Add Telescope Experience (Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge)
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; walking and brief periods outside are involved.
Overview
Discover the night sky like never before with Jasper Planetarium's private Telescope Experience at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Perfect for stargazing enthusiasts and adventure seekers, this event offers an intimate journey through the cosmos amidst stunning Alberta landscapes.
Add Telescope Experience (Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge)
Combine with the Telescope Experience and Save! • 45 mins • All ages
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable journey at the world's largest astronomy park! Experience powerful telescopes, interactive activities, and stunning 4K views of the cosmos. Learn to photograph the Northern Lights and Milky Way, create your own aurora, and hold a meteorite. Enjoy a unique, touchless telescope experience under the Rocky Mountain sky!
Explore the world’s largest astronomy park!
Duration
45 minutes
Location
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
About
Join us for:
- an interactive guided tour of the largest, most powerful telescopes in the Rockies and how they work
- a 4K 'instant-replay' of the latest screen-captures from recent live views through our telescopes in Jasper
- a look at how to photograph the Northern Lights and Milky Way with your DSLR camera (upon-request)
- hands-on experiences: make an aurora, hold a meteorite!
- Also, if the skies are clear enough, we will offer LIVE guided views through our telescopes* next to the planetarium.
As this is an outdoor event, please dress for evening Rocky Mountain weather (i.e. warmly!)
- For health and safety reasons, our telescope experience is now ‘touchless’, using video-based telescopes as our primary observing tool (so guests never have to put their face up to a telescope eyepiece – instead, live telescope views will appear on 4K TV screens, which provide the brightest, most colourful views of space possible PLUS no waiting in line for telescope views - Many people can view at the same time!) In cases where binoculars are available, we will disinfect them after each use by an individual travel party. For hands-on activities, disposable plastic gloves are provided.
Please note: This does not include the Planetarium program.
NOTE: the Telescope Experience is a learning opportunity with many non-weather-dependent aspects AND weather permitting views of the sky. While we do not need the sky to be completely clear to use our telescopes we CAN NOT guarantee clear skies. We DO NOT provide refunds if the skies are too cloudy BUT this tour includes a 2-year “rain check” to re-book for another date. (No action is required to activate this rain-check. It is automatically included in your tour)
When booking this tour, please be mindful of expected time of the sunset in Jasper on the date you wish to attend. Selecting a time after the sunset will help with providing the best chance of seeing night time views.
Adventure Tips
Arrive Early for the Best View
Getting to the venue a little earlier ensures you find a good spot and settle in before the prime stargazing begins.
Dress Warmly and Bring Blankets
Nighttime temperatures in Alberta can drop quickly, so layering and cozy blankets will keep you comfortable during the session.
Bring Your Own Camera or Smartphone
Capture the breathtaking views and detailed shots of planets and stars with your device, but be mindful of low-light photography tips.
Limit Light Pollution
Turn off bright lights on your device and avoid flash photography to enhance your stargazing experience.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Bears (less common during evening activities)
History
Jasper has been a designated dark-sky preserve since 2011, protecting its incredible night skies from light pollution.
Conservation
The Activity supports sustainable tourism by promoting responsible star gazing and minimizing light pollution in Jasper National Park.
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Adventure Hotspots in Jasper
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Clothing and Layers
Layering helps you stay warm during outdoor night sessions in Alberta's cooler months.
winter specific
Headlamp or Flashlight with Red Light Mode
A red light preserves night vision while providing enough illumination for safety and reading materials.
Camera or Smartphone with Night Mode
Capture stunning images of the stars and planets to remember your celestial night.
Insulated Blanket or Sleeping Bag
Keeps you warm while you relax and gaze at the sky during colder months.
winter specific