Exploring the Canadian Rockies means immersing yourself not just in nature, but also in the incredible alpine dining scene.
Our adventure pairings offer the best of both worlds — convenient dining recommendations in close proximity to some of Jasper's best attractions.
Here are four Jasper dining and adventure combos to provide you with an exciting (and delicious) time in the mountains.
Just a few minutes from the town of Jasper sits the beautiful Pyramid Lake, complete with stunning views of Pyramid Mountain and the rest of the Victoria Cross Ranges. Relax shoreside or take to the water aboard a canoe, kayak or paddleboard rented from Pyramid Lake Lodge (if you’re staying at the hotel, you'll get one complimentary hour of rentals every day).
Then, head over to Aalto, where the food is deeply inspired by Pyramid Lake, and the views are still there to enjoy. Dine on dishes that will remind you of the natural landscapes just outside the window, and delight in this cozy combination of lake and mountain ambience.
TIP: Want to do a little hiking? Nearby Pyramid Bench is a trail system with a variety of routes, including ones past other small lakes and back into town.
Hit one of the Jasper Connector Trails by bike (or foot) to explore the natural beauty that surrounds the town. One gorgeous option is Pyramid Trail — a 10.5 kilometre hike or bike with gentle elevation gain through the forest and out to Patricia and Pyramid Lakes. Go even further and see even more shoreside vistas on the Lakes Loop, where the 13.9 kilometres of scenic pathways might be best covered with wheels.
When you’re ready, loop back to town and into Terra, where you’ll find dishes that connect you to the nature you just explored. Tucked inside The Crimson hotel, this restaurant takes notes from the “rawness” of Jasper, so you’re sure to savour some delicious local meals.
TIP: Local rental operators, like Jasper Food Tours, can set you up with an e-bike for a more relaxing ride.
Just under an hour from Jasper, the glacial waters of Maligne Lake are waiting to be discovered. And Maligne Lake Cruise is the most convenient way to take in one of Canada’s most iconic sights — Spirit Island. Enjoy smooth sailing with expert tour guides across the lake. Then, stop to enjoy Spirit Island and breathtaking mountain views of “the Hall of Gods” from an exclusive outlook.
Once you're back ashore, make your Maligne Lake adventure last just a little longer by heading to The View. Not only does this lakeside patio offer fresh mountain air and incredible scenery, but you’ll also find delicious shareables plates, drinks and handhelds on its menu.
TIP: Want to explore on your own? Rent a kayak or canoe from the boat house. But be aware — it can take even the strongest paddlers a half day to make it to Spirit Island.
Hop aboard a Columbia Icefield Adventure and discover the power of nature atop a living glacier. Traverse the Athabasca Glacier on an Ice Explorer before walking right on the ancient ice — and don't forget to bring an empty water bottle to fill up on pure glacier water if conditions are right. Then, head to the Columbia Icefield Skywalk (included in your experience), where you can take in the view from 918 feet above the Sunwapta Valley.
An adventure of this size tends to work up an appetite, which is why we recommend stopping in at Chalet for crowd-pleasing food to fuel the next leg of your journey. Whether it’s a burger, pizza or a classic Canadian poutine, Chalet has what you’re craving — not to mention the glacier views!
TIP: Those looking for a more intimate Athabasca Glacier tour can opt for an Ice Odyssey, where groups max out at just five guests.
There’s plenty more to eat, see and explore in Jasper. Start your adventure and create your own pairing during your next visit.
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