Jasper is one of Canada’s premier spots for outdoor enthusiasts. Its rugged terrain, towering peaks, and glacier-carved valleys make it an ideal place for hiking and trekking. What sets Jasper apart is its accessibility—many tours are small-group, personalized, and designed to give you a close-up experience with the landscape. Some tours, like the guided glacier hikes, let you walk on ancient ice formations, while others focus on wildlife viewing and waterfalls. For those craving a little more adventure, helicopter hikes and private guides offer unforgettable perspectives of Jasper’s stunning scenery. We especially love the full-day glacier hikes and small-group glacier explorations for their immersive, hands-on approach, like the full-day guided glacier hike that takes you into the heart of the Athabasca Glacier.
If you’re planning your trip, this list covers the best hiking and trekking tours in Jasper, from beginner-friendly walks to technical glacier adventures. Whether you want to spot wildlife, learn about glaciers, or simply enjoy mountain vistas, there’s something here for every type of hiker.
1. Guided Glacier Hike on The Athabasca with IceWalks
At number 1, the Guided Glacier Hike on The Athabasca with IceWalks offers a unique chance to walk directly on a glacier in the Canadian Rockies. This 3-hour small-group tour takes you onto the Athabasca Glacier, one of the most accessible and spectacular ice masses in the region. Your ACMG-certified guides will lead you across the glacier, pointing out crevasses, meltwater streams, icefalls, and other fascinating ice features, all while sharing insights into the glacier’s history and ongoing changes.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized experience—with a maximum of 12 participants, you’re likely to get plenty of individual attention. Equipment such as crampons is provided, and no technical climbing experience is necessary. Reviewers rave about how knowledgeable guides like Mike and Stu make the experience educational and fun, with some calling it “unforgettable.” The moderate hike, easier than some mountain treks, makes it accessible for active seniors and families with children.
Bottom line: This glacier walk combines adventure with education and is perfect if you want to get up close with one of the Rockies’ most iconic glaciers, all in a safe, controlled environment.
2. Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike
Number 2 on our list is the Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike. This 6-hour tour combines scenic driving, wildlife spotting, and walking through some of Jasper’s most famous sites. You’ll visit Maligne Canyon, where you can walk beside thunderous waterfalls, and Medicine Lake, which mysteriously disappears during the summer. The highlight is the lakeshore hike at Maligne Lake, where you might see mountain goats, elk, or even a bear if you’re lucky.
What makes this tour special is the balance of wildlife viewing and stunning scenery. The guide, Sam, is known for his knowledge of local wildlife and geology. Many reviews mention how he kept everyone engaged with stories and facts, making the experience educational and fun. The round-trip transportation makes it easy to relax and focus on the scenery without worrying about navigation.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for those interested in wildlife, waterfalls, and lakes, with a good mix of easy walks and scenic drives. It’s a solid choice if you want a well-rounded Jasper experience.
3. Tread Lightly Glacier Hikes
Number 3 is the Tread Lightly Glacier Hikes, which focuses on getting you up close to the Athabasca Glacier for about 4 hours. This small-group tour (max 10 people) offers guided walks across rock, snow, and ice, with your guide sharing stories about the glacier’s geology and natural history. Equipment like crampons and poles are included, so you’re ready to explore icy slopes safely.
What elevates this experience is the possibility of descending below the glacier’s surface if conditions allow, offering an even more intimate look at this glacial world. Guests mention guides like Sarah as knowledgeable and attentive, making sure everyone gets the most out of the hike. The itinerary includes views of icefalls and crevasses, making it a favorite for those who want a true glacier adventure.
Bottom line: If you’re eager to explore a glacier in depth and don’t mind a bit of snow and ice, this guided hike provides a balanced mix of scenery and education with plenty of hands-on fun.
4. Jasper: Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Lakeshore Hike
The Jasper: Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Lakeshore Hike is perfect for those wanting a half-day of scenic variety. The 6-hour tour takes you through Maligne Valley, where you’ll see waterfalls in Maligne Canyon and learn why Medicine Lake disappears seasonally. After scenic stops, the highlight is a guided 2-3 km hike at Maligne Lake, offering stunning mountain and lake views, with chances to spot elk, moose, and perhaps a bear.
Guide Catherine is praised for her local knowledge and storytelling skills, adding depth to the experience. The tour’s flexible pace suits those interested in wildlife observation and gentle walking, with the scenery providing a backdrop for wildlife sightings and photo stops.
Bottom line: This tour suits travelers wanting a mix of waterfalls, lakes, and wildlife, especially if you prefer shorter hikes with plenty of opportunities to learn from a knowledgeable guide.
5. Canadian Rockies: Helicopter Flight with Exploration Hike
Number 5 combines the thrill of airborne views with a nature walk. The Canadian Rockies: Helicopter Flight with Exploration Hike offers a 30- to 40-minute helicopter ride over glaciers and waterfalls, landing near Twin Falls for a gentle hike. This experience is a fantastic way to see the Rockies from above and then walk through alpine meadows and woods.
The helicopter ride provides panoramic views of glaciers, waterfalls, and snowy peaks, making it ideal for those craving a bird’s-eye view of Jasper’s grandeur. The subsequent hike is accessible and offers a chance to connect with the landscape on foot. The tour is priced higher but offers a combination of adventure and sightseeing.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers who want a combination of flightseeing and light hiking. It’s a memorable way to see distant glaciers and waterfalls without hours of trekking.
6. Full Day Guided Glacier Hike on The Athabasca with IceWalks
For about $154, the Full Day Guided Glacier Hike on The Athabasca offers a comprehensive exploration of the Athabasca Glacier. This 6-hour tour departs early and takes you deep into the glacier’s interior, allowing you to walk over icefalls, crevasses, and streams. The guide provides all necessary gear, including crampons, and the itinerary includes a lunch break with views of shattered ice and rocky outcrops.
Guests note that the tour is well-organized, with knowledgeable guides such as Kental who makes sure everyone, regardless of fitness level, can enjoy the experience. The small group size means personalized attention, and reviews highlight it as a highlight of their Jasper visit.
Bottom line: If you’re serious about glacier hiking and want a full-day, immersive experience, this tour offers excellent value and a true adventure.
7. Jasper: Guided Wildfire Hike with Lunch
Number 7 offers a different perspective with the Guided Wildfire Hike with Lunch. This 2-hour walk focuses on learning about the impact of recent wildfires on Jasper’s landscape, flora, and fauna. The guide explains how fire shapes the forest and highlights different plant species and wildlife.
After the hike, you’ll enjoy a hot lunch at a scenic viewpoint, making it a good option for those interested in ecological recovery alongside a manageable hike. While less focused on technical trekking, this experience offers insights into Jasper’s natural resilience.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers interested in ecology and conservation, this shorter tour combines education with a scenic walk and a relaxing meal.
$123 per person
8. Hike Jasper with Your Personal Guide
Number 8 is a customized private guide experience. For up to 6 people, your guide—who has lived in Jasper for decades—will tailor a 6 to 8-hour itinerary based on your interests and fitness. You could explore Maligne Lake’s trails, visit mountain peaks, or seek out wildlife in solitude.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. You decide what to see, and your guide ensures you do it at your own pace. Reviews note that having a local expert who can show you hidden spots and avoid tourist crowds creates a truly personal experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for travelers wanting a bespoke hike with a knowledgeable local, perfect if you have specific interests or want to explore beyond the standard routes.
$589.22 per group (up to 6)
9. Hiking the Columbia Icefields Region with Your Private Guide
Our final pick, the Hiking the Columbia Icefields Region offers a 7-hour guided tour through the heart of the Icefields. Setting out early from Jasper, you’ll explore three different hikes around glaciers, alpine lakes, and mountain viewpoints. Your guide will customize the route based on weather and interests, maximizing your experience of the area’s natural wonders.
With the chance to spot wildlife and enjoy solitude in stunning landscapes, this tour is perfect for serious hikers and nature lovers alike. It’s pricier but provides an exclusive, flexible experience that blends adventure with education.
Bottom line: This private tour is ideal if you want to explore multiple scenic spots in one day with a customized approach, perfect for groups or those seeking a tailored experience.
$657.89 per group (up to 6)
How to Choose Your Perfect Jasper Hiking Tour
Choosing among these options depends largely on your fitness level, budget, and interests. For example, if glacier walking appeals to you, the Guided Glacier Hike or the Full Day Glacier Hike are excellent choices. Those more interested in wildlife and waterfalls should consider the Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour.
For travelers craving a luxury experience with a view, the helicopter plus hiking tour offers a memorable mix. Budget-conscious visitors will find value in shorter tours like the Wildfire Hike or the waterfalls and lakes tour. If flexibility and personalization matter most, the private guided hikes deliver a tailored adventure.
Booking early is advised, especially for popular glacier tours, which tend to sell out during peak season. Consider the best times in late spring through early fall for ideal weather and wildlife sightings.
Final Thoughts
Jasper offers a wide variety of hiking and trekking experiences. From awe-inspiring glacier walks to wildlife encounters and helicopter views, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. If you’re looking for a full-day glacier adventure, the full-day guided glacier hike is hard to beat, while the private guided hikes are perfect for those wanting a personalized touch. For a taste of everything in half a day, the Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour offers a balanced mix of scenery and wildlife.
No matter your budget or skill level, Jasper’s outdoor tours promise unforgettable moments in one of Canada’s most stunning natural settings. Early booking ensures you won’t miss out on the adventure of a lifetime.