2026 Guide to Visiting Spirit Island and Maligne Lake

Have you seen photos of Spirit Island and Maligne Lake and imagined what it’d be like to see it for yourself? I don’t blame you. My philosophy has always been: experiencing a place in person will always beat any photo!

Few landscapes in North America are as instantly recognizable, or as fiercely protected, as Spirit Island. Nestled at the far end of Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park, Alberta, it is the quintessential postcard view of the Canadian Rockies.

Whether you’re deciding between a scenic cruise or canoeing, wondering why stepping foot on the island is prohibited, or trying to time your visit for the best light, this guide covers everything you need to plan a respectful and unforgettable trip.

How To Get To Spirit Island

Spirit Island sits in a remote corner of Jasper National Park, approximately 8.7 miles (14 km) southeast of the Maligne Lake boathouse. Getting to the island on foot would be nearly impossible, as no trail system extends that far along the lakeshore. As a result, visitors are left with two options: the boat cruise or paddling.

Maligne Lake Boat Cruise

The vast majority of people choose this option for one reason: it’s faster and easier. Pursuit offers two cruise options out to Spirit Island, both offering a worthwhile experience with knowledgeable guides and skilled captains! I took the Standard Cruise during my first visit in 2018 and returned for the Premium Cruise in 2026.

Other than the differences outlined above, I found the two tours to be nearly identical. The 30-minute journey to Spirit Island includes interesting commentary about the lake’s geology, wildlife, and history from your tour guide. On the return trip, they are happy to answer any questions you may have and often share additional stories about the area.

The captain also slows the boat at particularly scenic viewpoints and spins the boat a slow 360 degrees, giving passengers excellent opportunities for photography. On the premium cruise, one of these spots was the Hall of the Gods, one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen!

Canoeing or Kayaking

Before visiting in 2018, I believed this was the only path to Spirit Island, and, not going to lie, this adventure remains on my bucket list to this day! For those adventurous enough, this is the preferred option.

But first off, why paddle the 8.7 miles (14 km) to Spirit Island? Well, two reasons: first, you’d have no time restrictions on enjoying the island, and second, solitude! Yes, Spirit Island is in the middle of nowhere, but with the constant cruise traffic from 8 am until 6 pm, solitude is hard to find; for paddlers, this isn’t the case. 

Now, paddling in the dark may not sound fun, so spending a night at one of the stunning backcountry campgrounds is a bucket list item for many adventurers, including myself! There are three total campgrounds along Maligne Lake, and reservations open in January and book out within the hour!

• Hidden Cove – Closest campground to the Maligne Lake Boathouse, about a 2.5-mile (4 km) paddle one way. Great option for beginner paddlers!
• Fisherman’s Bay – About 1.25 miles (4 km) one way from Spirit Island, with stunning views of the mountains and glaciers! An 8-mile (13 km) paddle one-way from the boathouse.
• Coronet Creek – A 13.2-mile (21.3 km) one-way paddle to the end of Maligne Lake. From here, you can take an unmaintained 11-mile (18 km) round trip hike with 2000 feet (610 m) of climbing to the base of Coronet Glacier.

I am hoping to snag permits for this adventure in 2027 or 2028. I would spend the first night at Fisherman’s Bay and then two nights at Coronet Creek before returning.

• Day 1: Arrive at Maligne Lake from Jasper, Paddle out to Fisherman’s Bay. Enjoy Spirit Island without the crowds at sunset.
• Day 2: Head out early, see Spirit Island in the morning without the crowds, enjoy the paddle out to Coronet Creek Campground.
• Day 3: Hike to Coronet Glacier
• Day 4: Paddle all the way back to Maligne Lake

All three campgrounds have boat docks, firewood provided, and outhouses, or as our tour guide Maddie jokingly said, they’re called just an “out!” I can imagine it’s a nice view though!

Private Motorized Boats Policy

Maligne Lake is closed to all motorized gas boats except for the ones run by Pursuit for the Spirit Island Cruises.

However, you can bring your own non-motorized boat, but it must still pass watercraft inspection. This policy aims to protect the pristine water, minimize wake erosion, and preserve wildlife habitats. Parks Canada rangers monitor the lake, and violations result in fines and immediate removal from the waterway.

“Maligne Lake is open to paddlers and electric motors only; gas motors are prohibited” – Parks Canada

What Makes Spirit Island So Famous?

Spirit Island gained worldwide recognition in 1960 when it was featured in Kodak’s Colorama exhibition at New York’s Grand Central Terminal. The original photographer waited nearly two weeks for the perfect lighting!

Despite its name, Spirit Island is connected to the mainland most of the year, except during spring snowmelt and heavy rains, when rising water levels temporarily isolate it. The landform sits inside a dramatic canyon that early explorer Mary Schäffer famously dubbed the “Hall of Gods.”

Long before European visitors arrived, the Stoney Nakoda First Nation referred to Maligne Lake as *Chaba Imne*, meaning “Beaver Lake,” as well as the Lake of Deep Waters or the Lake of Healing. Spirit Island is seen as the heart of the lake and is surrounded on three sides by the same mountain range: a rare geological formation that Indigenous traditions associate with ancestral spirits.

Schäffer, who reached the lake in 1908 after receiving a hand-drawn map from Stoney Nakoda guide Samson Beaver, captured its grandeur in writing and art. She famously said:

“If Lake Louise is a pearl, Maligne is the entire pearl necklace”

Today, the photo of Spirit Island is recognized by travelers worldwide, and each year, well over a million people walk the trail to enjoy the island’s beauty and sacred nature. I may be optimistic, but I hope most people leave Spirit Island with a renewed sense of connection and respect for the fragile landscape.

Essential Rules & Visitor Guidelines

Many travelers don’t know about certain restrictions or have unrealistic expectations when visiting Spirit Island. Understanding what the restrictions are and the “why” behind them will help you plan better and travel more respectfully.

Why You Can’t Walk on Spirit Island

As mentioned above, Spirit Island is a sacred space for the First Nations. Stepping foot on it is prohibited out of cultural respect and legal protection under Parks Canada policy.

Additionally, the island’s soil is thin, with slow-growing vegetation, making it susceptible to erosion. Even light foot traffic can cause long-term damage. As our tour guide said, “If we left everyone step on the island, it would turn from Spirit Island into Spirit Sandbar!”

Besides, look at that photo! Why would you want to be on the island instead of taking a photo of the island itself?

Viewing Platforms and Walking Path

The truth is, the best shot of the island is from the trail on Fisherman’s Bay. The designated trail is very short, about 1/4 mile (0.4 km) round trip, with a bit of elevation gain. The upper half is built in with steps to help prevent erosion, while the bottom half is more accessible. Please be respectful by staying on-trail and giving everyone a chance to see the overlook

Leave No Trace & Park Regulations

Visitors are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace Principles when visiting Spirit Island: don’t step off-trail, and don’t leave any waste behind

• Stay on trail
• Pack it in, pack it out.
• There are restrooms near the boat dock; use those!
• Keep your distance from wildlife; do not approach or feed them
• No Drones allowed anywhere in Jasper National Park, especially Spirit Island

Planning Your Visit To Maligne Lake

Whether you are planning to visit Maligne Lake as part of a larger Canadian Rockies road trip or simply as a weekend excursion, here’s how you can start planning your trip today!

Best Time of Year to Visit

The peak season for Maligne Lake is considered to be Mid-June to Late October: Cruises operate daily, waterways are ice-free, and trails are fully accessible. July–August, in particular, bring the largest crowds, and tickets sell out quickly.

The drive remains scenic year-round, and winter offers excellent cross-country skiing around the boathouse area. Cruises and rentals don’t operate in Winter. Check out the live webcam to see current conditions. I check this webcam often! You can see past dates to get an idea of what the weather will be like for your trip.

How to Book Cruises & Canoe Rentals

You can book the standard cruise through Viator (for which we get a small commission at no cost to you, and your support keeps this blog going!) However, the premium cruise isn’t available on Viator, so you’ll have to book directly through Pursuit.

For Canoe Rentals, I recommend going with Wildcurrent Outfitters in Jasper. They offer full-day and multi-day canoeing packages for a much cheaper rate than Pursuit.

In 2026, you can rent a two-person canoe all day for $135.00 CAD, whereas Pursuit charges $79.20 CAD/hour for a two-person canoe. Wildcurrent Outfitters is also the go-to rental company for those spending a few nights in the backcountry, and they offer discounts for multi-day rentals.

Photography Tips for the Perfect Shot

The premium cruise is one of the best times to take photographs at Spirit Island! We arrived around 6:00 pm on a mid-summer day with clear blue sky and relatively soft lighting on Spirit Island. Because of the angle of the summer sun, evening lighting is better at Maligne Lake.

Truly dedicated photographers prefer sunrise or sunset, which requires camping at Fisherman’s Bay or paddling in the dark. But your treat is seeing the Hall of the Gods light up in orange light. Another option is taking a photography tour.

For photographers, I recommend using a polarizing filter to cut water glare and enhance turquoise tones. K&F Connect is my go-to for any camera lens filter; make sure you know your lens diameter before purchasing. A tripod also helps during golden hour. Lastly, remember that drone flights are strictly prohibited.

Sample Itineraries

Whether you have a half day or a full day at Maligne Lake, here are my recommended itineraries to help you maximize your time in this magical place!

Half-Day At Maligne Lake

Start your morning by driving the scenic Maligne Lake road. Give yourself extra time as wildlife sightings are fairly common here: Bears, moose, and Elk frequent the area. If you do see wildlife, stay in your car and don’t cause a traffic jam!

Take a quick stop to admire Medicine Lake from one of several overlooks. Make your way to Maligne Lake, where you can walk the Mary Schaffer loop, which is a fairly easy hike. If you are limited on time, you can turn around at the red chairs past the boathouse.

After the hike, enjoy coffee and waffles at the Waffle Hut before going on your Spirit Island Cruise. Return to Jasper for the evening to finish off your day.

Full-Day At Maligne Lake

For a full day at Maligne Lake, I recommend following our exact 2026 Itinerary. A 7:00 AM wake-up call got us on the road early. We stopped briefly at Medicine Lake to stretch our legs, where the morning mist hovered over the lake.

Once at Maligne Lake, we drove straight to the Bald Hills Trailhead to take on the Bald Hills trail, which is easily the best day hike in the area! We hiked from about 9:30 AM until 3:45 PM, after which we drove over to the Maligne Lake boathouse and found a spot in the overflow lot.

We had just enough time to enjoy the Hall of the Gods waffle and a London Fog from Waffle Hut, much-needed fuel after a long hike before boarding our 5 PM premium cruise! The 2-hour cruise took us across the stunning Malgine Lake, with an extended stop at the Hall of the Gods and Spirit Island.

The lighting was serene as we took in the views, said a Stoney Nakoda prayer to the water with our tour guide, and captured some amazing photos! After the ride back to the boat house, we had little energy left. Unbeknownst to me, the iconic Park’s Canada red chairs were just a short walk away. Something I will have to check out next time!

We then drove back to Jasper, keeping an eye out for wildlife and stopping again at Medicine Lake. We also stopped at the Maligne Canyon overlook, where we spotted a big Bull Elk! Sadly, Maligne Canyon itself is closed indefinitely due to damage from the 2024 Jasper wildfire. Back in Jasper, we enjoyed dinner and ice cream before heading to our campsite at the Whistlers Campground.

Things To Do At Maligne Lake

Cruising to Spirit Island is just the tip of the iceberg of what Maligne Lake has to offer! Between stunning hikes, dining options, scenic viewpoints, and wildlife viewing, this area has much to offer!

Hiking Trails

The Maligne Lake area is home to several hikes, ranging from easy walks to long day hikes and backcountry treks, all within minutes of the boathouse. This makes the area a fantastic spot to spend a full day, or even several days!

The Bald Hills

Easily the best day hike in the area, the Bald Hills trail offers the best view of Maligne Lake and the surrounding Queen Elizabeth Ranges. The hike is a long and steady climb, with an optional, even steeper shortcut. The standard route covers 10.65 miles (17.1 km) round trip and gains 2,600 feet (780 m) of elevation.

Mary Schaffer Loop Trail (North Shore)

This popular 2-mile (3.2 km) loop hike with minimal elevation gain is family-friendly and perfect for visitors limited on time. In winter, it makes for a great snowshoeing outing. Along the way, you can stop at the iconic red chairs, just 10 minutes into the hike! The first half follows the north lakeshore before heading up into the forest.

Moose Lake Loop

This serene lake can be reached via a short 1.8-mile (2.7 km) hike with 500 feet (152 m) of elevation gain. It can be combined with the Bald Hills Trail (if you have energy) or the Maligne Lake shore trail. Backpackers hiking the Maligne Pass Trail can also make a quick pit stop at Moose Lake as well.

Maligne Lake South Shore Trail

This easy trail follows the south shoreline through dense forest with frequent views of Maligne Lake. The trail is relatively flat and can be explored for as long or as little as you like, making it a great option for families, photographers, and anyone wanting to escape the crowds near the boathouse. Moose sightings here are fairly common!

Opal Hills

Often overshadowed by Bald Hills, the Opal Hills is one of the most scenic hikes in the Maligne Lake area. This steep hike is wildflower heaven! However, if you want a view of Maligne Lake, you must climb up the steep ridge to the overlook. The overlook hike totals 4.4 miles (7.8 km) with 2,063 feet (238 m) of elevation gain.

The very adventurous can continue to scramble to the summit of Opal Peak. While the view here is breathtaking, Bald Hills provides a more complete view of Maligne Lake and is more worthwhile for first-time visitors, while also being an easier hike.

Dining Options

There are a few food options near the boat cruise launch. I would call it a “village,” but it’s a small developed area with restaurants and a gift shop.

Waffle Hut

If you love Waffles, look no further than the Waffle Hut at Maligne Lake! We stopped before our cruise, and it did not disappoint! We shared the Hall of the Gods waffle: stacked croissant waffles, berry compote, Kahlua chantilly cream, cinnamon, and icing sugar, with Ice Cream. Can you say, Yum?! We also enjoyed some warm tea before heading out on our cruise.

Lake House Cafe

Lake House Cafe sits adjacent to the Waffle Hut. This “cafeteria-style” restaurant serves breakfast, classic comfort food, and fresh poutine. The outdoor deck is great for watching boats glide across the water.

The Maligne Lake Chalet Restaurant

The Maligne Lake Chalet Restaurant is a bit on the pricier end and offers classics like burgers, salads, and poutine. Large windows frame stunning views of Maligne Lake and the surrounding peaks. It makes a perfect stop for lunch or dinner.

Wildlife Viewing

Keep your eyes open while driving the Maligne Lake road. Maligne Lake is home to elk, deer, and occasionally bears. Take your time driving, scan the tree lines, and visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best chances. A pair of binoculars always helps.

When I first visited the area in 2018, we saw ten Black Bears along the side of the road! Ten! I was hoping we’d see Bears again in 2026, but we only managed to see a Bull Elk, which was still very cool!

Scenic Stops on the Maligne Lake Road

The 28-mile (45 km) drive from Jasper to Maligne Lake features two iconic stops: Maligne Canyon (currently closed) and Medicine Lake.

Medicine Lake is really interesting. Like any other lake, snowmelt raises the water level to its maximum in the summer. But while most lakes dry up in winter to an extent, Medicine Lake disappears completely! This puzzled geologists for a long time.

It is now known that there are sinkholes at the bottom of the lake, from which the water drains into a vast limestone cave system before resurfacing at Maligne Canyon, 10 miles (16 km) downstream. This is the largest hidden river system in the Western Hemisphere and the largest inaccessible cave network anywhere on Earth!

So why doesn’t it drain in the summer? The rate of meltwater coming down from the Maligne River exceeds how fast the sinkholes drain the water, but in Winter, the meltwater rate significantly slows down.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are the questions we get asked most often about Maligne Lake and Spirit Island.

Should I visit Maligne Lake even if I don’t have a cruise Reservation?

Absolutely! Maligne Lake is so iconic that even visiting the shoreline and walking to the shore trail is worth the hour-long drive! Additionally, you can talk to the folks at the cruise desk to see if there are any last-minute cancellations.

Does the Maligne Lake Cruise actually stop at Spirit Island?

Yes, but only from the viewing platform in Fisherman’s Bay, from where you can see Spirit Island. You cannot step onto the island itself due to cultural and ecological protections. The Classic cruise offers a 15-minute stop; the Premium cruise extends this to about 30 minutes.

Is it worth taking the boat tour vs. just driving to the lake?

Absolutely. While you can admire Maligne Lake from the shore, and even hike to the red chairs, the cruise provides unparalleled perspectives of the stunning emerald waters, mountain views, glaciers, and, of course, Spirit Island itself. It’s consistently ranked as a top experience at Jasper National Park.

Can I swim in Maligne Lake?

Maligne Lake is fed by glacial melt, and the water stays near freezing year-round. While some cold-plunge enthusiasts may enjoy the challenge, most visitors will find it too cold for swimming. For warmer water, consider Horseshoe Lake, Lake Edith, Pyramid Lake, or Lake Annette, which also features a sandy beach. All within a 10-minute drive from Jasper!

Are pets allowed on the cruise?

Unfortunately, our furry friends are not allowed on Maligne Lake Cruises due to safety and wildlife disturbance policies. Leashed pets are welcome around the boathouse and mainland trails, but must be left at accommodations during boat tours. Read the full pet policy here!

What’s the best time to photograph Spirit Island?

Late afternoon (~6 PM) offers even, warm lighting for most visitors. The first cruise of the day (9 AM) or the Premium evening departure provides the best accessible windows. For truly dramatic shots, sunrise or sunset requires camping or paddling in the dark.

How far in advance should I book?  

During summer (June–August), book cruises at least two to four weeks ahead. Canoe/kayak rentals are best booked well in advance. Backcountry campsites get sold out within hours of being released in January of each year.

Can you see Spirit Island without a cruise or canoe?

No. Spirit Island is located about 8.7 miles (14 km) from the Maligne Lake boathouse, and there are no maintained trails providing access to the viewpoint. The only practical ways to see Spirit Island are by boat cruise, canoe, or kayak. 

What should I wear/bring for the trip?

Even in summer, Maligne Lake can be surprisingly chilly due to the cold glacial water. Weather in the Canadian Rockies can change in an instant. While we got lucky with a warm, sunny day, the evening prior was pouring rain! Luckily, the inside of the boat is warm, but I still recommend dressing in layers, bringing sunscreen, sunglasses, and water.

How crowded does it get in peak season?

Very crowded! Maligne Lake is a very popular attraction and can be very busy during summer. Parking lots often fill up, and cruise departures sell out. It’s recommended to arrive at least an hour before your cruise and book tickets well in advance. Try to visit mid-week if you can!

Is there food offered at Maligne Lake?

Yes. The Maligne Lake area includes the Lake House Cafe, which I have yet to try, and the Waffle Hut, which serves the most amazing pancakes and coffee! If you are taking a late cruise (such as the Premium Cruise), these places will be closed when your tour ends, so plan accordingly. Food is not available onboard the boats or at Spirit Island. 

How long is the Maligne Lake Boat Tour?

The Classic Maligne Lake Cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, while the Premium Cruise lasts about 2 hours. Both include a stop near Spirit Island and onboard commentary from a guide.

Is the Maligne Lake Cruise wheelchair accessible?

There are two wheelchair accessible boats, but they must be reserved in advance by contacting the reservations line at +1.888.900.6272. The walk to see Spirit Island is partially accessible, with the lower section being flat but the upper section requiring walking up steps. 

Is the Cruise kid-friendly?

With the exception of the Premium Cruise, yes, it is suitable for families and children of all ages. The stunning scenery and knowledgeable guides make it a popular family activity in Jasper National Park.

Will you get wet on the Maligne Lake Cruise?

Under normal conditions, no. The boats are enclosed and protected from the elements, though those sitting on the outdoor viewing decks may occasionally experience light spray or rain if weather conditions change. Bringing a light waterproof layer is never a bad idea.

The Wrap Up: Spirit Island And Maligne Lake

I hope after reading this guide, you feel excited and ready for your Spirit Island and Maligne Lake adventure! It may seem like a lot, but just visiting Maligne Lake alone is worthwhile. There’s a reason this corner of the Canadian Rockies is so well recognized, heavily visited, and well-protected.

As you explore, make it a goal to connect with the land and leave it better than you found it. You only have 15 to 30 minutes to walk around and take photos of Spirit Island, but I encourage you to pause for just 30 seconds and really feel the surroundings. Perhaps in that stillness, you will understand why the Stoney Nakoda hold this place in such deep spiritual regard. Safe travels!