Medicine Lake
A lake that “disappears.” Its water drains through a karst underground river system and nearly dries up in autumn. Indigenous peoples once regarded it as a mysterious place.
Medicine Lake is located along the Maligne Lake Road. In summer, when the snow melts, the lake spreads wide. But the limestone lakebed is riddled with sinkholes, and its water flows through one of the largest underground river systems in the world toward Maligne Canyon. In autumn and winter the water almost vanishes, leaving only the riverbed and mudflats. A roadside parking viewpoint offers views where moose and black bears are often seen. Admission is free with a park pass. Plan 15 to 20 minutes at the viewpoint, and combine it with Maligne Canyon and Maligne Lake on the same day.
Opening hours
All day
Nearby sights
- Athabasca Falls
- Maligne Canyon
- Valley of the Five Lakes
- Miette Hot Springs
- Old Fort Point
- Maligne Lake & Spirit Island, Jasper
- Jasper Planetarium & Dark Sky Preserve
- Lac Beauvert & Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge