Faqs

General FAQs

Answers to common questions about booking, policies, and planning your visit with Maligne Adventures in Jasper National Park.

Are your tours dog-friendly?

Unfortunately, our tours cannot accommodate dogs (exceptions made for Registered Service Dogs with Dog ID and certificate).

Can you recommend a babysitter?

To arrange a babysitter, please contact My Jasper Nanny online at http://myjaspernanny.ca or by phone 1-780-852-9766.

Rafting Faqs

Everything you need to know about our Jasper rafting tours, including safety, difficulty levels, and what to expect on the river.

General Rafting FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim? Will I fall out of the raft?

No swimming skills are required. All guests wear a life jacket and wetsuit. Guides explain what to do if you enter the water. Falling out is very unlikely when following instructions.

Do I need prior rafting experience?

No experience is needed. Our rafting trips are designed for both first-timers and experienced paddlers. Your licensed, professional guide provides a full safety briefing and easy paddle instructions before you hit the river. Learn more and book your adventure on: Athabasca Expressway, Athabasca Falls Canyon Run, Sunwapta River, or Fraser River.

Which rafting trip should I choose?

Here’s a quick comparison of all our rivers:

Will my group be in the same raft?

Guides do their best to keep groups together. Final raft placement depends on overall group size, trip logistics, and safety considerations.

Do I need to sign a waiver?

Yes. All guests must sign a standard liability waiver before participating. Adults must complete one waiver for themselves and a separate one for each minor in their care. A parent or legal guardian is required to sign for all minors.

What happens if it rains?

Trips run rain or shine. Wetsuits and life jackets help keep you warm. On cooler or rainy days, you’re welcome to wear a fleece or wool layer over your wetsuit and under your paddle jacket for extra insulation. Avoid cotton, as it absorbs water and can make you feel cold. Guides may delay departure briefly if lightning is nearby, though trips often run as planned since weather can vary between Jasper and the river put-in.

What ages can join? Are there weight limits?

Age and weight requirements vary by trip:

  • Class 2 trips: Ages 5+
  • Class 3 / 3+ trips: Ages 12+ and minimum 90 lbs (41 kg)

Children must meet the minimum age on the day of the trip. Due to insurance regulations, we’re unable to make exceptions for guests who are almost 5 or almost 12. A parent or legal guardian is required to sign a waiver confirming the child’s age.

Can I wear my glasses or bring a camera or phone?

Glasses may be worn at your own risk. Phones are not recommended on the river. GoPros are welcome:

  • Class 3/3+ trips: Some helmets have GoPro mounts (bring your own housing).
  • Class 2 trips: Helmets aren’t provided, so your own chest mount is required.
Do you take photos of the trip?

Yes. Digital photos are taken on most trips and are available to preview and purchase online after your rafting experience. Visit our Maligne Rafting PicThrive Store to select your trip date and view photos. Prices: $20 for 1 photo, $30 for 2–3 photos, $40 for all photos taken during the trip.

Where do my personal items go during the trip?

Any personal items you bring will stay safely on our shuttle while you’re rafting. For self-drive trips, items can be left securely in your vehicle or on our bus.

What should I wear and bring?

Arrive wearing a swimsuit or swim shorts under your regular clothes. We provide all required river gear, including:

  • Wetsuit
  • Paddle jacket
  • Neoprene booties
  • Life jacket
  • Helmet (Class 3 / 3+ trips only)

Please bring a towel and warm, dry clothes for after the trip. On cooler days, a fleece or wool layer under your paddle jacket works best (avoid cotton). No swimsuit? Underwear is perfectly fine under your wetsuit. See full rafting trip details and options here.

Athabasca Expressway (Class 2) FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim? Will I fall out of the raft?

No swimming skills are required. All guests wear a life jacket and wetsuit. Guides explain what to do if you enter the water. Falling out is very unlikely when following instructions.

What ages can join?

Guests must be 12 years or older, with a minimum weight of 90 lbs (41 kg). Children must meet the minimum age and weight on the day of the trip, and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

How long will I be on the water?

Rafting time is about 1.5 hours. The full experience, including shuttle, safety briefing, and changing, is roughly 4 hours. Shuttle ride to the river put-in is approximately 40 minutes each way.

Are there bathroom facilities?

Yes — there is an outhouse at the Sunwapta take-out. Guests typically change on the shuttle bus; personal items remain safely on board.

How many people per raft?

Each raft holds 6 guests plus a guide.

What should I wear and bring?

Arrive in a swimsuit or swim shorts under your clothes. We provide:

  • Wetsuit
  • Paddle jacket
  • Neoprene booties
  • Life jacket
  • Helmet

Bring a towel and warm, dry clothes for after the trip. On cooler days, a fleece or wool layer (no cotton) works well under your paddle jacket. See full Sunwapta River trip details here.

Where do my personal items go during the trip?

Any personal items you bring will stay safely on our shuttle while you’re rafting. For self-drive trips, items can be left securely in your vehicle or on our bus.

What happens if it rains?

Trips run rain or shine. Wetsuits and life jackets keep you warm. On cooler days, a fleece or wool layer under the paddle jacket adds extra insulation. Guides may delay departure briefly if lightning is nearby.

Will I paddle?

Yes — paddle-assist rafts allow all guests to paddle along. The guide steers from the rear while you enjoy the adrenaline-packed, beginner-friendly Class 3 rapids.

Do you take photos of the trip?

Yes! Digital rafting photos are taken on most Sunwapta trips and are available to preview and purchase online after your rafting experience. Visit our Maligne Rafting PicThrive Store to view Sunwapta River rafting photos. Prices: $20 for 1 photo, $30 for 2–3 photos, $40 for all photos taken during the trip.

What’s the difference between the Sunwapta and Fraser Rivers?
  • Sunwapta River: Narrower with slightly smaller waves, but fast, continuous Class 3 rapids make it an adrenaline-packed, beginner-friendly ride. Rafters hit the waves at an angle while the guide expertly navigates. On-water time: ~1.5 hours. Learn more and book Sunwapta here
  • Fraser River: Rapids come in sets, with large rolling waves and calmer stretches. Includes a portage around Rearguard Falls and optional swim at the end. On-water time: ~2 hours. Learn more and book Fraser trip here

Both trips offer a fantastic Class 3 whitewater experience for beginners and experienced paddlers. The Sunwapta’s fast-flowing rapids during peak season (late June–mid August) can deliver just as much excitement as the Fraser.

Was the Sunwapta affected by the 2024 wildfire?

No — the Sunwapta River flows through a pristine river corridor, with thrilling rapids and stunning scenery. River conditions are fully safe, and the forest corridor remains beautiful and intact.

Do I need prior rafting experience?

No experience is needed. The Athabasca Expressway is perfect for first-timers, offering safe and fun Class 2 whitewater rapids. Your licensed guide provides clear instructions and paddle guidance. Learn more and book the Athabasca Expressway here.

Can I wear my glasses or bring a camera or phone?

Glasses may be worn at your own risk. Phones are not recommended on the river. GoPros are welcome:

  • Class 3/3+ trips: Some helmets have GoPro mounts (bring your own housing).
  • Class 2 trips: Helmets aren’t provided, so your own chest mount is required.

Class 3 Sunwapta River FAQs

Do I need to know how to swim? Will I fall out of the raft?

No swimming skills are required. All guests wear a life jacket and wetsuit. Guides explain what to do if you enter the water. Falling out is very unlikely when following instructions.

Do I need prior rafting experience?

No experience is needed. The Sunwapta River offers adrenaline-packed, beginner-friendly Class 3 whitewater, and your licensed guide provides full instruction for a safe and thrilling ride. Learn more and book the Sunwapta River trip here.

How long will I be on the water?

Rafting time is about 1.5 hours. The full experience, including shuttle, safety briefing, and changing, is roughly 4 hours. Shuttle ride to the river put-in is approximately 40 minutes each way.

How many people per raft?

Each raft holds 6 guests plus a guide.

What should I wear and bring?

Arrive in a swimsuit or swim shorts under your clothes. We provide:

  • Wetsuit
  • Paddle jacket
  • Neoprene booties
  • Life jacket
  • Helmet

Bring a towel and warm, dry clothes for after the trip. On cooler days, a fleece or wool layer (no cotton) works well under your paddle jacket. See full Sunwapta River trip details here.

Where do my personal items go during the trip?

Any personal items you bring will stay safely on our shuttle while you’re rafting. For self-drive trips, items can be left securely in your vehicle or on our bus.

What happens if it rains?

Trips run rain or shine. Wetsuits and life jackets keep you warm. On cooler days, a fleece or wool layer under the paddle jacket adds extra insulation. Guides may delay departure briefly if lightning is nearby.

Will I paddle?

Yes — paddle-assist rafts allow all guests to paddle along. The guide steers from the rear while you enjoy the adrenaline-packed, beginner-friendly Class 3 rapids.

Do you take photos of the trip?

Yes! Digital rafting photos are taken on most Sunwapta trips and are available to preview and purchase online after your rafting experience. Visit our Maligne Rafting PicThrive Store to view Sunwapta River rafting photos. Prices: $20 for 1 photo, $30 for 2–3 photos, $40 for all photos taken during the trip.

What’s the difference between the Sunwapta and Fraser Rivers?
  • Sunwapta River: Narrower with slightly smaller waves, but fast, continuous Class 3 rapids make it an adrenaline-packed, beginner-friendly ride. Rafters hit the waves at an angle while the guide expertly navigates. On-water time: ~1.5 hours. Learn more and book Sunwapta here
  • Fraser River: Rapids come in sets, with large rolling waves and calmer stretches. Includes a portage around Rearguard Falls and optional swim at the end. On-water time: ~2 hours. Learn more and book Fraser trip here

Both trips offer a fantastic Class 3 whitewater experience for beginners and experienced paddlers. The Sunwapta’s fast-flowing rapids during peak season (late June–mid August) can deliver just as much excitement as the Fraser.

Was the Sunwapta affected by the 2024 wildfire?

No — the Sunwapta River flows through a pristine river corridor, with thrilling rapids and stunning scenery. River conditions are fully safe, and the forest corridor remains beautiful and intact.

What ages can join?

Guests must be 12 years or older, with a minimum weight of 90 lbs (41 kg). Children must meet the minimum age and weight on the day of the trip, and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there bathroom facilities?

Yes — there is an outhouse at the Sunwapta take-out. Guests typically change on the shuttle bus; personal items remain safely on board.

Can I wear my glasses or bring a camera or phone?

Glasses may be worn at your own risk. Phones are not recommended on the river. GoPros are welcome:

  • Class 3/3+ trips: Some helmets have GoPro mounts (bring your own housing).
  • Class 2 trips: Helmets aren’t provided, so your own chest mount is required.

Class 3+ Fraser River FAQs

Do I need prior rafting experience?

No experience is needed. The Fraser River offers exhilarating Class 3+ rapids while still being beginner-friendly, and your licensed guide provides full instruction for a safe and exciting ride. Learn more and book the Fraser River trip here.

Do I need to know how to swim? Will I fall out of the raft?

No swimming skills are required. All guests wear a life jacket and wetsuit. Guides explain what to do if you enter the water. Falling out is very unlikely when following instructions.

How long will I be on the water?

Rafting time is about 2 hours, including a portage around Rearguard Falls. The full experience, including shuttle, safety briefing, and changing, is roughly 5 hours. Shuttle ride to Mt. Terry Fox Rest Stop is ~1 hour each way, followed by a 5-minute bus ride to the launch point.

How many people per raft?

We use 6- or 8-person paddle-assist rafts, depending on river level:

  • 6-person raft: 6 guests + guide
  • 8-person raft: 8 guests + guide
What should I wear and bring?

Arrive in a swimsuit or swim shorts under your clothes. We provide:

  • Wetsuit
  • Paddle jacket
  • Neoprene booties
  • Life jacket
  • Helmet

Bring a towel and warm, dry clothes for after the trip. On cooler days, a fleece or wool layer (no cotton) works well under your paddle jacket. See full Fraser River trip details here.

Where do my personal items go during the trip?

Any personal items you bring will stay safely on our shuttle while you’re rafting. For self-drive trips, items can be left securely in your vehicle or on our bus.

What happens if it rains?

Trips run rain or shine. Wetsuits and life jackets keep you warm. On cooler days, a fleece or wool layer adds extra insulation. Guides may delay departure briefly if lightning is nearby.

Will I paddle?

Yes — our paddle-assist rafts allow all guests to paddle along. The guide steers from a rear-mounted system while you enjoy the exhilarating Class 3+ rapids.

Do you take photos of the trip?
What’s the difference between the Fraser and Sunwapta Rivers?
  • Fraser River: Rapids are broken into sets, with large rolling waves and calmer stretches. Includes a portage around Rearguard Falls and an optional swim at the end. On-water time: ~2 hours. Learn more and book the Fraser River trip here
  • Sunwapta River: Narrower with slightly smaller waves, but fast, continuous Class 3 rapids make it adrenaline-packed and beginner-friendly. On-water time: ~1.5 hours. Learn more and book Sunwapta here

Both trips provide a fantastic Class 3+ whitewater experience for beginners and experienced paddlers. The Fraser is known for the largest Class 3+ rapids in the Jasper area, while the Sunwapta’s fast-flowing rapids during peak season deliver just as much excitement.

Was the Fraser affected by the 2024 wildfire?

No — the Fraser River corridor remains fully forested, with Class 3+ rapids intact. The put-in offers breathtaking views of Mt. Robson, surrounded by lush red cedar forests. The shuttle drive to the river is also incredibly scenic.

What ages can join?

Guests must be 12 years or older, with a minimum weight of 90 lbs (41 kg). Children must meet the minimum age and weight on the day of the trip, and all minors must be accompanied by an adult.

Are there bathroom facilities?

Yes — there is an outhouse at the Sunwapta take-out. Guests typically change on the shuttle bus; personal items remain safely on board.

Can I wear my glasses or bring a camera or phone?

Glasses may be worn at your own risk. Phones are not recommended on the river. GoPros are welcome:

  • Class 3/3+ trips: Some helmets have GoPro mounts (bring your own housing).
  • Class 2 trips: Helmets aren’t provided, so your own chest mount is required.

Self-Drive Options (Fraser & Sunwapta)

What is a self-drive rafting trip?

A self-drive rafting trip means you drive yourself to the river instead of taking our shuttle from Jasper.

  • Sunwapta River (Self-Drive): Drive to the river take-out just south of Sunwapta Falls. Guides meet you there and transport you by bus to the put-in. Your vehicle will be waiting at the take-out when the trip ends. This option is ideal for guests traveling the Icefields Parkway independently between Jasper and Banff, leaving time to explore nearby highlights like Sunwapta Falls or the Icefields Centre. See full Sunwapta River – Self-Drive Option trip details
  • Fraser River (Self-Drive): Drive to the Mt. Terry Fox Rest Stop, where guides help you change into rafting gear before a short bus ride to the put-in. After rafting, the bus returns you to your vehicle at the take-out. This option works well for guests exploring the Mount Robson area or traveling west from Jasper. See full Fraser River – Self-Drive Option trip details here

Note: Self-drive is not available for Athabasca Expressway or Athabasca Falls Canyon Run due to limited take-out parking and logistical constraints. See full Athabasca Expressway trip details | See full Athabasca Falls Canyon Run trip details

Why choose the self-drive rafting option?

Self-drive rafting gives you flexibility to meet guides directly at the river and plan your day around your travels in the Canadian Rockies.

  • Sunwapta River: Perfect for road-trippers traveling the Icefields Parkway between Jasper and Banff, with time to explore highlights like Sunwapta Falls or the Icefields Centre.
  • Fraser River: Ideal for guests exploring the Mount Robson area, with flexibility to enjoy nearby sights like Kinnie Lake after rafting or while traveling to or from western destinations.

It’s a popular choice for independent travelers who want freedom without sacrificing a fully guided rafting experience.

How long will I be on the water?
  • Sunwapta River (Self-Drive): ~1.5 hours rafting, ~2.5 hours total including safety briefing and changing.
  • Fraser River (Self-Drive): ~2 hours rafting, ~3 hours total including safety briefing and changing.
What if I’m late?

We have set licensed river launch times and cannot wait for late guests. Missing your trip will result in forfeiting your reservation. Standby availability may be offered if space allows, but we recommend travel insurance for unforeseen delays.

Planning notes for self-drive:

  • Check your confirmation carefully for the correct meeting time and time zone.
  • Cell reception is non-existent at Sunwapta and on most surrounding roads. Mt. Terry Fox Rest Stop has very limited signal. Plan accordingly.
  • Personal items can be left securely in your vehicle or on our bus while you enjoy the rafting trip.
Do I need my own car?

Yes — self-drive trips require a personal vehicle.

If you don’t have a car, you can book the shuttle-included versions of these same trips:

All rafting equipment, professional guides, and safety gear are included on every trip.

Inflatable Whitewater Kayaking FAQs

Do I need prior experience?

No experience is required — this activity is beginner-friendly and ideal for first-timers. All paddlers follow the guide in a stable inflatable kayak, and guests are in single or tandem kayaks depending on age and logistics.

Is Inflatable Whitewater Kayaking suitable for beginners?

Yes — inflatable kayaking is designed for first-time paddlers. The guide leads the group on the safest path, providing instructions and tips throughout the trip.

What ages can participate?

Guests must be 12 years or older and over 90 lbs / 41 kg. Anyone under 18 must go in a tandem kayak with an adult guardian.

How long is the trip?

Total experience is ~2 hours, including shuttle, safety briefing, changing, and approximately 1 hour on the water.

Will I paddle?

Yes — all guests paddle their own kayak. Guides lead from their own kayak, and everyone follows the guide’s path to navigate rapids safely.

What should I wear and bring?

Dress like you would for a Class 3 rafting trip: swimsuit or swim shorts under regular clothes. We provide:

  • Wetsuit
  • Paddle jacket
  • Neoprene booties
  • Life jacket
  • Helmet

Bring a towel and warm, dry clothes for after the trip. On cooler days, a fleece or wool layer works well under your paddle jacket (avoid cotton). See full Inflatable Whitewater Kayaking trip details here.

Can I bring a camera or phone?

GoPros are welcome — some helmets have GoPro mounts clips, or you can bring a chest mount. Phones are not recommended on the river.

Where do we launch the kayaking trip?

Trips launch from the Athabasca River, just 15 minutes south of Jasper. Guides provide full instructions, help you safely enter your kayak, and return you to the take-out at the end of the trip. See full trip details here.

What is the difference between inflatable kayaking and rafting?

Inflatable kayaking is a paddler-focused experience, with each guest steering their own kayak or tandem kayak. Rafting uses larger group rafts with a guide steering from the back, making it ideal for families or those looking for a social adventure.

Can I do this as a self-drive trip?

Currently, the kayaking option is only available as a shuttle-included trip from Jasper. Guests do not drive themselves to the river.

Sightseeing Tour FAQs

Learn about our Jasper wildlife and sightseeing tours, including schedules, highlights, and how to prepare for your experience.

General Sightseeing FAQs

What’s the difference between the Sightseeing Tour and the Wildlife Tour?

Both tours explore Jasper National Park with expert guides, but they focus on different experiences:

  • Sightseeing Tour: Follows a set route with scenic stops, including highlights like Maligne Lake and Medicine Lake. Guests can choose a lakeside hike or a Maligne Lake Boat Cruise. The focus is on iconic landscapes, landmarks, and wildlife sightings along the way.
  • Wildlife Tour: Follows a flexible route designed specifically for wildlife viewing, with no fixed stops. Guides adjust the route daily based on animal activity to maximize sightings.

In short, sightseeing tours emphasize scenery and landmarks, while wildlife tours focus purely on finding animals in their natural habitat.

Do you offer hotel pick-up in Jasper?

Yes, complimentary pickup is available from select Jasper hotels. Guests can choose their preferred pickup location during booking, or meet at a central location if they are staying outside our pickup area.

Maligne Valley Wildlife & Sightseeing Tour

How long is the Maligne Valley sightseeing tour, and where does it go?

This guided sightseeing tour is approximately 6 hours long and takes place in a comfortable 24-seat minibus with large windows. The route includes stops at Maligne Lookout, Medicine Lake, and Maligne Lake. Guests can choose between a guided lakeside hike (2–3 km) or a 90-minute Maligne Lake Boat Cruise to Spirit Island.

Will we see wildlife on the Maligne Valley sightseeing tour?

Wildlife sightings are common along the Maligne Valley route. Guests often see animals such as moose, elk, deer, bears, marmots, and bald eagles. While sightings are frequent, they cannot be guaranteed. For a more dedicated wildlife experience, consider the Jasper National Park Wildlife Tour.

Is Maligne Canyon included in the tour?

No, Maligne Canyon is currently closed following the 2024 wildfire. Instead, the tour includes a stop at Maligne Lookout and additional time at Medicine Lake to enjoy the scenery and short walks along the limestone shoreline.

Which option should I choose: lakeside hike or boat cruise?

Both options offer a unique way to experience Maligne Lake:

  • Lakeside Hike: A guided 2–3 km walk along the lake with interpretive commentary. Ideal for guests who want a more active experience and the chance for occasional wildlife sightings.
  • Maligne Lake Boat Cruise: A 90-minute guided cruise to Spirit Island, accessible only by water. A great option for those with mobility concerns or travelling with young children.
Is this tour suitable for children or seniors?

Yes, this sightseeing tour is suitable for families and seniors. The lakeside hike involves a 2–3 km walk and is not stroller or wheelchair accessible. Guests looking for minimal walking are encouraged to choose the boat cruise option. Passengers using foldable walkers are welcome but must be able to climb three steps to board the bus.

What should I bring on the sightseeing tour?

We recommend bringing layers, comfortable walking shoes, and weather-appropriate gear such as a rain jacket or umbrella. A camera and binoculars are also great if you have them. Please bring water and snacks or a packed lunch, or you may also purchase food at the Maligne Lakehouse Café. Tours operate in all weather conditions.

What makes this tour special?

This guided tour showcases some of the most iconic scenery in Jasper National Park, including Maligne Lake and Medicine Lake. With transportation and logistics taken care of, guests can relax and fully enjoy the landscapes, wildlife, and expert commentary along the way.

Jasper National Park Wildlife Tours

What type of vehicle is used for the wildlife tour?

Wildlife tours operate in comfortable, air-conditioned minibuses with large windows. Each vehicle seats up to 24 passengers.

What route does the wildlife tour take?

There is no fixed route. Guides adjust the tour each day based on recent wildlife activity and reports from other guides. Tours typically travel a mix of main highways and smaller local roads within Jasper National Park. All travel is on paved roads, in accordance with Parks Canada regulations, and the tour does not go off-road.

What animals are we likely to see?

Common sightings include elk, deer, bighorn sheep, bears, and bald eagles. Occasionally, guests may also see moose, mountain goats, or coyotes. While wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed, the flexibility of the route and the guide’s local knowledge help maximize your chances.

Is this a walking tour?

No, this is a vehicle-based wildlife viewing experience. All wildlife viewing takes place from inside the vehicle, in accordance with Parks Canada regulati

Is it better to go in the morning or afternoon?

Wildlife is typically most active in the early morning and evening. However, there is no guaranteed difference between morning and afternoon tours. We recommend choosing the departure time that best fits your schedule—your guide will always aim to maximize sightings regardless of timing.

Can I bring young children or infants?

Wildlife tours are generally best suited for guests aged 5 and up. Because the tour is vehicle-based with no scheduled stops, younger children may become restless. However, children or infants under 5 are welcome if a seat is purchased for them. For infants, we recommend bringing a baby carrier that can be secured with seat belts. All passengers regardless of age must be allocated a seat on the bus.

What should I bring on the wildlife tour?

Bring a water bottle and dress comfortably for the day’s weather. You may bring a small snack, but we recommend planning meals before or after the tour, as there are no scheduled stops.

Is there a washroom on the bus?

There is no washroom on board. However, if needed and with enough notice, your guide can stop at an outhouse along the route.

Is the wildlife tour wheelchair accessible?

The buses are not fully wheelchair accessible. Guests must be able to climb three steps to board with assistance. Once on board, no walking is required. Foldable walkers can be stored on the bus.

Shuttle FAQs

Information about our Jasper shuttle services, including routes, schedules, pickup locations, and booking details.

General Shuttle FAQs

Do I need to pre-book the shuttle?

Yes — pre-booking is required. The shuttle only runs with confirmed reservations, so reserve your seats in advance.

Where are pick-up and drop-off locations?

Pick-ups are at Two Brothers Totem Pole (Downtown Jasper), Whistlers Campground, and select Jasper hotels. Stops include North Skyline Trailhead, Watchtower, Jacques Lake, Maligne Lake, and South Skyline Trailhead. See the full shuttle schedule here — pre-booking required.

What should I bring?

Bring weather-appropriate clothing, water, and snacks. Day-trippers can bring daypacks, while backcountry hikers may bring one large hiking pack. Bear spray is recommended for independent hikers and must stay inside your pack. A café at Maligne Lake is available for food and drinks.

Where and when does the shuttle pick up?

Pick-ups are at Two Brothers Totem Pole (Downtown Jasper), Whistlers Campground, and select hotels, with stops at North Skyline Trailhead, Watchtower, Jacques Lake, Maligne Lake, and South Skyline Trailhead. See the full shuttle schedule here — pre-booking required.

Can I bring gear or a bike?

Daypacks and hiking gear are welcome; backcountry hikers can bring one large pack. Cycling is allowed on Maligne Lake Road, and road bikes may be accommodated — enquire 1 day ahead.

What can I do at Maligne Lake?

Spend the day as you choose — book the Maligne Lake Boat Cruise, rent a canoe or kayak, hike Bald Hills & Opal Hills or Mary Schäffer Loop, and relax at the Maligne Lake House café.

Who can use the shuttle?

Ideal for day trippers, hikers, Skyline Trail backcountry hikers, and RV guests. RV guests can leave their campsite set up while riding the shuttle.

What is the Maligne Lake Shuttle?

The Maligne Lake Shuttle offers one-way and return transport from Jasper to Maligne Lake, so you can explore the lake, hike trails, or take a boat cruise without driving or worrying about parking.

Return Shuttle (Round-Trip) FAQ

What is the Return Shuttle?

The return shuttle from Jasper to Maligne Lake is perfect for day trips, hiking, canoeing, kayaking, or the Maligne Lake Boat Cruise.

Where do I get dropped off at Maligne Lake?

At the lakefront, steps from the water — close to hikes, canoe/kayak rentals, and the Maligne Lake House café.

What activities can I do at Maligne Lake?

Spend the day as you choose: Maligne Lake Boat Cruise (guided by the cruise operator, pre-book recommended), canoeing or kayaking (first-come, first-served at the boathouse, or pre-book via Pure Outdoors in Jasper), hiking trails like Bald Hills & Opal Hills (longer day hikes) or Mary Schäffer Loop/Moose Lake Trail (shorter, easier hikes), and relaxing at the Maligne Lake House café.

Can I leave my car in Jasper or Whistlers Campground?

Yes — Whistlers Campground offers free parking (primarily for campers), and Jasper town has paid parking.

One-Way Shuttle (Backcountry Hikers) FAQ

Who is the One-Way Shuttle for?

Multi-day Skyline Trail hikers — one-way shuttle transports hikers between trailheads so you can focus on your adventure without doubling back.

How does it work for Skyline Trail hikers?
  • Hiking South to North direction (recommended): park at North Skyline/Signal Mountain Trailhead, shuttle to Maligne Lake to start hiking. Your car will be waiting when you finish.
  • Hiking North to South hike: park at Maligne Lake (South Trailhead), shuttle to North Skyline Trailhead to begin your hike. Your car will be waiting when you finish.
What if I don’t have a vehicle?

Select a return shuttle instead. Pick-up from Two Brothers Totem Pole in Jasper is available. Depending on your itinerary, the shuttle can drop you at South Trailhead, with return options from Watchtower, North Skyline, or Jacques Lake.

Can the shuttle accommodate groups?

Groups are welcome — all passengers must pre-book, and larger groups should reserve early to ensure availability.

Can I bring gear or a bike?

Daypacks and hiking gear are welcome; backcountry hikers can bring one large pack. Cycling is allowed on Maligne Lake Road, and road bikes may be accommodated — enquire 1 day ahead.

Additional Questions

Are pets allowed?

Only service animals (including guide dogs) with proper documentation are permitted. Other pets are not allowed.

Can I bring a bike?

Cycling is allowed along Maligne Lake Road, not Maligne Lake trails. Shuttle may accommodate road bikes — enquire 1 day in advance.

What type of vehicle is used?

Comfortable buses and vans with large windows showcasing Jasper National Park scenery.

What happens if the weather is bad?

The shuttle typically runs rain or shine. Bring warm layers and rain gear.

Combo Tour FAQs

Details about our Jasper combo tours, including timing, inclusions, and how to get the most from your experience.

Combo Tour

Do I need to do both activities on the same day?

No, combo tours are flexible. You can schedule your rafting and wildlife experiences on different days while still receiving the combo rate—allowing you to plan your Jasper adventure at your own pace.

Do I need any prior rafting experience?

No previous rafting experience is required. All trips are designed to be beginner-friendly, and our certified guides provide a full safety briefing along with paddling instructions before you head out. Whether it’s your first time or you’ve rafted before, you’ll be well taken care of.

What are the age and weight requirements for combo tours?

Rafting requirements vary by trip:

  • Class 2 trips: minimum age 5+
  • Class 3 / 3+: minimum age 12+ and at least 90 lbs (41 kg)

For wildlife tours, we recommend ages 5+ for comfort.
All children must be accompanied by an adult.

Not sure which rafting trip is right for you?
  • Athabasca Expressway: Scenic float with 5 sets of splashy rapids, ideal for families
  • Athabasca Falls Canyon Run: 8 fun rapids through canyon scenery, family-friendly
  • Sunwapta River: Fast-moving, continuous rapids for a more adventurous ride
  • Fraser River: Big rolling waves with an optional swim, best for adventure seekers

All rafting options can be paired with a wildlife tour to create one full-day adventure or alternatively split tours over different days.

What should I wear and bring for a combo tour?

For rafting, wear a swimsuit or quick-drying clothing such as shorts. We provide wetsuits, life jackets, paddle jackets, neoprene booties, and helmets (for Class 3/3+ trips). Make sure you also bring snacks and water. 

For the wildlife tour, dress appropriately for the weather and bring a bottle of water and a small snack.

How long are the rafting and wildlife tour experiences?

Rafting trip durations vary depending on the river:

  • Athabasca Expressway: ~1 hour on the water (about 2 hours total)
  • Canyon Run: ~1.5 hours on the water (about 3.5 hours total)
  • Sunwapta River: ~1.5 hours on the water (about 4 hours total)
  • Fraser River: ~2 hours on the water (about 5 hours total)

Wildlife tours are approximately 3 hours and take place in a comfortable, guided vehicle.

What kind of wildlife might I see during the tour?

Wildlife sightings often include elk, deer, bighorn sheep, bears, and bald eagles. Occasionally, guests may also spot moose, mountain goats, or coyotes. While sightings can’t be guaranteed, our guides adjust routes daily to give you the best possible chances.

What happens if the weather is rainy or cool?

Rafting tours operate in most weather conditions. We provide wetsuits, jackets, and life jackets to help keep you warm and comfortable. Wildlife tours are conducted in a vehicle, so you’ll stay dry while enjoying the experience.