Jasper Alberta is a great place to spend the weekend in the winter. The majestic mountain scenery, world class skiing and snowboarding and the rustic charm of the town, make Jasper a winter paradise. But what if you don’t ski or snowboard? Don’t worry there is plenty to keep you busy if you don’t want to ski.

You can go on an icewalk to the Maligne Canyon. Walk on the frozen canyon and see the frozen waterfalls. Watch for wildlife, you might see some caribou, elk, big horn sheep, moose or even a wolf or a coyote. (cost $50 to $60 Cdn, tours last about 3 hours)

Try snow shoeing. Explore a more secluded area of the park on snowshoes. Watch for animal tracks and enjoy a winter picnic complete with hot dogs and hot chocolate. (cost $60 to $90 cdn, tours take from 3 to 6 hours)

Go Mushing. Take a dog sled out for a spin. Learn how to handle a sled and dog team. Enjoy a true northern experience. Dogsledding tours include transportation, instruction and 2 hours of mushing. (cost $259 to $315 Cdn, tours, including travel time take from 5.5 to 7 hours)

Take a spin on a snowmobile. Even if you have never ridden one before this is a good opportunity to try it out. Feel the power of a truly Canadian invention, the snowmobile, as you glide over the ice and snow at high speeds. Combination snowmobile and dogs sledding tour are available so you can compare the traditional method of winter travel with the modern.

How about a winter sleigh ride? Or maybe you would like to go skating. Skate at one of the many outdoor or indoor rinks in the area. The sportsman may want to go ice fishing. The more adventurous might want to try ice climbing. These are just a few ideas, your options are endless.

If you would prefer to stay indoors, there are several great places to shop, eat and relax. How about spending the day at a spa? There are several spas in Jasper that can make provide you with a full selection of services. Visit a museum. The Jasper Yellowhead museum and Archives will inform you about the history of Jasper and the indigenous peoples of the area. (admission $4 cdn) The Den wildlife museum has over 130 life size mounted wildlife specimens. (admission $3 cdn) See the northern lights (Aurora Borealis) as this colorful natural wonder dances through the evening sky.

No matter what your interests, you will find something to do in Jasper, Alberta. Winter activities include skiing, dog sledding, snowshoeing, winter hiking, ice climbing and snowmobiling. If you want to stay indoors, spend the day at a spa, visit a museum or go shopping. Accommodations range from budget hostels to five star hotels. There are several fine restaurants offering international and local cuisine. For the more budget minded, there are fast food restaurants as well. The rustic mountain charm of the town will make you want to return, maybe in the summer next time.

Spas
http://www.bearhilllodge.com/facilities/spa.HTML
http://www.train-canada.net/willow_stream_jasper.htm
http://www.fairmont.com/jasper/Recreation/SPA/

Activities
http://www.jasperadventurecentre.com/winter.HTML
http://www.horseback.com/sleigh.HTML
http://www.explorejasper.com/sights/malignecanyon.htm
http://www1.travelalberta.com/en-ca/index.cfm?pageid=81

Scroll down to the winter activities:
http://www.jaspercanadianrockies.com/activities.HTML

Museums
http://www.discoverjasper.com/SightsAttractions/Museums/

Skiing
http://www.skimarmot.com/
http://www.adventures.ca/gasnet/static/ski/ski_jasper.htm

Accommodations
http://www.stays.com/r65/p1_jasper_accommodation.HTML
http://www.discoverjasper.com/WheretoStay/HotelsMotels/

Places to eat
http://directory.jasperdirect.info/Dining_Entertainment/Restaurants/