Jasper Gets the Short Shrift

After all we have written about and all that we have seen, it would be hard to once again say that we found Jasper National Park the best. Marsha and I think that even though in our posts on this trip, and in our memories from past trips Jasper gets the short shrift, but remains our favorite. So, much so that we are trying to figure out how to come north to south (Jasper first and then Banff). We think that the easier access to Banff leads us astray. Jasper id about 5 hours drive north from Banff. So, you normally go to Banff, and then after a bit head north. That makes your stay shorter.

However there is no denying a couple of things. Jasper is smaller and much less busy than Banff. It has grown a lot since we were last here, but not like Banff. The slower pace is welcome after Banff and Lake Louise. The character of geology especially the coloring of the rock changes dramatically as you head up the Icefields Parkway. You get more reds and rusts colors.

As you get into northern Banff and then into Jasper, the valley bottom land tends to open up creating wide vistas of not just single mountains, but ranges of mountains stretching out on both sides. You also gain altitude and latitude so things get colder. There are many more mountains with glaciers and icefields. You could pull over every 10 minutes for new vistas.

We did figure out that there are several Hosteling International locations along the Icefields Parkway and tons of bikers out, some in tour groups, some with panniers, some just out putting in miles. It would be fairly easy with light panners to use the HI Hostels and really do short miles between them. You also could arrange to set up in one or two and day ride by staying in the hostels with a car.

I am very impressed with the local cycling. Banff has a Grand Fondo going this Saturday from Banff, to Lake Louise and back. Jasper is home to two stages of the pro bike race the Tour of Alberta in early September. Both stages head are hill climbs going up ski area access roads.

There then, it is settled, Jasper first next time!