Nestled in the heart of Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, Lake Minnewanka is a glacial lake that embodies the raw beauty and rich history of the Canadian Rockies. Located just 10 kilometers northeast of the charming town of Banff and 66 kilometers from the picturesque Lake Louise, this lake is a must-visit destination for any nature enthusiast.
With a surface area of 22 square kilometers and a length of 21 kilometers, Lake Minnewanka is the second-longest lake in the Canadian Rockies. Its crystal-clear waters, fed by the Cascade River and several streams from surrounding mountains such as Mount Inglismaldie, Mount Girouard, and Mount Peechee, offer a serene and untouched environment. The lake is renowned for its trout fishing, making it a paradise for anglers.
During the summer, visitors can enjoy boat tours, kayaking, and canoeing, with boat launches readily available. Scuba diving is also a popular activity, as the lake’s depths conceal the submerged village of Minnewanka Landing and an old dam, creating an intriguing underwater exploration site. In the winter, the area transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing.
The surrounding landscape, shaped by ancient glaciers, presents a dramatic backdrop of treeless slopes and amphitheater-shaped cirques, adding to the lake’s natural allure. Whether you are seeking a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, Lake Minnewanka offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational activities that cater to all seasons and interests.
- Surface area (km)
- 22
- Max depth (m)
- 142
- Elevation (m)
- 1500
- Shoreline length (km)
- 21
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Cross-country Skiing
Nearby amenities
When you visit Lake Minnewanka in Banff, Alberta, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a plethora of captivating attractions that cater to a variety of interests. One of the notable sites is the submerged town of Minnewanka Landing, which lies beneath the lake’s serene surface. This area, once a bustling Canadian resort town, was flooded due to dam construction, leaving a haunting reminder of history that adds intrigue to your visit.
For those itching to engage with nature, the Lake Minnewanka Cruise is a must. This one-hour interpretive cruise takes you across the shimmering waters, offering breathtaking views of the towering Canadian Rocky Mountains. As you glide along, knowledgeable guides share stories of the lake’s rich history and fascinating wildlife, enriching your experience. If you prefer to be on solid ground, you can explore scenic trails such as the Aylmer Lookout and C-Level Cirque, both of which promise stunning vistas that are perfect for photo opportunities.
The lake area boasts over 25 picnic tables, presenting a delightful opportunity for a scenic meal surrounded by nature’s beauty. For those looking to venture further, Stewart Canyon, just a short distance away, features rugged rock formations and gently flowing streams, making it an ideal spot for a leisurely walk. While the lake itself lacks restaurants and shops, the charming town of Banff is just a ten-minute drive away and offers a diverse array of dining and shopping options to satisfy any taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Minnewanka has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
No, swimming in Lake Minnewanka is not recommended. The water is very cold and there are no ideal places to jump in and start swimming, plus you may encounter waves from motor boats. Swimming is at your own risk since there are no lifeguards.
-
Lake Minnewanka is a popular destination because of its stunning natural beauty and various recreational activities. It offers scenic boat cruises, hiking trails like the 17-kilometer lakeside trail, and opportunities for fishing, canoeing, and kayaking. The lake is also surrounded by majestic mountains, making it a great spot for picnics and other outdoor activities.
-
The daily catch and possession limit for fishing in Lake Minnewanka, Alberta, is two lake trout. If a fish has been filleted, two fillets are considered one fish. This limit is in place to protect the ecosystem of the national park.
-
There are no beaches on Lake Minnewanka, but there is a picnic area located close to the lakeshore. The Lake Minnewanka picnic area has picnic tables and toilets, and it offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
-
The town closest to Lake Minnewanka, Canada, Alberta, is Banff. Lake Minnewanka is about 10 kilometers northeast of the Banff townsite. It is easily accessible by car or public transit from Banff.