Mary Schaffer Loop                           

Mary Schaffer Loop in Jasper is one of the easyiest ways to get up close and personal with Maligne Lake in Jasper.

This super short hike takes you along the banks of one of Japsers most popular and beautiful lakes.

If you’re looking for some close up views of Malinge Lake and towering peaks with minimal effort, Mary Schaffer Loop ould be just what you’re looking for.

Let’s get into all you need to know about this short and memorable hike.

Mary Schaffer Hike Basics

Length – 3.2km

Type of trail – Loop

Elevation Gain – 85m

Time to hike – 1 to 2 hours

Difficulty – Very Easy

How do I get to Mary Schaffer Loop near Jasper?

Take the Yellowhead Highway east from Jasper, in a few kilometers, turn right on to Malinge Lake Road.

Follow this road about 43km to the first Maligne Lake parking lot.

You’ll walk to the shoreline and take the path to the left.

The path is pretty well signmarked and it’s hard to get lost.

You can also leasrn a lot about the area with the informational panels dotted around the path.

You’ll then loop away from the lake in the forest and head back towards the carparks.

What to expect from this quick hike near Maligne Lake

Mary Schaffer Loop is one the easy hikes in the Maligne Lake area.

The trail is paved as you trace the lake’s shoreline. As you turn back into the forest, the trail becomes dirt and uneven. This is also where the trail does become a little steep.

Moose are commonly spotted around the area and even though the area is so heavily populated, bear encounters could happen. Please know how to deal with Canadian wild animals, just in case.

During my visit, in early July, the lake water level had risen and the paved section of the path had parts underwater. Not an uncommon thing for this time of year, I’ve been told.

If you’re looking for another very easy hike in the Maligne Lake area, check out my guide to Moose Lake Loop just down the road a little further.

Enjoy your hike!

That is really all you need to know about this simple and easy hike. It’s easy and gives beautiful views of the Malinge Lake and the surrounding peaks.

Did I get something wrong? Do you have questions or suggestions for this post or another hike in Alberta I should cover?

Please leave me a comment below and let me know and give this a share to social media below if you found it useful!

Thanks for reading!

Happy and safe travels,

Ben – Horizon Unknown