Maligne Lake
Among travelers, the pristine Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park is on many bucket lists. At every angle, it’s picturesque: fourteen miles of water are perfectly sky blue, a bold contrast against the deep blues and grays of the mountains at its horizon. And, while the name might not ring a bell, you’ve almost certainly seen it. Lake Maligne and its central isle, Spirit Island, is one of the most photographed landscapes in the world.
Discover the many wonders of Maligne Lake, and find out what an adventure there might be.
Lake Maligne: The Best of The Lakes of Jasper National Park
Canada’s Jasper National Park is home to 1,762 lakes. Most are remnants of glaciers carving up the land millions of years ago. Yet, even within a park full of glacial waters, ice fields, and waterfalls, Maligne Lake is a crown jewel.
What Makes Maligne Lake Special?
Among the pines and mountains, Maligne Lake is uniquely striking.
At almost fourteen miles long and over half a mile deep, it’s the largest lake in the Canadian Rockies. Its body is continually fed by fresh meltwater channels of the Coronet Glacier, keeping the water cold and pristine.
Yet, it’s the lake’s color that stands out most. No matter the angle it’s seen from, Maligne Lake is a perfect, azure blue: the exact color of the summer sky. Lake Maligne’s perfect blue hue makes it extraordinary.
Where Is Maligne Lake In Alberta Canada?
Maligne Lake sits about 27 miles south of Jasper, Alberta, Canada, in Jasper National Park. To reach it, visitors take a scenic drive.
Drive along Highway 16 eastward, then turn right onto Maligne Lake Road. Take the road straight down past Maligne Valley (also called Maligne Canyon), following signs until you reach the lake’s boathouse destination.
Top 5 Things To Do In Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park
1. Visit Spirit Island
Spirit Island is a lovely, pine-dotted isle in the center of Lake Maligne. The island is lush with old-growth forests and home to deer, elk, and eagles—any of which might make an appearance during a visit. While no one is allowed to set foot on the island, people can visit by approaching the island’s coast by paddle boat or cruise.
Spirit Island has incredible spiritual and cultural significance to the indigenous Stoney Nakoda Nation. For many, it’s a profound experience to hear Stoney Nakoda storytellers and guides bring the island’s spiritual heart to life on a cruise.
2. Hike The Trails
The trails throughout Jasper National Park chart courses with breathtaking views. If Maligne Lake is your center, five trails in particular might be worth your while. Just make sure to hike on a path your group can handle.
Mary Schaeffer Loop: Easy (3.0 km)
Mary Schaeffer Loop is a short, sweet trail along the edge of Lake Maligne. It’s just a little over 3 km long, and it’s a lovely walk among wildflowers in the warmer months.
Moose Lake Loop: Moderately Easy (3.4 km)
Moose Lake Loop is a fairly easy, 3.4 km loop alongside Jasper National Park’s Maligne Lake and Moose Lake. It’s a popular trail for, well, moose sighting! In the Summer it’s common to spot moose bathing or fishing in the lake from the loop’s viewpoints.
Skyline Trail: Moderate (44.0 km)
Skyline Trail is the ultimate hike in Jasper National Park. 44km long, it winds from Maligne Lake over diverse forest vistas and campsites, ultimately rising above the valley to the lip of Maligne Canyon. The trail typically demands endurance, and most hike it over the course of three days.
Maligne Canyon Trail: Moderately Challenging (4.4 km)
Maligne Canyon Trail is a 4.4 km loop encompassing bridges over stunning, rushing rapids and waterfalls, carving deep ravines into the earth. The loop is moderately challenging, and spirited adventurers can hike optional side loops, to experience even more breathtaking views.
Opal Hills Trailhead: Challenging (10 km)
Opal Hills Trailhead is an almost 10 km loop known as a challenging hike. Opal Hills runs off the beaten path, taking hikers across some wild, rocky terrain. Travelers report seeing elk, wolves, and even grizzly bears while walking Opal Hills.
3. Canoe or Kayak From Maligne Lake Boat House
Moving out onto the surface of the lake itself feels magical. Visitors can rent a canoe or kayak from the Maligne Lake Boat House. Paddling over the pristine waters is a memorable way to enjoy the unforgettable scenery.
4. Setup Camp
Given Lake Maligne’s length, most people seeking to paddle across it break for camp at least once. The campsites along the lake in the park offer basic amenities, including simple shelter, food storage lockers, barrel toilets, and, in some locations, wood stoves. Note that, in popular summer months, campgrounds need to be reserved ahead of time.
5. Eat At Waffle Hut
Nothing beats Jasper National Park’s spectacular lakeside views—except enjoying those views with a hot plate of waffles!
On the shore of Lake Maligne, Waffle Hut serves up fluffy waffles straight from the griddle, with a side of fresh berries and real maple syrup. Get cozy after a long day on the lake with Waffle Hut’s breakfast for dinner, or jumpstart a morning hike with a steaming cappuccino.
Experience The Lakes of Jasper National Park With Caravan’s Canadian Rockies Tour
Explore Jasper National Park without the travel-planning stress.
Join Caravan’s 9-Day Canadian Rockies & Glacier Tour, and let our team handle everything. Since 1952, our travel experts have honed the art of curating unique, guided, all-inclusive trips. Hand-picked transportation, food, lodgings, and activities are set long before guests’ first day; the only work they have to do is book a spot.
For the best Lake Maligne experience, call our agents toll-free at 1-800-227-2826. Or, learn more by calling our information team at +1-312-321-9800.