Located in the rugged landscape of Jasper National Park in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Marmot Basin is as unpretentious as it is pristine. Overlooking a breathtaking view of Jasper and surrounding areas, Marmot Basin's 1,675 acres, 86 runs and 3,000 vertical feet of varied terrain make up for a world class skiing facility, with the highest base elevation of all Canadian ski areas. Marmot's trails comprise easy, intermediate and advanced runs, making this an ideal destination for skiers and boarders of all abilities.

Jasper abounds with beautiful cross country ski trails, which take you through scenic valleys, vast frozen lakes and unsurpassed mountain scenery. Cross-country ski and ski rental information is available at the Parks Canada Information Centre and at local ski shops. Recommended ski trails include Whistlers Campground, Maligne Lake, Athabasca Falls/Whirlpool Valley and the Pyramid Bench.

The guided ice walks allow for anyone to strap on anti-slip cleats for an unsurpassed winter ice-walk adventure along the frozen canyon. Explore ice fossils and towering frozen waterfalls stretching over 30 metres up the canyon walls.

For an even more tantalizing experience, take a tour of Maligne Canyon at night. Equipped with a headlamp, the illumination of the limestone and the constantly shifting ice formations create an otherworldly effect.

Sawridge Inn Jasper recommends the following tour operators for a guided hike of the canyon:

• Jasper Adventure Centre
  
• Maligne Adventures
• Sundog Tours

Marshy areas, like that found on the Pyramid Bench, are the best places to snowshoe. The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge golf course provides a level area for beginners. The Maligne Lake area, with its abundant snowfall, offers a premium snowshoeing environment. Snowshoeing on the lake itself is not recommended. Snowshoes can be rented at a number of outdoor shops within Jasper.

Hiring a professional tour guide can enhance your experience as you gain access to some of Jasper's hidden gems.