Medicine Lake Tours

Medicine Lake featuring a lake or waterhole, a sunset and tranquil scenes
Medicine Lake featuring mountains, snow and a lake or waterhole
Medicine Lake featuring a lake or waterhole, mountains and a river or creek
Medicine Lake which includes a sunset, a lake or waterhole and mountains
Medicine Lake featuring a lake or waterhole


This lake depends on melted glacier water to fill up and it changes drastically with each season. Its disappearing water has amazed people for thousands of years.

If you’ve witnessed the flow of water in Maligne Canyon, a visit to Medicine Lake is a must, because this is where it all goes. Well, this is where it is supposed to go at least. When autumn starts, the body of water disappears and leaves a mere trickle. This phenomenon has mystified people for thousands of years. Medicine Lake earned its name from the Native Indians who believed its ebb and flow was magical, like medicine.

In an attempt to understand the flow of water, or the lack thereof, you can look at where the water originates. Located 9 miles (16 kilometers) upstream from the canyon, picturesque Maligne Lake spills into the Maligne River. In summer, glacier melt water cuts through Maligne Canyon and reaches Medicine Lake, to the point of overflowing. Even now, experts are unsure where the water disappears to. What is known is that it likely has one of the most extensive, and inaccessible, underground cave systems in the world with hidden sinkholes. Technically, Medicine Lake is not a lake at all: It is a sinking river!

In summer, the fishing on Medicine Lake is excellent. Rainbow and brook trout populate the waters. Rent a boat to get out on the water. If you’d rather photograph the wildlife than eat it, keep an eye out for the likes of bears, caribous, wolves, and moose. Birds of prey are often seen swooping down on the lake to capture fish.

For those looking to stay a while longer, Medicine Lake Provincial Recreation Area has over 40 campgrounds open in the warmer months. Some are located near the water’s edge. If you want the experience of cooking the day’s catch under the aspen and spruce trees, there is no better place to do it.

Medicine Lake is located about 12 miles (20 kilometers) southeast of Jasper, along the scenic Icefields Parkway. While the views and activities are better in summer, it is a fascinating site to see any time of year.

Plan a trip to see Medicine Lake

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
Fairmont Palliser
Bellstar Suites at Solara Resort
WorldMark Canmore - Banff

Reviews of Medicine Lake

4.4
Top Destination
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5 - Excellent 48%
4 - Good
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4 - Good 48%
3 - Okay
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3 - Okay 4%
2 - Disappointing
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5/5 - Excellent

alofcolliervill

A little far from Medicine Lake & Lake Maligne. But, very serene!

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Medicine Lake

Forest Park Hotel

Forest Park Hotel

3.5 out of 5
76 Connaught Dr, Jasper, AB
Forest Park Hotel
Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels

Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels

3 out of 5
98 Geikie Street, Jasper, AB
Jasper Inn & Suites by INNhotels
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge

4 out of 5
Old Lodge Road, Jasper, AB
Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge
Tonquin Inn

Tonquin Inn

3 out of 5
100 Juniper Avenue, Jasper, AB
Tonquin Inn
Whistler's Inn

Whistler's Inn

3 out of 5
105 Miette Ave, Jasper, AB
Whistler's Inn
Pine Bungalows

Pine Bungalows

4 out of 5
2 Cottonwood Creek Rd, Jasper, AB
Pine Bungalows
The Crimson Jasper

The Crimson Jasper

2.5 out of 5
200 Connaught Drive, P.O. Box 1200, Jasper, AB
The Crimson Jasper
Marmot Lodge

Marmot Lodge

2.5 out of 5
86 Connaught Drive, P.O. Box 1200, Jasper, AB
Marmot Lodge
Chateau Jasper

Chateau Jasper

3 out of 5
96 Geikie Street, Jasper, AB
Chateau Jasper
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Medicine Lake

Medicine Lake offers a range of exciting activities for visitors, including hiking, running, and boating, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. To enhance your stay, consider exploring local amusement parks for family-friendly fun and unforgettable experiences. With its stunning natural scenery and recreational opportunities, Medicine Lake promises a memorable getaway for tourists seeking adventure and relaxation.

Shopping

In Medicine Lake, you can enjoy local shops offering unique gifts and souvenirs. If you're up for a drive, check out West Edmonton Mall, located about 20 miles away, featuring an extensive range of stores, entertainment options, and dining experiences for a fun shopping day.

Recreation

The Jasper Activity Centre, located 15 miles from Medicine Lake, offers a serene atmosphere perfect for relaxation and wellness activities. Nearby, the Jasper Park Golf Course, 14 miles away, invites outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy sports in a breathtaking natural setting, combining recreation with stunning views.

Adventure

Experience the breathtaking Bald Hills hiking trail, located 13 miles from Medicine Lake, where adventure and stunning scenery await. For winter enthusiasts, the Eagle Express Quad ski lift, 15 miles away, offers thrilling skiing opportunities. Opal Hills, also 13 miles away, provides another fantastic hiking adventure amidst beautiful landscapes.

Nightlife

While Medicine Lake is more tranquil than bustling, you can enjoy a cozy evening at local lodges with live music or relax by the campfire under the stars. For a lively vibe, venture to nearby Jasper for bars and entertainment options that cater to all tastes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Medicine Lake

Medicine Lake, Alberta, offers a wealth of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, making it a perfect destination for nature enthusiasts. Key attractions include Medicine Lake itself, Two Medicine Lake, and the breathtaking waterfalls nearby. Don't miss exploring the beauty of East Glacier Park, where you can immerse yourself in the area's natural charm. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Medicine Lake has something for everyone.

  • Jasper National Park: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Jasper National Park, just 10 miles from Medicine Lake. This outdoor paradise offers stunning landscapes, abundant wildlife, and endless adventure opportunities, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
  • Icefields Parkway: Experience the iconic Icefields Parkway, located 12 miles away. This scenic drive is renowned for its striking mountain vistas and unique city vibes, providing numerous photo opportunities and access to various hiking trails along the route.
  • Sunwapta Falls: Visit Sunwapta Falls, 12 miles from Medicine Lake, where the powerful waterfall creates a romantic and adventurous atmosphere. Enjoy the stunning views and explore the surrounding trails for an unforgettable experience in nature.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Medicine Lake

For a budget-friendly visit to Medicine Lake, plan your trip for January, April, or November when hotel prices are lower. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest nights to stay, while Mondays are the priciest. Book your accommodations about a month in advance for the best rates, and check Expedia for last-minute deals. Consider combining your hotel with flights and activities for additional savings, and join Expedia's One Key program for exclusive discounts. Explore free outdoor activities around the lake and utilize public transport options for economical travel around the area.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Medicine Lake is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Medicine Lake are January, April and November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Medicine Lake is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Medicine Lake is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Medicine Lake is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia's search tool to refine your choices based on your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodations. To find the best prices and deals, be sure to sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your Medicine Lake hotel reservation with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
  • Become a One Key member: Join Expedia's One Key membership program for exclusive discounts and deals on hotel bookings. You can also earn OneKeyCash to use on future selected hotels.

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