Calgary is known for many things, one in particular is being the gateway to the Rockies. Among the mountain towns worth visiting is a hidden gem known as Jasper, and while the town itself is a magical destination; the journey to Jasper is just as enchanting. Getting there First stop, Banff National Park. Whether planning to stay the night or pop in for a pit-stop, Banff is a must-see town nestled within the majestic Rocky Mountains. Be sure to take a ride up Sulphur Mountain on the Banff Gondola . Ascending 698 m to the summit 2281 m above sea level, visitors will be in awe of the spectacular views of Spray Valley from the smallest peak of Tunnel Mountain to the commanding Cascade Mountain. From Banff, head up the Icefields Parkway, ranked as one of the top 10 most scenic drives in the world by National Geographic. Visitors will want to take their time and experience the gorgeous turquoise waters of Peyto Lake in addition to a stop at the Athabasca Glacier along the spectacular 232 km drive. Attractions to experience Those looking for an unforgettable one-of-a-kind experience should check out the Columbia Icefield Adventure . Travel on an all-terrain Ice Explorer on to the Athabasca Glacier, a 10,000-year-old sheet of ice before heading to the glass-floored Skywalk , a suspended platform of glass above the rugged and wild terrain 280 m below. Arriving at the Town of Jasper is breathtaking. Situated within the largest national park in the Canadian Rockies, Jasper is known for its abundance of wildlife and extensive trail network. Visitors can easily explore trails 2,463 m above sea level with a trip up Whistlers Mountain on the Jasper SkyTram. Slightly outside Jasper, visitors can take a cruise atop the crystal waters of Maligne Lake . A glacier-fed lake surrounded by scenic shores, towering mountain peaks and roaming wildlife. Maligne Lake has inspired wonder and legend for thousands of years, with the iconic Spirit Island holding deep significance for the Indigenous Stoney Nation. Places to stay Jasper Park Lodge Canada’s Luxury Cabin Experience located in the remote beauty just a short drive from downtown Jasper. The resort offers on-site dining and a range of activities for its guests from boating and biking to a hitting the greens on one of Canada’s top golf courses. Forest Park Hotel Located on Connaught Drive within walking distance of downtown Jasper’s unique shops and restaurants. Stay closer to the action and take in the nearby sights on foot. Where to dine Aalto at Pyramid Lake Lodge From Pyramid Lake’s shimmering waters to the sky-scraping peaks that tower above, Aalto’s menu inspiration is driven by the neighbouring natural wonders. Coined ‘lake-food’, it’s a mountain fresh take on seafood that incorporates regional ingredients and local flavours. Terra Terra is inspired by the rawness of Jasper. Like the seasons, Terra menus continually change to adapt to the natural, local ingredients of the season. No matter the time of year, they always offer something new and unexpected. Jasper Brewing Company Jasper Brewing Co. opened its doors in the spring of 2005 as Canada’s first National Park Brewery. Three of the founders are born and raised Jasper locals, who are driven to create beers that reflect the beauty and spirit of their hometown. Fifteen years later, ‘the brewpub’ has become a community hub that focuses on developing well-crafted beer and Alberta-inspired cuisine. How to get there To experience Jasper via the Icefield Parkway, visitors can fly into WestJet’s global hub, YYC Calgary International Airport. Renting a car or booking bus transportation are two options available directly at YYC.