2026

Wildlife Seen in Jasper during January

January is one of the best months for wildlife viewing in Jasper National Park, as snow pushes animals into lower elevations and closer to road corridors. With fewer visitors and leafless forests, wildlife is often easier to spot, particularly during early morning and late afternoon.

Large mammals are the most commonly seen. Elk frequently move through the Jasper townsite and along valley bottoms, while Mule Deer and White-tailed Deer are also regularly observed near roads and open areas. Bighorn Sheep are often seen on steep, wind-scoured slopes where snow is shallow, especially along the Icefields Parkway.

Predators are more visible in winter than at any other time of year. Gray Wolf sightings, while never guaranteed, are more likely in January as packs travel long distances across frozen valleys. Coyote are commonly seen hunting small mammals in open meadows, and Red Fox may be spotted mousing in deep snow.

Mountain species remain present but can be harder to see. Mountain Goat are occasionally visible on rocky cliffs and avalanche paths, while Moose tend to stay in sheltered forested wetlands and river corridors. Smaller mammals such as Snowshoe Hare, Pine Marten, and River Otter are active year-round and leave distinctive tracks in the snow.

January offers excellent opportunities to observe Jasper's wildlife in a quiet, winter setting. Visitors should always maintain safe distances, remain inside vehicles when appropriate, and remember that animals in winter are conserving energy and should never be approached or fed. Jasper in January Home