Maligne Lake

The Basics

As one of Alberta’s—and indeed Canada’s—most-hyped beauty spots, Maligne Lake is included on many sightseeing tours of the Jasper and Banff regions. Chauffeured sidecar and coach tours generally make stops at natural attractions such as Medicine Lake, Maligne Canyon, and other Rocky Mountain hot spots. Maligne Lake is also often included on the itinerary.

Some half and full-day sightseeing tours incorporate boat cruises on the lake, and guided nature and wildlife-watching walks around the lake. Several backcountry campgrounds, accessible by canoe, are located on the lake’s edge. Canoes can be rented from the Maligne Lake Boathouse.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Moose, grizzly bears, and caribou are known to roam the regions near the lake, making it perfect for wildlife-viewers.

• Maligne Lake is open to paddlers and electric motor boats only.

• Dress in layers as sudden weather changes are common here.

• Part, though not all, of the Mary Schäffer Loop, which winds around the shoreline, is paved and suitable for wheelchair users.

How to Get There

Maligne Lake is at the end of Maligne Lake Road, about 31 miles (50 kilometers) from Jasper. As there is no public transport in the area, the best way for car-free travelers to get here is by organized tour. Driving from Jasper will take about an hour.

When to Get There

The best time to visit Maligne Lake is between late May and early October, when boats and paddlers can go out on the water. Though the north part of the lake can become busy, quieter spots—accessible only on foot or by boat—can always be found to the south. In winter, the frozen lake is peaceful, attracting only a few hardy snowshoers, though road conditions in the park can sometimes make the lake difficult to access.

How to See Spirit Island

In theory, visitors can paddle or kayak to Spirit Island, though it’s about an 8.5-mile (14-kilometer) one-way journey and it can take the best part of a day. Unless you’re a fit, experience kayaker, and have booked a lakeside campsite to stay at, you’re better off doing a Maligne Lake cruise, which will get you out to within view of the island and back in just 90 minutes.

Is the Maligne Lake cruise worth it?

Yes, it’s definitely worth doing the cruise on Maligne Lake. It’s a great way to appreciate the views of the lake, its islets, and the surrounding glaciers and mountains. The live onboard commentary is also an excellent way to learn more about the geology, wildlife, and history of Maligne Lake.

How long is the Maligne Lake tour?

The Maligne Lake classic cruise takes about 90 minutes, while the premium cruise lasts 30 minutes longer, including a stop near Spirit Island. Guided tours of the Jasper area that included a stop at Maligne Lake vary in length. The drive from Jasper to Maligne Lake takes up to 90 minutes.

What is the difference between the classic and the premium Maligne Lake cruise?

The classic cruise on Maligne Lake takes around 90 minutes and includes an 8.5-mile (14-kilometer) cruise on the lake, live commentary, and a 15-minute stop near Spirit Island, where you can take a walk. The premium cruise is almost the same but 30 minutes longer and includes a stop at Pincushion Bay and 30 minutes near Spirit Island.

What is the best time to go to Maligne Lake?

Summer and fall (June–October) are the best time to visit Maligne Lake to hike, admire the views, and see wildlife. The weather is most pleasant in summer. It’s also beautiful in winter but prepare for cold conditions and winter driving. The Maligne Lake cruise only operates between late May and mid-October when the lake isn’t frozen.

Is there a shuttle from Jasper to Maligne Lake?

Yes, shuttles operate between Jasper and Maligne Lake. They are primarily intended for hikers who need transportation to/from the trailheads. Pre-bookings are necessary, and these shuttles are seasonal. They aren’t ideal for non-hikers without a vehicle because they don’t give enough time to explore Maligne Lake before the return trip.

What is special about Maligne Lake?

Maligne Lake is a beautiful lake in Alberta’s Jasper National Park. It’s the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies and stretches 13.5 miles (22 kilometers) to the meltwaters of the Coronet Glacier. The surrounding forests are home to wildlife, and travelers can hike and cross-country ski on the trails.

Ways to explore

The Maligne Lake area is a year-round destination, attracting canoers, kayakers, and backcountry hikers in the summer and snowshoers and cross-country skiers in the winter. Boat tours passing Spirit Island are another highlight—just be sure to book ahead, as they sell out quickly. Note that permits are required for backcountry camping and fishing.

To visit Jasper National Park, take advantage of the Canada Strong Pass, which offers free entry and discounted campsites in the summer and winter holiday periods. At other times of year, book a day pass or a Discovery Pass, good for one year at 100-plus national parks and historic sites.

Accessibility

There is a roughly paved path down from the main parking area that is wheelchair accessible, although it is on an incline. Check with tour providers ahead of time for specific accessibility information.

Age limits

Fishing permits are not required for visitors 15 and under.

What to pack

Water, snacks, sunscreen, hat, layers, bug spray

What to wear

Good hiking shoes, weather-appropriate outdoor gear

Not allowed

Accessing seasonally closed caribou territories, fires during wildfire season, personal motorized watercraft, fishing without permits

Amenities

Parking, restaurant, bathrooms, benches, accommodation

Address 

It takes about an hour to drive to the lake from the town of Jasper, and you should check road conditions ahead of your drive. If you don’t have your own vehicle, it’s a popular spot on bus tours of the park.

Driving

From Jasper, head southeast on Connaught Drive. Turn left onto Highway 16 and follow the signs for Edmonton. Take a right onto Maligne Lake Road, where you’ll see signs for Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. Continue until you reach the lake.

Public transportation

Public transportation isn’t available between the lake and the rest of the park. Fortunately, many guided park tours include round-trip transit from plenty of Jasper’s hotels, while multi-day Canada national park tours often offer pickup at Calgary International Airport.

Best times to visit

It’s always best to get an early start—the light will be softer if you’re looking to take photos, and you won’t have to worry about finding parking.

Best days to visit

Focus on the best weather, rather than a specific day—luckily, the lake is a large area, so visitors can spread out.

Best months to visit

If you want to take the boat tour that passes Spirit Island, visit from mid-June to late October.