WINTER 2017 - 2018

JASPER NATIONAL PARK Adventure Guide Également offert en français

MarmotPyramid MeadowsBench Photo: J. Price WELCOME Athabasca Falls

The winter season in is such a beautiful time to visit. From our snow covered mountain peaks to our lightly dusted Table of Contents forests, the landscape is a winter wonderland awaiting adventure.

Jasper Townsite 3 From snowshoeing to fat biking, the options for winter activities are Adventures we Love 4 endless. In fact, the sky is the limit when it comes to winter fun as Jasper National Park Map 6 Jasper National Park is the second largest dark sky preserve on the planet. Most nights you can look up and see billions of stars dancing overhead. Around Town 8 Maligne Valley 10 What makes any season in Jasper National Park even more special is the Highway 93A 12 land’s rich indigenous heritage. As we enjoy all the activities and natural Icefields Parkway 14 beauty, we also respectfully acknowledge that Jasper National Park is Icefields Parkway Map 16 located in Treaty Six and Eight territories as well as the traditional Winter Wildlife 18 territories of the Beaver, Cree, Ojibway, Shuswap, Stoney and Métis Winter Camping 20 nations. We mention this to honour and be thankful for these contributions Interpretation and Dark Sky 22 to building our park, province and nation. Winter Safety 23

We wish you a warm winter welcome and hope that you enjoy your visit!

Directory PARKS TRAIL CONDITIONS REPORT GENERAL JASPER INFORMATION CENTRE pc.gc.ca/jaspertrails Jasper weather: 780-852-3185 500 Connaught Drive TOURISM JASPER weather.gc.ca 780-852-6176 • pc.gc.ca/jasper 780-852-6236 • jasper.travel Road conditions: 511 pc.gc.ca/jasperwinter alberta511.ca FRIENDS OF JASPER NATIONAL PARK WINTER HOURS: NOV. 1 - MAY 18 Maps and guide books: EMERGENCY Daily 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 780-852-4341 • friendsofjasper.com CLOSED Christmas Day, Boxing Day Dial 911 CAMPGROUND RESERVATIONS and New Year’s Day Cell phones are not always reliable. 1-877-737-3783 780-852-3100 (satellite) SOCIAL MEDIA Online booking: reservation.pc.gc.ca 2 JasperNP r

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DownhillSnowboards skis Ice cleatsSnowshoesX-countryFat skisbikesSkates Alpine touring gear A EDGE CONTROL 626 Connaught Dr. 780-852-4945 ü ü ü ü ü ü B FREEWHEEL CYCLE 606 Patricia St. 780-852-3898 ü ü ü C GRAVITY GEAR 625B Patricia St. 780-852-3155 ü ü D JASPER PARK LODGE 1 Old Lodge Rd 780-852-3301 ü ü ü ü ü E PURE OUTDOORS 632 Connaught Dr. 780-852-4717 ü ü ü ü ü F PYRAMID LAKE RESORT Pyramid Lake Rd 1-888-852-7737 ü ü ü G SOURCE FOR SPORTS 406 Patricia St. 780-852-3654 ü ü ü ü ü ü ü H TOTEM SKI SHOP 408 Connaught Dr. 780-852-3078 ü ü ü ü ü I VICIOUS CYCLE 630 Connaught Dr. 780-852-1111 ü ü ü ü J 1 Marmot Basin Rd 780 852 3816 ü ü 3 Adventures We Love GET THE SCOOP ON WHERE OUR STAFF PLAY AFTER WORK.

Maligne Lake

WHIRLPOOL TRAIL AREA CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING SNOWSHOEING The Whirlpool Trail is a great cross-country ski trail A few years ago, with some Christmas turkey for all ability levels. Enjoy a short ski to the Whirlpool to wear off and with Grandma and Grandpa River that overlooks beautiful Mount Kerkeslin in tow, our family ventured to Maligne Lake and take a break along the shoreline to watch the for a snowshoe. It was a quintessential Rocky American dippers as they fly in and out of the open Mountain blue sky day and the snow was water all winter long. Either continue along to the end plentiful. We saw big and little tracks in the snow, of the trail (14 km return), or make the Whirlpool River made snow angels, and enjoyed a tailgate picnic. your return point (7.2 km return). Don’t forget to bring Pamela - Visitor Experience Manager a picnic and enjoy the river view! Alan - Field Unit Superintendent

LAKE ANNETTE PYRAMID BENCH WILD SKATING TRAIL RUNNING Wild skating is one of the winter activities my family In winter, Pyramid Bench becomes a tranquil loves. Typically occurring in November, wild skating refuge for trail runners willing to venture beyond. is when the ice freezes solid and thick but the snow With its vast network of routes, the bench offers hasn’t covered it yet. We’ve had some magical days distances and difficulties to suit all abilities. on Patricia and Annette lakes, skating all around Several trails are flat packed, making them great while watching fish swim beneath us. for fat biking and running all winter as the snow Brenda - Conservation Biologist deepens. Jurgen - Environmental Management Specialist

4 Photo: M. Clark Photo: M.

MEDICINE LAKE AREA AROUND TOWN TRAILS EXPLORING WINTER WALKING I’ve had some fun times exploring the north end When I am looking for a gentle 6-km walk (or of Medicine Lake with my kids. It’s a great place run), I leave from town and head down the Red to wander out onto a beautiful, snow-covered Squirrel Trail. From there I connect onto Trail 7 lake, play hide and seek behind giant boulders… and meander along, taking in the crisp fresh air, and if you’re lucky, check out huge snow crystals. views of stunning Pyramid Mountain and the Bring your skis, snowshoes, or even just your . If I go early enough in the day... winter boots, and a thermos of hot chocolate for I often have the trail all to myself! this great outing. Erin - Promotions Officer Amber - Land Use Planning

PIPELINE PYRAMID LAKE SKIJORING SKATING The Pipeline Trail is a great trail to practice Skating in the sunshine at Pyramid Lake is one of skijoring. Skijoring is cross-country skiing my favourite things to do in winter. It is a stunning while being harnessed to dogs, making it an spot, with far reaching views and Pyramid exhilarating way to explore Jasper’s dog-friendly Mountain looming above the frozen lake. At only cross-country ski trails. 7 km away, it is quick and easy to get to and Brian - Senior Interpretation Coordinator a great way to take in some fresh air for a few minutes or a few hours. Kim - Product Development Officer

5 Legend Highway Jasper National Park Grande Cache Grande Prairie Primary road Secondary road Road closed in winter Information centre Hinton

Snake Indian River Edson Campground Edmonton Backcountry camping Delayed Access Closes Nov 1 Opens Mar 1 Red Chairs Moosehorn Creek Hostel Snake Indian River Delayed access - closed (see page 19)

ALBERTA Roche Ronde

ASPER Athabasca River 0 5 10 20 TOP 4 SynclineRoche Ridge Miette Fiddle River Kilometres WINTER NATIONAL Miles REGIONS 0 5 10 PAR MONT Mount Greenock Sulphur ROSON Talbot Skyline PROINCIAL Lake Utopia Mountain PAR Esplanade Mountain Snaring River Prince George Fort St. James Rocky River Morro Peak Prince Rupert Overlander Falls

Rearguard Mount Bridgland Falls

Valemount Victoria Cross RangePyramid Mountain Miette River Kamloops Moose Lake Vancouver Pyramid Lake Maligne Canyon The best way to experience this incredible

Yellowhead Lake Jasper Old Fort Point landscape is to take a day and explore Signal Mountain

Mount Tekarra 1 Wapiti Medicine each of its top 4 winter regions. Whistlers Lake Delayed Access Queen Elizabeth Range Delayed Access Closes Nov 1 Marmot Closes Nov 1 Athabasca River Opens Mar 1 Opens Feb 16 1. AROUND TOWN 3. HIGHWAY 93A Wabasso You don’t have to go far beyond the Jasper townsite Situated along this peaceful road are several picturesque Tonquin Whirlpool 2 to enjoy park wilderness. The many trails around cross-country skiing destinations for all levels of Valley Mount Clitheroe Maligne Mount Hardisty Lake Mount Maccarib Pyramid Lake make it a winter oasis for snowshoeing experience. For a slightly longer adventure, ski along the The Ramparts Edith Bald Hills Cavell Maligne River and fat biking, while its glistening frozen lake offers rolling hills and gentle river landscape of the Whirlpool Astoria River Maligne Edith Cavell Falls Lake spectacular skating. For an enchanting winter walk, Trail to Moab Lake. Once back, trade your cross-country Mount Kerkeslin

venture out onto the extensive trail network surrounding skis for snowshoes and admire spectacular views of Mount Charlton Whirlpool River Mount Unwin the townsite. The trail from Red Squirrel to Big Horn is a Mount Kerkeslin from the Athabasca Falls River Trail. Queen Elizabeth Range

fantastic fat biking route. Mount Mary Vaux Mount Brazeau Sunwapta Endless Chain Ridge Falls 2. MALIGNE VALLEY 4. ICEFIELDS PARKWAY AND AREA Athabasca River One of the most stunning areas in Jasper National Park Winding 232 glorious kilometres through the heart of

is the Maligne Valley. The frozen waterfalls and surreal ice Jasper and Banff national parks, the Icefields Parkway BRITISH COLUMBIA formations in Maligne Canyon make it a magical place to has been called one of the most scenic drives in the Sunwapta River Poboktan Mountain explore. You might even catch a glimpse of ice climbers world. Glaciers, viewpoints, frozen waterfalls and hikes Delayed Access here! Further up the valley, admire stunning winter vistas galore can be found along this spectacular parkway. Closes Nov 1 AMER Athabasca River Opens Mar 1 at Medicine Lake and Maligne Lake, then bundle up for Don’t forget to find the Red Chairs on Wilcox Pass! PROINCIAL PAR a stroll on the Mary Schäffer Trail, along Maligne Lake.

Chabba River Beauty Creek ANFF Tangle Falls NATIONAL PAR Stutfield Wilcox Peak Glacier JASPER NATIONAL PARK Discover winter accessible sets of Stutfield Peak Wilcox Icefield Red Chairs in the following regions: Columbia Centre RED CHAIRS Icefield (Closed for winter) Banff Athabasca • Around Town Glacier Calgary Scope out these picture perfect locations at: Mount Andromeda Mount Hilda • Icefields Parkway Athabasca Creek Saskatchewan pc.gc.ca/jasperredchair #sharethechair Glacier 6 6 See page 7 for Red Chair icons on map Wilcox Viewpoint Legend Highway Grande Cache Grande Prairie Primary road Secondary road Road closed in winter Information centre Hinton

Snake Indian River Edson Campground Edmonton Backcountry camping Delayed Access Closes Nov 1 Opens Mar 1 Red Chairs Moosehorn Creek Hostel Snake Indian River Delayed access - closed (see page 19)

ALBERTA BRITISH COLUMBIA Roche Ronde

ASPER Athabasca River 0 5 10 20 SynclineRoche Ridge Miette Fiddle River Kilometres NATIONAL Miles 0 5 10 Mount Robson PAR MONT Mount Greenock Sulphur ROSON Talbot Skyline PROINCIAL Jasper Lake Lake Utopia Mountain PAR Esplanade Mountain Snaring River Prince George Cinquefoil Mountain Fort St. James Rocky River Morro Peak Prince Rupert Overlander Falls Hawk Mountain Mount Colin

Rearguard Mount Bridgland Falls

Valemount Victoria Cross RangePyramid Mountain Miette River Roche Bonhomme Kamloops Moose Lake Vancouver Pyramid Lake Maligne Canyon Colin Range Maligne River

Yellowhead Lake Jasper Old Fort Point Signal Mountain

Mount Tekarra 1 Wapiti Medicine Whistlers Lake Delayed Access Queen Elizabeth Range Delayed Access Closes Nov 1 Marmot Closes Nov 1 Athabasca River Opens Mar 1 Opens Feb 16 Curator Mountain

Wabasso Opal Peak

Tonquin Whirlpool 2 Valley Mount Clitheroe Maligne Mount Hardisty Lake Mount Maccarib The Ramparts Edith Bald Hills Cavell Maligne River Astoria River Mount Athabasca Maligne Edith Cavell Falls Lake Mount Kerkeslin

Mount Charlton Whirlpool River Mount Unwin

Queen Elizabeth Range

Mount Mary Vaux Mount Fryatt Mount Brazeau Sunwapta Endless Chain Ridge Falls

Athabasca River

ALBERTA BRITISH COLUMBIA Sunwapta River Poboktan Mountain

Delayed Access Closes Nov 1 AMER Athabasca River Opens Mar 1 PROINCIAL PAR Sunwapta Peak

Chabba River Beauty Creek Tangle Ridge Mount Alberta ANFF Tangle Falls NATIONAL PAR Stutfield Wilcox Peak Glacier Stutfield Peak Wilcox Icefield Lake Louise Columbia Centre Icefield (Closed for winter) Banff Athabasca Snow Dome Glacier Calgary Mount Andromeda Mount Hilda Athabasca Creek 7 Around Town

Pyramid Lake Photo: R. Gruys Photo: R.

Trail and Activities Distance Description Map

WINTER WALKING

Jasper Discovery Trail 8.3-km loop An interpretive loop trail around the perimeter of town. A 11 This flat loop around Lac Beauvert begins at Jasper Park Lac Beauvert Loop 4a 3.4-km loop B Lodge. 17 This mainly flat-packed, popular route climbs onto Above Town 2 8e 8g 3 5.2 km one way C Pyramid Bench above town. Follow Trail 9a and loop back on 9b. Watch for Valley of the Five Lakes 9a 9b 4.5-km loop D steep/slippery sections. 15 SNOWSHOEING

Edge of the Bench 2j 2b 2c 4.2 km return This loop offers spectacular valley views. E

Steep at first, this trail provides tremendous views of the Overlook Trail 2b 2f 2g 2 6-km loop F valley. Dorothy, Virl and 60 60a 8.6 km return Steep in places, this forested trail has great lake views. 26 G Christine Lakes FAT BIKING Follow Hazel Ave across Hwy 16. Take Red Squirrel Red Squirrel to 7 4b 12.7-km loop then Trail 7 along the river. Loop back on Trail 4b and H Lake Mildred Red Squirrel.

18 Flat packed by Jasper Park Lodge, this gentle loop travels Woodpecker 4 4.4-km loop I from the lodge to Lake Annette and back. 17 This mainly flat-packed route on Pyramid Bench offers Above Town Loop 2 8e 3 8g 10.2 km return J panoramic views. This mainly flat packed trail steadily climbs to beautiful Pyramid Trail 15 10.4 km return K Pyramid Lake. CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING Gentle terrain with subtle ups and downs. Pipeline 11 km return 4 km on W L Rolling terrain becomes steep and steady after 3 km, Pyramid Fire Road 16 15 km return M gaining 770 m in elevation.

Easy Moderate Difficult

8 AROUND TOWN MAP

Hinton Overlander Edmonton

1.3 10a 10 0.8

Sixth Bridge Wildlife Only M 8 Maligne River Area 7 16 Pyramid Pyramid Bench Island 1.6

7 Maligne 0.2 Fifth 1.1 Canyon 2i Maligne Bridge 1.4 3.6 7h N Road 2 F 1.5 7 10 1.5 1111 2h 10 7 3.0 Pyramid 1.9 7f Maligne Road Wildlife Lake 2b 2g 2h Movement Area 0.9 1.6 2j 1.1 Athabasca River Medicine Lake 2f 0.6 2b 4f 7 Maligne Lake 2.2 4g 2e 2j 0.9 0.4 Lake 1133 Edith 15 2j 0.7 1.4 3.3 4e

5 2b 7 2c Patricia Lake E 2.4 0.1 2.5 Lake 0.9 6 0.5 2.1 Annette 0.7 4d 4 6b 0.9 6 13 13 7 6 6b K 4 0.5 1.8 Legend 1.0 1.2 6a I 3.2 Riley 6 0.9 18 Cottonwood 18 Winter activity trail Lake 8 Slough 1.4 Easy 4 8 1.1 0.2 1.3 Lake 0.7 7e Moderate 15 0.7 Mildred 8c 2 15 Pyramid Bench 2.0 14 Difficult 0.9 2.1 O 1.1 1717 1 Trail marker 1.7 7 8b 8 1.6 Distance marker Mina 7 Lac 2.2 8e 11 Beauvert 2.5 Lakes 11 1.2 3.3 Distance 1.8 1818 Wildlife Cabin Lake 4a B No bicycles allowed J 1.4 Movement Area 8e 1.7 H 8g Red Chairs 0.8 14 1.0 0.9 C Jasper 7 7a 3 (1060 m) Parking 14 0.9 1 0.6 13 Parking with trailhead 1.1 0.8 1

1.2 1 Information centre Marjorie 11 11 A 3 Lake 1.7 0.5 Hospital Old 0.8 3a Fort 1a Lookout Point (1170 m) Miette River 1.5 Picnic site Wynd Road (no vehicles) 26 G L Camping 12 2.2 Mount Robson, Prince George, 9c Hostel Kamloops and Vancouver Whistlers Athabasca River 3.7 16 Highway Road 9 Road 14 2.0 Loose surface road Whistlers (closed to vehicles)

12 Wildlife movement area closed to human use

2.1 ICE SKATING Wapiti

Groomed by Pyramid Lake 0 0.5 1 2 kilometres Resort; enjoy skating on iconic Icefields Parkway Pyramid 0 0.5 1 Miles Pyramid Lake with exquisite N Lake Pyramid Mountain as your Share the trails

backdrop. 9a 2.0 Bask in spectacular mountain 9 First Lake

Mildred views as you glide along the Park 2.7 O Gate 9a Lake Jasper Park Lodge groomed 9b 0.6 1.7 skating oval at Mildred Lake. 17 0.2 D Fifth Lake The Red Cross recommends an ice Columbia Icefield, Wabasso Lake (5 km) Marmot Basin 15 9a 0.9 thickness of at least 6” for safety. and Edith Cavell Lake Louise, 15 9 Banff and Calgary

Difficult

9 Maligne Valley

Maligne Lake

Trail and Activities Distance Description Map

WINTER WALKING Varied route options along the top of the canyon. Maligne Canyon 7 7f Varied distances A Caution: slippery trail 11 SNOWSHOEING Make your own trail along the shoreline from the Medicine Lake 3 km return Medicine Lake northern viewpoint. B

Beaver or Summit Lakes 139 4 or 10 km return This forested trail begins at the Jacques Lake trailhead. C

A beautiful loop to a scenic viewpoint looking down Mary Schäffer Loop 21 3.2-km loop D Maligne Lake. Maligne Lake This easy trail rolls over the top of an ancient rockslide. Moose Lake Loop 20 2.6-km loop E Bald Hills Steep in places, this trail starts in the forest and Upper Moose Loop 6-km loop F finishes along the shores of Maligne Lake. Bald Hills Travel along the lakeshore to the Hidden Cove Hidden Cove 8 km return G Campground. Ensure safe ice conditions. Bald Hills

Easy Moderate Difficult

FEATURED ACTIVITIES Maligne Canyon | 11.5 km from Jasper Frozen waterfalls and surreal ice formations make Maligne Canyon a magical place to explore. The trail along the rim of the canyon can be slippery; please be prepared. If you’re looking to venture onto the frozen bottom of the canyon, it is highly recommended you travel with a certified guide and wear ice cleats.

Medicine Lake | 27 km from Jasper Stop by Medicine Lake for a generous dose of winter scenery and adventure! Snowshoe the frozen lakeshore and bring your camera to capture the spectacular open views of the Endless Chain Ridge.

Maligne Lake | 48 km from Jasper Nestled among towering winter white peaks, the frozen and snow covered Maligne Lake is nothing short of a winter wonderland. Take in stunning lakeside views from Moose Lake Loop, or wander through the hills and hollows of an ancient rockslide on the Upper Moose Loop. Note: Delayed access adjacent to this area. See page 19 for more details.

10 MALIGNE VALLEY

Maligne Valley 7 Jacques Lake A 11 Maligne Canyon

Maligne Road

Summit Lakes

B 139 Jasper Beaver Lake C Medicine Lake

4.5 0.4

22 Maligne Road

Mona 1.3 100 Lake

Lorraine Icefields Parkway Lake 21

2.8 D 0.9 23 1.1 20 E G Moose Maligne Lake Lake

F 4.0 3.5 23 22

Delayed Access Closed Nov 1 Opens March 1 21 23

20 Legend

Winter activity trail No dogs allowed Washrooms Maligne Lake Difficult Easy Parking Winter warming hut

Moderate 13 Parking with trailhead Backcountry camping Delayed Access Difficult Closed Nov 1 Picnic site 16 Highway Opens March 1 1 Trail marker Lookout Road

Maligne Canyon Maligne Lake Maligne Lake Photo: M. Clark Photo: M.

11 Highway 93A

Trail and Activities Distance Description Map

CROSS-COUNTRY SKIING Opens February 16. A steep climb of 550 m with Cavell Road 23.2 km return A gorgeous views. 24

Whirlpool Trail 14 km return Gentle terrain with river views. Whirlpool Winter Hub B

Gentle terrain following Hwy 93A with a bit of elevation Leach Lake Trail 8.4 km return C nearing Leach Lake. Whirlpool Winter Hub Winding, challenging road gaining 530 m with nice Geraldine Fire Road 11.8 km return D views. Dogs allowed on Fryatt access. 23 SNOWSHOEING Follow the south edge of the Athabasca River for 1.5 km Athabasca Falls River Route 3 km return E for great panoramic views. 23

Easy Moderate Difficult

Trail Etiquette • Skiers going downhill have the right-of-way. • Keep to the right when meeting oncoming skiers. • When resting, move off the trail. • When passing say “track please” and pass on left side. • Do not snowshoe on ski track.

Athabasca Falls Whirlpool Trail

12 HIGHWAY 93A

Valley of the Five Lakes

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hare the trails

Marmot Rd

Wabasso Lake

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A Wabasso Road Delayed Access Closed Nov 1 Opens Feb 16 Delayed Access Closed Nov 1 Opens Feb 16

11.6

Cavell Road

Whirlpool Winter Hub and Campground

B

2.3

3.5 Difficult 1.8 Cavell Lake

Leach Lake C Legend 3.3 3.3 Winter activity trail

Easy Moderate Road Wabasso Difficult Unmaintained trail Athabasca 1 Trail marker 23 Falls Distance marker Moab Lake D E 3.3 Distance (km) 2.1 No dogs allowed Icefields Parkway

Parking

13 Parking with trailhead Camping Winter warming hut

16 Highway Geraldine Road Secondary road

13 Icefields Parkway

Wilcox Viewpoint

Trail and Activities Distance Description Map p.16 SNOWSHOEING Descend along the river to a set of stunning falls. Lower 125 2.6 km return A Sunwapta Falls A forested trail with phenomenal views of Big Bend 126 12.6 km return B and surrounding mountains. Sunwapta Falls A short climb with incredible views of the Athabasca and Wilcox Viewpoint 50 3.2 km return C Dome glaciers. Wilcox Easy Moderate Difficult

ICEFIELDS PARKWAY LINKING JASPER AND BANFF NATIONAL PARKS

The Icefields Parkway is one of the world’s most scenic drives. Its scenery is accentuated during winter as ancient glaciers and mountain peaks glow winter white under blankets of fresh snow. Just beyond the is , where plenty of extraordinary vistas and adventures await. Here are a few highlights to visit while you’re travelling:

Athabasca Falls Sunwapta Falls Athabasca Falls | 30 km south of Jasper Sunwapta Falls | 54 km south of Jasper Watch the ever-changing ice formations and hear the Walk or snowshoe to this spectacular icefall and watch roar of the thundering water behind the ice. Be safe; as it plunges into a deep canyon, or continue another stay beneath railings and on designated trails. 2 km along an easy route to the lower falls.

14 JASPER NATIONAL PARK

Tangle Falls Tangle Falls | 96 km south of Jasper Athabasca Glacier | 103 km south of Jasper This beautiful, cascading icefall right beside the road Be awestruck by the majestic scenery of the largest makes for a great photo stop. mass of ice in the Rocky Mountains. Admire the Stutfield and Dome glaciers from the Icefields Parkway.

Fryatt Range view from Icefields Parkway Photo: R. Gruys Photo: R. BANFF NATIONAL PARK | 124 km south of Jasper Peyto Lake | 190 km south of Jasper The Weeping Wall tumbles more than 100 metres A short uphill snowshoe (2.5 km return) from the road (330 feet) in a series of waterfalls whose main fall is leads to a panoramic view of beautiful frozen and snow called Teardrop. The sight is even more impressive in covered Peyto Lake. Stay on the main trail to avoid the winter when the many waterfalls are frozen in time avalanche terrain and other winter hazards. Snowshoes and it becomes a popular ice climbing destination. or ice cleats recommended.

Bow Lake Viewpoint | 193 km south of Jasper | 197 km south of Jasper One of the most scenic lakes along the Parkway and Enjoy this rewarding view from the roadside pull-off. the source of the . The stunning views take When this glacier was named a century ago, it looked in the , , Crowfoot Mountain like a three-toed crow’s foot. Since then, one toe has and . melted, and the middle toe is slowly disappearing.

See page 23 for more information on driving safely along the Icefields Parkway.

15 The Icefields Parkway Winter Driving Guide

M FROM LAE LOISE LOISE LAE FROM M Police 3 0 96 91 81 80 79 74 60 43 40 37 36 27 21 233 231 229 227 224 208 203 201 196 179 149 148 146 139 137 130 127 125 122 121 117 120 109 0 2 4 6 9 25 30 32 37 54 84 85 87 94 96 103 106 108 111 112 116 117 124 137 142 152 153 154 159 173 190 193 196 197 206 212 230 233

M FROM ASPER ASPER FROM M ANFF

1) all 1 eek W inter Falls Lake Lake Lake Pass 50 ( # L C r Peaks W R L Glacier Wilcox eil sheep! 0 Canyon en Glaciers Lookout V 3 Whirlpool Nigel Pass for L eek Hostel eeping P Lake Louise Hector Glacier and W Wapiti Beauty W C r Highway Dolo mite Diadem Bridal P Cheph r Stutfield Sunset Mistaya 7 atch A F S F W Police and Goats C G Hilda Creek Hostel F 4 0 and Road (Open Feb.16), to: Marmot Basin, Beauty ASPER TOWNSITE oom Falls. Athabasca Falls Hostel 8 Thompson Pass Cavell 2 Jasper International Hostel L Access Jasper Sky Tram ( April to Oct) Police Mush r angle S P T 0 David 2 A G 9A Sunset Saskatchewan Crossing Viewpoint Mosuito Creek Hostel (year round ) 3 0

1 4 Rampart Creek Hostel year round Junction : SUWAPTA PASS (Banff and Jasper boundary) 2 0 0 Junction: Trans-Canada Highway and Icefields Parkway m y 1 y a a eak

3200 Icefield y round 11 / MALIGNE ROC MONTAIN a

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T RED DEER Hospital Washrooms

3211 Fuel AN Attraction Vi e Visitor centre Winter activity T T T Mountain p Camp g F Lodging Minor high w Glacie r McCONNELL Picnic site Hostel m 3260 Major high w 1 0 MONKHEAD

SAMSON 3076

3525 CHAR L 2 BRAZE A A POBOK T LEGEND W

m US EDMONTON

m 3270 m ASS CIR R

OR m m m T

3300 Hostel

A P Creek 3042 UNWIN A 16 2624 m

3135 CYCLONE m 0 2693 m 0 m Rampart m Miles Kilometres

m TION AP T CUR A AP T A Saskatchewan River Crossing YES COLEMAN m TEKARRA UE

WILSON V m ICEFIELD 3261

3155 3084 3317 m 3002 WILSON

3333 N O TO TEM ENDLESS CHAIN RIDGE m MOLAR 2993 C SUN W 2030 SUN W CIR Q m ASS MURCHISON m

m 93

OBSE R 3174 2782 m AR m

Wapiti m TIONAL

P W P m

ASPER 3059 DOLOMITE 4 OR A G

2715 3080 ARMIGAN WEED

2762 2902 B O 2067 P T AN HARDISTY 3394 N A Y m CH

m REDOUBT m 93 HEC T m PYRAMID OOM

m 2

ASPER m 2955

Hilda 3127 3329 A 3622 AME R 93

m 7 TCHE W SARB A m 3344 m KERKESLIN m ANFF m 8 3121 T

GONG m m MUSH R W m OOLEY

3266 Mosquito m m CALGAR

3493 3109 m 1 m

W 3405 3265

16 m

3095 B O SASK A 2868 m CHEPHREN Creek Hostel GEC P R m WFO O THABASCA

3150 ERASMUS m m Creek Hostel A 3130 UFMANN 3050 A

2996 O ULETTE T

NELSON 3197 ARIES 2469 Whirlpool A

3505 K A

3453 3102 3622 C R m PA TTERSON E P

m KITCHENER

m CHRISTIE STUTFIELD B ALBE R m WDOME m A m UILA 3459 TT S F A VELL Q 2880 m ALEY 3686 L Y m /

A ICEFIELD

D 3543 TWINS 3360 SN O COLUMBIA m WHISTLERS 3272 m APUTIK F R TEMPLE S 3367 W ICEFIELD A BALFOUR

USSELS 3160

m AR A F 3612 ANFF THE 3561 PRINCE GEORGE TIONAL FORBES P B R LAE AP T EDITH C A ANCOER 3750 W m LOISE N A C G COLUMBIA ORIA ICEFIELD

AMLOOPS 3459

ANCOER VIC T M FROM LAE LOISE

233 228 223 218 213 208 203 198 193 188 183 178 173 168 163 158 153 148 143 138 133 128 123 118 113 108 103 98 93 88 83 78 73 68 63 58 53 48 43 38 33 28 23 18 13 8 3 0 2100 m

2000 m ICEFIELDS PARWA W P ELEATION PROFILE A F P R L 1800 m S S F A G R C C G 1600 m 9A W W F L A F 1400 m S C W R C M C 1200 m W C

1000 m 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135 140 145 150 155 160 165 170 175 180 185 190 195 200 205 210 215 220 225 230 233 M FROM ASPER

16 M FROM LAE LOISE LOISE LAE FROM M Police 3 0 96 91 81 80 79 74 60 43 40 37 36 27 21 233 231 229 227 224 208 203 201 196 179 149 148 146 139 137 130 127 125 122 121 117 120 109 0 2 4 6 9 25 30 32 37 54 84 85 87 94 96 103 106 108 111 112 116 117 124 137 142 152 153 154 159 173 190 193 196 197 206 212 230 233

M FROM ASPER ASPER FROM M ANFF

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ANCOER VIC T M FROM LAE LOISE

233 228 223 218 213 208 203 198 193 188 183 178 173 168 163 158 153 148 143 138 133 128 123 118 113 108 103 98 93 88 83 78 73 68 63 58 53 48 43 38 33 28 23 18 13 8 3 0 2100 m

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1000 m 0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100 105 110 115 120 125 130 135 140 145 150 155 160 165 170 175 180 185 190 195 200 205 210 215 220 225 230 233 M FROM ASPER

17 18 18 Talbot Lake terrain. Near steeprocky Where tofind narrow horns. females: curved horns, brown fur;males:thick White rump,shortlight Characteristics valley bottoms. but particularlyin Throughout thepark Where tofind black. can varyfrom whiteto longer legs.Colour German shepherd, with Built likealarge Characteristics space. you canhelpmakeiteasierbygivingthemlotsof challenge forwildlifetosurviveinthewinter, but and findoutwhosehabitatyou’re sharing.Itis a howtoidentifyafewtracks wildlife tracks.Learn Winter istheperfecttimeofyeartolookfor Winter Wildlife

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Mountain Goat Photo: M. Bradley Coyote Elk

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Photo: R. Gruys Viewing Tips If you encounter a cougar, Winter wildlife viewing provides exciting and a coyote or a wolf... educational opportunities for the whole family. • Immediately pick up small children and pets. Here are a few tips to make sure your viewing • Do not turn your back. Back away slowly experience is safe for your family and the wildlife.. while maintaining eye contact. If you stop while driving... • Do not run; it may trigger an attack. • Do not play dead. • Pull over where it is safe to do so. • Make yourself appear as large as possible; • Use your hazard lights to alert other drivers. wave an object above your head. • Observe and photograph wildlife from the safety of your car. • Remain a respectful distance from wildlife. NEVER feed wildlife.

Woodland Caribou: A Special Species Woodland caribou inhabit some of the most scenic high elevation landscapes in Jasper National Park.

Jasper National Park is home to four distinct herds of woodland caribou whose ranges are found in the northern regions of the park, in the Tonquin Valley, and in the Maligne-Brazeau ranges. Woodland caribou are true winter specialists; their large “snowshoe” hooves, warm fur and ability to survive on a diet of lichen help them avoid predators by staying high in the mountains through winter. Photo: M. Bradley Photo: M.

Taking Action for Caribou Recovery Woodland caribou populations across Canada have been steadily declining and they are considered a Species at Risk. As a leader in conservation, Parks Canada is taking action to protect them, and you can help too.

Annual Delayed Access At Maligne Lake: • Access is prohibited from November 1 through February 28 (reopens March 1). During this time, enjoy the lower elevation trails that are open year-round, such as the Mary Schäffer, Moose Lake and Upper Moose loops. • As of March 1, you are welcome to head up to Bald Hills (this is avalanche terrain—be prepared).

Tonquin Valley, Brazeau and the North Boundary: • Access is prohibited from November 1 through February 15 (reopens February 16) for the Tonquin Valley, and through February 28 (reopens March 1) for the Brazeau and the North Boundary. Reduced Speed Limit Icefields Parkway: • From south of Sunwapta Falls through to Beauty Creek Hostel, a reduced speed zone of 70 km/h is in effect from February 1 – June 1. Drive with care. If you are lucky, you may see a caribou in this area.

To learn more visit: parkscanada.gc.ca/caribou Please refer to pages 6-7 for the map indicating delayed access regions. 19 Winter Camping

BOOK YOUR CAMPING EXPERIENCE Backcountry - Permits are required in Jasper’s backcountry and can be obtained by visiting reservations.pc.gc.ca or calling 1-877-737-3783.

Frontcountry - For the spring, summer and fall months, visit parkscanada.gc.ca/jaspercamping for details on how to book.

20 Whirlpool Campground Campgrounds Fees Number of sites and Services Tent Trailer Electrical Sani Dump Flush Toilets Pit Toilets Showers Firepit Cooking Shelter Drinking Water Disabled Access JASPER $32.30 40 with elec. Wapiti Winter $27.40 40 tent Whirlpool Winter $15.70 10 tent-6 RV BANFF Tunnel Mt. Village II $32.30 188

Lake Louise Trailer $32.30 189

Sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so arrive early. All winter campgrounds are self-registration. Daily fire permits cost $8.80 extra. Camping permitted in designated campgrounds only.

Frontcountry Camping with a Backcountry Vibe Whirlpool Winter Hub and Camping 22 km from Jasper townsite In addition to over 25 km of groomed cross-country ski trails that begin from here, this hub offers a winter shelter and winter camping. Camping is available on a first-come, first-serve self-registration basis. There are sites for tents as well as RVs. Note: there is no power or water on site.

Backcountry Camping Hidden Cove 8 km return • Trailhead: End of Maligne Lake Road, 48 km from Jasper townsite Located 4 km down Maligne Lake, Hidden Cove can be reached by fat bike, snowshoes and skis. A great family day-use area and campground with four tent pads, a fire pit, picnic tables, a grey water pit, a cook shelter and food storage lockers. Safe ice travel between mid-January and early April.

Big Bend 12.6 km return • Trailhead: Sunwapta Falls, 54 km south of Jasper townsite on Highway 93 Rolling along the upper Athabasca Valley, this trail follows a wide fire road. The campground is accessible by skis, snowshoes or fat bike. This trail takes you to a campsite with incredible views of Dragon Peak and the Athabasca River. There are four tent pads (usually under snow), picnic tables, a fire pit and food storage cables.

Wilcox Winter Wilcox Parking Lot, 106 km south on Highway 93 Located on the Icefields Parkway, Wilcox is a simple bivouac campsite next to the highway for mountaineers.

21 Interpretation and Dark Sky

Jasper Airstrip Photo: J. Bartlett Photo: J.

Jasper National Park’s mountains echo stories to be told. Jasper Dark Skies Learn more about the culture, history, wildlife and dark sky from On March 26, 2011 the Royal Astronomical Society of our park interpreters at various events throughout the winter, or Canada (RASC) officially designated Jasper National Park simply take a stroll along our many self-guided interpretive trails. as a Dark Sky Preserve. That means the park makes a special commitment to protect and preserve the night sky Events and Festivals and reduce light pollution. Join our interpretive team this winter season at: Jasper in January | www.jasper.travel/january In fall and winter, park interpreters offer dark sky programs Family Day Weekend | parkscanada.gc.ca/jasper- that highlight the importance of maintaining our dark sky interpretation status from both artificial light reduction perspective and for the benefit of Jasper’s nocturnal critters. Self Guided Interpretive Trails 2 Be sure to visit the interpretive panels along our many trails Did you know? Encompassing over 11 000 km , Jasper National Park is the second largest in the park: dark sky preserve in the world! Around Town Trail Network These easy multi-use trails provide opportunities to explore and access areas close to town. Learn about Jasper’s early history along the Discovery Trail. Then, get the details on some of the Best Places to View the Night Sky park’s most common wildlife along the Red Squirrel, Big Horn, Wood Pecker, and Wapiti trails. Pyramid Island Cross the wooden walkway over the glistening ice of Pyramid Lake and marvel at the sea of stars Mary Schäffer Loop above Pyramid Mountain. Snowshoe along this easy loop and read about Mary Schäffer, famous for her explorations in the Rockies. In 1908 Old Fort Point Just a short walk from the Jasper she and her guides arrived at Maligne Lake by following a map townsite, Old Fort Point offers stunning views of the night sky drawn for her by Stoney Nakoda guide Samson Beaver. dancing over the street lights of town. Athabasca Falls Not only are the Athabasca Falls one of the most powerful falls Jasper Airstrip A short drive east of town along the to be found in the mountain national parks, but the adjoining Athabasca River, pull into the Jasper Airstrip parking lot Athabasca River was a historically significant transportation to watch the stars sparkle over the distant Colin Mountain corridor to the Pacific Coast during the fur trade. Browse the Range. fascinating interpretive panels and snowshoe on the Athabasca Falls River Trail! parkscanada.gc.ca/jasperdarksky

22 Bray Photo: R. Winter Safety

Icefields Parkway

Trail and Day-use Area Guidelines Driving on the Icefields Parkway Beyond groomed ski trails and fat biking routes outlined in • Road reports are based on the worst condition that a this guide, Jasper National Park does not maintain other driver may encounter over the road’s entire 232-kilometre trails or day-use areas in winter months. Be prepared to length. As in any mountain environment, weather can be self-sufficient. change very quickly, often changing the road conditions. • Visit the Jasper Information Centre before you go. Check the road conditions before you leave town: • Make sure you have the right gear and clothing—ice cleats are highly recommended. 511 • alberta511.ca • drivebc.ca • Tell someone where you are going and when you expect • Ensure your car has snow tires—look for the to return. snowflake symbol.Snow tires are mandatory • Bring a headlamp—you never know when you might be from November 1 to March 31 on the parkway. m s delayed. + • Plan to start early and complete your drive (with time for • Wear proper winter footwear, steep snow covered trails exploration and stops along the way) during daylight can be icy and slippery. hours. • Fill your gas tank and bring extra windshield washer fluid. Review the online trail reports before you set out: There are no services along the Icefields Parkway parkscanada.gc.ca/jaspertrails in winter. parkscanada.gc.ca/banfftrails • There is no cell phone reception from Athabasca Falls to Lake Louise. • The parkway is not salted so it can often be covered in compact snow.

More Information JASPER INFORMATION CENTRE: 780-852-6176 Winter Weather in the Mountains LAKE LOUISE VISITOR CENTRE: 403-522-3833 During the winter months, you could be peeling off a BANFF VISITOR CENTRE: 403-762-1550 layer of clothing one minute or huddling in your down parkscanada.gc.ca/jasper jacket with your hood up the next. Always check the parkscanada.gc.ca/banff local weather forecast before you venture out and make Weather Forecast : weather.gc.ca sure you are prepared. Jasper 780-852-3185 • Banff 403-762-2088 23 2017 marked the 150th anniversary Edmonton of Canadian Confederation. We invited you to celebrate with Parks Canada and Jasper offered free admission to national parks, Fort national historic sites and national marine St. James National National Park conservation areas for the entire year. Historic Site (Summer only) The good news doesn’t end in 2017: beginning in 2018, admission for youth 17 and under is free!

Vancouver

DISTANCE

CHART ALBER (km) Banff TA BRITISH COLUMBIA Calgary 128 Calgary

Columbia 188 316 Columbia Icefield Icefield

Edmonton 423 295 461 Edmonton Columbia Icefield Field ield 85 213 157 508 F oho NP) (Yoho NP) (Y Rocky Mountain Jasper 291 419 Jasper 103 361 260 House National Lake Louise 58 186 130 481 27 233 Lake Louise Historic Site Radium Saskatchewan (Summer only) 132 260 261 555 157 361 Radium Hot Springs 130 Hot Springs Crossing

Golden 134 262 207 557 57 307 85 105 Golden

Revelstoke 282 410 355 705 197 455 224 253 148 Revelstoke r

Vancouver 856 984 565 Vancouve 928 1279 771 798 794 818 713 Banff Waterton 395 266 582 568 476 687 453 395 532 681 1140 National Distances are shown in kilometres. To convert distances to miles, multiply by 0.62. Park Lake Louise

Field Golden

Banff Mount Revelstoke Canmore Glacier Calgary National Park National Park Revelstoke Bar U Vancouver Ranch National Historic Site (Summer only) Radium Hot Springs Waterton Lakes Cranbrook National Park*

*266 km from Calgary

FOR EMERGENCIES DIAL 911 (Police, fre and ambulance) Cell phone coverage is not reliable in all areas of the mountain parks.