Jasper National Park 2-Day Tour: Maligne Lake & Columbia Icefield

Explore the Heart of the Canadian Rockies in Two Days

A trip into Jasper National Park is a journey into some of Canada’s most stunning scenery. This 2-day tour from Calgary offers a comprehensive taste of the Rockies, with highlights like the Columbia Icefield, Maligne Lake, and Peyto Lake all packed into one adventure. For $510.97 per person, you’ll spend roughly two days traveling in a comfortable, climate-controlled vehicle, with an experienced bilingual guide, and enjoy a mix of sightseeing, gentle hikes, and optional extras.

What we find particularly appealing is how the tour takes care of the logistics, leaving you free to enjoy the scenery without worrying about driving or planning. Plus, the flexibility to upgrade activities like the Ice Explorer and Skywalk means you can tailor the experience to match your interests and budget. And, if you love authentic natural beauty and a well-organized trip, this tour offers a great way to tick off several of Jasper’s top sights in a manageable, well-paced itinerary.

One possible consideration: the tour is quite full, and some travelers have noted variations in guide communication—so a bit of patience might be needed if plans or expectations don’t exactly match the schedule. Also, the price doesn’t include meals, so packing a lunch or opting for the available lunch package is a smart move.

This experience suits travelers who want a structured trip with a knowledgeable guide, want to see Jasper’s highlights efficiently, and appreciate a mix of sightseeing and optional adventures. It’s especially good for those who enjoy having all the details handled, freeing you to focus on the spectacular views.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Convenience: The tour covers transportation, one night of accommodation, and some meals, easing the planning burden.
• Highlights Packed In: From Bow Lake and Athabasca Falls to Maligne Lake and Peyto Lake, the itinerary hits many iconic spots in the Rockies.
• Optional Upgrades: Tours like the Ice Explorer and Skywalk can be added, providing unforgettable glacier and mountain views.
• Guided Experience: A bilingual guide offers insights, making the trip both educational and engaging.
• Group Size and Booking: With a maximum of 50 travelers, it’s a social experience, but some reviews suggest the guide’s communication could sometimes be clearer.
• Value for Nature Lovers: The tour offers a good balance of awe-inspiring scenery, manageable pacing, and expert guidance.

A Deep Dive into the Jasper National Park 2-Day Tour

How the Tour Starts: Entering the Rockies

The journey begins early in the morning from Calgary, where you’ll be picked up in a climate-controlled vehicle—important for comfort in the mountain climate. The drive into the Rockies is part of the experience, with beautiful views of the landscape even before you reach the parks. The first stop at Bow Lake is a great introductory sight—this glacial-fed lake is the source of the Bow River, which meanders south through Calgary. We loved the fact that the stop is free and quick (20 minutes), but offers a picture-perfect view of the surrounding mountains and a chance to stretch our legs.

Columbia Icefield: The Ice Giant

Next, the Columbia Icefield Discovery Centre is the highlight of the first day. You’ll have about three and a half hours here, which gives enough time for photos and optional upgrades like the Ice Explorer tour or the Skywalk—a glass-floored observation platform that extends over the Sunwapta Valley. If you choose these upgrades, be prepared for extra costs, but they offer a once-in-a-lifetime perspective of the icefield, which is the largest in North America.

A common thread from reviews is that many travelers find the Ice Explorer and Skywalk well worth the additional expense, as they provide close-up views of the glaciers and mountains. One reviewer noted, “Considering how large and impressive the icefield is, the optional tours really enhance the experience.” However, some travelers also mentioned confusion or miscommunication about the glacier tour availability, so it’s worth clarifying with your guide.

Athabasca Falls: Power in Motion

After the icefield visit, you’ll stop at Athabasca Falls for about 30 minutes. These falls aren’t the tallest, but they are mighty—sheer volume and force make for dramatic photos. The surrounding walkways are accessible and give a good sense of the raw power of nature. Many appreciate how this stop is a quick but memorable way to experience the force of the Rockies’ waters.

Jasper Town: Arrival and Overnight

In the late afternoon, you’ll arrive in Jasper, the second-largest town in the Canadian Rockies. It’s a good spot for a quiet evening, and the tour includes accommodation for one night. Reviewers often mention that the hotel arrangements are straightforward, and the room types are suitable for small groups or families. Be aware that the tour’s itinerary is flexible, and you might have some free time to explore or dine on your own.

Day Two: Exploring Jasper’s Natural Wonders

Maligne Lake: A Photographer’s Dream

The next morning starts with a visit to Maligne Lake, the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. The scenery here is extraordinary—mountains reflecting perfectly in the water, with the option to take a cruise to see the iconic Spirit Island. The cruise is often recommended, as it offers a peaceful way to appreciate this pristine landscape.

However, note that the cruise is an optional activity, and the admission isn’t included in the base price. Given the high demand, travelers are strongly encouraged to book it in advance. One review noted, “The scenic cruise at Maligne Lake was the highlight, and booking ahead made the experience seamless.” If you prefer to save, you can enjoy the views from the shoreline with minimal effort.

Maligne Canyon and Medicine Lake

Next, the tour visits Maligne Canyon, a deep limestone gorge carved over 365 million years. Walking along the trails here provides a sense of the geological history that shaped the landscape. It’s a quick stop, but one that leaves a lasting impression.

You might also pass Medicine Lake, famous for its sinking river phenomenon and potential underground cave systems—features that highlight the geological complexity of the Rockies. While not a scheduled stop, it’s another fascinating facet of the region’s natural story.

Peyto Lake and Crowfoot Glacier

The journey continues to Peyto Lake, renowned for its bright turquoise waters and wolf-shaped shoreline. During summer, the lake’s color is notably vibrant due to glacial rock flour suspended in the water. The viewpoint is a brief stop but offers some of the most striking scenery of the entire tour.

The last stop is Crowfoot Glacier, named for its shape. A sad note from recent years is that climate change has affected the glacier’s size—one reviewer pointed out that “the Third Toe was melted and barely visible,” making it a stark reminder of the ongoing impacts of warming temperatures.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour’s price includes breakfast, transportation in a comfortable vehicle, overnight hotel accommodation, guide services, and taxes and gratuities. Insurance for accidents is also covered, providing peace of mind.

However, meals for lunch and dinner are not included, although a lunch package is available. Entrance fees for optional activities like the lake cruise or Skywalk are extra. Travelers should budget accordingly, especially if they want the full experience at sites like Maligne Lake.

Authentic Experiences and Practical Tips

Based on reviews and our own thoughts, the guides are a central part of this experience. Many travelers praised guides like David Wei for their knowledge and ability to keep everyone on schedule. One reviewer said, “David kept everyone on time and provided great history and facts,” which makes a big difference when trying to see so many sights in two days.

The small group size, capped at 50 travelers, helps maintain a friendly atmosphere, but some reviews mention that guide communication could be clearer at times. It’s worth asking questions when you can, especially about optional activities and meal options.

Timing is key; the tour is packed, so be prepared for early mornings and some long days. But the payoff is the chance to see several of Jasper’s most famous spots without the stress of planning transportation or driving.

Who Would Enjoy This Tour?

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a well-organized, guided experience that hits the main highlights of Jasper and the surrounding Rockies. It’s especially suited for those who prefer not to drive, want a mix of sightseeing and optional adventures, and appreciate having a knowledgeable guide to bring the landscape alive.

It’s also a good fit for travelers with limited time, as it condenses what could be a week’s worth of exploring into just two days. If you love natural beauty, photo opportunities, and learning about geological features, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For the price, you’re getting a comprehensive tour that covers many of Jasper’s most famous sights, with the convenience of transportation and some hotel stays included. The guided aspect adds value, especially when you want a local expert to deepen your understanding of the landscape.

While some reviews mention minor issues with communication or the need to book optional activities in advance, these are small inconveniences compared to the overall experience. If you’re looking for an efficient way to see the Canadian Rockies with a knowledgeable guide and don’t mind a busy schedule, this tour offers excellent value for the scenery and insights you’ll gain.

In short, this tour is perfect for nature lovers who want to maximize their time and see the highlights with ease, all while enjoying the comfort of a guided trip through some of Canada’s most dramatic scenery.

FAQ

Is transportation included in this tour?
Yes, you’ll be transported in a climate-controlled vehicle for the entire two days, which makes the journey comfortable and stress-free.

Are meals included?
Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not. However, a lunch package is available for purchase, which can be convenient for a full day of sightseeing.

Can I upgrade activities such as the Ice Explorer or Skywalk?
Yes, upgrades are available and highly recommended by past travelers for a more immersive glacier experience and incredible mountain views.

How many people are in the group?
The tour accommodates up to 50 travelers, making it a lively group but still small enough for a personal experience.

What should I pack?
Bring layers, including warm clothing for high-altitude stops, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the stunning scenery.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but keep in mind the early mornings and long days. It’s best for those with moderate mobility and an interest in outdoor scenery.

This 2-day Jasper National Park tour offers a fantastic snapshot of the Canadian Rockies, combining natural wonder, expert guidance, and a hassle-free experience. Whether you’re visiting Calgary or Banff, it’s a solid way to see the best of Jasper without the stress of planning every detail yourself.