How to Visit Jasper on a Budget!
During the summer, the average cost for one night in a Jasper hotel is approximately $400. That's about $1600 for 4 nights... Ouch... Traveling can be costly, but there’s hope! You can enjoy Jasper on a budget!
I have put together a 4 night trip for you, plus activities, for less than half of what you would pay for just a hotel.
Check it out...
HI Jasper is a hostel in Jasper townsite, just 5 minutes away from downtown, and part of the HI Canada (Hostel International) organization. They see travelers from all over the world, and provide affordable and comfortable lodging options.
The HI Jasper hostel costs $88.80 per person, per night before tax, and it comes with several amenities, including a kitchen with food storage, luggage storage, a sauna, free parking and wifi.
Benefits of Staying in a Hostel:
Cheaper than hotels
Great way to meet new people
Experience new cultures
Travel solo, or book an entire dorm and travel with your friends!
HI Canada is a not-for-profit, member-based organization and all of our hostels are regularly inspected for high quality standards.
HI Canada
Want to stay for free? You can apply to work for your stay through the HI Canada website (And maybe even make some money!) Basically, you get paid to stay in a National Park! Check out the details here!
If you don’t mind a more rustic experience, you can also book at the HI Maligne Canyon wilderness hostel for $38.81 per night. But keep in mind if you book this hostel, it closes from 10AM-3PM each day. Pack everything you need ahead of time. This hostel also has no showers or flush toilets, so be prepared to live on the wild side! You might even get lucky and spot some wildlife.
No matter which hostel you choose to book, you can save money by packing your own meals and snacks. Buy them ahead of time, then store them in the communal kitchen so you can make your own meals instead of eating out all the time.
Money Saving Tip: You may also be able to get cheaper rates through sites such as Kayak or Expedia.
How do you spend 4 days in Jasper on a budget?
This trip itinerary is designed with flexibility in mind so that travelers on even the tightest budget can enjoy Jasper!
Book at Hostel: HI Jasper
Dorm Room (Men’s, women’s, or mixed dorm rooms available)
Cost per person/night: $88.80
Total per person for 4 nights: $398.80 inc tax.
Day 1: Arrival, Hike and Museum Outing
After you get checked into your hostel, it’s time to go out and enjoy Jasper! Kick off your trip with an easy but beautiful hike!
Maligne Canyon Hike
Cost: Free!
Hiking in the Canadian Rockies is an experience that shouldn’t be missed. Visit iconic Maligne Canyon and enjoy the interpretive signs along the way that detail the history of the canyon and its formation. The turquoise waters, cascading falls, and uniquely carved canyon corridors won’t disappoint you! The hike takes an hour on average to complete.
Jasper Museum
Cost: $15/person
After your hike, head back into town and check out the Jasper Rail Museum! You will learn about the history of Jasper and the impact the railway had on the town in this fun and interactive self guided tour. Allow 90 minutes to enjoy the entire exhibit.
Day 2: Pyramid Lake Adventure
Today, it’s time to visit the breathtaking Pyramid Lake! Grab your sunscreen and some snacks! You’re in for a long but beautiful day!
Pyramid Lake Paddle
Cost:
Single Kayak: $45/hour
Two Person Canoe: $80/hour ($40/person)
Standup Paddle Board: $45/hour
Enjoy some serene lake time and keep your eyes and cameras out. The views are indescribable, and you might spot some wildlife exploring the shoreline! (Allow 1 hour minimum to complete).
Pyramid Lake Trails
Cost: Free
Once you’ve finished up on the lake, grab your pack and hit the trails behind Pyramid Lake Lodge. This network of trails can be modified to suit your preference for distance and difficulty. Enjoy your lunch beforehand at the lakeside, or partway through your hike. Make sure you bring a map so you don’t get turned around on the trails! (Timeline will vary)
Day 3: Icefields Parkway
Today you get a break from the tougher activities. It’s time to check out the most scenic stretch of road in Alberta: The Icefields Parkway!
Columbia Icefield Skywalk
Cost: $46
Here, you will get a scenic view of the Sunwapta Valley on an exhilarating glass walkway. You will learn about the mountain ecology, biology, geology and indigenous history of this beautiful glacial region. Drive down the Icefields Parkway for about an hour to reach the tour destination. Not sure it’ll fit your Jasper travel budget? Check out the cost free alternative...
Chasing Waterfalls along the Icefields Parkway!
Cost: Free
Sunwapta Falls, Athabasca Falls, and Tangle Falls are just a few of the amazing views on this drive! If you feel like a walk on the wild side, make plans for a short hike into Horseshoe Canyon for a backcountry swimming experience! If you visit the lake, keep in mind that the trail is a bit rough, and the lake has no safety precautions. Hike and swim at your own risk!
Day 4: Checkout Day and Hot Spring Visit
You’ll head out today, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy one last little bit of Jasper! Soothe those sore muscles with a well-earned soak in the scenic Miette Hot Springs!
Miette Hot Springs
Cost: $20
After breakfast, head out from Jasper towards Edmonton. Turn off onto Miette Road and make your way up to the hot springs. You’ve had a very adventurous few days, so you deserve some time to soak your muscles and enjoy the mountain views! There are two warm pools and two cold pools to enjoy!
Trip Cost Breakdown:
Daily Park Pass: $44
+ Hostel: $398.80
= $442.80
+ $126.00 for all paid excursions
$568.80
Food and fuel isn’t factored into the costs, but cooking your own meals in the hostel can save you an average of $50 or more per day on food alone. If you do want to splurge on food, I recommend the Jasper Pizza Place, Jasper Brewery, or Grandma’s Ice Cream for some spend-worthy treats.
For less than half what you would’ve paid for four nights in an average hotel, you get:
Lodgings
2 free hiking trips
A historic interpretive experience
A paddling outing on a gorgeous mountain lake
A skywalk or waterfall adventure
A luxurious soak in a scenic hot spring!
Money Saving Tip: This itinerary is designed with flexibility to suit your budget. You can do just one or two of the paid excursions, or skip the paid excursions altogether and just do the free ones. You'll still have an amazing time. If it’s still a bit too rich for your budget, cut your trip in half and bring the Hostel cost to about $200.
Don't Let Cost be a Barrier to Adventure!
Traveling can be hard on your bank account, but you don't need to drop a huge amount of money to go on an epic adventure. You can visit Jasper on a budget if you're willing to push the boundaries and try something new, you can have fun and make amazing memories! Don't forget to bring a great pair of trusty hiking footwear!
Happy Trails!
~Meg
PS: I'm not affiliated with HI Canada or any of the tours in the itinerary. I just think they're awesome =)
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