Up, up and away on the Jasper Tramway

I'm not one for "attractions" and so have largely ignored the many brochures for rafting, sightseeing trips, wildlife tours around Jasper. Initially I didn't even consider riding the Jasper Tramway. But word around town is it's an experience not to be missed.

The tramway base is about 6km from the town centre. It was a nice day so I pulled on the hiking boots again, although most of the walk followed the road. I arrived at base dripping with sweat and, according to the girl who sold me my ticket and a Pepsi, smelling of sunscreen.

The car fits 30 people, but it was squishy with 18 in it for our six-minute ride to the top. I'm not great with heights so cuddled the front of the car so I couldn't see how far we were off the ground. I wasn't comforted by the swaying when we went over the tower at half-way.

Our guide warned us about wind-chill at the top, but after my hike, the 8-degrees was just what I needed. There is still a lot of snow at the top. It's starting to melt, but is unlikely to be completely gone before July. Most of the surrounding boardwalks were closed, but those with hiking boots (including me) simply jumped the rope and headed carefully into the snow.



With gorgeous blue skies, glistening snow and a clear view to wherever you wanted to look, it was a stunning experience. I could see the town (which is shaped like a J), Patricia and Pyramid Lakes where I walked on Sunday, the tip of Mt Robson and those contrasts of green in the valley below.

I spent an hour at the top - walking, sitting, taking photos, enjoying the sun - before heading back down. It was definitely worth the $32 ticket and I had the perfect day for it. I started the 6km walk back into town before a couple from Quebec pulled up in their van an offered me a ride.

 

There is a company, Sundog Tours, which provides a shuttle out to the Jasper Tramway for $36, which includes your tramway ticket. Not a bad deal really. I wouldn't recommend the walk out there once summer heats up.

Today's spending: Jasper Tramway ticket: $32; Drink: $1.50. Total: $33.50