In the summer evenings elk make their way up from the river to graze on the grass of the Jasper Park Lodge property. They often settle in for the evening right in front of the guest cabins. Before heading out your door you might want to do a quick check to make sure an elk isn’t at your doorstep.
As long as you don’t get too close they don’t seem to be bothered by human presence. You can observe them and take photographs, but remain at a safe distance. Their behavior can be unpredictable, and they will attack you if they feel threatened.
It’s not uncommon to see a herd of twenty or more elk scattered throughout the grounds. On one of the evenings during our stay we counted seven elk calves. They were adorable. Their coats start out with white spots just like a fawn.
If you’re not staying at the lodge don’t worry, there are plenty of other places around Jasper to see elk. As you drive between the town of Jasper and the attractions throughout the park you can often see them feeding along the road side grasses. The largest groups of elk are present during the rutting season in September. This is also the most dangerous time to be around the males, as they tend to be very territorial.
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