The easiest (and most popular) way to explore Maligne Lake and visit the iconic Spirit Island viewpoint is to take a boat tour with Maligne Lake Cruise.
There are up to 14 daily departures during the summer months. Boat tours usually run between 9am and 6.30pm.

Two cruises are available:

• Classic Cruise - 1.5 hours (up to 13 times daily), $98/adult

• Premium Cruise - 2 hours (once daily), $131/adult

The Classic Cruise consists of a direct boat ride to the Spirit Island dock, 15 minutes at the viewpoint and then a direct trip back. 15 minutes is long enough to walk the trail loop, take plenty of photos and admire the view.

The Premium Cruise takes place in the late afternoon (better for light, chance to see wildlife) and spends 30 minutes at the viewpoint area. The boat also travels slightly further south down the lake, towards the bigger mountains are.

A Parks Canada parks pass is required to explore Jasper National Park ($22/day for a vehicle of up to 7 people).