How to get to Spirit Island, Jasper National Park
Spirit Island, which isn’t much of an island for the most part of the year, is located on Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park, AB. It is a special place for the Stoney Nakoda First Nation people. The secluded and calm milieu brings many visitors to this popular location. European explorer Mary Schaffer named the surrounding mountains in the area, the “Hall of gods”. The reason being according to her, if there were ever thrones for “the gods”, they would be situated in the mountains around Spirit Island.
The natural beauty of Spirit Island and the surrounding area was displayed in Kodak’s Colorama showcase in 1960, and even inspired Apple to use an image of the location for an iPad launch. It’s been featured on countless postcards and is one of the most iconic scenes that visualizes Canada’s vast and wonderful landscape.
Only accessible by boat
While Spirit Island is a popular and beautiful location, it can only be accessed by boat. There are no hiking trails that take you there. The easiest way is to take a guided boat tour such as Maligne Lake Cruise. Note that while this may be the easiest way, in my opinion certainly is not the best way. Most of the time is spent traveling and actual time at Spirit Island is very limited.
I recommend taking a canoe to the site, which is what I did. An experienced paddler could probably reach it in about 2 hours. For me, it was closer to 3 hours for a total of about 12-13 km. Besides the tour boats, there are no large motorized boats on the lake, which makes the canoe or kayak ride easier and safer.
Can you walk on Spirit Island?
While I didn’t notice any signs stating that you can or cannot walk on Spirit Island, I highly recommend NOT walking on it. As previously mentioned, it is a special place for First Nations people and it is not very big. The terrain seemed to be quite fragile and soft.
When to photograph at Spirit Island
One of the main reasons I arrived to Spirit Island via canoe was for a proper photography experience. I often spend time absorbing the environment and planning a composition. During my few hours there, I watched a tour boat arrive, people quickly run for some photographs and about 10-15 minutes later head back to the boat and leave. I planned for a sunset photo, which from my experience was special, but would’ve been impossible with a guided tour group. Even with what seemed to be the last boat of the day.
As soon as the mountains started turning colour as the sun set, I took a few photos and headed back on my canoe. Just in case, I planned my trip around a full moon on somewhat clear skies. This helped illuminate the sky a bit on my way back, although not needed. I arrived back during Blue Hour, which wasn’t too bad considering for most of the ride the sky was adequate enough. Just in case, I had packed some extra lighting.
Next to a nice sunset photo, I can imagine the next best option for a photograph here is most likely an early morning photo with rolling clouds and mist. It’s one of the reasons why I considered staying close by at a campsite, but decided not to. Maybe next time.
Camping options
There are a couple of backcountry camping options near Spirit Island, the best of which is Fisherman’s Bay. It’s the closest, plus it has the most sites available compared to other options. Although not many, just 8 or 9 if I’m not mistaken.
Enjoy your stay and respect the area
Take your time and enjoy your stay. That may not be possible with a tour boat, but it’s the easiest and fastest way you can cross Spirit Island off your bucket list. But for a proper experience, especially for photography, you’re going to have to put in a little effort. Consider taking someone with you for faster arrival times and a safer experience. And, like always, make sure to respect the environment, especially here. Who knows, like in my case you may end up with one of your best photos.
Spirit Island, Jasper National Park at sunset
