Five Reasons to Ski Marmot Basin During Jasper in January Festival

January in the Canadian Rockies can conjure up images of frigid temperatures. But for skiers and snowboarders, it’s when you can get good deals on lift tickets and lodging in Jasper to ski Marmot Basin — especially during the Jasper in January festival held Jan. 11-27, 2013. Here’s five reasons to head to Jasper this January:

Reason One:
While January can hold the coldest temperatures of the year, sometimes days hold crisp blue skies. The average temperature in town is 21 degrees F. Of course, it’s chillier up on the slopes of Marmot Basin, but when storms blow off, you’re left with stunning views of Jasper National Park.

Reason Two:
Once the holiday crowds depart, January offers elbow room on the slopes with minimal lift lines. Fewer crowds equals more untracked powder in the upper basin and more room to sidle up to the bar for a beer.

Reason Three:
Marmot Basin reduces the price on lift tickets during the Jasper in January celebration. An adult ticket drops to $60 instead of $80, saving you $20. Reduced ticket rates are available at the ticket window without having to track down vouchers or coupons.

Reason Four:
Discount room deals are available during the Jasper in January two weeks, too. For instance, you can get a room at Marmot Lodge for $129 per night with a hot breakfast and lift ticket included. The Tonquin Inn runs a Jasper in January ski and stay special that starts at $67 per person per night. The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge plans to offer special rates during the festival, too.

Reason Five:
During Jasper in January, you can enjoy the party atmosphere with special events. The festival features live music in bars, wine tastings, astronomy nights, curling, street parties, hockey, an indoor snowball fight, brewery tours, and fireworks. The really brave can join the Polar Bear Dip by jumping into frozen Patricia Lake.

For more information on Jasper in January, go here: Marmot Basin lift tickets, lodging deals, events.