In July 2024, wildfires swept through Jasper National Park, causing widespread damage and triggering one of the largest evacuations in Canadian national park history. The fires left a profound impact — but in the years since, Jasper has been working on recovery, rebuilding, and restoring its natural beauty.
As we look toward 2026, many travelers are asking: What’s it like to visit Jasper now? This article explores where Jasper stands today, what’s changed, and what visitors can expect. Stay up to date on the events related to the wildfire with the official government updates.
Please keep in mind that this post was written in March of 2025, updated since then with the latest status. Last updated in Oct 2026.
News Update
On March 20, 2025, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced a federal investment of $187 million to support the reconstruction of critical infrastructure in Jasper National Park following last summer's devastating wildfires. This funding, allocated to Parks Canada over two years, aims to restore essential facilities, including roads, campgrounds, trails, and permanent staff housing. Additionally, the investment will provide interim housing solutions for staff and residents during the rebuilding process. Reconstruction efforts are scheduled to commence in May, aligning with the upcoming construction season, to ensure timely and effective restoration of these vital assets.
Camping Availability
For the 2026 camping season, the majority of Jasper’s frontcountry campsites and all backcountry campsites will be open.
Specific updates include:
- Whistlers Campground (781 sites) is expected to be fully open
- Wapiti Campground will operate at reduced capacity
- Miette Campground will be fully open
- Several self-registration campgrounds will be available, including Snaring River, Kerkeslin, Jonas, Honeymoon Lake, Wilcox, Icefield Tent, and Icefield Centre RV
- Wabasso Campground and Whirlpool Group Campground will remain closed for 2025 and 2026 seasons.
Camping reservations for the 2026 season will open in January 2026, with exact booking dates to be announced.
Accessibility and Amenities
Major roads, including Highway 16 and all access routes to Jasper, are fully operational. The majority of businesses, including grocery stores and restaurants, have reopened, although a few still operate on reduced hours. Essential services are running smoothly, and residents have returned to normal routines. Visitors are encouraged to plan their accommodations in advance as demand remains high.
Looking forward to 2026, many hotels in the area have begun the process of taking in bookings.
Jasper Hotels that are open:
- Glacier View Lodge
- Miette Mountain Cabins
- Forest Park Hotel
- Chateau Jasper
- Tonquin Inn
- Jasper Park Lodge
Safety Essentials
Air quality in Jasper has significantly improved since the summer, with winter weather helping to clear lingering smoke, making it safer for visitors, though those with specific health concerns should check real-time updates. While most trails and attractions are open, some areas remain closed for restoration efforts; find out more through official channels like Parks Canada and Alberta 511. Jasper’s wilderness is also showing signs of regeneration, with new vegetation emerging in burned areas and wildlife increasingly returning to their habitats. To support conservation efforts, visitors should respect restoration zones and stay on designated trails.
Reopening of sites
As of December 5, 2024, Jasper National Park has made significant progress in reopening its attractions following the July wildfires. The Columbia Icefield and Miette Hot Springs have been welcoming visitors since August. Pyramid Lake reopened in late August, signaling a positive trend for the season. Notably, Maligne Lake and Maligne Canyon, which were previously closed, reopened on October 11, 2024, along with Maligne Road and its surrounding day hiking trails. Visitors are encouraged to consult the Parks Canada website for the latest updates on trail and area statuses to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.
Jasper National Park has launched an interactive map with real-time updates on open facilities and sites to assist visitors with trip planning. This map will be regularly updated as the 2026 season approaches.
Can I join A tour?
Looking ahead to 2026, both the Rocky Mountaineer Train and VIA Rail are taking in bookings for their Rocky Mountain routes, and therefore expected to operate. To learn more about these two trains, read our Rocky Mountaineer Vs Via Rail comparision post.
Additionally, bus tours to Jasper are set to continue, though travelers should remain aware of potential changes due to ongoing restoration and weather conditions.
Coach Tours Featuring Jasper National Park
Circle West
Vancouver → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Vancouver
- Day 1-4: Guided coach tour Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise
- 3 Nights Accomodation
- 2 nights in Banff, 1 night in Jasper
- 3 Breakfasts
- Park Pass & Toll-fee
- Services of a mountain tour director
- Excursions to Maligne & Johnston Canyons
- Optional Activities: Ice Explorer tour, Banff Gondola ride
Western Trails
Vancouver → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Calgary
- Day 1-3: Guided coach tour Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise
- Day 4: Scenic coach journey from Banff to Calgary
- 3 Nights Accomodation: 2 nights in Banff, 1 night in Jasper
- 3 breakfasts
- Park Pass & Toll-fee
- Services of a mountain tour director
- Excursions to Maligne & Johnston Canyons
- Optional Activities: Ice Explorer tour, Banff Gondola ride
Western Classics
Calgary → Jasper → Banff → Lake Louise → Vancouver
- Day 1: Scenic coach journey from Calgary to Jasper
- Day 2-4: Guided coach tour Banff, Jasper, & Lake Louise
- 3 Nights Accomodation: 2 nights in Banff, 1 night in Jasper
- 3 breakfasts
- Park Pass & Toll-fee
- Services of a mountain tour director
- Excursions to Maligne & Johnston Canyons
- Optional Activities: Ice Explorer tour, Banff Gondola ride
Essential Articles - Canadian Rockies
Share
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn