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Nestled in the heart of central Alberta, Canada, Sylvan Lake is a vibrant and picturesque destination that offers a diverse array of activities and scenic beauty. Located approximately 25 kilometres west of the city of Red Deer, this lake straddles the boundary between Red Deer County and Lacombe County. The town of Sylvan Lake, situated on the southeast shore, is a popular resort town that attracts around 1 million visitors annually.
During the summer, Sylvan Lake transforms into a paradise for water enthusiasts. Visitors can enjoy sunbathing, swimming, and water-skiing on the lake’s crystal-clear waters. The lake is home to a variety of fish species, including pike, perch, and walleye, making it a haven for anglers. Several marinas and boat launches are available, providing easy access for boating and fishing excursions.
In addition to water sports, the area offers other summer activities such as visiting Camp Woods, a scenic campsite that has hosted notable events like the 12th Canadian Scout Jamboree. The surrounding summer villages of Norglenwold and Jarvis Bay add to the charm, offering quaint shops and dining experiences.
As winter sets in, Sylvan Lake turns into a winter wonderland. The subarctic climate brings long, cold winters, ideal for ice fishing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing. The NexSource Centre in the town hosts various winter sports events, including hockey games by the Sylvan Lake Wranglers.
Whether you are looking to soak up the sun on the lake’s shores or enjoy the crisp winter air, Sylvan Lake offers a unique and enriching experience for all seasons. Its natural beauty, paired with a range of outdoor activities, makes it a must-visit destination in Alberta.
- Surface area (km)
- 42.8
- Max depth (m)
- 18.3
- Elevation (m)
- 961
- Shoreline length (km)
- 33.8
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Boating
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Swimming
- Fishing
- Hiking
- Ice Skating
- Cross-country Skiing
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Help us improve by making a suggestion.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Sylvan Lake has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The water at Sylvan Lake is not always safe for swimming. It can fail to meet water quality standards due to contaminants from stormwater and potential blue-green algae blooms, which may lead to beach closures until the water is confirmed safe.
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Sylvan Lake is a popular destination because of its 1.6-km-long beach and the lake itself, which is ideal for power boating, water-skiing, and paddling. The area also features accessible public facilities, including wheelchair-accessible beach paths and beach wheelchairs. Additionally, it has various shops, restaurants, and special summer events.
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The open seasons for fishing in Sylvan Lake, Alberta, are from May 15 to October 31 and from December 11 to March 31. The catch limits include 1 walleye (50-55 cm), 5 northern pike (over 63 cm), and 5 yellow perch, with no walleye allowed from February 1 to March 31.
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There is no beach at Sylvan Lake that allows dogs on the sand or in the water. Dogs are permitted to walk on the sidewalk along the beach but must be on a leash and are not allowed on grass areas. For off-leash areas, families need to visit the Off-Leash Dog Park.
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Towns near Sylvan Lake include Red Deer, Blackfalds, Penhold, Lacombe, Innisfail, Rimbey, and Ponoka. These towns are located within a relatively short distance, with Red Deer being about 12 miles east of Sylvan Lake along Highway 11. Other nearby towns like Bentley and Springbrook are also within a similar radius.
