Cross-country and snowshoeing

This is prime ski touring and snowshoeing country with scenery guaranteed to delight. For a complete winter trail listing and guide, stop by Jasper National Park's Information Center or call 852-6176.

Jasper Park Lodge trails, about 19 km., are unparalleled for beauty and variety. The gentle, groomed and easily accessible trails wind around lake shores, Alpine meadows and forests. The easiest is Cavell, a 5 km. loop with many elk sightings. The perimeter loop samples a little of everything that the Jasper Park Lodge trails offer.

Near Jasper Townsite, a good level, nighttime-lit beginner trail is 4.5km Whistlers Campground Loop, 4.5 km. Pyramid Bench Trail, 4.7 km. rated intermediate, overlooks the Athabasca River Valley. Patricia Lake Circle, 5.9 km. intermediate (follow the trail clockwise), provides stunning views of Mt. Edith Cavell, the region's most prominent and dramatically sloped peak. Most lodges have trail maps.

For guided cross-country skiing, backcountry and snowshoeing tours, contact Edge Control, 852-4945; Beyond the Beaten Path, 852-5650; Overlander Trekking & Tours, 852-4056 (snowshoe tours only); or Alpine Art, 852-3709. Ask about rentals and/or instruction.

A full day's ski over Maccarib Pass from the Marmot Basin Road on the north shore of Amethyst Lake leads to Tonquin Valley Lodge, hearty home-cooked meals and welcome beds. Contact Tonquin Valley Ski Tours, Box 550, Jasper, Alberta T0L 1E0; 852-3909.