Discussions

We are going to Edmonton and would like to see the mountains while we are there. But we`re not sure if we should just go to Jasper, as it`s much closer to Edmonton, or make the trek down to Banff. Is Jasper as nice as Banff. Any tips for places to stay, things to see, etc. Thanks for any input and tips!

As far as scenery and nearby outdoor attractions, its very arguable which is better.  
 
As for in town, Banff is better, much larger town but still quaint, more amenities and things to see and do, like museums and gallery's, shops and cafes.

I've gone to both recently and I preferred Banff to Jasper. Make sure you stop by Lake Louise while your there. The whole area is absolutely stunning.

Banff is wayyyyyy better. Way more family orientated. Way more things to do. It's amazing. I don't know very much stuff to do in jasper but here's a list of stuff u can do in Banff and these are all free  
 
Johnson falls hike  
Norain lake hike. ( both super easy and rewarding)  
Lake Louise  
Walk the main drag and check out all the cool shops.  
Bow valley falls.  
If you drive up to mount norquay u can stop at lookout at Banff at multiple spots. Really nice  
If you have bikes with you (you can rent in town) many good bike trails including the Star Wars trail. You can you tube it  
 
These things cost a bit of money but still fun  
Sulphur mountain gondola ride  
Glacier bus tour  
Canoeing on lake Louise.  
Banff hot springs  
Caves of Banff  
The chairlift runs at my norquay for hikes there  
There is the skywalk that goes out over the glacier.  
Boat tours on the lake right by Banff. Can't remember the name  
 
I know there is more stuff to list but I can't remember. Banff is made to be a family getaway place in my eyes  

Do both. Go to Jasper and then drive straight south to Banff from there. It has to be one of the most beautiful scenic drives ever. There are lots of things to see everywhere. You can come out at Calgary and circle back or just head east to home.

I prefer jasper for hiking. Some of my favorite hikes near jasper: maligne canyon, angel glacier in mt Edith cavell, athcabasca falls, horseshoe lake. The boat tour to spirit island in maligne lake was cool too.  
 
Edited by april, 2015-09-07 17:43:57

If you're planning on going for a day trip I'd recommend Jasper. Plenty to do and equally as scenic without the commotion of Banff.