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Maligne Lake
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Maligne Lake is the largest glacially fed lake in Jasper National Park, located within the Canadian province of Alberta. It stretches approximately 22.5 kilometers (14 miles) in length and reaches a maximum depth of 97 meters, making it the deepest lake in the Canadian Rockies. The water's characteristic turquoise hue is the result of light reflecting off rock flour, which is fine silt deposited by the surrounding glaciers. The most famous landmark of the lake is Spirit Island, a tiny, pretty peninsula that has become an iconic symbol of the Canadian wilderness. Historically, the lake was known to the Stoney Nakoda indigenous people long before explorer Mary Schäffer brought it to international attention in the early 20th century. Today, the lake is a primary destination for boat tours and hikers who explore surrounding routes like the Skyline Trail to experience the alpine environment. The area serves as a critical habitat for endangered mountain caribou and provides a sanctuary for grizzly bears and bald eagles.
- Location: Canada
- Top sights: Mount Dalhousie · Saracen Head
- Nearby: Banff / Icefields (Saskatchewan River Crossing) (42 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul–Sep.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -11 | -12 | -8 | -4 | 3 | 7 | 11 | 10 | 5 | -2 | -8 | -12 |
| Rain mm | 34 | 31 | 48 | 54 | 78 | 116 | 96 | 71 | 64 | 51 | 44 | 32 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
The lake is easily reached via a well-maintained paved road leading directly from the town of Jasper, accommodating personal vehicles, rental cars, and tour buses.
Best season
The summer months, typically from June to September, are overwhelmingly the most popular time for visits, as the lake thaws completely and boat tours become fully operational.
Terrain & paths
The immediate shoreline area provides relatively flat and highly accessible walking paths, while venturing further introduces classic, sometimes rugged mountain hiking trails.
What to bring
A warm jacket is necessary as the mountain air remains brisk even in summer; comfortable walking shoes, bear spray, and a camera are also highly recommended items.
Parking
Extensive official parking lots are situated directly near the lakeshore and main visitor facilities, though they can fill up extremely quickly during peak summer afternoons.
Safety
Wildlife encounters, particularly with bears and elk, are common in this national park; visitors must maintain a safe distance and adhere strictly to all park regulations.
Time needed
Visitors normally spend a few hours walking the scenic shoreline or taking a famous boat cruise, but avid hikers can easily extend their stay to a full day of exploration.
Geography
Facts
- The lake is 22.5 kilometers long, the largest in Jasper National Park.
- It reaches a maximum depth of 97 meters (318 feet).
- The turquoise color comes from suspended glacial rock flour.
- Spirit Island is one of the most photographed spots in the Canadian Rockies.
- Mary Schäffer is credited with the first modern mapping of the lake in 1908.
- The lake's surface elevation is approximately 1,670 meters above sea level.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Maligne Lake (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Where is Maligne Lake located?
In Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada.
What is Spirit Island?
A famous, iconic peninsula in the lake that is very frequently photographed.
How do you get to Spirit Island?
Only by boat; there are commercial boat tours or you can paddle there yourself.
Can you hike at the lake?
Yes, the Mary Schaffer Loop and Opal Hills Trail are popular paths.
Are there grizzly bears there?
Yes, the region is an important grizzly habitat; bear spray is advisable.
Maligne Lake: where is it located?
Maligne Lake is located in Canada.
Maligne Lake: what is there to see?
Highlights include Mount Dalhousie, Saracen Head.
Maligne Lake: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jul, Sep.
Maligne Lake: why is it worth visiting?
Maligne Lake is the largest glacially fed lake in Jasper National Park, located within the Canadian province of Alberta.
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