Open from the end of March to the end of October (check the website for exact times, as this can change based on the weather) the Jasper Skytram offers breathtaking views of the town of Jasper, the surrounding park, turquoise glacial lakes, and six mountain ranges (yes, I said SIX!).
Located on Whistlers Mountain, a short 7 km from Jasper, the tram can hold 26 passengers and takes 7 1/2 minutes to travel from the lower station (1,258m above sea level) to the upper station (2,263m above sea level).
If you want to experience amazing rocky mountain views (without having to hike for hours), this is the way to get them.
Inside the tram there are three small seats in the corners, rails on the sides to hold onto, and had hold hanging from the ceiling. There are windows on all sides, offering a 360 degree view.
Planning Your Visit
Location
From the town of Jasper, follow the Icefields Parkway south for 2 km. Then turn right on Whistlers Road (it is clearly marked). Follow the road up the mountain (you will pass a hostel on your way up) until you get to the Skytram parking lot.
Hours of Operation
Hours vary based on the time of year you are visiting. Check the website for updated hours.
Ticket Prices
Adults (16+) $49.30, Youth (6-15) $26.30, Child (Under 6) Free
*Note: You can purchase a half-price one-way ticket if you choose to hike to the top (there is a well-used hiking trail) and would like to ride the tram down.
The unloading area at the upper station once everyone has left the tram.
What To Bring
The weather can change quickly on the top of the mountain so you need to make sure you are prepared, especially if you are planning on hiking to the summit. Here’s a list of items you should bring with you and/or wear:
water
hiking boots or supportive runners if you are planning on trekking
sunscreen (even on a cold day you can get a sunburn at that elevation)
layers, including a wind or waterproof jacket
In the spring there is often still snow at the top of the mountain. The summit trail takes you to the top of the ridge in the photo, you can snowshoe it when it is still covered in snow. Just on the other side of the ridge are views of Marmot Basin.
When you get to the top, whether you have a clear view or are surrounded by clouds, you are in for an incredible experience.
On a clear day, you can see the shockingly blue Patricia Lake, Pyramid Lake, Lac Beauvert, Lake Annette, and Lake Edith. The Athabasca River winds through the valley, and you’ll also get incredible views of Pyramid Mountain, Old Man Mountain, the Colin Ridge, and the Victoria Cross Range.
This is the view from the tram just after leaving the top. You can see the second tram in the distance and the incredible views!
But being at the summit on a cloudy can be an incredible experience too, as it feels like you are suddenly in an alien landscape!
There is a wooden boardwalk at the summit that is kept clear (unless it just snowed like in this photo) and nice and wide so it can be enjoyed by everyone.
There is restaurant and gift shop at the top, a accessible boardwalk near the tram, and a 1.4 km trail that will take you to the summit of Whistlers Mountain. In the spring, the trail is usually still covered in snow and can be hiked in snowshoes that you can rent at the top or in the town of Jasper before you make your way to the tram.
There is nothing better than feeling like you’re on top of the world!
