Jasper: Maligne Valley Wildlife Watching & Boat Tour

Jasper’s Maligne Valley offers a captivating wildlife watching experience. The 6-hour tour takes visitors on a journey through stunning landscapes, including the dramatic Maligne Canyon and the serene Medicine Lake. Guests can expect to spot diverse wildlife, from majestic moose to elusive bears, while enjoying a relaxing boat cruise to the iconic Spirit Island. With pickup service and knowledgeable guides, this tour promises an unforgettable adventure in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. What secrets might the valley unveil for those who venture forth?

About Your Stay

• This 6-hour guided tour from Jasper includes a visit to Maligne Canyon, a photo stop at Medicine Lake, and a 1.5-hour boat cruise to Spirit Island.
• Guests have opportunities to spot diverse wildlife such as elk, moose, bears, and mountain goats throughout the tour.
• Maligne Lake, the second-largest glacial-fed lake in the world, is known for its striking turquoise hue and mountain backdrop.
• Maligne Canyon features sheer 100-foot walls and allows guests to explore and appreciate the scale and grandeur of the canyon.
• The region is home to a diverse ecosystem, and knowledgeable guides provide expert commentary on the wildlife and natural wonders throughout the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Maligne Valley Wildlife Watching & Boat Tour is priced from Kč 3,129 per person and lasts for 6 hours.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later.

The tour includes pickup from Jasper hotels, a guided tour of Maligne Canyon, a photo stop at Medicine Lake, and a 1.5-hour boat cruise to Spirit Island on Maligne Lake.

Highlights include breathtaking views, interpretive commentary, and opportunities to spot wildlife like elk, moose, bears, and mountain goats.

Itinerary and Highlights

Pickup from Jasper Hotels begins the tour, with the exception of Hinton, Overlander Mountain Lodge, and Miette Mountain Cabins – these travelers will meet at the Jasper Adventure Centre on Patricia Street.

The first stop is Maligne Canyon, where visitors enjoy a 30-minute guided tour and free time for sightseeing and walking.

Next, the tour visits Medicine Lake for a 20-minute photo stop and free time.

The highlight is a 1.5-hour boat cruise on scenic Lake Maligne to Spirit Island, offering breathtaking views and interpretive commentary by the guide.

Throughout, there are opportunities to spot wildlife like elk, moose, bears, and mountain goats.

Maligne Lake and Medicine Lake

Situated within the breathtaking Maligne Valley, Maligne Lake is the second-largest glacial-fed lake in the world, draining into the Maligne River. The lake is renowned for its striking turquoise hue and stunning mountain backdrop.

Another notable natural feature is Medicine Lake, known for its disappearing water phenomenon.

1. Maligne Lake is fed by the Maligne Glacier, creating its vibrant color.

2. Medicine Lake’s water levels fluctuate significantly throughout the year due to the area’s extensive karst system.

3. The Maligne Valley is home to diverse wildlife, including moose, caribou, and bears.

4. Visitors can explore the region’s natural wonders through a guided boat tour or hike.

Maligne Canyon

Maligne Canyon, part of Canada’s extensive karst system, features sheer 100-foot walls that captivate visitors.

During the tour, guests spend 30 minutes exploring this geological wonder. Guides provide insightful commentary, highlighting the canyon’s remarkable features.

Visitors can walk along the rim, peering down at the turbulent river below. The guided experience offers an opportunity to fully appreciate the scale and grandeur of this natural masterpiece.

With its dramatic cliffs and rushing waters, Maligne Canyon leaves a lasting impression on all who witness its power and beauty.

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Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

Although the tour focuses primarily on the natural wonders of Maligne Valley, it also offers ample opportunities for wildlife viewing.

Guests may spot:

1. Majestic moose foraging in the lush meadows or drinking from the tranquil lakes.

2. Bighorn sheep and mountain goats scaling the rugged cliffs of Maligne Canyon.

3. Elusive black bears and grizzlies roaming the dense forests in search of berries and salmon.

4. Caribou herds migrating across the vast alpine landscapes.

The knowledgeable guides provide expert commentary to help guests identify and appreciate the diverse wildlife inhabiting this pristine mountain ecosystem.

Customer Reviews and Experiences

Numerous travelers have shared overwhelmingly positive experiences with the Maligne Valley Wildlife Watching & Boat Tour.

With an impressive 4.6/5 rating based on 143 reviews, the tour consistently delights guests. Travelers highlight the relaxing experience without the need to drive, as well as the efficient and professional team.

Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides who provide great information about Jasper National Park, enhancing the memorable cruise to Spirit Island.

Seasonal Activities

The Maligne Valley Wildlife Watching & Boat Tour offers seasonal activities to cater to the changing conditions throughout the year.

• In summer, the tour includes a relaxing 1.5-hour boat cruise to the iconic Spirit Island on the serene Maligne Lake. Visitors can soak in the breathtaking vistas and keep an eye out for wildlife.

• During other seasons, the tour features a guided hike along the Mary Schaffer Loop. This trail showcases the stunning Maligne Canyon and provides opportunities to spot local fauna like elk, sheep, and bears.

• The return journey to Jasper includes hotel drop-off, ensuring a seamless experience for guests.

• Gratuities are included in the tour pricing, making it a hassle-free and enjoyable outing.

Additional Details

The tour is offered year-round, catering to the changing seasons and conditions in Jasper National Park.

Jasper National Park’s tours adapt to the seasons, ensuring an enjoyable experience year-round.

During the summer, the popular boat cruise to Spirit Island is included. In other seasons, guests enjoy a guided hike along the Mary Schaffer Loop instead.

Regardless of the activity, the tour provides hotel pickup in Jasper and a return journey with drop-off. Gratuities are covered in the upfront pricing, making it a hassle-free experience.

Throughout the tour, a knowledgeable live guide offers commentary in English, enhancing the educational and immersive nature of the adventure.

Questions About Your Stay

Are There Any Discounts or Group Rates Available?

The tour offers discounted group rates for parties of 4 or more. There’s also a flexible cancellation policy with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Customers can reserve and pay later to secure their spot.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tour?

Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks on the tour. The tour allows participants to bring their own snacks and beverages to enjoy during the experience. This can help save on costs and provide more flexibility.

Is There a Limit on the Number of Participants?

There’s no stated limit on the number of participants for this tour. The tour information indicates it’s a shared experience, so group size may vary. It’s best to check with the tour provider for the most up-to-date details.

Are the Boat Tours Wheelchair Accessible?

The boat tours are wheelchair accessible. Passengers requiring assistance can board the boats, and the tour operator provides support to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all participants.

Can I Extend the Tour Duration or Customize the Itinerary?

Customers can’t extend the tour duration or customize the itinerary. The tour has a set 6-hour schedule with specific stops and activities. However, travelers can book private tours for more flexibility in their experience.

Final Verdict On This Stay

The Jasper: Maligne Valley Wildlife Watching & Boat Tour offers an unforgettable adventure in the heart of Jasper National Park. With stunning natural landscapes, wildlife sightings, and a relaxing boat cruise, this tour provides a well-rounded experience for visitors. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply seeking a scenic day trip, this tour won’t disappoint.

You can check availability for your dates here: