Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Nestled in the heart of northern Alberta, Canada, Lesser Slave Lake stands as a natural gem, offering a diverse array of experiences for the discerning traveler. Located approximately 130 miles northwest of Edmonton, this lake is the second largest entirely within Alberta’s boundaries, stretching 60 miles in length and 12 miles in width.
The town of Slave Lake, situated at the southeastern tip of the lake, serves as a central hub for exploration. Here, visitors can engage in commercial and recreational fishing, with the lake renowned for its abundant populations of walleye, northern pike, and whitefish. Several marinas and boat launches dot the shoreline, providing easy access for boating and water sports enthusiasts.
During the summer, the area comes alive with activities such as kayaking, canoeing, and sailing. The surrounding landscapes, featuring hilly mixedwood forests and sandy beaches, invite hikers and nature lovers to explore. Lesser Slave Lake Provincial Park, located at the northeastern shore, offers additional recreational opportunities and stunning vistas.
In the winter, the region transforms into a winter wonderland, perfect for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The park and surrounding areas also provide excellent conditions for snowshoeing and dog sledding. The nearby communities along the southern shore of the lake add to the charm, with their small-town hospitality and local amenities. Whether you are seeking adventure or tranquility, Lesser Slave Lake is a destination that caters to all seasons and interests.
- Surface area (km)
- 1168
- Max depth (m)
- 20.5
- Elevation (m)
- 590
- Shoreline length (km)
- 241
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Fishing
- Canoeing
- Hiking
- Kayaking
- Boating
- Cross-country Skiing
- Ice Skating
Information not accurate?
Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lesser Slave Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
Yes, it is generally safe to swim in Lesser Slave Lake. Levels of fecal bacteria are typically low, and most water quality variables comply with provincial and federal guidelines for recreation. However, occasional algal blooms can occur, which may affect water quality.
-
Lesser Slave Lake is a popular destination because of its diverse outdoor activities. It offers hiking, cycling, swimming, birdwatching, paddling, and fishing in the summer, and cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and ice fishing in the winter. The area also features a beautiful natural white sand beach and the Boreal Centre for Bird Conservation.
-
The catch limit for walleye in Lesser Slave Lake is one walleye between 45-50 cm, from June 1 to October 31. For Northern pike, the limit is two fish over 63 cm in the Lesser Slave River, and three fish over 55 cm in other flowing waters. These limits help conserve fish populations in the area.
-
The best beach at Lesser Slave Lake for families with dogs is Devonshire Beach, specifically the southernmost portion. This area is dog-friendly, but dogs must remain on leashes to protect wildlife. Doggie bag dispensers are provided to help keep the area clean.
-
Towns near Lesser Slave Lake include High Prairie, Athabasca, Barrhead, Westlock, Whitecourt, and Valleyview. These towns are all within a 201 km radius of Slave Lake, which is located at the eastern tip of Lesser Slave Lake. Slave Lake itself is a key town in this area.
