Best drives in Jasper during January
Driving in Jasper National Park during January is one of the most accessible ways to experience the park's winter scenery. Roads are plowed and maintained, wildlife viewing is often excellent, and snow-covered peaks create dramatic landscapes. Winter tires are essential, and conditions can change quickly, but on clear days these routes are exceptionally rewarding.
The Icefields Parkway is widely considered the premier winter drive. Stretching south from Jasper toward the Columbia Icefield, it delivers continuous views of glaciers, frozen waterfalls, and towering mountain walls. Traffic is lighter in January, enhancing the sense of scale and solitude, though drivers should be prepared for icy sections and limited services.
The Maligne Lake Road is another standout winter drive. In January it offers a peaceful journey through forested valleys with frequent opportunities to spot elk, deer, and occasionally wolves. While Maligne Lake itself is frozen and facilities are closed, the drive is still highly scenic, especially around Medicine Lake and the surrounding viewpoints.
The Pyramid Lake Road is a short but rewarding drive close to town. It provides quick access to Pyramid Lake and Pyramid Island, where winter light and reflections create excellent photo opportunities. This route is ideal for a relaxed outing when road conditions elsewhere are less favorable.
For a quieter alternative, Snaring Road offers a more remote feel with broad valley views and a strong chance of wildlife sightings. In winter it feels especially serene, making it a good choice for visitors looking to escape the busier scenic corridors without venturing far from Jasper.
January driving in Jasper combines accessibility with striking winter scenery, making it an excellent option for experiencing the park safely while enjoying its cold-season beauty.
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Jasper in January