Jasper, Metis Crossing Dark Skies and Northern Lights

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.