Top 5 Photography Locations in Jasper National Park
Jasper National Park may not be as popular as Banff, but make no mistake, it has no shortage of incredible views and landscapes just begging you to press your camera’s shutter button. It’s the largest National Park in the Canadian Rockies and a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Below I share the top 5 photography spots in Jasper, in my opinion, including some ideal times to photograph for each location.
5. Sunwapta Falls
The drive on the Icefields Parkway is spectacular. You may find yourself stopping many times along the way to photograph, or, even just stopping to enjoy the views. Right off the Parkway is Sunwapta Falls. You can have a bite to eat here. Or, even stay overnight at the accommodation onsite. You’ll need to book in advance though. Every time I drive by or visit Sunwapta Falls, there’s a ‘No Vacancy’ sign.
After a very short hike from the parking lot, you’ll find yourself at your destination. There aren’t many options for composition here though. As with most designated waterfall locations, much of the area has a barrier, limiting viewing angles. Either sunrise or sunset times work well here. You can explore the area further with some more hiking and different lookouts.
Sunwapta Falls, Jasper National Park
4. Patricia Lake
Patricia Lake at sunrise, especially during Larch season, should be added to your photography itinerary. Pyramid mountain can be seen on the opposite side of the viewing points with a strong orange glow from the sun behind. The lake itself is crystal clear, providing a mirror reflection; something common amongst the lakes of the Canadian Rockies. Early morning dew and mist on the lake can add some drama and mood to your photos. Sunsets here can also be quite stunning.
Patricia Lake with a view of Pyramid Mountain, Jasper National Park
3. Beauvert Lake
This might a bit of a bias but I love cool-looking, weird trees. The hike at Beauvert Lake reveals one of the most unique trees I’ve seen; complimented by a lake and mountains in the background. While I did not visit during Golden Hour, even a late morning visit can possibly get you a print-worthy photo.
Beauvert Lake, Jasper National Park. Photo taken at an ultra-wide 14mm focal length.
2. Pyramid Mountain
Whether viewing from Patricia Lake or Pyramid Lake, both lakes have viewpoints facing Pyramid Mountain. They also face North, which makes them a great option for Nightscape and Astrophotography. You can take multiple photos to make a star trails composite and/or an Astro time-lapse. Be sure to keep your eye on the Aurora forecast as the Northern Lights can appear behind the mountains. Another option is to drive a bit further, past the lodge to Pyramid Island. You can hike across the bridge and find a composition there. Personally, I find it a bit too close to the mountain. But you may just want the shot of the bridge and island.
Star Trails above Pyramid mountain
1. Spirit Island
While there are a few other locations you can make a case for adding to the top 5 photography spots at Jasper (e.g. Athabasca Falls), number one is an absolute no-brainer. Spirit Island truly is a special place to visit and photograph. But to experience and photograph it at the most optimal time (sunset), you’ll need to put in some effort. A typical guided boat tour just won’t cut it. Even the scheduled “sunset” times don’t actually stay at sunset and are very short visits. For more information on other options to visit Spirit Island, you can read more here.
Spirit Island, Jasper National Park at sunset
