Rockies :: Jasper :: Schaffer Loop

Maligne BoathouseCanoe Boathouse at shore of Maligne Lake; one of most iconic motifs in Canadian Rockies

Classic view of Maligne Lake with Leah Peak rising behind the Boat House

Multiple Dates, last June 10, 2026

Schaffer loop is first "hike" I ever did in Canadian Rocky Mountains, so despite being only a walk it merits inclusion in hiking portion of the site for sentimental reasons. Despite heavy tourist infestation in season, Maligne Lake environs are so spectacular it is worth visiting over and over, least because of iconic Boat House at lakeshore below day lodge (lead photo).  Signed trailhead is actually below lower Parking Lot, but most will likely miss it by heading the shortest way to the lake.  Paved trail meanders for about a km past the Boat House and ends at "Mary Schaffer Viewpoint" with Interpretive Posts where pavement ends (Gallery).  Wide and somewhat rooty trail heads in the forest at end of small bay below the Viewpoint, then loops back over forested hill back to Trailhead.  Along the way side trail leads to open meadow with nice view of Leah Peak - and possibly further.  Just before loop closure is another very nice meadow and also Opal Hills junction (considerably more demanding).  Total loop distance is ~3km with minor elevation gain and will take ~1hr of very casual pace.

If this is your first time to Maligne Lake, walking Schaffer Loop is highly recommended, regardless of your hiking level.  It is also possible to follow Maligne Lake shore for several kilometres past the Viewpoint;  trail gets progressively more narrow until it completely disappears after rock slide in ~2km;  solitude and different view angle of magnificent Maligne will be more than adequate reward.

Gallery