Adventure Collective
null - Jasper

Maligne Valley Wildlife & Waterfalls Tour & Cruise

Jaspereasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

4–6 hours

Fitness Level

Suitable for most fitness levels; minimal walking required

Overview

Discover the stunning scenery, waterfalls, and wildlife of Maligne Valley on this guided bus tour and cruise in Jasper, Alberta. Perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking a memorable outdoor experience.

Bus Tour
Jasper, Alberta

Maligne Valley Wildlife & Waterfalls Tour & Cruise

Starting at $189 Ad | 6 Hours | All Ages | Jun 1 - Oct 12

Select participants and date

Adventure Photos

Maligne Valley Wildlife & Waterfalls Tour & Cruise photo 1

About This Adventure

Includes Scenic Boat Cruise on to Spirit Island at Maligne Lake


Rates

Adult: $189 Ages 16+

Child: $119 Ages 5-15

Young Child: $0 Ages 0-4

Includes complimentary hotel pick up & drop off

Duration

6 hours

About

This journey takes us through forty five kilometers of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in the Canadian Rockies. The Maligne Valley is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, and has geological features unique anywhere in the world. Our journey will be searching for the abundant wildlife while explaining the history and natural wonders to be explored. A 30 minute stop at Maligne Canyon allows us time to explore the two bridges, offering fantastic views of the cascading waterfall and continuing erosion of the ancient limestone.

As we continue into the Valley we will rise into the sub-alpine forests and view the expanding ranges of limestone rising out of Medicine Lake. This mysterious disappearing lake will change seasonally as the flow rates of melt waters fill and empty this basin. A stop is made to photograph this natural wonder and your guide will trace its history with you. From Medicine Lake we continue up through forest that is prime habitat for moose and bears. Sightings are common but not guaranteed as we are trying to view these animals in their natural habitat.

At world famous Maligne Lake you will embark on the Boat Tour to Spirit Island. This will showcase the blue green glacial water of Maligne Lake and you will learn the human and geologic history of the area on the comfortable enclosed boat tour. This 90 minute journey stops at Spirit Island to allow for a walk to the famous photo view point.

What to Know

  • A small amount of walking is involved. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
  • Travel is by comfortable minibus and fully-covered boat (if cruise option chosen) however as mountain weather can be unpredictable, participants should bring a rain jacket or umbrella and warm clothing to wear during the outdoor/walking portions of the trip in case of inclement weather.
  • Participants will have a short break for lunch at Maligne Lake. There may be the chance to purchase lunch at the Maligne Lakehouse although during peak season there can be lengthy lines. To avoid waiting in line, we suggest that if possible participants bring their own lunch with them.
  • It is recommended participants bring with them a small bottle of water.
  • This tour operates in all weather conditions.

Pick-Up Information

Complimentary pick-up is available from selected accommodations within the Jasper Area. Please note the pickup time for your specified location below.

Downtown Jasper locations including – Astoria Hotel, Athabasca Hotel, Bear Hill Lodge, Jasper Inn and Suites, Chateau Jasper, Crimson Hotel, Downtown Hostel, HI Jasper Hostel (Sleepy Hollow Rd), Lobstick Lodge, Maligne Lodge, Marmot Lodge, Mt Robson Inn, Park Place Inn, Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre, Tonquin Inn, Train Station & Whistlers Inn – please wait outside the main lobby 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.

Outer-lying properties including – Alpine Village, Beckers Chalets, Jasper House Bungalows, Patricia Lake Bungalows, Pyramid Lake Resort & Tekarra Lodge – please wait in front of the main office 30 minutes before your tour's departure time.

Whistlers Campground – please ensure you are waiting outside the campground registration centre 30 minutes before your tour's departure time (our bus cannot enter the campground).

Wapiti Campground – please ensure you are waiting on the corner of Hwy 93 Icefields Parkway at the campground road entrance, 30 minutes before your tour's departure (our bus cannot enter the campground)

Pine Bungalows – pickup will be between 5-10 minutes after your tour's specified departure time. Please wait for pickup in view of the main entry arch at the exact departure time (our bus cannot go under the arch).

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge – pickup will be 15 minutes after your tour's specified departure time. Please be waiting outside the front entrance doors to the main lobby.

Jasper Approved Home Accommodation – We can provide pickup from private B&B style guesthouses within the immediate Jasper townsite. Please specify the guesthouse name & exact street address. Please wait outside 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.

Meet at our Downtown Location – Those staying outside of our pickup area should meet at Two Brothers Totem Pole, located across the street from the Jasper Park Information Centre lawn (500 Connaught Drive). All day parking is available in the parking lot adjacent. Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour's specified departure time.

FAQ's

  • How big is the bus? We use air conditioned, RV-style buses with large windows. These buses hold maximum 24 passengers.

  • What are we likely to see? In the summer season, elk, deer, big horn sheep, bears and bald eagles are the most common animals to be sighted, while occasionally, you may also spot moose, mountain goats or coyotes. In the winter season, we often spot elk, big horn sheep, coyotes and occasionally moose or wolves. With the animals being wild, we can never make guarantees as to what you’ll find on each tour however having this flexibility of route, along with the local knowledge of the guide, increases your chances of encounters. You’ll also have the chance to learn interesting facts about the animals, their behaviours and habitats as your guide provides commentary and answers your questions along the way.

  • Is it a walking tour? This is primarily a vehicle-based tour. Occasionally there may be an opportunity to get off the bus for closer viewing or a short walk. This decision is made by the guide and will be based on the location of animals & in keeping within guidelines as set by Parks Canada.

  • What should I bring? *A detailed confirmation email will be sent after booking is completed, and will included pick up locations, what to wear, what to bring, and specific information for the tour

Adventure Tips

Wear layered clothing

Temperatures can vary throughout the day, so dressing in layers helps you stay comfortable.

Bring binoculars

Enhance your wildlife viewing experience by spotting animals from a distance.

Carry a camera with zoom

Capture stunning photos of waterfalls, mountain scenery, and wildlife.

Arrive early for the tour

Secure your spot and enjoy the best lighting conditions for photography.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Bighorn sheep
  • Pikas

History

Maligne Valley has been a vital part of Indigenous territories for centuries, and later became a popular destination for explorers and tourists seeking its natural beauty.

Conservation

Maligne River and Lake are protected under regional conservation efforts to preserve their pristine condition and support local ecosystems.

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Adventure Hotspots in Jasper

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Warm layered clothing

Essential

Keeping warm is crucial during cooler months and in the evenings.

spring|fall|winter|null specific

Comfortable walking shoes

Essential

Comfortable footwear makes your experience more enjoyable, especially during stops.

Camera or smartphone with zoom

Capture the scenic views and wildlife encounters along the tour.

Sunscreen and sunglasses

Protect yourself from UV rays during sunny days on the water and outdoors.

summer specific