Jasper: Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Cruise

This 6-hour guided tour in Jasper National Park offers a true taste of Alberta’s wilderness — visiting stunning Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake, and taking a scenic cruise to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake. For $155 per person, you’ll experience wildlife sightings, dramatic waterfalls, and breathtaking mountain scenery, all with knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation.

What we love most about this trip is the opportunity to see native Canadian wildlife—we’re talking moose, bears, and eagles—plus the chance to relax on a 90-minute cruise to Spirit Island, one of the most iconic views in the Rockies. The easy walk through Maligne Canyon offers a close-up look at waterfalls plunging 164 feet, and the explanation of Medicine Lake’s mysterious fluctuations makes for an interesting story.

A key consideration is that Maligne Canyon is currently closed for repairs due to wildfire damage, which could mean some itinerary changes. However, the tour’s alternative stops, like Maligne Lookout or extra lakeshore walks, still promise spectacular views and engaging experiences.

This tour suits travelers who want a balanced mix of wildlife, scenery, and cultural stories without the hassle of driving. It’s perfect for those who appreciate informative guides and a comfortable, small-group setting—and who don’t mind a bit of outdoor walking and variable weather.

Key Points

• Wildlife sightings are frequently reported, making this a prime opportunity to see bears, moose, and eagles.
• The Maligne Lake cruise to Spirit Island offers some of the most photographed mountain scenery in Jasper.
• Maligne Canyon’s waterfalls are impressive, but may be closed due to wildfire repairs—alternative viewpoints are available.
• Local guides are praised for their knowledge, humor, and ability to spot wildlife.
• The tour emphasizes natural beauty and ecological stories, adding depth to your visit.
• The small group size ensures personalized attention and easier wildlife spotting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting Point and Transportation

After booking, you’ll be picked up from your Jasper accommodation, with optional early pick-up times at various hotels and lodges around town. The tour uses a comfortable 21-seat minibus, which means less noise, fewer crowds, and more personalized interaction with your guide. The driver and guide work in tandem to make sure everyone feels engaged and informed, and reviews highlight guides like Kelli, Jake, and Alan for their extensive knowledge and friendly approach.

Maligne Canyon: A Walk Through Nature’s Power

Your first stop is at Maligne Canyon, a deep limestone gorge carved by relentless water over thousands of years. Here, you’ll enjoy about 30 minutes of easy walking along well-maintained paths, with plenty of opportunities to peer over the canyon’s edge and hear the thunder of waterfalls plunging 164 feet at the deepest point.

Due to wildfire repairs, the waterfalls might not be visible this year, but the view from Maligne Lookout provides a sweeping perspective of the area’s altered landscape. If the canyon is closed, your guide will quickly adapt, offering extra lakeshore walks at Medicine Lake or scenic viewpoints instead. Many reviews mention how guides like Sam or Jake explain geology and history in a way that makes the landscape come alive.

Medicine Lake: The Disappearing Wonder

Next, you’ll stop at Medicine Lake for a quick 10-minute photo break. Your guide will share the story of why this lake appears to disappear and reappear, a phenomenon caused by the movement of underground water and seasonal shifts in the water table.

While the lake is often calm and reflective, during dry spells or as explained in reviews, it might look like it’s drying up. The views of limestone cliffs surrounding the lake are striking and give a sense of how dynamic this landscape is.

Maligne Lake and Spirit Island: A Scenic Cruise

The highlight of the day is the 90-minute cruise across Maligne Lake to Spirit Island. This iconic, uninhabited island is a must-see for photographers and nature lovers alike. The boat ride provides an up-close view of towering mountains and glaciers, with the guide pointing out flora, fauna, and geological features.

Many reviews rave about the captains and guides onboard, like Leah and Julia, who blend interesting facts with humor and friendly conversation. Several travelers mention how Spirit Island’s classic postcard scenery takes their breath away.

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Wildlife Watching: Be Patient and Observant

Throughout the day, the tour emphasizes wildlife spotting. Guides are praised for their ability to spot animals early and for their extensive knowledge about Canadian wildlife. Common sightings include moose, black bears, eagles, and occasionally grizzly bears.

Reviewers like Heather from the UK note how their guide, Sam, was “extremely knowledgeable,” and others mention seeing bears and moose, often within a short distance from the bus or during guided walks. A few reviewers highlight the excitement of seeing bears in the wild, which is a rare and special moment.

Additional Highlights and Flexibility

If Maligne Canyon waterfalls are inaccessible, your guide will focus on Maligne Lookout and more lakeside walks—both equally scenic and educational. The tour is designed to balance sightseeing with storytelling, so expect plenty of informative commentary about the region’s ecology, geology, and history.

At $155 per person, this tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, a local guide, and all taxes and fees. You won’t need to worry about parking or navigation, making it a stress-free way to see some of Jasper’s most photogenic spots.

Many reviews emphasize the quality of guides, describing them as friendly, well-informed, and humorous. This personal touch can turn a good tour into a memorable experience. The small group size enhances the chances of wildlife sightings and makes for a more intimate setting.

While food and beverages are not included, the tour provides plenty of time for snacks and drinks during stops. Since the day is packed but not rushed, you’ll have ample opportunity to take photos and absorb the scenery.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers who want to combine wildlife viewing with stunning scenery at a relaxed pace. It’s perfect for small groups or families who appreciate guides who can spot animals and share stories. If you’re eager to see Spirit Island and get a good sense of Jasper’s natural environment without extensive walking or driving yourself, this tour hits the mark.

However, if you have mobility issues or prefer to explore at a more leisurely pace with fewer outdoor activities, you might need to check the accessibility or consider other options.

The Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Cruise offers a well-rounded, engaging adventure through some of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes. You’ll love the expert guides who turn natural features into stories and the chance to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. The cruise to Spirit Island remains a highlight for many travelers, delivering postcard-perfect views that linger long after the trip ends.

While the canyon waterfalls might be temporarily unavailable, the tour compensates with alternative scenic stops that still showcase Jasper’s rugged beauty. Its value is clear: a comfortable, small-group experience packed with wildlife, geology, and unforgettable vistas—all within a manageable six hours.

This tour is best suited for enthusiastic explorers eager to see wildlife, enjoy a scenic boat ride, and learn about the area’s natural stories. It’s a solid choice for families, couples, or solo travelers wanting an enriching day in Jasper’s wilderness.

Is the Maligne Canyon waterfalls view included?
Currently, Maligne Canyon waterfalls are closed for repairs due to wildfire damage. If not reopened, the tour will substitute with other scenic viewpoints like Maligne Lookout or lakeshore walks.

What wildlife can I expect to see?
Most travelers report sightings of moose, black bears, eagles, and sometimes grizzly bears. Guides are skilled at spotting animals early, increasing your chances.

How long is the boat cruise?
The Maligne Lake cruise lasts about 90 minutes, taking you to Spirit Island, with plenty of time to take photos and enjoy the scenery.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothes, rain gear, water, and a camera are advisable. Since weather can be unpredictable, packing layers and rain protection is smart.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. The tour involves some walking and outdoor viewing, so consider your children’s comfort with outdoor conditions.

What happens if Maligne Canyon is closed?
The guide will alter the itinerary, offering alternative stops like Maligne Lookout or added lakeshore walks, without changing the overall length or price.

How big is the tour group?
The tour uses a 21-seat minibus, which allows for a more intimate experience compared to larger buses.

Are food and drinks included?
No, meals are not included, but you’ll have time for snacks and drinks during stops; extra money might be needed for purchases.

How do I book and cancel?
You can reserve your spot with flexible booking options, including free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

In short, if you’re after a well-organized, informative, and scenic day in Jasper, this tour ticks all the boxes. It combines the thrill of wildlife sightings with the serenity of mountain lakes, all guided by passionate experts eager to share their knowledge.

You can check availability for your dates here: