Planning a family trip for the best summer day in Jasper National Park is super exciting (especially after a year without travel), but with so many amazing options to choose from, it can also be quite overwhelming. That’s why we’re here to help! This article offers a perfectly planned out day in Jasper that considers what to do, see and eat. All activities included in this itinerary are made to be ideal for families but are also great for couples and singles.
8:00 a.m. — Breakfast at Sunhouse Café
Kickoff your day in Jasper with a delicious breakfast at the Sunhouse Café. This timeless café’s specialty is using fresh produce, unique flavors and excellent coffee. Indulge in the fresh flavours of local produce as Sunhouse Café works with suppliers in the area to give their guests a taste of Jasper. Whether you’re enjoying your meal inside the modern dining area or sitting on the patio, this café is the best place to experience tasty food in the heart of Jasper.
All drinks can be made with milk alternatives and the café also offers vegan and gluten-free food options. Visit Sunhouse Café, located at 610 Patricia St. during your time in Jasper!
9:00 a.m. — McBride Train Tour
The McBride Train Tour is a fun way for your family to experience the Rockies! Join SunDog Tours onboard our comfortable sightseeing vehicles for a trip through the Rocky Mountains and return back to Jasper onboard VIA Rail’s luxurious Skeena Train. Experience endless beauty onboard including a stop at Mount Robson; the highest peak in the Canadian Rockies! Waterfalls, lakes, mountains, valleys and animals will take your breath away onboard this full summer day journey. Learn about the area with one of our amazing, friendly guides that will take care of you throughout the tour to make sure you see all of the best sights with a hotel pickup and drop off included! This tour is great for all ages and you can expect the duration of the tour to take between 6-7 hours.
4:00 p.m. — Early dinner at Jasper Brewing Co.
With a vast selection of craft beer, mouth-watering mains and a large kid’s menu, Jasper Brewing Co.is the perfect place for families to dine. As Canada’s first National Park brewery, this restaurant has become a community hub that focuses on developing well-crafted and Alberta-inspired cuisine.
Menu options include unique appetizers like wild boar tacos, classic salads and soup, burgers and sandwiches, and other must-have mains. Try their world-famous beer like the Blueberry Vanilla Ale, Jasper the Bear Ale and Crisp Pils to just name a few. Not a beer drinker? Not a problem—other speciality drinks include cocktails and the restaurant’s vast selection of wine. Located at 624 Connaught Dr., your family will love everything that Jasper Brewing Co. has to offer!
5:30 p.m. — Jasper Wildlife Discovery Tour
Jasper National Park is the best place to view wildlife in its natural habitat due to its pristine acres of untouched land and small population. The Jasper Wildlife Discovery Tour will give you and your family a knowledgeable and safe experience while seeing beautiful animals in their natural surroundings. There’s no better way to learn about wildlife than experiencing it right in front of your eyes!
Join one of SunDog’s informative guides on this 3-3.5-hour tour, and discover many of Jasper’s hidden gems. Just some of the different types of wildlife you can expect to see on this tour include elk, deer, bear, moose and mountain goats. The adventure includes short walks and is an experience that is great for the whole family.
8:30 p.m. — Hot Chocolate and Treats at Jasper’s Wafflato
Dig into some delicious treats or warm up with a hot drink at Jasper’s Wafflato. The family-owned and operated café offers the finest comfort food with a variety of sweet and savoury options. Jasper’s Wafflato provides guests with a welcoming environment and is located in the heart of Jasper at 618 Connaught Dr.
The café offers a wide range of cozy treats. Their signature Belgian waffles are a must-have with options like maple blueberry, strawberry delight and marshmallow classic. Or try their specialty drinks like Belgian hot chocolate and tea lattes, or their classic shakes and frappes.
9:30 p.m. — Watch the Sunset at Medicine Lake
Medicine Lake offers picturesque views at sunset as the sun illuminates the water. Watch the dancing lights reflect off of the lake and onto the mountains while listening to the calm sounds of nature at one of Jasper’s most scenic spots. Medicine Lake is easily accessible as there are a few parking lots and viewpoints beside the lake. After a busy day of adventuring all the amazing sights Jasper National Park has to offer, sit back and relax with your family while experiencing the serene sunset.
Now that your family trip is planned, all that’s left to do is pack! With these exciting adventures awaiting, your visit to Jasper National Park will be unforgettable.
