Jasper: Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Cruise

Planning a trip to Jasper and wondering how best to experience its incredible scenery and wildlife? This 6-hour Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Adventures offers a solid way to see some of Jasper’s most famous sights without the hassle of organizing it all yourself. From the stunning Maligne Canyon to the iconic Spirit Island, this guided trip packs a lot into a day, making it a popular choice for travelers eager for scenic views and wildlife sightings.

What we really like about this tour is its combination of diverse stops — you get a taste of the rugged canyon, the mysterious disappearing lake, and the serenity of Maligne Lake, all in one go. Plus, the knowledgeable guides and boat crew seem to make a genuine effort to keep it interesting, whether you’re an animal lover or a landscape enthusiast. On the flip side, one potential consideration is the current closure of Maligne Canyon Waterfalls due to wildfire damage, which could mean some parts of the itinerary are altered. But even with that, the tour still promises plenty of natural beauty and insightful commentary.

This experience is ideal for those who want a rundown of Jasper’s natural wonders without spending the whole day on multiple outings. It’s particularly suited for travelers who appreciate wildlife spotting, scenic cruising, and informative guides. If you’re after a relaxed, well-organized day that balances wildlife, water features, and stunning vistas, this tour might be right up your alley.

Key Points

• Wildlife spotting is a major highlight, with chances to see bears, moose, elk, and more.
• The Maligne Lake cruise to Spirit Island offers some of the most iconic views in Jasper.
• The Maligne Canyon stop provides a close look at impressive waterfalls and deep canyon scenery.
• The tour’s small-group size (21 seats) ensures a more personal experience.
• Weather considerations are important — bring rain gear and warm clothing as mountain weather can be unpredictable.
• Despite some parts being temporarily closed (like the waterfalls), the tour adapts to still deliver a memorable experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at What to Expect

When you book this tour, you’re signing up for a blend of scenic drives, short walks, and a boat cruise — pretty much a highlight reel of Jasper’s natural beauty. We’ll start with a hotel pickup in Jasper, which is typically included, and hop into a comfortable 21-seat minibus. This smaller size makes for a more intimate experience, and your guide is there to weave in stories, facts, and wildlife tips throughout the day.

Exploring Maligne Canyon

Your first stop is Maligne Canyon, one of Jasper’s most famous natural attractions. The canyon is a deep, dramatic gorge with waterfalls and rugged rock formations. You’re likely to enjoy an easy 30-minute walk along designated paths, soaking in views of the 164-foot waterfalls and the pounding waters below. Be aware that, due to wildfire damage, the waterfalls might not be as spectacular as usual, as Parks Canada is currently repairing the site to ensure safety. If the waterfalls are closed, your guide will substitute with a visit to Maligne Lookout for a sweeping view of the landscape, or spend extra time at Medicine Lake.

The Disappearing Lake, Medicine Lake

Next, you’ll visit Medicine Lake, which has earned its nickname because it appears to vanish during certain times of the year. Your guide will explain why this happens — it’s all about water levels and underground drainage — and you’ll get a quick 10-minute photo stop. This spot offers unique photo opportunities and insight into how Jasper’s lakes and waterways interact with the mountain ecosystem.

The Maligne Lake Cruise to Spirit Island

Then comes the highlight for many: a 90-minute cruise on Maligne Lake to visit Spirit Island. The boat ride is a relaxing way to take in the vastness of the lake with its crystal-clear waters and surrounding peaks. You’ll love the views of the jagged mountains reflected in the water and the chance to get off the boat at Spirit Island. Many reviewers rave about this part, calling it “unbelievable” and “a must-do in Jasper.”

The boat crew and guides are quite knowledgeable — on many reviews, people mention how friendly and informative the crew members are. For example, Mitchell, the boat guide, was described as providing a lot of interesting info and humor, making the cruise even more enjoyable.

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Wildlife Encounters

Throughout the day, there’s a good chance you’ll see Canadian wildlife such as moose, black bears, and even a grizzly. Guides are skilled at spotting animals and will point them out when possible. As Heather from the UK mentioned, the guides go into great detail to make wildlife sightings interesting, which is appreciated by those eager to see animals in their natural habitat.

Reviews are full of praise for guides like Jake, Sam, and Kelly, who are described as extremely knowledgeable, friendly, and skilled at wildlife detection. We loved the way guides bring stories and facts to life, making wildlife sightings feel even more special.

Additional Highlights and Considerations

While the core itinerary is pretty packed, it’s worth mentioning that weather can influence the day. The mountain climate can be unpredictable — rain, cold, or even smoke from wildfires might impact visibility or comfort, so packing rain gear and warm clothes is a smart move.

The small group size enhances the experience, allowing for more personalized attention and easier wildlife spotting. Also, the price of $155 per person includes hotel pickup, a guided tour, and the boat cruise — considering the full day of varied experiences, it’s a decent value, especially if you’re keen on wildlife and scenic views.

Many travelers have noted the high quality of guides and crew, which makes their trips memorable. The reviews highlight how guides like Alan, Kelli, and Jake excel at balancing education with entertainment, adding a layer of enjoyment to every stop.

Practical Details to Keep in Mind

• The tour operates rain or shine, so be sure to bring rain gear or an umbrella.
• Dress in comfortable, layered clothing suited for mountain weather.
• Shoes should be supportive and suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• The tour not suitable for mobility-impaired travelers due to some walking involved.
• Food and drinks are not included, so plan to bring water and perhaps a snack.
• The tour can be canceled if minimum numbers aren’t met, but you’ll be offered an alternative or a full refund.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour will appeal most to nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts who want a comprehensive day in Jasper without the worry of planning logistics. It’s perfect if you’re interested in wildlife spotting, stunning lake views, and natural waterfalls — though do check in advance about the waterfalls’ status due to wildfire repairs.

It’s a great choice for travelers who enjoy scenic cruising, easy walks, and learning from guides passionate about the area. If you prefer a relaxed, well-organized experience with plenty of opportunities to take photos and ask questions, this tour will satisfy that desire.

On the other hand, if you’re after a more adventurous or physically demanding experience, or need accessible options, this might not be the best fit. The focus here is on scenic stops and wildlife, not strenuous hikes or extreme activities.

Final Thoughts

For those wanting a well-rounded introduction to Jasper’s natural beauty, this Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour offers a compelling mix. It’s especially suitable for travelers who value expert guides, comfortable transportation, and iconic sights like Spirit Island. Even with the current waterfall closure at Maligne Canyon, the tour adapts seamlessly, ensuring you still get plenty of stunning scenery and wildlife encounters.

The value for money is evident when you consider the included boat cruise, guided commentary, and multiple stops — many reviewers agree that it’s a worthwhile addition to any Jasper itinerary. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore more, this tour delivers a balanced mix of education, scenic beauty, and wildlife spotting in a relaxed setting.

If you love being outdoors, learning about ecosystems, and seeing wildlife in a safe, guided environment, this experience is likely to be a highlight of your Jasper trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, typically from centrally located accommodations in Jasper. The tour uses a comfortable mini-bus for the entire trip.

How long does the cruise to Spirit Island last?
The boat cruise lasts around 90 minutes, giving you plenty of time to relax and take in the scenery.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include moose, black bears, and occasionally grizzly bears. Many reviews mention seeing eagles, elk, and even a coyote or two.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, layered clothing, water, and rain gear are recommended. Weather can change quickly in the mountains.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While not explicitly marked as family-specific, the tour is suitable for most age groups, provided children are comfortable with some walking and outdoor conditions.

What happens if the waterfalls are closed?
In that case, the itinerary is adjusted — you might visit Maligne Lookout for a view or spend extra time exploring Medicine Lake. The Maligne Lake cruise and wildlife viewing remain unaffected.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it flexible for your travel plans.

This Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour offers a thoughtful way to explore the natural splendors of Jasper with expert guides, scenic cruises, and wildlife encounters. If you’re eager to see the best of Jasper without the hassle of planning multiple activities, it’s a pretty strong option.

You can check availability for your dates here: