Animal Adventures - Spirit Island Eagle

In 2023, while designing the second edition set of local Canadian Rockies animals, I reflected on my 2022 experience of taking the Spirit Island boat cruise on Maligne Lake.

My first visit was in 2019. After living in the Rockies for eight years, I finally had the chance to see Spirit Island in person. The lake, located at a higher elevation, has a short season, and with Jasper being 3-4 hours away and my days off scattered, it was challenging to make the trip during the summer.

I had taken the boat cruise several times, and it was intriguing that the tour guides always shared different stories on each trip. In 2022, the guide discussed the lake's connection to the indigenous peoples of the region, highlighting the significance of place, connection, and traditions.

One of the tales recounts the moment when the indigenous leaders were finally able to revisit Spirit Island. During this period, they also witnessed the eagles returning to the region.

I find the bond between people, the land, and wildlife incredibly powerful, which is why I decided to use the eagle for this location.

One reason I selected the eagle's outstretched wings was due to the shape of the mountain range behind Maligne Lake. Instead of running parallel to the lake, the mountains curve around its end. The lake and the island are nestled within the mountains.

• The Spirit Island Eagle at Spirit Island at Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park.

You can purchase your own here: https://www.tenpeaksdesigns.com/product-page/spirit-island-eagle