Ah Jasper Park Lodge, if I could choose to live in a hotel in Alberta, a la Eloise at The Plaza, this spot would definitely be my pick. From the captivating nature to the warm and cozy rooms, the beautiful facilities and the delicious dining options, there is something for everyone to enjoy at this Jasper landmark.
The Jasper Park Lodge is a part of the Fairmont group of hotels–world-renowned for their ability to bring class, sophistication, and comfort to their guests from near and far. This hotel is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
To get the full experience on your venture to Jasper Park Lodge, I recommend booking yourself in for a long weekend. This way you can ensure you have time to take in all the various activities and amenities at the lodge and in Jasper. Below you’ll find my long weekend itinerary with tips and suggestions to assist you in planning your next JPL adventure.
In the holiday season, the magical feeling of the lodge reaches new levels, with a grand decorated tree in the lobby and lovely holiday touches in every nook and cranny. However, this is also a busier time of year– so be sure to be plan ahead.
In addition, the Jasper Park Lodge is pet-friendly and has a wide array of child care services, so you can ensure your furry friends and your little ones enjoy their vacation as well.
Friday morning
Upon arriving at the Jasper Park Lodge you can check in and make your way over to one of the heritage log cabins. With views of Lac Beauvert and towering mountains, you can unwind, unpack and head out on the patio to take in the beautiful setting (yes even in the winter!)
Once you are settled in head over to Orso Trattoria for a tasty breakfast. There you can decide between visiting the buffet or ordering one of their signature complete breakfast dishes like Eggs Benedict and Breakfast Poutine.
Friday afternoon
There’s no better way to jump into a long weekend in Jasper than with a trip to the slopes. Take a shuttle, or a 20- minute drive over to Marmot Basin and prepare to be amazed. This ski hill has four mountain faces, wonderful glades, 86 named trails, and 1600+ acres of skiable terrain. This hill is considered a hidden gem, as it is rarely as busy as other North American ski destinations and the high-speed quad chair means lines are shorter.
Friday evening
To wind down from your afternoon on the slopes, a visit to the heated outdoor hot tub. Relax your body post-ski and bask in the beauty surrounding you.
Saturday morning
In-room dining takes on a whole new level at the Jasper Park Lodge. You can choose to have a table set up in your room or on your veranda and order from the incredible room service menu.
Saturday afternoon
This afternoon is the perfect time to take advantage of the multiple activities available at JPL. Choose between snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, ice skating on the lake, and tobogganing, and take in the incredible views of the area.
Saturday evening
Visit the Emerald Lounge and enjoy dinner and a cocktail. After you can catch up on your day while sitting by the Lounge’s beautiful large fireplace.
Sunday morning
The final day at the Lodge is all about relaxation. Start your morning with a visit to the Spa. The Jasper Park Lodge spa has been named the number 4 resort Spa in Canada and has been featured in the Spas of America Guide on multiple occasions.
Since a winter trip to Jasper often includes a lot of physical activity both on the ski hill and around the city this Spa is designed specially to relax the guests and provide them nature inspired treatment to match the beauty of their location.
Enjoy one of their signature experiences like the Jasper Indulgence which includes a 90-minute Jasper wrap, followed by a back facial and a hair and scalp treatment. Then take a dip in the heated outdoor pool.
Sunday afternoon
Before heading out, be sure to visit the Jasper Park Lodge gift shop and grab a coffee and tasty pastry for the road from Fitzhugh’s To Go.
After a wonderful weekend at the Jasper Park Lodge, you can prepare to head home with the memories of your stay and begin making your preparations for your next visit.
Article by
Mackenzie Shand.