Overview
Yellowhead Pass, also known as the Great Yellowhead Pass, is a historic mountain pass located in Jasper National Park, Alberta, Canada. It serves as a significant route through the Rocky Mountains and is known for its scenic beauty and rich history.
The pass is named after Pierre Bostonais, a French-Canadian explorer also known as 'Tête Jaune' (Yellowhead), who was one of the first non-Indigenous people to cross the Canadian Rockies in this area. It is also a key route in the Canadian National Railway and the Yellowhead Highway.
Location
Address
Jasper National Park, Jasper, Alberta
Neighborhood: Jasper National Park
Coordinates
52.872600, -118.084000
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June to September
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds, better wildlife sightings
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • wildflowers
- • melting waterfalls
summer
warm to hot
- • long daylight hours
- • wildlife sightings
autumn
cool to cold
- • fall colors
- • elk rutting season
winter
cold
- • snow activities
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead for tours
- Bring bear spray
- Check road conditions
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high
- • bear country
- • altitude sickness
Medical facilities: first aid available, nearest hospital in Jasper
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, credit cards
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, weather-appropriate, comfortable hiking shoes, layers, hiking shoes or boots, inappropriate clothing for weather
Booking Tips
- • 3 weeks
- • official Parks Canada website
- • 72 hours
- • available for some tours
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Parks Canada
Size: 100 MB
Features: Maps, Wildlife alerts, Park information, Trip planning
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor Centre, Some picnic areas
Charging Stations: Visitor Centre
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Edmonton International Airport (YEG)
Distance: 365 km
Travel Time: 3 hours 45 minutes
From City Center
Distance: 5 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, rich history, and diverse wildlife
Historical Significance: Key route for early explorers and traders, part of the historic Yellowhead Highway
Insider Tips
- Best sunrise views at Patrol Cabin
- Early morning wildlife tours are less crowded
- Visit the Jasper Brewing Company for local beers
Local Recommendations
- • Try local bison burgers
- • Ask rangers for hiking tips
- • Visit the Jasper SkyTram for panoramic views
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Yellowhead Pass Viewpoint
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Wide angle for landscapes
Result: Breathtaking mountain views
Near the historic Yellowhead Highway
Best Time: Sunset
Tips: Low angle for dramatic shots
Result: Stunning sunset over the mountains
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Jasper SkyTram
Distance: 10 km
Walking: 20 min
Type: Scenic Gondola
Maligne Lake
Distance: 25 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Lake
Columbia Icefield
Distance: 80 km
Walking: N/A
Type: Glacier
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Bring bear spray"
- "Visit early for wildlife"
- "Stop at viewpoints"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (2)
Quick Info
Available Tours
0
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$10.50