Wildlife Watching in Jasper: A Respectful Local’s Guide
Please note that all the images on this blog were taken by Megan Posein Photography, at a safe/quiet distance for viewing with a long lens.
Jasper National Park isn’t just about mountains and lakes, it’s alive. The forests, rivers, cliffs, and valleys here are home to an incredible diversity of wildlife, from grizzly bears and mountain goats to chipmunks, owls, and even the occasional river otter.
And here’s the thing: “wildlife” doesn’t just mean the big headliners you see on postcards. If you’re lucky enough to spot an osprey diving for fish, a trout swimming lazily in a glassy lake, or a pika chirping from its rock pile, that’s just as special. These moments are proof of a healthy, balanced ecosystem and they’re worth slowing down for.
This guide will help you know when and where to look, and how to do it without being “that tourist” who gets a little too close for comfort (yours or the animal’s).
A grizzly grazing along the roadside.
When to Go
Wildlife doesn’t exactly run on human schedules, but there are some patterns you can count on.
Time of day:
Early mornings (just after sunrise) and late evenings (just before sunset) are prime time. Animals are more active, there’s less vehicle and human traffic, and you’ll get some magical light for photography.
Seasonal notes:
Spring – Elk often come near town to give birth, and grizzlies often follow the action to feed on fresh vegetation and the elk themselves in the valley bottoms. Stay far away from mother elk- they’re fast, unpredictable, and very protective. And as for bears… respect all area closures. They’re for your safety and the animal’s. Migratory birds are passing through or settling back into the Park (watch for swans in the wetlands on the Eastern side).
Late spring / early summer – Bears graze on newly sprouted roadside grasses, and then eventually become more dispersed. Grizzlies tend to spend more time near valley bottoms.
Summer – Long daylight hours give you more opportunities for “critter cruises,” though animals might rest during the hottest parts of the day. Ungulates graze valley bottom to mid valley meadows, and smaller critters like marmots and pikas are busy preparing for winter.
Fall/Early winter – The rut (mating season) for elk, moose, deer, goats, and sheep makes for dramatic sightings. It’s a photographer’s dream, from a safe distance. With patience, you'll likely hear the elk bugling in the meadows or maybe get a chance to see the Bighorns battling it out. Bears sometimes cruise through town looking for fruit tree feeding opportunities, so don’t be surprised to come face to face with one while wandering the townsite of Jasper.
Winter -- Wildlife is harder to spot, but not impossible. Look for wolves and coyotes in the valley bottoms, and birds like Canada jays/ravens keeping busy. It's also a great time to watch for animal tracks in the snow!
A frosty bighorn sheep in the Jasper wilderness.
Where to Look (Broad, Well-Known Areas)
You won’t find exact GPS pins here (sorry!) because wildlife moves constantly, and part of the magic is in the surprise. However, these scenic drives and trails give you a good chance of spotting something special.
Maligne Lake Road
This winding road passes through multiple ecological zones, each with its own mix of wildlife. You might see everything from eagles and black bears to moose, marmots, and pikas. It’s perfect for those with limited mobility since much of the viewing can be done from your vehicle. If you can hike, walking the trails in the area can reveal even more.
Icefields Parkway
One of the most scenic highways in the world, and not just for the mountains. Bears, goats, sheep, and even the occasional lynx are often spotted here. The key is to slow down and scan the meadows and treelines. Speeding here isn’t just dangerous for you; it’s deadly for wildlife.
Hwy 16: Jasper to Hinton
Look for cliffs and rocky outcroppings along the route. Bighorn sheep frequent these areas (I call them Jasper's welcoming committee), and mountain goats sometimes make an appearance too.
Old Fort Point
Close to town and home to a population of bighorn sheep. They often graze the hillside, offering great viewing opportunities from a respectful distance.
A black bear, spotted among the wildflowers on the Icefields Parkway.
How to “Critter Cruise” Like a Local
“Critter cruising” is my term for heading out specifically to look for wildlife, whether it’s a quick loop before breakfast or an evening drive after dinner.
My tips:
Go often during your stay, you never know what you’ll find.
Sunrise and sunset drives are best.
Keep your eyes moving. Scan trees, cliffs, meadows, and shorelines.
Be okay with not seeing anything. The scenery alone is worth it.
Bonus: wildlife drives can also deliver unexpected treats; fiery sunsets, people watching opportunities, a killer playlist singalong… or the odd UFO sighting. (Hey, keep your eyes on the skies too!) 🛸
Just a deer sticking out his tongue for the camera.
Safety, Ethics, and Rules
Wildlife watching is a privilege, and it comes with responsibilities.
Keep your distance: Parks Canada recommends 30m for elk and other large animals, and at least 100m for bears, wolves, and cougars. (for good reason! I’ve seen people’s cars damaged by angry elk)
Never feed wildlife: It teaches them to approach humans and can lead to their death.
Stay in your vehicle for roadside sightings. This should be common sense, but alas, it needs to be said.
Don’t block traffic or stop in unsafe places for a photo (once again, please use common sense here. I’ve seen car accidents from this).
Use a zoom lens — if all you’ve got is an iPad camera, admire with your eyes instead of getting too close.
Respect closures — they’re in place to protect both you and the animals.
A mountain goat peering down from a cliff’s ledge.
Closing Thoughts
Wildlife watching in Jasper isn’t about checkmarks on a list. It’s about being present in a place where nature still runs the show. Every sighting, big or small, is a reminder that you’re in their home.
So slow down, keep your distance, and let curiosity lead the way. You never know… your best memory might not be a bear or an elk at all, but the quiet moment you realized just how wild this place really is.
