JASPER, METIS CROSSING DARK SKIES AND NORTHERN LIGHTS
JASPER, METIS CROSSING DARK SKIES AND NORTHERN LIGHTS
Experience the wild beauty and rich cultural heritage of Alberta on this 6-day journey from the rugged wilderness of Jasper National Park to the deeply rooted traditions of Métis Crossing. This adventure combines wildlife encounters, indigenous storytelling, stargazing, and culinary delights, offering an immersive exploration of Alberta's diverse landscapes and history.
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Start Location: Edmonton
End Location: Edmonton
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Scenic drive and wildlife spotting through Jasper National Park’s Maligne Valley.
- Stargazing and interactive cosmic discovery at Jasper's Planetarium & Telescope Experience.
- A guided foodie tour of Jasper's top restaurants.
- Cultural immersion at Métis Crossing, including traditional Métis meals and stargazing under the night sky.
- Up-close wildlife experience with rare heritage species like white and wood bison at Métis Crossing.
SAMPLE ITINERARY (CUSTOMIZABLE)
Day 1: Arrival in Edmonton and Drive to Jasper
Upon arrival at Edmonton Airport, collect your rental car and take the scenic 3-hour drive to Jasper, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Jasper National Park is renowned for its rugged wilderness, rich backcountry trails, and the world-famous Columbia Icefields, accessible by road. In this wild, untamed landscape, you can spot rare North American wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, and wolves, while hiking or skiing at Marmot Basin.
Overnight: Jasper
Day 2: Exploring the Wilderness of Jasper
Begin your day with a journey through the breathtaking Maligne Valley, one of the most scenic areas of Jasper National Park. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including osprey, eagles, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, moose, elk, and even bears. This area is teeming with nature’s wonders, offering unforgettable encounters with these majestic creatures.Your first stop is Maligne Canyon, where you’ll witness the awe-inspiring power of the Maligne River. Over 10,000 years of erosion have carved a deep 165-foot gorge into the landscape, and you’ll take a short walk to marvel at the waterfalls cascading through this dramatic canyon. It's a perfect spot for photos and nature immersion.Next, continue your adventure to Medicine Lake, a serene body of water steeped in mystery due to its unique underground drainage system. From here, your journey takes you to the iconic Maligne Lake, surrounded by towering peaks and rich in wildlife. The panoramic views are truly spectacular, so make sure your cameras are ready to capture the beauty of this unforgettable location.As evening falls, prepare for a cosmic adventure with the Jasper Planetarium & Telescope Experience Combo in the renowned Jasper Dark Sky Preserve. This exciting evening begins indoors with the Planetarium Experience, a virtual guided tour of the universe in a domed theater. A local astronomy expert will introduce you to First Nations constellations, recent Northern Lights displays, and take you on a breathtaking journey through the stars, from the Milky Way to the edge of the universe. You’ll also have time for a Q&A session with the planetarium staff.Afterward, step outside for the Telescope Experience under the vast, dark skies of Jasper. Dress warmly and prepare for an interactive night of cosmic discovery. You’ll have hands-on experiences with meteorites, Moon and Mars rocks, and the latest 4K displays of live views through the telescopes. If the skies are clear, you’ll get a chance for LIVE guided viewing through the telescopes, capturing the beauty of the stars and possibly the Northern Lights.
Overnight: Jasper
Day 3: Jasper’s Culinary Delights
Embark on a foodie adventure with a guided walking tour through Jasper’s culinary scene. Visit four local restaurants, each offering a carefully curated dish paired with a drink. Along the way, listen to captivating stories about Jasper’s history and culture while enjoying the best local flavors.
Overnight: Jasper
Meals: Lunch
Day 4: Métis Crossing Cultural Experience
Begin your immersive cultural journey at Métis Crossing, Alberta's premier Métis interpretive center, located on 688 scenic acres along the North Saskatchewan River. This vibrant center offers visitors a chance to engage with Métis history, culture, and traditions through interactive programs and storytelling.Upon arrival, you'll be treated to breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all inspired by traditional Métis cuisine. Métis culture is known for its culinary fusion of European, Indigenous, and local influences. Feast on dishes like bison, trout, and saskatoon berries, prepared by expert Indigenous chefs who infuse history and seasonality into every bite. Meals change with the seasons, offering a fresh and authentic taste of Métis heritage.Explore the beautiful outdoor surroundings of Métis Crossing, where you’ll feel a deep connection to the land that Métis ancestors first settled in the late 1800s. Stroll through the expansive property, take in the views of the North Saskatchewan River, and experience the pride and sacredness that shape this important cultural site.As night falls, partake in the "Whispers from the Stars" program, where you'll discover the magic of Indigenous storytelling through the night sky. Learn how the Métis people and their ancestors used the stars to navigate and interpret the world around them. Afterward, relax at The Lodge at Métis Crossing, where you can enjoy traditional Métis food from the on-site café, such as bannock and buffalo stew. The starry skies and cultural tales will leave you with a deep appreciation of Métis heritage.
Overnight: Metis Crossing
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Wildlife and Heritage at Métis Crossing
Start your day with the "Visions, Hopes & Dreams" Wildlife Tour at the Métis Crossing Wildlife Park. This three-hour guided tour provides a rare opportunity to encounter the Métis heritage species that once roamed these lands. Step into the paddocks to witness white bison, wood bison, plains bison, elk, and Percheron horses up close.
As you tour the park, learn about the Métis people’s historical connection to the bison, or "bufloo" in the Michif language, which played a central role in their culture. The bison hunts were a key part of Métis life, bringing large communities together and helping to form the Métis Nation's laws, democratic systems, and traditions.
The tour goes beyond wildlife, offering a profound exploration of Métis people's deep connection to the land. Your guide will share stories that emphasize the importance of these heritage species and how they shaped Métis history. This is not just a wildlife tour but a cultural journey that intertwines Métis traditions with nature, providing a unique perspective on Métis life and their enduring bond with the land.
Overnight: Metis Crossing
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Return to Edmonton
After a relaxing morning, make the drive back to Edmonton, where you'll return your rental car and conclude your unforgettable Alberta adventure.
DATES & PRICES
Availability:
AVAILABLE ALL YEAR
ACCOMMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?
Anderson Vacations
Other Companies
Independent Travel
See what you want, where you want, how you want. Solo, with a friend, or with a group of friends.Canadian Travel Experts
With at least 30 years of experience.Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate
From past guests.Accreditation and Consumer Protection
Feel confident booking because of a membership in all the following organizations:
Sustainability
Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- 5 nights of accommodation
- Rental car for 6 days
- Sightseeing and attractions as listed
EXCLUSIONS
- Sightseeing and attractions as listed
- Taxes as applicable
- Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
- Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers, and/or Bus Drivers
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Why Take A Custom Tour?
Private & Customizable
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want. A trip that's perfectly timed and well organized.
Unique Experience
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way. Can combine your trip with our group tours. Advice to help you get the most out of your trip.
Freedom to Explore
Time to enjoy and take in each place. Add days in places you want to explore. Do only the activities you want to do.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking flights?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Tour Questions
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+
I am a solo traveler. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.
What is your recommended spending amount for non-included meals?
The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
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Tour Code
6JMC
Jasper, Metis Crossing Dark Skies and Northern Lights
6 days
Created On: 22 Dec 2024
Highlights
- Scenic drive and wildlife spotting through Jasper National Park’s Maligne Valley.
- Stargazing and interactive cosmic discovery at Jasper's Planetarium & Telescope Experience.
- A guided foodie tour of Jasper's top restaurants.
- Cultural immersion at Métis Crossing, including traditional Métis meals and stargazing under the night sky.
- Up-close wildlife experience with rare heritage species like white and wood bison at Métis Crossing.
Inclusions
- 5 nights of accommodation
- Rental car for 6 days
- Sightseeing and attractions as listed
Exclusions
- Sightseeing and attractions as listed
- Taxes as applicable
- Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended, ask us for a quote!)
- Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers, and/or Bus Drivers
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Items (attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Dates & Prices
ACCOMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
Moderate Accomodation
Edmonton
Edmonton
$1,900 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Edmonton and Drive to Jasper
Upon arrival at Edmonton Airport, collect your rental car and take the scenic 3-hour drive to Jasper, nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Jasper National Park is renowned for its rugged wilderness, rich backcountry trails, and the world-famous Columbia Icefields, accessible by road. In this wild, untamed landscape, you can spot rare North American wildlife, including grizzly bears, caribou, and wolves, while hiking or skiing at Marmot Basin.
Overnight: Jasper
Day 2: Exploring the Wilderness of Jasper
Begin your day with a journey through the breathtaking Maligne Valley, one of the most scenic areas of Jasper National Park. As you explore, keep your eyes peeled for wildlife, including osprey, eagles, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, moose, elk, and even bears. This area is teeming with nature’s wonders, offering unforgettable encounters with these majestic creatures.Your first stop is Maligne Canyon, where you’ll witness the awe-inspiring power of the Maligne River. Over 10,000 years of erosion have carved a deep 165-foot gorge into the landscape, and you’ll take a short walk to marvel at the waterfalls cascading through this dramatic canyon. It's a perfect spot for photos and nature immersion.Next, continue your adventure to Medicine Lake, a serene body of water steeped in mystery due to its unique underground drainage system. From here, your journey takes you to the iconic Maligne Lake, surrounded by towering peaks and rich in wildlife. The panoramic views are truly spectacular, so make sure your cameras are ready to capture the beauty of this unforgettable location.As evening falls, prepare for a cosmic adventure with the Jasper Planetarium & Telescope Experience Combo in the renowned Jasper Dark Sky Preserve. This exciting evening begins indoors with the Planetarium Experience, a virtual guided tour of the universe in a domed theater. A local astronomy expert will introduce you to First Nations constellations, recent Northern Lights displays, and take you on a breathtaking journey through the stars, from the Milky Way to the edge of the universe. You’ll also have time for a Q&A session with the planetarium staff.Afterward, step outside for the Telescope Experience under the vast, dark skies of Jasper. Dress warmly and prepare for an interactive night of cosmic discovery. You’ll have hands-on experiences with meteorites, Moon and Mars rocks, and the latest 4K displays of live views through the telescopes. If the skies are clear, you’ll get a chance for LIVE guided viewing through the telescopes, capturing the beauty of the stars and possibly the Northern Lights.
Overnight: Jasper
Day 3: Jasper’s Culinary Delights
Embark on a foodie adventure with a guided walking tour through Jasper’s culinary scene. Visit four local restaurants, each offering a carefully curated dish paired with a drink. Along the way, listen to captivating stories about Jasper’s history and culture while enjoying the best local flavors.
Overnight: Jasper
Meals: Lunch
Day 4: Métis Crossing Cultural Experience
Begin your immersive cultural journey at Métis Crossing, Alberta's premier Métis interpretive center, located on 688 scenic acres along the North Saskatchewan River. This vibrant center offers visitors a chance to engage with Métis history, culture, and traditions through interactive programs and storytelling.Upon arrival, you'll be treated to breakfast, lunch, and dinner, all inspired by traditional Métis cuisine. Métis culture is known for its culinary fusion of European, Indigenous, and local influences. Feast on dishes like bison, trout, and saskatoon berries, prepared by expert Indigenous chefs who infuse history and seasonality into every bite. Meals change with the seasons, offering a fresh and authentic taste of Métis heritage.Explore the beautiful outdoor surroundings of Métis Crossing, where you’ll feel a deep connection to the land that Métis ancestors first settled in the late 1800s. Stroll through the expansive property, take in the views of the North Saskatchewan River, and experience the pride and sacredness that shape this important cultural site.As night falls, partake in the "Whispers from the Stars" program, where you'll discover the magic of Indigenous storytelling through the night sky. Learn how the Métis people and their ancestors used the stars to navigate and interpret the world around them. Afterward, relax at The Lodge at Métis Crossing, where you can enjoy traditional Métis food from the on-site café, such as bannock and buffalo stew. The starry skies and cultural tales will leave you with a deep appreciation of Métis heritage.
Overnight: Metis Crossing
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Wildlife and Heritage at Métis Crossing
Start your day with the "Visions, Hopes & Dreams" Wildlife Tour at the Métis Crossing Wildlife Park. This three-hour guided tour provides a rare opportunity to encounter the Métis heritage species that once roamed these lands. Step into the paddocks to witness white bison, wood bison, plains bison, elk, and Percheron horses up close.
As you tour the park, learn about the Métis people’s historical connection to the bison, or "bufloo" in the Michif language, which played a central role in their culture. The bison hunts were a key part of Métis life, bringing large communities together and helping to form the Métis Nation's laws, democratic systems, and traditions.
The tour goes beyond wildlife, offering a profound exploration of Métis people's deep connection to the land. Your guide will share stories that emphasize the importance of these heritage species and how they shaped Métis history. This is not just a wildlife tour but a cultural journey that intertwines Métis traditions with nature, providing a unique perspective on Métis life and their enduring bond with the land.
Overnight: Metis Crossing
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6: Return to Edmonton
After a relaxing morning, make the drive back to Edmonton, where you'll return your rental car and conclude your unforgettable Alberta adventure.
