maligne lake cruise discount

Boat Cruise

Boat cruise on Maligne Lake, located in Jasper National Park.

Enjoy views of the Canadian Rockies, Spirit Island, and sprawling forests.

Maligne Lake Cruise

Book Jasper

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Jasper's Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Fully narrated cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Overview

What to expect on the maligne lake boat cruise, maligne lake boat cruise itinerary, cruise glacial water of maligne lake and take in the spirit of jasper, best time for the maligne lake boat cruise, premium maligne lake boat cruise, 2024 maligne lake boat cruise daily operating hours, maligne lake boat cruise, 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise.

Discover top natural attractions such as Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake on foot, and enjoy a scenic cruise on Maligne Lake.

Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

What to expect on the 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise, 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise itinerary, additional 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise info, jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake boat cruise.

Fully narrated Jasper Sightseeing Tour and Boat cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

What To Expect on the Jasper Sightseeing Tour & Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake boat cruise itinerary, more jasper maligne valley and maligne lake boat cruises, inside maligne lake boat cruise.

Who is Fred Brewster?

Maligne Lake's different Boat Tours & Rentals.

Maligne Lake Chalet or Lodge.

Jasper Maligne Lake Boat House.

Weddings at Maligne Lake Chalet.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Restaurant Deck.

Maligne Lake Waffle House.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Weather.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise Reviews

A wonderful trip! The guide on the boat was both entertaining and knowledgeable. Great opportunity to take some wonderful photographs.

Enjoyed our boat ride out and back as well as walking some trails around the headquarters. Need to add another 5-10 minutes to the stop at Spirit Island. Seemed like we were rushed. Maligne Canyon on the way back to Jasper was a perfect way to complete the trip!

The Maligne Lake Cruise shouldn't be missed. magnificent scenery..... One piece of advice book your cruise ahead, boats were completely booked when we arrived. It's a long beautiful drive out to the lake but knowing your cruise time ahead reduces stress and who needs that when traveling.... Staff was knowledgeable and friendly. If your in Jasper you've got to go!!!

Great cruise, the scenes was beyond belief! So beautiful, and the guides were very informative. highly recommend.

Jasper Maligne Lake Map

Up Maligne Road from Jasper.

Contact Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

Click to Contact Us

Experience the Maligne Lake Cruise & Maligne Canyon, Jasper National Park

For a perfect day in Jasper, take the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island (open May 31, 2024 – October 13, 2024), then hike and dine at Maligne Canyon.

Disclosure: This story was written in partnership with Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection , but all words and opinions are my own.

Table of Contents

Maligne Lake Cruise

Maligne Lake is beautiful at any time of day, but mornings are most magical when mist rises from the still water. As we take in the expanse of blue dotted with canoes, we breathe deeply, savoring the fresh mountain air. It is cool and crisp with a hint of lodgepole pine.

Flanked by 3,000+ metre (9800+ feet) high snowcapped peaks and glaciers, Maligne Lake is a must-see when in Jasper. Formerly known as “Chaba Imne” (translation: Beaver Lake) by local Indigenous people, the glacier-fed lake stretches 22 kilometres from end to end. Rock flour from glacial erosion gives the the Canadian Rockies’ largest natural lake its stunning color.

With Captain Jordan at the helm, our guide, Jen, does the safety spiel before sharing some stories about Maligne Lake. Although we’ve been on the interpretive lake cruise before, we learn something new every time. For example, did you know Mary Schäffer’s connection to Maligne Lake? Thanks to Sampson Beaver of the Nakoda First Nations, and his hand-drawn map, Schäffer (explorer, botanist, author, and photographer) and her guides were able to find the remote lake in 1908. She is thought to be the first white woman to see Maligne Lake, and her writing about the area’s incredible scenery inspired others to visit. Over a century later, we are following the intrepid explorer’s footsteps in style; on a cruise boat versus makeshift raft.

As we pass a massive, ancient rock slide (half a billion cubic metres of rock came down thousands of years ago), Jen tells us to hold on and get ready for a little fun. An oncoming cruise boat passes by and our boat bobs in its wake. We laugh and wave, then pop onto the back deck to get a few photos. The scenery is as beautiful as it is diverse. Jagged peaks and ridges dominate the skyline, but there are also glaciers and waterfalls.

Our destination is Spirit Island, a sacred spot for the Nakoda, and one of Jasper National Park’s most photographed places. While you could paddle there in half a day (it takes about 4 hours to go 14 kilometres), “at a cruising speed of 32 km per hour,” the cruise get you there much faster allowing more time to explore Maligne Valley. In other words, you can enjoy the cruise, have lunch on a gorgeous patio, and hike Maligne Canyon – all before dinner!

Enjoy the Maligne Lake Cruise, have lunch on a gorgeous patio, and hike Maligne Canyon – all before dinner! #myjasper #pursuitlife Tweet

Before we know it, we’ve arrived at “the Hall of Gods,” the box canyon in which Spirit Island is located. Mary Schäffer aptly named it so in 1908. We disembark and follow the path to stunning viewpoints, and notice how intensely blue the water is here. A fault has created a trench, so the lake is 40 metres deeper here than other parts of the lake (90 metres deep vs. 50 metres). With dramatic peaks surrounding the island’s turquoise pool, it’s easy to see why this is a special place. Geographically, it’s pretty unique too; it is surrounded on three sides by the same mountain range.

On the return leg of the cruise, Jen makes the rounds greeting each passenger and answering their questions. She advises a couple on how to do Maligne Lake as an overnight canoe trip, and gushes about how much she loves living in Jasper. Her enthusiasm is infectious and makes me feel like renting a canoe right away!

Before more exploring, however, we need to eat. With tummies grumbling in anticipation of smokehouse goodness, we say farewell to our wonderful guide and captain, and drive to Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen for lunch.

Know Before You Go

The Maligne Lake Cruise runs from May 31, 2024 – October 13, 2024 , weather permitting. The Classic Cruise is 1.5 hours including 15 minutes on Spirit Island, and the Premium Cruise is 2 hours with a longer stop on Spirit Island.

• Arrive half an hour early to check in.
• When to go: For the best light, plan to take the 4 pm or 4:30 pm cruise (when the sun is shining on Spirit Island). For flat water and nice reflections, go early in the morning.
• Reservations are recommended to ensure you get tickets – and the best price! Alberta residents can save up to 20%, and children 5 and under are free when sharing a seat with an adult.

Book your cruise here: Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection | Maligne Lake Cruise .

Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen

Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen is located at the Maligne Canyon Trailhead. With a smokehouse-inspired menu and rustically elegant decor, you will feel right at home in a sun dress or hiking attire. From the patio, you can hear the Maligne River roaring below; and on a chilly day, you can sit by a fire and keep warm. We’ve dined here three times this year and will be back!

Lunch fare includes hearty sandwiches and flatbreads with pulled pork, chicken and homemade barbecue sauce, or beef brisket; salads; Canyon Poutine with bacon (our fav!); a bison burger; and more. There are even vegetarian and gluten-free options, plus a kids menu. Save room for dessert; everything is amazing!

Hours : Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen is open daily during the summer, and Wednesday to Sunday in the off season. Note there is an annual closure from October 15-December 14. During this time, try Terra at The Crimson Hotel in downtown Jasper instead.

Maligne Canyon

Stretch your legs at Maligne Canyon, a cool slot canyon that is only a few metres wide and over 50 metres deep. Viewing platforms and bridges provide ample opportunities to peer into the depths, and interpretive signs provide information on how the canyon formed, and what plants and animals live here. If you’re lucky, you’ll see black swifts that nest in the canyon!

The trail is 3.7 kilometres one way (to 6th Bridge) with 110 metres elevation gain, but if you’re short on time, you can turn back at the 4th bridge or Wedding Cake Falls (between 4th and 5th Bridge).

Where to Stay

Stay at The Crimson , “Jasper’s newest hotel, inspired by nature.” Spacious, stylish rooms; studios; and suites with full kitchens are available so you can truly feel at home. The location, on the edge of downtown, makes it nice and quiet, but when you want to go out, restaurants and shopping are only a block away.

Amenities include an indoor pool and hot tub, fitness centre, private dining room, banquet & meeting facilities, and onsite dining. Terra , Jasper’s newest restaurant, features locally farmed and foraged fare and creative cocktails.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Terra Jasper (@terrajasper)

Visitor Information

A Parks Canada Discovery Pass / daily admission fee is required to stop in Jasper National Park.

You are in bear territory! Read our Bear Safety Tips for Hikers and carry bear spray on the trails just in case.

Morning and sunset are the best times of day to see wildlife on Maligne Lake Road. Please observe the speed limit, stay in your vehicle if you see animals, and never feed wildlife! You could be fined up to $25,000!

For More Information / Reservations

For more information, or to book your trip now, please visit:

Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection | Maligne Lake Cruise

Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection | Maligne Canyon Wilderness Kitchen

Pursuit Banff Jasper Collection | The Crimson Hotel

What to Bring

Disclosure: This section includes affiliate links through which I earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you .

Waterproof mid-height  hiking boots , a  down hoody or fleece ,  toque , gloves , and  windproof/waterproof shell  are recommended year round. Trekking poles are useful for long hikes, steep descents, or when you’re carrying a fully-loaded backpack (or are babywearing). You should also carry  The Ten Essentials  including: water, extra food, extra clothes, a first aid kit , headlamp , GPS   /   compass / G armin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator * and  map   of the area,  mineral sunscreen , bug spray   (this DEET-free insect repellent contains 20% icaridin and will repel ticks), and  bear spray . Carry bear spray in a  Bear Spray Holster   or  Scat Griz Bear Spray Running Belt .

*A G armin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator   is highly recommended for contacting Search & Rescue and emergency contacts in the event of an emergency, or communicating with friends and family when you are out of cell phone range. You can send text messages and your GPS coordinates via satellite, but a monthly service plan is required.

In snowy/icy conditions, traction devices such as Kahtoola Microspikes (Available from  Amazon ,  MEC , and  Valhalla Pure Outfitters ), or Hillsound Trail Crampons (Available at  Valhalla Pure Outfitters  and  Sport Chek ) are recommended. See our  Fall/Winter Hiking Gear Guide  for recommended clothing and gear.

Related Posts

• Discover the Legends of Jasper with Open Top Touring
• Hiking Valley of the Five Lakes, Jasper
• The Best Stops on the Icefields Parkway
• Glacier View Lodge: Treat Yourself to a Stay at the Columbia Icefield

Karen is a lover of maps, mountains, and mochas. She started Play Outside Guide in 2013 to provide "Everything you need to know to get outside and have fun!" Find her on the trails or road tripping around Southern Alberta.

You may also like

10 fun things to do in nelson, bc..., hiking from moraine lake to consolation lakes in..., 18 fun things to do in jasper this..., hike and picnic at mesa butte, kananaskis pluz, 20 fun things to do in las vegas..., winter fun in the columbia valley: radium hot..., 2024 alberta parks camping reservations, 2024 parks canada camping reservation launch dates for..., where to cross country ski in kananaskis, experience gifts for the people who have everything:....

• Destinations
• Gear Reviews
• Work With Me

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. Accept Read More

Boat Cruise

Boat cruise on Maligne Lake, located in Jasper National Park.

Enjoy views of the Canadian Rockies, Spirit Island, and sprawling forests.

Maligne Lake Cruise

Maligne Boat Cruise

Jasper Maligne Lake Cruise

Jasper's Maligne Lake Cruise

Fully narrated cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

Maligne Lake Cruise Overview

What to expect on the maligne lake cruise, maligne lake cruise itinerary, cruise glacial water of maligne lake and take in the spirit of jasper, best time for the maligne lake cruise, premium maligne lake cruise, more jasper maligne valley and maligne lake cruises, 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise.

Discover top natural attractions such as Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake on foot, and enjoy a scenic cruise on Maligne Lake.

Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Cruise

What to expect on the 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise, 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise itinerary, additional 5.5 hour jasper wildlife and waterfalls tour with maligne lake cruise info, jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake cruise.

Fully narrated Jasper Sightseeing Tour and Boat cruise takes you along Maligne Lake to Spirit Island in Jasper National Park.

What To Expect on the Jasper Sightseeing Tour & Maligne Lake Cruise

Jasper sightseeing tour & maligne lake cruise itinerary, 2023 maligne lake cruise daily operating hours, inside the maligne lake cruise.

Maligne Lake Cruise in Jasper National Park.

Maligne Lake Cruise Reviews

A wonderful trip! The guide on the boat was both entertaining and knowledgeable. Great opportunity to take some wonderful photographs.

Enjoyed our boat ride out and back as well as walking some trails around the headquarters. Need to add another 5-10 minutes to the stop at Spirit Island. Seemed like we were rushed. Maligne Canyon on the way back to Jasper was a perfect way to complete the trip!

The Maligne Lake Cruise shouldn't be missed. magnificent scenery..... One piece of advice book your cruise ahead, boats were completely booked when we arrived. It's a long beautiful drive out to the lake but knowing your cruise time ahead reduces stress and who needs that when traveling.... Staff was knowledgeable and friendly. If your in Jasper you've got to go!!!

Great cruise, the scenes was beyond belief! So beautiful, and the guides were very informative. highly recommend.

Jasper Maligne Lake Map

Up Maligne Road from Jasper.

Contact Maligne Lake Cruise

Click to Contact Us

Jasper National Park and the town of Jasper experienced a devastating wildfire in July 2024. Due to the situation some of the information in this article may be out of date. We suggest you find more information on what is open on Jasper National Park’s website .

Is the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island Worth It?

Maligne Lake is one of the most stunning lakes in all of Canada, and embarking on a cruise here offers a front-row seat to this natural spectacle. Venture south, closer to the glaciers, and you’ll be treated to the lake’s captivating emerald hues.

While enjoying the lake from its shores is gratifying enough, there’s another way to experience this water. Enjoying a Maligne Lake cruise is on many visitors Jasper bucket lists. But what can you expect from your time on the water, just how much is the tour, and what’s all this fuss about Spirit Island? Is the Maligne Lake cruise worth the time and money? Let’s break it all down in this review.

About Maligne Lake & Spirit Island

Maligne Lake is an incredible stretch of sheer beauty, spanning 22km from the boat docks to the majestic Spirit Island and the base of the Coronet Glacier. Spirit Island, a charming peninsula, rests 14 kilometers away from the docks and is a special place for the area’s indigenous people.

Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, stretching over 22 km. This Alberta lake is impressive not only in size, but also in its average depth of 35 meters, reaching nearly 100 meters at its deepest points.

Beyond its sheer scale, Maligne Lake is also incredibly blue, and if you hit it on a beautiful summer day, its colors will shine through. Why is it so blue? Like other glacial lakes, as the melting glaciers flow into the lake, they leave behind rock flour, which, when hit by sunlight, creates the lake’s distinctive color.

When Does the Maligne Lake Cruise Run?

Cruises only run during the summer and early fall seasons, as the lake freezes over in Jasper in the winter . In 2024, cruises will run on the following dates:

It’s essential to know that this cruise is the most popular thing to do in Jasper, and cruises book up well in advance in the summer. It’s important to book ahead to avoid disappointment. You can book these tours on the Pursuit website, if the cruises are sold on, you can always try booking the same cruise on a third party platform like Viator .

Where Do the Cruises Depart From?

Cruises depart at the end of Maligne Lake Road. This is where you’ll find parking for Maligne Lake, a boat dock, a canoe house, a gift shop, and a few restaurants like The Lake House Café and Waffle Hut.

Maligne Lake Cruise Review & Overview

The Maligne Lake Cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Jasper , and for many, the reason to head to Maligne Lake. The hour-and-a-half panoramic cruise heads to Spirit Island 14 km up the lake. It’s around a half-hour to the island, where guests get 15 minutes off the boat for photos before the return journey unless they purchase a longer tour (we’ll get into that later).

Visitors are guaranteed spectacular mountain vistas while cruising across cerulean water. In fact, if you take a cruise on Maligne Lake, you may even notice that the further south on the lake you travel, the closer you get to glaciers, the more the lake shows off its stunning color!

During the cruise, a guide will tell you about the lake, its history, and its importance to the area. You’ll learn a bit about the Stoney Nakoda and the cultural significance Maligne Lake plays to them. There’s plenty of time to take in the views, and stepping outside the covered boat is possible to get some fresh air as you’re cruising.

Classic vs. Premium Cruise Offerings

Classic Cruise

Embark on a scenic 14-kilometer journey across Maligne Lake until you reach the serene and captivating Spirit Island. On this 1.5 hour tour, the knowledgeable tour guides will share vibrant stories, delving into the lake’s history, early explorers, and the region’s geology, glaciology, and diverse flora and fauna.

Upon reaching Spirit Island, the boat docks, allowing guests to disembark and follow a brief nature trail leading to a viewing platform that unveils one of the most breathtaking scenes. The Classic Cruise allows for 15 minutes of free time in the vicinity of Spirit Island.

Premium Cruise

This cruise is almost identical to the Classic Cruise cruise only difference is that you get 30 minutes total. This is to explore Spirit Island and there is an extra stop to enjoy the views at Pincushion Bay.

The Premium Cruise also runs in the evening and is the last cruise of the day. This means you’ll have the best possible light on Spirit Island as you’ll get there around Golden Hour. If you’re a photographer, we recommend booking the Premium Cruise.

Who Runs This Experience?

The cruise is run by Banff Jasper Collection by Pursuit, the same folks who run the Lake Minnewanka Cruise in Banff , the Banff Gondola , Jasper Skywalk , and the Athabasca Glacier Experience.

Amenities Available on the Cruise

There are three types of boats that hold between 38 and 50 passengers. There are not many amenities available actually on the boat, and basically what you will find are wooden seats. Do your business beforehand because there is no bathroom on board. There is no food or drink offered on board, so eat beforehand.

How Long is the Cruise?

Classic Cruises lasts around 1.5 hours, while Premium Cruises take 2 hours, excluding the loading time. It’s advisable to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled departure. That way, you can park, check-in, and get your tickets. If you are not there when the cruise departs, your seat is subject to being given up. The cruise has a waiting list, and peak times are booked well in advance. A $25 fee may apply to late passengers that have to be rebooked.

How Much is the Maligne Lake Cruise?

Advanced Purchase Pricing (CAD):

(Keep in mind prices are subject to fluctuate based on the time of year, as well as how soon in advance you book. If you wait until the last minute prices usually jump up).

Cruises run from May 31st – October 13, 2024.

• Classic Cruise – $82 to $85/adult and $55.25/child
• Premium Cruise – Cruise $109 to $135/adult and $87.85/child
• Pursuit Rewards Cruise (for Alberta locals): $70.00/adult and $45.90/child
• Age 5 & Under – Free if sharing a seat with adult (but they still require a ticket)
• Kids Go Free Early Bird! Receive one free child ticket for each paying adult on the 9 AM and 9:15 AM Classic Cruise.
• Pursuit Pass Jasper (Columbia Icefield Adventure – including Skywalk and Maligne Lake Cruise)$245.00/adult and $159/ child

When is the Best Time to Cruise?

July and August provide the best chance for a sunny day in the Rockies, though it’s mountain weather, and you never know what can happen here! Cruises start running at 9 a.m., and because mornings on the water are some of the calmest (and our favorite), we recommend purchasing a tour as early as possible. This will also still give you excellent morning light on Spirit Island.

Is the Cruise Wheelchair Accessible?

Their facilities are accessible to standard wheelchairs in most cases. However, they have a limited supply of accessible boats, so it’s best to contact them before booking your tour at +1.888.900.6272.

Is it Pet-Friendly?

It’s best to leave your furry friends at home, as they are not permitted on the boat. However, pets on a leash can enjoy all the other wonders that Maligne Lake offers.

Is it Kid Friendly?

Yes! The whole Maligne Lake and Spirit Island experience is kid-friendly, and kids under 5 are free, though strollers are not permitted on the boat.

Will You Get Wet?

It’s pretty unlikely you will get wet unless it is raining. Still, the boats are covered, and guests can step outside whenever they wish.

Do You Need to Book in Advance?

Booking your cruise in advance is highly recommended , especially in July and August. Cruises do sell out frequently.

Hiking Trails, Picnic Spots, and Other Recreational Activities Nearby

Before or after your cruise, there are few things to do at Maligne Lake that may be of interest.

• Canoe or kayak : It’s impossible to miss the charming boat house at Maligne Lake. Here you can rent canoes, kayaks, and rowboats and get out on the water.
• Walk the Mary Schaffer Loop Trail : This is an easy 3.2 Jasper trail with only 82 meters of elevation gain near Maligne Lake. It will loop you through some beautiful forests and starts and ends at Maligne Lake.
• Moose Lake Loop : This trail is similar at 3.4 km, but has slightly more gain at 108 meters. The trail starts at Maligne Lake and gets you to the quiet Moose Lake! It’s common to see Moose on this trail.
• Gift Shop: The gift shop at Maligne Lake is quite extensive, and even if you don’t plan on buying anything, it’s still worth a wander.
• Have a Meal : There are three Jasper restaurants at Maligne Lake. The Lake House Café has both Grab and Go food as well as hot food service. There’s also the Waffle Hut , which is pretty self-explanatory for their food type, and The View Restaurant . All of these dining options only operate from June to October.

Is The Maligne Lake Cruise Worth It?

We have now enjoyed the Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island twice in the summer and can confidently say that the experience is worth it. It’s pretty tough to see Spirit Island any other way, unless you have backcountry camping permits and are willing to canoe in. The beauty of the lake rivals popular Banff lakes like Moraine Lake and Lake Louise . It’s certainly the most beautiful lake in Jasper , and you may even find it the most stunning lake in the Rockies!

Is the Premium Cruise worth it? The Premium Cruise gets you an extra 15 minutes to explore Spirit Island, though no one can walk out to Spirit Island. The cruise also stops and lets you soak in the views at Pincushion Bay. Most importantly, the Premium Cruise is available only in the evening, allowing you to have the best possible light on Spirit Island, which is ideal for photographers. If all these things are important to you, we recommend booking the Premium Cruise. Premium Cruises must be booked on the Pursuit website . Since there is only one a day, keep in mind that it sells out very quickly.

Questions about the cruise are often asked in our private Facebook group, and nearly everyone agrees that the Maligne Lake cruise is worth the time, effort, and money. Everyone also agrees, including us, to book one of the later time slots in the day for the best light on Spirit Island.

Getting to Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake is roughly 45km from the Town of Jasper, and it’s recommended that you take at least one hour to get to the lakeshore from Downtown Jasper. To get there, get on the Yellowhead Hwy and take a right on Maligne Lake Road . You’ll continue on this road until it ends at Maligne Lake. Allow either before your visit to Maligne Lake or after so that you can stop at some of the incredible sights on the way.

I suggest stopping at Maligne Canyon, as it’s a great beginner-friendly Jasper hike and definitely don’t miss Medicine Lake on your way in. Keep your eyes out for moose, sheep, and elk – Maligne Lake Road is one of the most well-known places to see wildlife in the park! Please remember these animals are wild. Never get out of your car for a photograph and observe quickly and at a distance so that they can live peacefully in their natural habitat.

Accessibility and Parking at Maligne Lake

There is parking at Maligne Lake, though during a beautiful summer weekend, the area becomes quite congested, and you might have to circle a few times before finding a place to park. There’s space to drop off elderly or disabled guests, as well as a few handicapped parking spots. The parking area is just a short distance (5-minute walk) from where you must be to depart on your cruise.

I Can Only Choose One Cruise – Lake Minnewanka or Maligne Lake?

Many visitors to the Rockies can only choose so many paid experiences like this. The two cruise experiences are on Maligne Lake and Lake Minnewanka in Banff. While both are fantastic, we would tell any visitor who can only choose one to go with the cruise on Maligne Lake to Spirit Island. We explain why below.

Let’s break it down: Maligne Lake Cruise vs Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Do You Need a Parks Pass to Visit Maligne Lake?

Yes, Maligne Lake is in Jasper National Park, and all visitors to the parks need a valid park pass. Pass prices are as follows:

Parks Canada Day Pass Rates

A  Parks Canada Discovery Pass grants you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for a year. For many visitors, purchasing an annual pass makes more sense, as an adult’s day pass is $11.00 per day. The pass also grants access to historic sites such as Cave & Basin along with any other national park in the country.

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Fees

Where to stay in jasper.

Our Top Recommended Jasper Tours

• Athabasca Falls: Class 2 White Water Rafting Adventure : Action packed adventure for the whole family.
• Canadian Rockies: Scenic Helicopter Tour : Located away from Jasper towards Nordegg, but worth the stop when checking out Abraham Lake or driving the Icefields Parkway.
• Maligne Valley Wildlife Watching & Boat Tour : Animals and boating- two for one!
• Evening or Morning Wildlife Search : If you want to see wildlife, adventure out with a knowledgeable guide.
• Jasper: Columbia Icefield Skywalk : Best to do when driving from Banff to Jasper.
• Maligne Lake Cruise With Guide : Experiencing Maligne Lake is one of the top things to do in Jasper. This cruise must be booked in advance as it does sell out.
• From Jasper With Love Theatre Show : The best thing to do in the evening with a nightcap in hand.

Natasha calls Canmore, Alberta home. After traveling across seven continents and 90 countries with Cameron, she settled down in the stunning Canadian Rockies. She is a winter enthusiast and loves to snowboard, ice skate, and nordic ski and enjoy all the fantastic summer opportunities in Banff like hiking, scrambling, and biking. Learn more on the about us page!

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

How long is the drive to the lake from Golden in August? I checked the drive time today but I don’t think it’s effected by winter weather

The drive would take about 4.5 hours without any stops.

I have a Certified Diabetic Alert Service Dog – can he join me on the cruise?

I don’t believe there are any exceptions for service dogs, but I would suggest calling Pursuit just to confirm with them! Or try messaging them on IG: https://www.instagram.com/pursuitbanffjasper/

Thank you for your amazing and helpful content! Your blog has been a planning dream! The Maligne lake cruises are unfortunately sold out the dates we’ll be in Jasper (late June). Do you have any tips on securing last minute tickets/finding cancellations? Do you know if there is ever room for walk ons? We are a family of 4 so guessing that might be tough. Finally, do you think it’s still worth visiting Maligne lake w/o cruise tickets? Thank you!

Hi Stephanie,

Have you tried booking through a third party like Viator and Get Your Guide as mentioned in the article? Sometimes they show as having extra. Are you flexible with your timings for the day?

There are sometimes no shows, but for a family of four that might be tough! Still I would recommend going to Maligne Lake and enjoying the lakeshore – plus Maligne Lake Road is a stunning drive! Once at the lakeshore you can try to walk on, though I truly do think four spare tickets is unlikely. You could split the group 2 and 2 and see if you can get tickets then. However, this may be waste of your precious time in the Rockies!

Are the winter activities in Jasper as exciting and adventurous as the summer ones, or is it better to visit during warmer seasons for a more enjoyable experience?”, “refusal

Both are enjoyable. I would say most people prefer summer unless you are into skiing, cross country skiing, snowshowing, etc.

Similar Posts

25 BEAUTIFUL Stops on the Icefields Parkway

25 Stunning Things to Do in Banff in the Fall

Lake Louise Canoe Rental: 10 Tips You NEED to Know

How to Hike Aylmer Lookout in Banff

12 Moraine Lake Hikes With AMAZING Views

22 Things To Know Before Visiting Peyto Lake

Helpful Links

Plan your trip, join our newsletter.

© 2024 The World Pursuit LLC

Privacy ・ Terms ・ Site Credit

Plan Your Trip

Recent posts, when is the best time to visit banff locals reveal all, 22 unreal alberta larch hikes (with photos).

Discover Jasper

Things to do, where to stay, plan your trip.

About Jasper

• Jasper's History
• Jasper National Park
• Dark Sky Preserve
• Community Resources
• Weather & Climate
• LGBTQ Jasper
• Venture Beyond
• Live and Work in Jasper
• Jasper the Bear Scavenger Hunt

More Information

• Getting Here
• Work in Jasper
• Events in Jasper
• Travel Tips

Experiences

• Ski & Snowboard at Marmot Basin
• Snow & Ice
• Hiking, Walking & Biking
• Tours & Sightseeing
• Rafting, Canoeing & Water Sports
• Wildlife Viewing
• Jasper SkyTram
• Spa & Wellness
• Arts, Culture & Planetarium
• Jasper Restaurants
• Horseback Riding
• All Experiences

Accommodations

• All Accommodations
• Inns & Hotels
• Cabins & Lodges
• Pet Friendly
• Current Deals
• Season & Climate
• Visitor's Guide

Planning Information

• Visitor Information Centre
• Trip Services
• Wildfire Information
• Weather and Climate
• Jasper's Story
• Travel Trade
• Groups and Meetings
• About Tourism Jasper
• Staff Directory

2024 Visitor's Guide

Maligne lake premium cruise.

by Maligne Lake Cruise

Enjoy all the same inclusions of our Classic Cruise with additional time near Spirit Island. The Premium Cruise also offers more time to soak in Maligne’s beautiful scenery, more chances to spot wildlife and exclusive special features not offered on any other tour.

• Guided cruise to Spirit Island
• A stop to soak in the views at Pincushion Bay
• 30 minutes of free time near Spirit Island
• Return cruise

(866) 606-6700

Visit Website

Maligne Rd Jasper , AB Canada T0E 1E0

Social Media

Newsletter Sign Up

Receive deals, news and more!

• Sign Up For Our Newsletter

© Copyright 2024 Tourism Jasper | Legal & Privacy

Tips for visiting Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park

We headed to Maligne Lake to start our day in Jasper National Park with a Maligne Lake Cruise. Below we share our experience and what to expect when you take the cruise!

Table of Contents

Maligne Lake Cruise Tickets

It is recommended that you purchase tickets well ahead of your planned time in Jasper. Tickets do sell out and if you want to get the day and time you prefer the sooner you can do it the better!

Click here to book your Maligne Lake Cruise.

Maligne Lake Cruise Launch

When you reach the lake they have a Waffle Hut (open seasonally), a restaurant and coffee shop and a gift shop. Plus a nice outdoor seating area for the restaurant or picnic tables if you brought your own lunch.

You can also rent canoes and kayaks here or just hang out down by the lake or go on a walk on the edge of the lake.

We opted to do the boat cruise and arrived 30 minute early to check in (this is highly recommended) and boarded about 15 minutes before your launch time. We got onto our boat – which had row seats that were big enough for 3 people. With windows you could open by each seat.

Our captain went through the safety procedures and off we went! It was going to be a 90 minute trip with a 15 minute stop on Spirit Island.

On the way to Spirit Island our tour guide told us stories about the area, the history of the area and all the different ways people explore the lake and get to Spirit Island – taking the boat cruise was definitely the easiest way!

She also talked about the wildlife including what that can be seen by the lake. Mainly black bears, grizzlies, and bald eagles. We did not see any wildlife on our trip.

During the boat ride you can sit in your seat and look out the window at the amazing views and beautiful blue water color as you listen to the tour guide. Or you can go on the back deck and stand and take in the views that way. We did a combination of both.

Spirit Island

Once we reached Spirit Island we got off the boat and walked on the trail up to the viewpoint looking over Spirit Island. It is an unbelievable view.

From there we walked back down by the shore of the lake and touched the water before heading over to the pier to hang out there for a minute and grab a family picture (just ask the tour guide – she was happy to take it for us). Before getting back on the boat to head back.

Our tour guide taught us all about the mountain ranges we were seeing, the glaciers we could see and the Stoney people who first inhabited this amazing area.

The lake is only unfrozen for a short about of time each year and it is well worth stopping to visit and getting out on a boat cruise to really take in the beauty of the area.

We did see multiple people out kayaking. Which you can do to Spirit Island. Our guide told us it would take you about 5 hours to get there and 5 hours back. I would love to take that challenge on some day but for now sitting back in the boat was a perfect and enjoyable option!

Once we got back to the boat launch we got out and had our picnic lunch we had brought with us sitting at the picnic tables over looking the lake.

It is a busy place with lots of tour buses and tourists coming through but also very peaceful with the beauty of the lake and the surrounding area!

We highly recommend a Maligne Lake boat tour when you are visiting the area!

Extra stop: In route to Maligne Lake, pull over and explore Medicine Lake. It’s the famous ‘disappearing lake’ that vanishes and then re-appears annually as it drains and then refills underground caves.

Fun fact: Mary Schäffer was the first non-Indigenous person to explore Maligne Lake in the 1900’s.

The beautiful Maligne Valley is a must see part of Jasper National Park.

More Things To Do In And Around Jasper National Park

Maligne Canyon Hike – How Not To Get Lost!

Columbia Icefield Adventure – Is It Worth It?

27 Breathtaking Things To Do In Banff National Park [Itinerary included]

White Water Rafting In Banff With Chinook Rafting – What To Expect

Learn All About The Golden Skybridge And Why You Don’t Want To Miss it!

Should You Do The Banff Gondola?

Horseback Riding In Banff National Park With Banff Trail Riders

Visit Lake Louise – located between Banff and Jasper National Park.

Pin This Post:

• Recent Posts

• 5 Things To Do With Your Kids In and Around Mammoth Cave, Kentucky - August 19, 2024
• 15 Tips For Hiking With Kids - August 18, 2024
• 22 Amazing Things To Do In Red Lodge, Montana - July 16, 2024

DISCLOSURE : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Maligne Lake Cruise

essay about my family for grade 4

• business plan
• course work
• research paper

Moscow Boat Tour

• Page active

Description

See all the gems of historical and cultural center of the capital in short time and without traffic jams or tiresome walking.

Depending on the itinerary and duration of the Moscow River boat trip, the tour can be 3 or 5 hours.

Highlights of the tour

• St Basil’s Cathedral;
• Stalin skyscraper on Kotelnicheskaya (Tinkers) embankment;
• The Kremlin;
• “House on the Embankment” Stalin skyscraper;
• Monument to Peter I;
• The Central House of Artists;
• Christ the Savior Cathedral;
• Gorky Park;
• Moscow State University;
• Russian Academy of Sciences;
• Luzhniki stadium;
• Novodevichy Monastery;
• Kiev railway station;
• Europe Square;
• Moscow City Hall;
• Government House;
• Expocentre Exhibition Complex;
• and other famous sights.

You will learn about the different epochs of the city from the foundation in 1147 till Soviet times of 20 th  century.

Moscow River

Moskva river has the form of a snake and is the main waterway of Moscow, consisting of a cascade of reservoirs. Within the city, Moskva river is 80 km long, 120 m - 200 m wide and up to 14 m deep. The narrowest part of the river is the Kremlin area in the city center, and the most extensive is around the Luzhniki Stadium in the south. 

Bridges in Moscow

Undoubtedly, bridges and embankments are among the most scenic spots and main attractions of Moscow. Plus, they are so romantic.

• Bolshoy Kamenny Bridge –  Great Stone Bridge –  is the main bridge of Moscow . The first stone bridge was constructed here in the 17th century.
• Patriarshy Bridge  is one of the youngest pedestrian bridges, built in 2004. The bridge connects the iconic Christ the Saviour Cathedral with funky Bersenevskaya embankment, extremely popular place among locals for its trendy art galleries, cafes and panoramic views. Patriarshy Bridge used to be a shooting location for ex-Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's New Year speech to the nation.
• Borodinsky Bridge,  erected in honor of the 100th anniversary of the glorious victory in the Battle of Borodino (which every Russian kid knows about), a fierce legendary battle during the Russo-French war of 1812.
• Bagration Bridge  one of the  pedestrian bridges with most picturesque views of the Moskva River with its numerous upper-level observation platforms. The bridge was erected to celebrate the 850th anniversary of Moscow city in 1997.
• Krymsky Bridge  used to be in Top 5 Europe’s longest bridges some 100 years ago. The bridge got its name after the ancient Krymsky ford which Crimean Tartars used to invade Moscow in the 16 th  century.

Embankments of Moscow

Moscow river boats 37 embankments, the most popular being Kremlevskaya, Sofiyskaya, Pushkinskaya, Vorobyovskaya and Kolomenskaya.

You can get the most spectacular views of the Kremlin from  Kremlevskaya and Sofiyskaya embankments.

• Pushkinkaya embankment  is the most romantic in Moscow. It meanders along Gorky Park and Neskuchnyi garden and is rich for all kinds of entertainment as well as cozy nooks, including Olivkovy beach, the famous Zeleny theater as well as a pier for river cruisers.
• Vorobyevskaya embankment  is part of Sparrow Hills nature reserve. This place opens a beautiful panorama of the river and city from the observation deck and is considered to be the place for taking serious decisions in life.
• Embankment in Kolomenskoye  Museum-Reserve has a special charm due to its peculiar geographical relief. The boat trip around Kolomenskoye would be the most peaceful in your life.
• Taras Shevchenko embankment  is popular among photographers for its modern Moscow City skyscrapers. Highly recommended for your night boat trip.
• Embankments of Moscow are the pride of the capital. A distinctive feature of each of the promenades is its architecture and beautiful views. In addition, almost all the embankments of Moscow have a rich history and a lot of notable buildings.

Different epochs

Taking a walk along the Moskva River by boat, you will witness the architecture of Moscow from different eras and styles. Archaeological studies indicate that already in the XI century there stood a fortified settlement on Borovitsky hill, which is now called the Kremlin. Little fortress could not accommodate all the residents of the rapidly growing city, and the Grand Duke ordered the construction of a new Kremlin, larger than the former.

Boat trip around Kolomenskoe Park

Moscow river boat trip starts from the pier Klenovy (Maple) Boulevard and provides reat views of Nicholas Perervinsky monastery.

Nicholas Perervinsky monastery was founded at the time of the Battle of Kulikov (1380). The monastery, got its name from the surrounding area – “Pererva”, which can be translated like “tear off” and because of the location –  here it abruptly changed its course, turning to Kolomna, standing on the opposite bank.

Nowadays Kolomenskoye is State Art, Historical, Architectural and Natural Landscape Museum-Reserve, which doors are open to everyone who wants to get in touch with the ancient history of Russia.

Take a break from the big city hustle in the shady parks and gardens of the Kolomenskoe Museum-Reserve. Don’t miss a wonderful Church of the Ascension and Tsar Alexey’s Palace in Kolomenskoye!

Monasteries and temples

• Novospassky Monastery
• Founded in the 13th century on the site where now is located the Danilovsky monastery. After a few decades, in 1330, Ivan Kalita moved the monastery onto the Borovitskii hill of the Kremlin. However, in the 15th century, Spassky Monastery again moved, this time to a more spacious place on Krasnoholmskaya waterfront.
• Church of St. Nicholas in Zayaitskom
• Erected in the middle of the XVIII century in baroque style. The building survived after the 1812 fire, but the utensils were destoyed. Parishioners collected donations and restored the temple on their own. In Soviet times, it was closed and re-opened only in 1992.
• Cathedral of Christ the Savior
• The church was originally erected in honor of the victory over Napoleon and was being under construction for long 44 years. Notoriously demolished in 1937 to be a giant swimming pool under open sky. The current building was constructed in 1990s. It is the tallest and one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world.
• The temple was built in 1679-82, during the reign of Tsar Fedor Alekseevich, in late Muscovite Baroque style and can be characterized as bonfire temple. Each gable is a symbol of a heavenly fire.
• Novodevichy Convent
• The most famous concent and monastery in Moscow, presumably founded in 1524. Novodevichy’s status has always been high among other monasteries, it was in this monastery where the women of the royal blood, the wives of Tsars and local rulers of Moscow were kept in prison as nuns.
• St. Andrew’s church  (male acts as Compound Patriarch of Moscow)
• St. Andrew’s church stands right on the slopes of the Sparrow Hills, on the way down to the Moskva River, on the territory of the Nature Reserve “Sparrow Hills”. The monastery is small in size but is very cozy. It’s situated in a quiet courtyard surrounded by temples, fruit trees and flowers.

What you get:

• + A friend in Moscow.
• + Private & customized Moscow river cruise.
• + An exciting pastime, not just boring history lessons.
• + An authentic experience of local life.
• + Flexibility: changes can be made at any time to suit individual preferences.
• + Amazing deals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner in the very best cafes & restaurants. Discounts on weekdays (Mon-Fri).
• + A photo session amongst spectacular Moscow scenery that can be treasured for a lifetime.
• + Good value for souvenirs, taxis, and hotels.
• + Expert advice on what to do, where to go, and how to make the most of your time in Moscow.

Write your review