Maligne Lake Tours and Activities

Maligne Lake featuring a lake or waterhole, landscape views and mountains
Maligne Lake featuring landscape views and a lake or waterhole
Maligne Lake featuring general coastal views, a lake or waterhole and mountains
Maligne Lake
Maligne Lake featuring a lake or waterhole and kayaking or canoeing


Its sky-blue waters, glacial mountains, and Spirit Island make this one of the Canadian Rockies’ most iconic locations for a fishing or boat trip.

Visiting Maligne Lake is like seeing a postcard come to life. You’ve probably seen its island featured on posters and in movies more than a few times and it has become a symbol of the Canadian Rocky Mountains. On first seeing the lake, you’ll be struck by its sheer size, vivid color, and pristine mountainous backdrop. Of course Maligne Lake is much more than just a view there is enough to do to keep you occupied for days. Visit in summer for the most diverse range of options.

As the Canadian Rockies’ biggest glacial lake, Maligne Lake is a magnet for water enthusiast. For those looking to catch a trout or two, sign up for a guided fishing tour. You can also rent your own boat and gear and purchase a license from the historic Curly Phillips Boathouse. If you rather leave the fish alone, rent a canoe or book yourself on a white-water rafting trip. 

To see Spirit Island up close, take one of the 90-minute cruises. This is the idyllic-looking land mass that features in many promotional shots of the Canadian Rockies. Another epic trip is the Wildlife and Waterfall Tour. This departs Jasper twice daily in season. A naturalist takes you to Maligne Lake via Maligne Canyon. Look for moose, bighorn sheep, eagles, and marmots along the way.

If you’re setting off on your own, there are many trails to choose from. Everything from a stroll through the woods to steep uphill climbs can be found. Serious hikers should do the 27.5 mile (44 kilometer) Skyline Trail, which takes you way above tree-line. If you have the time,  break it up over two or three days and experience the Canadian wilderness.

From July to the end of August, the historic Maligne Lake Chalet offers legendary afternoon teas, complete with oversized scones. The chalet is also a guest house, offering luxury lodging for up to 80 guests. It’s popular, so book well in advance.

Maligne Lake can be found 27 miles (44 kilometers) south of Jasper by following the scenic Icefields Parkway.

Plan a trip to see Maligne Lake

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Paradise Resort Club and Spa
Service Plus Inn and Suites - Grande Prairie
Buffalo Mountain Lodge

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Maligne Lake

Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge

Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge

2 out of 5
Highway 93 - Icefields Parkway, Sunwapta Falls, AB
Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

4 out of 5
Old Lodge Road, Jasper, AB
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels

Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels

3 out of 5
98 Geikie Street, Jasper, AB
Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels
Forest Park Hotel

Forest Park Hotel

3.5 out of 5
76 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB
Forest Park Hotel
Tonquin Inn

Tonquin Inn

3 out of 5
100 Juniper Avenue, Jasper, AB
Tonquin Inn
Chateau Jasper

Chateau Jasper

3 out of 5
96 Geikie Street, Jasper, AB
Chateau Jasper
Marmot Lodge

Marmot Lodge

2.5 out of 5
86 Connaught Drive, P.O. Box 1200, Jasper, AB
Marmot Lodge
The Crimson Jasper

The Crimson Jasper

2.5 out of 5
200 Connaught Drive, P.O. Box 1200, Jasper, AB
The Crimson Jasper
Lobstick Lodge

Lobstick Lodge

2.5 out of 5
94 Geikie St, Po Box 1200, Jasper, AB
Lobstick Lodge
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Maligne Lake

At Maligne Lake, visitors can immerse themselves in a range of exciting activities, including wildlife viewing and skiing. Explore stunning waterfalls on guided tours, enjoy trail riding through picturesque landscapes, and take in the breathtaking scenery on boat tours. A day spent at Maligne Lake offers endless outdoor adventures, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Opal Hills hiking trail, located 38.6km from Maligne Lake, where you'll be immersed in stunning scenery and outdoor adventure. Similarly, the Bald Hills trail, also 38.6km away, offers exhilarating hikes with magnificent views, perfect for adrenaline seekers and nature lovers alike.

Find the best attractions near Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake, Alberta, offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery for every type of traveller. Explore the breathtaking Maligne Canyon and the serene Maligne Lake itself, both of which are popular points of interest. With options ranging from national parks to waterfalls, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in nature and enjoy the great outdoors in this beautiful region.

  • Spirit Island: Nestled 8.0km from Maligne Lake, Spirit Island offers a serene escape with stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere. Enjoy outdoor activities and relax on its beach vibes as you take in the beauty of the surrounding mountains and pristine waters.
  • Icefields Parkway: Located 22.5km from Maligne Lake, this iconic route showcases breathtaking landscapes and dramatic vistas. Drive along its scenic stretch, immersing yourself in the vibrant city vibes and marvel at the stunning glaciers and turquoise lakes that define this unique highway.
  • Jasper National Park: Just 32.2km away, Jasper National Park is a paradise for adventure seekers. Explore its vast wilderness, hike scenic trails, and witness unparalleled natural beauty, all while enjoying the outdoor atmosphere that makes this park a true gem.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Maligne Lake

To save money on your trip to Maligne Lake, book your hotel about a month in advance, ideally on a Thursday for the best rates. Keep an eye on last-minute deals from Expedia, especially for spontaneous plans. Consider combining hotel reservations with flights and activities for additional savings. Look for special offers and utilize Expedia’s search tool to find the best prices by sorting from lowest to highest. Free activities around the lake, like hiking and sightseeing, will also help keep costs down while you enjoy the stunning scenery.

  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Maligne Lake about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Maligne Lake is Thursday. The most expensive day to stay around Maligne Lake is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your options based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To find the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Maligne Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.