Jasper: Guided Snowshoe Tour to Medicine Lake & Winter Trails

Summary

Snowshoe across Jasper’s forests & frozen lakes with local stories

You’ll step into Jasper’s winter world with snowshoes strapped on, following a local guide past frozen lakes and silent forests near Medicine Lake. Feel the cold air fill your lungs and listen for birdsong while learning small secrets of this landscape. Gear is included, so you can focus on each moment—especially those quiet ones you’ll remember later.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll get used to the squeak,” our guide grinned as my boots sank into the first drift. I was still fumbling with the straps on my snowshoes, fingers already tingling in the cold, but everyone else just looked excited—like they’d been waiting all week for this. The air out by Medicine Lake had that sharp, clean smell you only get in winter. I swear I could hear my own breath, but then a chickadee darted overhead and broke the silence. Li, our guide, pointed out a set of tiny tracks zigzagging between trees—martens maybe? I’m no expert. But she made it sound like a little mystery worth solving.

The trail wound through pines so dense the snow clung to every branch, making everything look softer somehow. We stopped every so often so Li could tell us about how the lake disappears underground in summer (I didn’t know that), or how certain mosses survive under all this white. At one point someone asked if it was always this quiet—Li just shrugged and said, “Depends who you’re with.” That made us laugh for a good minute. My cheeks stung from smiling and wind both.

I kept thinking I’d get tired fast—turns out snowshoeing isn’t as hard as it looks when you’ve got thermal boots and hiking poles (they had extras if you forgot). There was something about moving together through that hush, hearing nothing but crunches and the odd birdcall, that made me forget about time completely. The sun came out just enough to make the snow sparkle; I tried to take a picture but it never looks right on screen. You really have to be there for it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Guided snowshoe tour in Jasper

• Meet guide and get snowshoes
• Explore evergreen forests
• Cross frozen lakes
• Walk through mountain meadows
• Learn about history and geology
• Spot animal tracks and birds
• Return from snowshoe adventure

Top questions

Is this Jasper snowshoe tour suitable for beginners?

Yes, it’s designed for all fitness levels—even if you’ve never tried snowshoeing before.

What gear is included in the Jasper guided snowshoe tour?

You’ll get snowshoes, hiking poles, thermal boots, and hand warmers on request.

Does the tour visit Medicine Lake?

Yes, part of the route includes time around Medicine Lake’s winter scenery.

Are service animals allowed on this Jasper tour?

Yes, service animals are welcome on the tour.

Is lunch included during the day trip?

No lunch is provided; bring snacks if you want something along the way.

How long does the snowshoe tour last?

The exact duration isn’t specified but expect a half-day adventure through Jasper’s trails.

Can pregnant travelers join this activity?

No, it’s not recommended for pregnant travelers due to terrain and conditions.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at your meeting point plus all essential gear: hiking poles, sturdy snowshoes sized for you, thermal boots to keep your feet warm even in deep powder, and hand warmers if your fingers need an extra boost before heading back down the trail.