No tour to Jasper National Park is complete without a visit to the incredibly beautiful Spirit Island. Nestled within a valley of rugged high peaks and dense forest, the pristine turquoise waters of Maligne Lake enclose the island on all sides. Remains of the giant glacier that carved this valley can still be glimpsed glistening between the peaks as you slowly cruise by (the lake itself is fed almost entirely by glacier water).
During the summer months (May through to September) hop on a 90 minute narrated cruise to Spirit Island. The tour departs every hour and is staffed by recognized Heritage Tourism Guides and Ministry of Transport licensed Pilots. As the spectacular scenery passes by your window, learn about the local history and wildlife of Maligne Lake and Jasper National Park. The glass enclosed cruise allows for unobstructed views (and is heated!)
Once you reach the Spirit Island, make sure to have your camera ready -this is one of the most photographed sites within Jasper National Park. The island itself is quite dainty, especially when viewed against the formidable Rockies backdrop. Take a short stroll towards the lookout point – from here you have the perfect postcard view of the dazzling Maligne Lake ringed by sharp snow capped peaks and green forest.
Maligne Lake is a mere 40 kilometers from the Jasper town site in Alberta. A Jasper shuttle is on hand daily to collect guests staying at any of the fabulous hotels within the Jasper area.