Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake which includes landscape views, a lake or waterhole and forests
Maligne Lake featuring landscape views and a lake or waterhole
Maligne Lake which includes general coastal views, mountains and landscape views
Maligne Lake
Maligne Lake featuring a lake or waterhole and kayaking or canoeing


Whether you cruise the clear waters of this lake, or hike in the surrounding slopes, you’ll be guaranteed some of the most iconic views in the Canadian Rockies.

The beauty of Maligne Lake is truly breathtaking. It is the largest glacial lake in the Canadian Rockies, and its vivid blue waters are framed by towering mountain peaks. At its centre stands Spirit Island which has become a world-famous symbol of the region. Whether you want to take to the water or stay on dry land, there are a multitude of exhilarating activities to choose from.

Book a seat on one of the many cruises to Spirit Island to see this diminutive, yet renowned, location. The most popular round trip lasts 90 minutes, with a chance to disembark, during which your guide will explain fascinating details about the island and surrounding lake. Given the island’s photogenic nature, there are also special cruises in the company of professional photographers, giving you the chance to take the best holiday photos ever!

If you want to explore under your own steam, rowing boats, canoes and sea kayaks can be hired from the Curly Phillips Boathouse on the shores of the lake. If you fancy trying your hand at trout fishing, tackle and permits can also be obtained from the boathouse. Alternatively, guided fishing expeditions are on offer, so you can make the most of the abundant stocks of rainbow and eastern brook trout.

For those who prefer to stay on dry land, there are many excellent hiking trails around the lake, which cater for all abilities and fitness levels. Whether you chose a gentle stroll through the surrounding woodland, or a trek up the steep slopes, you can be guaranteed to find wonderful scenery and stunning views. If you’re looking to really immerse yourself in the Canadian wilderness, try the 44-kilometre Skyline Trail. This multi-day excursion carries you above the tree line, and runs between the lake and Jasper.

If you’re visiting during the summer, you must make time for traditional afternoon tea at the Maligne Lake Chalet. Delicious scones and clotted cream can be washed down with a pot of fragrant tea. The chalet also has accommodation for up to 80 guests if you decide you want to stay longer.

Maligne Lake is 44 kilometres south of Jasper, along the Icefields Parkway.

Popular places to visit


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Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge

Sunwapta Falls Rocky Mountain Lodge

2 out of 5
Highway 93 - Icefields Parkway, Sunwapta Falls, AB
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Forest Park Hotel

Forest Park Hotel

3.5 out of 5
76 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB
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Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels

Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels

3 out of 5
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Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

4 out of 5
Old Lodge Road, Jasper, AB
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Tonquin Inn

Tonquin Inn

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100 Juniper Avenue, Jasper, AB
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Whistler's Inn

Whistler's Inn

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The Crimson Jasper

The Crimson Jasper

2.5 out of 5
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Fortress Lake Wilderness Retreat

Fortress Lake Wilderness Retreat

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Pine Bungalows

Pine Bungalows

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Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Maligne Lake

At Maligne Lake, immerse yourself in stunning natural beauty with activities like wildlife watching and skiing. Don't miss the scenic boat tours of the lake, which offer breathtaking views. Explore the majestic Athabasca Glacier on a guided tour, or venture into the alpine bowls and backcountry campgrounds for a true wilderness experience. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Maligne Lake has something for everyone.

Shopping

At Maligne Lake, you can enjoy local artisan shops and souvenir stands offering unique gifts. If you're up for a drive, Jasper’s Pyramid Mall, located around 30 kilometres away, features a variety of shops, cafes, and outdoor gear stores, perfect for picking up something special.

Recreation

At Maligne Lake, indulge in a serene wellness retreat at the Maligne Lake Lodge, where you can enjoy yoga sessions amidst breathtaking mountain scenery. For outdoor recreation, embark on a scenic canoe trip or hike the picturesque trails, all while soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of this stunning location.

Adventure

Experience the stunning Opal Hills hiking trail, located 38.6km from Maligne Lake, where adventure meets breathtaking scenery. Alternatively, explore the Bald Hills trail, also 38.6km away, offering magnificent views and a thrilling outdoor experience amid the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Nightlife

Experience the serene beauty of Maligne Lake at dusk with a peaceful lakeside walk. For a lively atmosphere, visit the nearby Jasper town, where you can enjoy craft cocktails at the Jasper Brewing Company or catch live music at The Raven Bistro, showcasing local artists.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Maligne Lake

Maligne Lake offers a plethora of attractions for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers, including breathtaking national parks, stunning waterfalls, and scenic streets. Visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the area while enjoying activities that showcase the remarkable scenery and exhilarating experiences available in this picturesque Canadian destination.

  • Spirit Island: Nestled 8.0km from Maligne Lake, Spirit Island is a serene retreat surrounded by stunning mountain vistas. This picturesque island offers beach access and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxation and outdoor activities like kayaking or picnicking.
  • Icefields Parkway: Located 22.5km away, Icefields Parkway is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes. This scenic drive features dramatic mountain views, glacial rivers, and rich wildlife, providing a vibrant experience as you traverse one of the most beautiful roads in Canada.
  • Jasper National Park: Just 32.2km from Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park is an adventurer's paradise. With its diverse wildlife, awe-inspiring scenery, and numerous hiking trails, this national park offers an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Maligne Lake

To save money on your trip to Maligne Lake, consider visiting during the off-peak months, typically outside July to September, when accommodation prices are lower. Book your hotel at least a month in advance, or check for last-minute deals on Expedia. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays are the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and hotel type, including Eco-certified options. Additionally, look for package deals that combine flights, hotels, and activities for further savings.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Maligne Lake are , where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to July to September, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Maligne Lake is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Maligne Lake is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Maligne Lake is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia’s search tool enables you to specify your budget, chosen location, and additional preferences. You can organise your results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to find the most affordable hotels first. Furthermore, you have the option to refine your search by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save on costs by combining your Maligne Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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Explore a world of travel with Expedia