If you are looking for spectacular views across Jasper National Park, why not consider taking a trip to the summit of Whistlers Mountain? More on the name of this later and why you should never confuse this with its more infamous counterpart that has a very similar name. Rather than thinking about plotting your route to the summit of this peak and how long it may take you, the Jasper SkyTram offers the perfect alternative to reach the top of the Canadian Rockies.
During our recent 48 hours in Jasper National Park, our first experience was taking the SkyTram to the summit of Whistlers Mountain. Not only is this a great way to reach the summit and admire the breathtaking panoramic scenery across this gorgeous national park, it is also an opportunity to visit the tallest and highest aerial tramway in Canada.
We want to share our experience visiting the Jasper SkyTram and while you are planning your itinerary for an upcoming trip to Jasper, perhaps you will consider adding this attraction to your schedule.
Jasper SkyTram Information
Let’s start with some of the essential information that we all need to know before visiting any attraction like the Jasper SkyTram. Your initial reaction to the admission price may be a little negative but please be assured that this is well worth the cost, especially given that you can spend as much time as you like at the summit of Whistlers Mountain.
Admission Prices
Adults – CAD 44.95 (USD 34)
Youth (6-15) – CAD 22.95 (USD 17)
Children (5 and Under) – FREE
The Jasper SkyTram also offers a family package deal which allows 2 adults and 2 youths to travel for only CAD 112.85 (USD 85)
Opening Times
March 24 to May 18 – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
May 19 to June 22 – 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM
June 23 to September 4 – 8:00AM – 9:00 PM
September 5 to October 29 – 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
***Be sure to check the Jasper SkyTram website for all of the latest details on updated admission prices and opening times. The above information is accurate as of the time of publication of this post.***
Whistler Mountain vs Whistlers Mountain
It’s fair to say that many of you reading this post may have seen the title and thought this was about “Whistler Mountain” in nearby British Columbia. Whistler is a major ski resort just north of Vancouver, BC and shouldn’t be confused with its similar name counterpart that we visited in Alberta.
However, despite the obvious differences between the two, both names have a similar heritage. Named after the whistling sound of the marmots that reside in these mountains, Whistlers Mountain and Whistler Mountain are both incredible natural landmarks that are worth visiting.
We saw a number of marmots (large squirrels) during our visit to Whistlers Mountain but fortunately, we didn’t see any that felt in any danger otherwise we would have heard the iconic “whistle” they are renowned for.
When you head to Jasper National Park, don’t forget the following:
Whistler Mountain = Vancouver, BC
Whistlers Mountain = Jasper, AB
Journey to the Top
After arriving at the Jasper SkyTram 15 minutes prior to our departure time, we admired the scenery from the bottom of Whistlers Mountain.
Of course, we had no idea what to expect once we reached the summit and the reality is, the pictures you can take from the bottom are nothing compared to the panoramas available once you reach the top.
We boarded our gondola along with a couple of other folks from around the world and our two tour guides immediately started telling us the history of the SkyTram along with Whistlers Mountain.
The journey takes around seven minutes and as you climb in altitude, it gives you a greater appreciation of the technology used in creating such an awesome aerial tramway.
Our guide pointed out some of the iconic mountain ranges we could see around Jasper National Park while reminding us that the town of Jasper is a great place to explore while taking time away from the natural beauty of the park.
A flight on the Jasper Skytram will truly heighten your senses.
As we approached the half-way point of the ride, we were warned that there may be a slight “sway” but it was hardly noticeable and certainly didn’t take anything away from the scenery. Perhaps we were all transfixed on the surrounding beauty that we didn’t even notice it!
Approaching the summit of the Jasper SkyTram at an altitude of 2277 meters (7472 ft), I took the opportunity to look back down and it’s only then you realize just how high up you in comparison to where you started.
Summit of Whistlers Mountain
The moment you leave the gondola at the top of the Jasper SkyTram, you realize that your experience at Whistlers Mountain is only just starting. Hiking trails that lead all the way to the summit, offer an opportunity for even more spectacular scenes.
For those of you that are a little less adventurous and prefer to stay in the comfort of the Jasper SkyTram station, there are a couple of interpretive boardwalks that you can enjoy.
Whether you are intrigued by the myriad of wildlife that you may stumble across at the summit or simply want to admire all of the towering peaks that rise above the various mountain ranges that surround you, there is plenty of information to ensure you don’t leave without a plethora of knowledge.
Depending on the time of the year you choose to experience the Jasper SkyTram will likely determine how adventurous you want to get on the hiking trails. We visited in what I would determine the “in-between” season where the majority of the ice/snow was melting but there was still enough to ensure the trails were a little tricky.
The hardest part was actually clambering up from the boardwalk to the start of the trail but once we plotted our way through the deep snow, we had the opportunity to enjoy the gorgeous scenery.
Please remember that the alpine environment and weather can be unpredictable. Always be safe, prepared and dress appropriately.
Summit Restaurant
Ready to enjoy a light refreshment or something to warm you after hiking around the summit of Whistlers Mountain? Let’s take a look at the options available at the Summit Restaurant!
I can’t imagine there are many places throughout Jasper National Park that offer the opportunity to have a fine dining experience while admiring such jaw-dropping views. This is exactly what you can enjoy at the Summit Restaurant.
In terms of cuisine options, well there is a variety to satisfy everyone’s appetites. The local favorite is the elk meatloaf sandwich but if this doesn’t appeal, perhaps a burger, butter chicken or fish tacos will intrigue your taste buds. Breakfast is also available between June and September from 8:30 AM to 10:30 AM.
Summary
Our visit to Whistlers Mountain was our first real introduction to Jasper National Park and what a great way to start our visit to this part of Canada! The Jasper SkyTram is an awesome journey and the reward awaits when you admire the 360-degree breathtaking views surrounding you.
Whether you are an avid hiker or prefer to take a relaxing stroll to enjoy the amazing scenery, Whistlers Mountain is undoubtedly one of the best places throughout Jasper National Park to explore.
Disclaimer – We would like to thank Tourism Jasper for providing us with tickets to experience the Jasper SkyTram in exchange for consideration of a blog post review. These are solely our personal opinions/experiences and we were not financially compensated for this post.
The post Whistlers Mountain – How to Enjoy the Amazing Jasper SkyTram? appeared first on A Brit and A Southerner.
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