Explore Jasper National Park – A BIG-ADVENTURE EXCURSION
To get an even bigger taste of Canada’s untouched playgrounds, take the epic road trip from Edmonton to Jasper National Park. The 365km drive between the city and Jasper is one of the most spectacular routes in the country. Winding its way through the famous Canadian stretch of the Rocky Mountains, the wide, easy-to-drive roads are lined with towering pines, picture opportunities and wildlife.
Once you reach Jasper – Canada’s base for adventure – you’ll be set to discover one of the most awe-inspiring natural destinations in North America. The area is crammed with ancient glaciers, roaming wildlife (expect to see bears and moose during your trip), and crystal-clear lakes. Then there are the remote waterfalls, deep canyons and evergreen forests – all of which are surrounded by the towering Rockies.
Of course, this epic scenery lends itself to some pretty cool activities. Try canyoning, canoeing and hiking in the summer, or ice climbing and dog sledding in the winter. Round it all off with some stargazing; Jasper National Park is a designated Dark Sky Preserve and home to the world’s #1 Dark Sky Festivals – and the perfect place to catch the Northern Lights.
Athletics – EDMONTON MARATHON (20-21 AUG; RACE WEEK (1-5 SEP)
If you have the energy (and you’ve put in the training), there are few better ways to see Edmonton’s beautiful river valley and vibrant neighbourhoods than the 25th annual Edmonton Marathon. If you’d rather see how the pros do it, the ITU World Triathlon Series comes to the city from 3-4 September for its penultimate round. It overlaps with the Tour of Alberta – a six-stage road cycling race that takes in the province’s stunning scenery – which hits Edmonton on 4 and 5 September.
