Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike

Explore Jasper’s Scenic Beauty and Wildlife in a Half-Day Tour

The Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike offers a comprehensive introduction to Jasper National Park’s stunning landscapes in just six hours. Priced at $79.29 per person, this tour provides a well-balanced mix of scenic drives, wildlife spotting, and an easy lakeside hike, led by highly knowledgeable guides. The tour departs from Two Brothers Totem Pole in Jasper and includes hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations, making it a convenient option for travelers staying in or around Jasper.

While the itinerary features stops at iconic sites such as Maligne Canyon, Medicine Lake, and Maligne Lake, it’s important to note that Maligne Canyon access is currently closed due to wildfire damage. However, the tour compensates with alternative viewpoints like Maligne Lookout and extended time at Medicine Lake, ensuring visitors still experience the region’s captivating scenery. This tour is perfect for those seeking a compact yet enriching exploration of Jasper’s natural wonders, especially wildlife enthusiasts and scenic lovers.

Key Points

• Affordable price of $79.29 for a 6-hour guided tour.
• Includes transportation, live commentary, and hotel pickup for ease of access.
• Visits Maligne Lake, Medicine Lake, and Maligne Canyon (subject to wildfire repairs).
• Wildlife sightings are common, with animals like moose, bald eagles, and bears often seen.
• Guides are highly praised for their knowledge, humor, and passion.
• Tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for outdoor activities.

Jasper National Park’s Top Wildlife and Waterfalls Highlights

This tour explores 45 kilometers of Jasper’s most spectacular scenery, emphasizing the park’s geological features and biodiversity. The journey starts with a minibus transfer through the Maligne Valley, where the flora and fauna thrive in their natural habitats. Expect to hear live commentary about the park’s geology, its history, and the impact of recent wildfires on the landscape.

A key feature is the 30-minute stop at Maligne Canyon, where visitors can admire the cascading waterfalls and erosion of ancient limestone from two bridges. Although access to the waterfalls is temporarily closed, the Maligne Lookout offers an impressive vantage point to appreciate the landscape’s dramatic changes caused by wildfire damage. The guides do an excellent job of explaining both the natural processes and historical events shaping the park.

Wildlife Spotting: Common Sightings and Expectations

Wildlife encounters are a highlight, although sightings are not guaranteed due to animals’ natural behaviors. Common animals include moose, bears, elk, mountain goats, bald eagles, and ospreys. The tour takes place in prime animal habitat, especially around Medicine Lake and along the forested areas.

Guides are praised for their expertise in wildlife identification and behavior, often stopping to help guests photograph animals or explain their significance. Several reviews mention successful sightings of female moose bathing, bald eagles, and even a grizzly bear from a safe distance. Though wildlife is unpredictable, the guides’ keen eyes increase the chances of exciting animal encounters.

Maligne Lake: Lakeshore Walk and Scenic Vistas

At Maligne Lake, the tour features an interpretive nature walk covering 2 to 3 kilometers along the lakeshore. The trail is easy-grade, making it accessible to most guests. During the walk, visitors enjoy stunning lakeside vistas and learn about the lake’s unique color and geological origins. Despite some tour modifications due to wildfire repairs, the lake’s beauty remains a major draw.

Guests often appreciate the informative commentary about the lake’s formation and surrounding wilderness. The lakeside walk offers a peaceful break from the vehicle rides and a chance to capture photos of the dramatic mountain backdrop framing Maligne Lake.

Maligne Canyon and Its Waterfalls: Current Access and Views

Maligne Canyon is renowned for its cascading waterfalls and spectacular limestone formations. Currently, access to the canyon’s waterfalls is limited because of recent wildfire damage and ongoing infrastructure repairs by Parks Canada. If repairs are completed before the tour date, guests can explore the two bridges and view the waterfalls up close.

In case of continued access restrictions, the tour features alternative scenic stops such as Maligne Lookout and additional time at Medicine Lake. These spots still showcase the landscape’s grandeur and geological richness, ensuring the overall experience remains impressive and educational.

The Lakeside Hike at Maligne Lake

The easy lakeside hike is a central part of this tour, providing a gentle walk along Maligne Lake’s shoreline. The 2 to 3-kilometer trail is suitable for most guests and offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Guides typically share insights about the local flora, fauna, and geological features during the walk.

Guests frequently mention that the hike is well-paced and the scenery is breathtaking, making it a perfect way to connect with nature without intense physical exertion. The walk concludes back at the lakeshore, where visitors can relax, take photos, or enjoy the landscape’s tranquility.

Logistical Details and Comfort

The tour starts at the Two Brothers Totem Pole on Connaught Drive in Jasper. Hotel pickups are available from select locations, enhancing convenience. The transportation is in comfortable minibus with live commentary provided throughout the journey. The group size is limited to 24 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere and allowing guides to give personalized attention.

Since the tour operates rain or shine, guests should dress appropriately, especially for outdoor stops and hikes. The experience involves moderate walking, with comfortable shoes recommended. The tour is suitable for most ages, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Wildfire Impact and Tour Modifications

Recent wildfires have affected parts of Jasper’s landscape, leading to temporary closures of Maligne Canyon’s waterfalls. If the canyon remains closed, the tour replaces this stop with Maligne Lookout and extends time at Medicine Lake. The overall duration and price stay the same, and the experiences still showcase Jasper’s natural beauty and geological features.

Guides provide context and explanations about the wildfire’s effects on the landscape, often enriching the educational value of the tour. This adaptive approach ensures guests still enjoy a meaningful and scenic experience despite current limitations.

Exceptional Guides and Guest Experiences

Multiple reviews highlight the enthusiasm and expertise of guides such as Catherine, Sam, Jake, and Kelly. Guests frequently praise guides for their knowledge on wildlife, geology, and local history, as well as their friendly and engaging manner.

Guides are also appreciated for their keen eyes for wildlife, their ability to spot animals, and their entertaining commentary. Several reviews mention wildlife sightings like moose bathing in lakes, bald eagles soaring overhead, and bears from a safe distance. These moments of wildlife observation significantly enhance the overall experience.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

With a competitive price point, this tour provides a comprehensive exploration of Jasper’s key natural attractions. The inclusion of hotel pickup, live guide commentary, and wildlife viewing opportunities makes it a cost-effective choice for visitors wanting a balanced mixture of sightseeing and learning.

The small group size and expert guides contribute to a personalized experience, while the scenic stops and easy hikes cater to a broad range of physical abilities. While Maligne Canyon’s waterfalls may be temporarily inaccessible, the tour’s alternative stops and wildlife focus ensure valuable insights into Jasper’s wilderness.

Summary: A Well-Rounded Jasper Experience

The Jasper Wildlife and Waterfalls Tour with Maligne Lake Hike delivers a beautiful snapshot of Jasper National Park’s geological features, wildlife, and scenic vistas. Priced affordably, it offers excellent value for those interested in nature, photography, and wildlife spotting.

Guides receive consistent praise for their knowledge and friendliness, making the journey both informative and enjoyable. While access to Maligne Canyon’s waterfalls is currently limited, the tour compensates with spectacular viewpoints and extended time at Medicine Lake.

This tour is ideal for nature lovers, families, and adventurers eager to see Jasper’s highlights in a manageable half-day. Its combination of scenic drives, wildlife encounters, and easy hikes ensures a memorable experience that captures the essence of Jasper’s wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transport is provided in a comfortable minibus, with hotel pickup and drop-off from select locations in Jasper.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 6 hours, allowing enough time for scenic stops, wildlife viewing, and a lakeshore hike.

What wildlife might I see?
Common sightings include moose, bald eagles, bears, elk, mountain goats, and ospreys. Sightings are not guaranteed, but guides are skilled at spotting animals.

Are the walks or hikes suitable for children?
Yes, the lake shoreline hike is easy and suitable for most ages, but children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

What is the current status of Maligne Canyon waterfalls?
Access is currently closed due to wildfire damage. The tour will include alternative viewpoints like Maligne Lookout and extra time at Medicine Lake if repairs are incomplete.

What should I wear?
Guests should dress appropriately for outdoor activities and weather conditions, with comfortable walking shoes recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour. Cancellations made less than 24 hours in advance are not refunded.

Is this tour suitable in all weather?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine, so dress accordingly for the weather conditions.

How many people are in each group?
The maximum group size is 24 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

What if I want to see Maligne Canyon waterfalls?
Access depends on fire damage repairs. If the waterfalls are inaccessible, the tour will focus on other scenic stops, ensuring a full day of exploration.