This unique geological feature has been eroded out of the easily dissolved limestone bedrock by the fast-flowing Maligne River. Surface water here is augmented by underground springs; thus, it seems that more water flows out of Maligne Canyon than into it.

At the top of the canyon, opposite the teahouse, are large potholes in the riverbed. These potholes are created when rocks and pebbles become trapped in what begins as a shallow depression, and under the force of the rushing water the rocks carve jug-shaped hollows into the soft bedrock.

To get here, head northeast from town and turn right onto Maligne Lake Road. The canyon access road veers left 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from Jasper. An interpretive trail winds down from the parking lot, crossing the canyon six times.

The most spectacular sections of Maligne Canyon can be seen from the first two bridges, at the upper end of the trail. To avoid the crowds at the upper end of the canyon, an alternative would be to park at Sixth Bridge, near the confluence of the Maligne and Athabasca Rivers, and walk up the canyon.