Epic Travel → North America → Canada → Jasper National Park → Spirit Island Cruise

Location:  Jasper area, Jasper National Park, Alberta

Time Required: 2-3 hours

Red Tape/Notes: Cruises are offered through the Banff Jasper Collection, typically from early June to mid-October, and there are a few cruise options to choose from, ranging in price from $72CAD  to $159CAD per person (note that these prices include the advance booking discount; there’s also a discount if you’re from Alberta). We did the longer Through the Lens cruise, which was $149CAD per person. Visit the Banff Jasper Collection website for more information. Entry into Jasper also requires a daily fee of about $10 per person (or ~$20 per family/group); alternatively, you can buy a Parks Canada Discovery Pass if you’re staying for an extended time.

What’s Nearby?: Maligne Canyon, Maligne Lake Fishing

We’re not normally big on this sort of thing, since it’s very touristy and takes no effort whatsoever on your part, but this was definitely worthwhile. I’d actually love to take a canoe or kayak out to the same area and spend the night next time (there are various places you’re allowed to camp), but if you’re short on time or are travelling with people who are less stoked on being uncomfortable for extended periods, this is a fantastic option. We did the photographer’s cruise, which has only two departures per week, so you have to plan your schedule around it somewhat, but these trips give you extra time, not only at Spirit Island, but also on the cruise itself, and I was happy we had it because the area is beautiful. The boats have a nice observation deck in the back where you can stand and take pictures, and the cruise stops at the island allowing plenty of time to take pictures from various vantage points on the trails.

Epic Travel → North America → Canada → Jasper National Park → Spirit Island Cruise