleats for your adventure). Sun Dog Tours, 414 Connaught St., Jasper, 780-852-4056, www.sundogtours.com
eat: There’s no shortage of good food in Jasper, where sister bakery-cafés the Bear’s Paw and the Other Paw are known for their scones, tarts, cakes and cinnamon bear paws. Evil Dave’s Grill offers exciting fusion fare, including a Caribbean-influenced Hell’s Chicken and Asian sweet chilli currant Kung Fu Tofu. Wash it all down with a local brew at Jasper Brewing Co. where, if you’re still hungry, you can order from four different types of poutine. Jasper Brewing Co., 624 Connaught Dr., Jasper, 780-852-4111, www.jasperbrewingco.ca
Forget the weekend. This is a midweek winter getaway you won’t forget. —Miranda Post
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