Maligne Valley Wildlife & Waterfalls Tour & Lakeside Hike
Jasper, AB
Starting at $99 | 6 Hours | All Ages | May 3 - Oct 12
"#Includes Scenic Boat Cruise on to Spirit Island at Maligne Lake
Rates
Adult: $99
Ages 16+
Child: $69
Ages 5-15
Young Child: $0
Ages 0-4
Includes complimentary hotel pick up & drop off
Duration
5.5 hours
About
This journey takes us through forty five kilometers of the most spectacular scenery anywhere in the Canadian Rockies. The Maligne Valley is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, and has geological features unique anywhere in the world. Our journey will be searching for the abundant wildlife while explaining the history and natural wonders to be explored. A 30 minute stop at Maligne Canyon allows us time to explore the two bridges, offering fantastic views of the cascading waterfall and continuing erosion of the ancient limestone.
As we continue into the Valley we will rise into the sub-alpine forests and view the expanding ranges of limestone rising out or Medicine Lake. This mysterious disappearing lake will change seasonally as the flow rates of melt waters fill and empty this basin. A stop is made to photograph this natural wonder and your guide will trace its history with you.
From Medicine Lake we continue up through forest that is prime habitat for moose, bears. Sightings are common but not guaranteed as we are trying to view these animals in their natural habitat.
At world famous Maligne Lake you will be led on a 3-4 km interpretive nature walk. You will take in beautiful lakeshore vistas before following the easy-grade trail loop back into the forested surrounds. Along the way, your guide will share interesting ecological facts and you may even spot some resident wildlife.
What to Know
- A small amount of walking is involved. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.
- Travel is by comfortable minibus and fully-covered boat (if cruise option chosen) however as mountain weather can be unpredictable, participants should bring a rain jacket or umbrella and warm clothing to wear during the outdoor/walking portions of the trip in case of inclement weather.
- Participants will have a short break for lunch at Maligne Lake. There may be the chance to purchase lunch at the Maligne Lakehouse although during peak season there can be lengthy lines. To avoid waiting in line, we suggest that if possible participants bring their own lunch with them.
- It is recommended participants bring with them a small bottle of water.
- This tour operates in all weather conditions.
Pick-Up Information
Complimentary pick-up is available from selected accommodations within the Jasper Area. Please note the pickup time for your specified location below.
Downtown Jasper locations including – Astoria Hotel, Athabasca Hotel, Bear Hill Lodge, Jasper Inn and Suites, Chateau Jasper, Crimson Hotel, Downtown Hostel, HI Jasper Hostel (Sleepy Hollow Rd), Lobstick Lodge, Maligne Lodge, Marmot Lodge, Mt Robson Inn, Park Place Inn, Sawridge Inn & Conference Centre, Tonquin Inn, Train Station & Whistlers Inn – please wait outside the main lobby 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.
Outer-lying properties including – Alpine Village, Beckers Chalets, Jasper House Bungalows, Patricia Lake Bungalows, Pyramid Lake Resort & Tekarra Lodge – please wait in front of the main office 30 minutes before your tour's departure time.
Whistlers Campground – please ensure you are waiting outside the campground registration centre 30 minutes before your tour's departure time (our bus cannot enter the campground).
Wapiti Campground – please ensure you are waiting on the corner of Hwy 93 Icefields Parkway at the campground road entrance, 30 minutes before your tour's departure (our bus cannot enter the campground)
Pine Bungalows – pickup will be between 5-10 minutes after your tour's specified departure time. Please wait for pickup in view of the main entry arch at the exact departure time (our bus cannot go under the arch).
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge – pickup will be 15 minutes after your tour's specified departure time. Please be waiting outside the front entrance doors to the main lobby.
Jasper Approved Home Accommodation – We can provide pickup from private B&B style guesthouses within the immediate Jasper townsite. Please specify the guesthouse name & exact street address. Please wait outside 15 minutes before your tour's departure time.
Meet at our Downtown Location – Those staying outside of our pickup area should meet at Two Brothers Totem Pole, located across the street from the Jasper Park Information Centre lawn (500 Connaught Drive). All day parking is available in the parking lot adjacent. Please arrive 15 minutes before your tour's specified departure time.
FAQ's
How big is the bus?
We use air conditioned, RV-style buses with large windows. These buses hold maximum 24 passengers.What are we likely to see?
In the summer season, elk, deer, big horn sheep, bears and bald eagles are the most common animals to be sighted, while occasionally, you may also spot moose, mountain goats or coyotes. In the winter season, we often spot elk, big horn sheep, coyotes and occasionally moose or wolves. With the animals being wild, we can never make guarantees as to what you’ll find on each tour however having this flexibility of route, along with the local knowledge of the guide, increases your chances of encounters. You’ll also have the chance to learn interesting facts about the animals, their behaviours and habitats as your guide provides commentary and answers your questions along the way.Is it a walking tour?
This is primarily a vehicle-based tour. Occasionally there may be an opportunity to get off the bus for closer viewing or a short walk. This decision is made by the guide and will be based on the location of animals & in keeping within guidelines as set by Parks Canada.What should I bring?
*A detailed confirmation email will be sent after booking is completed, and will included pick up locations, what to wear, what to bring, and specific information for the tour