Telescope Experience (Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge)
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; standing outdoors in cold weather is required
Overview
Discover the magic of the night sky with a private telescope adventure at Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Perfect for winter nights, this experience offers stunning views of celestial wonders under Alberta's clear winter skies.
Telescope Experience (Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge)
45 minutes • All ages
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About This Adventure
Embark on an unforgettable journey at the world's largest astronomy park! Experience powerful telescopes, capture stunning images of the Northern Lights, and engage in hands-on activities like making an aurora. Enjoy live views of the night sky, all while surrounded by the breathtaking Rocky Mountains. Dress warmly for this unique adventure!
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 optical and video-based telescopes next to the planetarium.
As this is an outdoor event, please dress for evening Rocky Mountain weather (i.e. warmly!)
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
Dress warmly for winter stargazing
Layer up in thermal clothing and bring blankets to stay comfortable during outdoor viewing.
Arrive early to secure the best spots
Arriving 15-20 minutes before your scheduled session ensures optimal positioning for viewing and photos.
Use a red flashlight to read star charts
Red light preserves night vision, allowing better visibility of stars and planets.
Check the weather forecast
Clear skies are essential for optimal celestial viewing, so monitor weather conditions prior to your trip.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Snowshoe hare
History
Jasper National Park was established in 1907 and is Canada’s first national park, preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of the Rockies.
Conservation
The activity emphasizes low-impact, responsible tourism that supports park preservation and environmental sustainability.
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Adventure Hotspots in Jasper, Alberta
Recommended Gear
insulated winter jacket
Keeps you warm during outdoor stargazing in cold temperatures.
winter specific
thermal gloves and hat
Protects extremities from the cold for a comfortable experience.
winter specific
binoculars
Optional for wide-field celestial observations or terrestrial viewing.
smartphone with star map app
Helps identify constellations and celestial objects during the session.