Spirit Island is one of the most photographed locations in the Canadian Rockies. It’s not accessible by road or a hiking trail, only by boat. You can either paddle 14 kilometres (one-way) in a canoe or kayak to see it, or take the popular Spirit Island Boat Cruise.
This tiny, forested island sits in the vibrantly turquoise waters of Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park. From this viewpoint, you’ll see towering mountain peaks, glaciers and one of the most beautiful lakes in Canada. If you don’t have the time (or endurance) to make the trip in a canoe, taking the cruise is the way to see this gem in the Canadian Rockies.
The experience is undeniably touristy during peak season, but it still manages to feel genuinely special once you’re out on the water. The journey across the lake is as enjoyable as seeing Spirit Island itself, as this is a very special part of the world.
Here’s what to expect from the Spirit Island boat cruise, including some backstory, costs, timing, and whether it’s worth adding to your Jasper itinerary.
Indigenous and Spiritual Importance
Spirit Island holds spiritual significance for the Stoney Nakoda First Nation. It is a place of ancestral connection, reflection and ceremony. The Stoney Nakoda believe that mountains are physical representations of their ancestors. Spirit Island is a special place because it is surrounded on three sides by the same mountain range.
Out of respect, no one is permitted on the island, either by boat or on foot. Near the island, there is a dock and a pathway for canoes, kayaks and the cruise boats. From there, you’ll find a path and a viewing platform that gives the best views and photo opportunities.
We encourage you to take the time to appreciate the island’s beauty and reflect on what it means for local Indigenous people and for you.
Read more about the cultural significance and history of Spirit Island.
What to Expect on the Spirit Island Boat Cruise
Always Book in Advance
The cruises fill up fast, so make sure you book in advance to secure your spot. Booking online will ensure you get the best time that works for your group and helps you avoid lineups at the ticket booth.
Ticket prices are on an algorithm and change throughout the season. They’re non-refundable, but you can change your ticket tour time at any time before your scheduled cruise. Kids ages 5 and under ride for free, but they still require a booked ticket.
Where Does the Cruise Depart?
The Spirit Island Boat Cruise Departs from the Maligne Lake Cruise tourism centre on Maligne Lake.
It is about 50 km from Jasper to Maligne Lake, and takes just under an hour to get there. We recommend arriving at least an hour before your cruise time, because in the busy summer months, parking can be a challenge.
Once you arrive, you’ll see a hub of activity, and there is a large parking lot before the Maligne Lake Cruise ticket building and café. If that one is full, there is another one a little further down the road across the Maligne River bridge. It’s about a 5-10 minute walk to the docks from there.
Get Directions
What is the Spirit Island Boat Like?
The boats are large and enclosed to provide shelter from the sun, wind and ever-changing weather on Maligne Lake. They have several rows of comfortable bench seating and large windows for taking in the views. They hold roughly 30 passengers and have a small outdoor deck if you want to take in the views from there.
The boats are generally accessible for people with mobility challenges, though you must book ahead to get a spot on one of the two accessible boats.
How Long Does the Cruise Take?
There are two options for the Spirit Island Boat Cruise. The Classic Cruise takes about 1.5 hours, and the Premium Cruise takes about 2 hours. Here is the difference between the two:
Classic Cruise
This cruise is for the entire family, and takes visitors 14 kilometres up Maligne Lake to Spirit Island. You’ll have a tour guide on board who will share historical, cultural and ecological facts and stories about the area along the way. Upon arrival, you’ll get off the boat at the dock and take the short nature trail to the viewing platform of Spirit Island.
- Guided cruise to Spirit Island
- 15 minutes near Spirit Island
- Return boat ride
What Happens When You Get to Spirit Island?
When we went, we took the Classic Cruise to Spirit Island. The boat arrives at the island and drives around it to dock on the other side in a small, sheltered bay. Everyone gets off the boat and walks from the dock, up a short nature trail to a viewing platform where you can take in the island and take photos. You only get about 15 minutes in the area, but you do get to see the island from all angles during arrival and departure.
Is the Spirit Island Cruise Worth It?
Why I would say yes.
Taking the boat to Spirit Island provides access to this unique and sacred location that most visitors cannot reach otherwise. You’ll see incredible scenery and can capture one of the most iconic Rocky Mountain scenes in the world with your camera and in your memories. The tour guide was great, and we learned a lot of interesting things about Indigenous culture and spirituality, early settlers, tourism, and the natural world.
There are also wildlife viewing opportunities, though nothing is guaranteed. We did see bald eagles on our cruise, and the guide said they sometimes see bears on the shore or mountain goats scaling the rocky walls.
As a paddler, I was a little jealous of the kayakers and canoers who were on a multi-day backcountry trip on Maligne Lake. Typically, I would be among them, but my son was too young for that kind of trip at the time. This is a great option for families and those who can’t (or don’t want to) paddle out to see the island.
Read about paddling Maligne Lake with kids.
Potential downsides worth mentioning.
This boat ride and the entire dock area feel very touristy. In the peak summer months, people literally come in busloads to get on that cruise. If you’re not into that, I would suggest avoiding this experience and renting a canoe instead! Catching the first cruise of the day will also help you avoid the midday crowds.
It is also expensive, and ticket prices can really add up if you have a larger family. At the time of writing, ticket prices for an adult were well over $100 and tend to rise on weekends and during peak summer months.
I was disappointed that we didn’t get much time near the island. I would’ve liked to stay a while, but it was really an in-and-out experience. However, there isn’t much to do at the location besides take in the scenery and take photos, so this might not be an issue for some people.
Who will enjoy Spirit Island the most?
If you’re not a paddler or backcountry person but want to see Spirit Island, this is your best option. It’s also good for families with young children, older travellers or visitors short on time who couldn’t access it any other way.
If you are a landscape photographer, this trip is definitely worth it. You can get your own photos of this stunning scene, but I recommend taking the Premium Cruise so you get a little more time near the island to set up your shots!
Best Times to Take the Spirit Island Cruise
Best Months to Visit
The Spirit Island Cruise runs from late May to early October, weather dependent. The busiest months are July and August. If you can swing it, I would choose to take the cruise earlier in the spring or in the fall to avoid the crowds. However, if having warmer weather is a priority, you might decide to join the crowds.
Morning vs. Afternoon Cruises
The least busy times are first thing in the morning and near the end of the day, but there are other factors to consider.
For photographers, you might prefer the lighting at a certain time of day. Wind conditions can worsen during midday and into the afternoon, making for a choppier ride and fewer outdoor viewing opportunities.
Tips for Visiting Spirit Island
What to Bring
Mountain weather changes quickly. What might seem like a hot summer day at your hotel in Jasper can quickly turn into a wet, windy and blustery day at Maligne Lake. Make sure you pack:
- Warm layers
- Rain jacket
- Sunglasses
- Water and snacks
- Phone or camera for taking photos
Booking Tips
For the best experience, book your cruise as early as possible and consider the shoulder season if you want to avoid the crowds. July and August sell out fast and can get busy.
Remember to give yourself lots of time to get to the lake and to find parking. You might have to walk a little further from your parking spot to the dock.
What to do at Maligne Lake?
Hiking: Before or after your cruise, you can explore the area. There are a few short family-friendly hikes, including the Mary Schafer Loop (3.2 km) and the trail to Moose Lake (2.7 km). Find information about hikes at Maligne Lake.
Paddling: You can also rent a canoe, kayak or peddle-boat from the historic Maligne Lake Boathouse. They’re available for hourly rentals, or you can book them in person for the entire day.
Dining and Treats: There are also a few dining options, including the Lake House Café, which offers a cafeteria-like experience with fresh food, coffee and baked goods. There’s also the nearby Waffle Hut. You can also pack a picnic and enjoy the scenery at one of the picnic sites along the lakeshore.
National Historic Site: You can also check out the Maligne Lake Chalet and Guest House National Historic Site. This historical log building was key in developing tourism in the area and housed outfitters, guides, and railway crews over the years.
Things to Know Before You Go
Washrooms: There are no washroom facilities on the boats to Maligne Lake. There are bathrooms near where the cruise departs from, including in the café building and outhouses near the parking lots. There are also outhouses at Spirit Island. You’ll have about 45 minutes between bathroom breaks.
Accessibility: If you have mobility issues or are in a wheelchair, you must book in advance to secure a spot on one of the two accessible boats. The aisles are still quite narrow, but doable. Staff will be there to help you with boarding. However, the nature trail to the viewpoint at Spirit Island is quite rustic.
Parking: As mentioned, there is a large parking lot just east of the Maligne Lake Cruise ticket office. There is also a smaller lot, a short walk away west of the hub, just across the Maligne River bridge. Come early to secure your spot.
Cell Service: There is no cell service at all at Maligne Lake, and it’s spotty at best along the Maligne Lake Road. There is also no reliable public Wi-Fi, so prepare to be disconnected! Download your boat cruise tickets, maps and any activity information in Jasper so you can access them at the lake.
Food and Supplies: Other than the Lake House Café and Waffle Hut, there is no on-site place to buy food or supplies. There is a gift shop on site, but you should come prepared with a picnic or snacks.
Parks Canada Requirements: To visit Maligne Lake or anywhere in Jasper National Park, you must carry a valid Parks Canada pass. You can buy them at the Park Gate, Visitor Information Centre in Jasper or online. Get your park pass.
Why Spirit Island Remains One of Jasper’s Most Iconic Experiences
Even with its popularity, the boat cruise to Spirit Island provides access to one of the Canadian Rockies’ most iconic places, without committing to a long paddle to get there. The combination of glacier-fed water, towering mountain scenery, and the slow approach toward the famous viewpoint creates a moment that photos never fully capture.
If it is worth the cost for you, and you’ve always wanted to see Spirit Island, I recommend this trip. Sure, there are quieter places in Jasper, in all its vast wilderness, to experience stunning mountain scenery. But there is a reason why Spirit Island continues to be a popular spot and offers a very special experience.
