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Canada is the land of over 500 lakes. Probably the only country with most lake area in the world. And Banff National Park is the Mountain Paradise holding the most beautiful lakes you will see in Canada. From the gorgeous sunrise and sunsets to the bluest waters, its a view that will remain with you for the rest of your life.
During winter months, skiing is the major attraction, but during the summer months the glacier fed rivers and alpine lakes STEAL THE SHOW. The color of the water in these lakes is something you have to see in person to believe. You can see incredible photos of the lakes (Best way is to just search #banff on Instagram and you will see what I mean), but being there in person is a different feeling altogether. Here are the 7 must see lakes near Banff National Park for your next trip:
1. Lake Louise
Lake Louise is one of the most popular lakes in Banff National Park, Canada. Located just 45 minutes from the town of Banff, Lake Louise will is one of the gorgeous places I have been. The turquoise colored water, the mountain peaks, the Victoria glacier, and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise all work together to provide an unique experience.
It’s one of the most famous lakes when visiting Banff which also makes it the most busiest place to be. I highly recommend reaching there as early as possible to secure a spot in the parking lot or possibly later in the evening.
Activities to do in Lake Louise: Canoeing in Lake Louise is by far the most popular activity. Still, you can also hike around Lake Louise, have a High-Tea at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise or just enjoy the glacial views. And don’t forget to click lots of pictures.
2. Morraine Lake
Morraine lake is just so INCREDIBLE. Nothing like I have ever seen before. Because my partner had already visited it once we knew the best time to visit the lake is early in the morning to view the sunrise. And it was the most beautiful sunrise I have seen so far in my life. The color of the water is beautiful and the mountain backkdrop is even more amazing than you see in pictures. And when the sun rises through this beauty it makes for an even spectacular view.
Activities to do in Moraine Lake: Best activity that I have been raving about it of course getting there super early to watch the sunrise. You can even hike around the area. There are a couple of hikes around but make sure you have a bear spray or go with a group. We were just 2 so we asked a few other couples until we found a couple to join us for the hike and it was beautiful on the other end as well.
Tip: Moraine Lake is as popular as Lake Louise but it has a small parking lot so make sure you arrive super early to secure a spot. They do run shuttle from the nearby town now so you might need to check that. When we went parking was full so we circled around until we found one but that usually doesn’t happen unless you get lucky like we did!
3. Emerald Lake
Although Emerald Lake falls under Yoho National Park, it is definetely one of the lakes to visit when near Banff. It is located 40 mins from Lake Louise and 60 mins from Banff Downtown. It is quaint little lake but so beautiful and peaceful. We swam in this lake and then chilled with its view soaking up the gorgeous sun. As the name suggest, the color of the water is unique than other lakes in Banff. It is a dark beautiful shade of green which looks even prettier with sun shining on it.
Activities to do in Emerald Lake: While we swam and chilled by the lake as a way to relax around the beautiful lake, a lot of people went for a hike around the lake or to eat by the lodge. You can also rent a canoe or kayak.
4. Bow Lake
Bow Lake is one of the most prettiest lake you encounter since it is right off the highway. Located on the Icefields Parkway only 30 minutes drive from Lake Louise. Usually less crowded since people just pass by not knowing it exist. It is a beautiful lake that I highly recommend stopping by. The gorgeous water is surrounded by Ice cap mountains.
Activities to do in Bow Lake: You can hike the popular Bow Glacier Falls Trail. It is also the most popular area where people encounter wilflife. We saw the bear near the highway but many people have spotted bears near the lake and while on the hike.
5. Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake is another gorgeous addition to the list of all the beautiful lakes near banff national park. Unlike other lake, the entry to this lake doesn’t actually take you to the lake. When you visit the lake, you take a brief hike to reach the viewpoint that shows the entire outline of peyto lake. Also, if you are wondering what does the peyto lake outline look like? It’s a Fox!
The shade of blue is fantastic and unreal. Seeing the pictures it makes you wonder if its all edited but it looks as gorgeous in person as in the picture which is not true for all spots in this world. When we visited the hike area was closed so we were only able to view it through the highway but it was every bit worthwhile to spot and see it!
6. Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is a huge lake that forms a valley. It’s vastness surrounded by mountains and close proximity to banff town makes it a must see lake in banff. Definetely recommend spending at least half a day here to do activities, relax and eat.
Activities to do in Lake Minnewanka: One of only lakes in Banff that allows Power Boats is lake minnewanks so highly recommend renting a boat if you don’t have one of your own and enjoy. You can also rent canoe or kayak if you prefer that. We rented a motor boat and enjoyed around the lake. There are some hike around the lake and a few good spots to grab something to eat.
Another great thing about Lake Minnewanka area is the pitch dark skies that it has during night making it a perfect spot to enjoy star gazing. You will see lots of cars parked along the route at night simply enjoying the night sky. Be mindful to everyone enjoying the view when visiting at night!
7. Two-Jack Lake
Two Jack lake is a picturesque lake in banff national park with gorgeous view of Mount Rundle. The landscape is stunning, while most visited by locals you can find it attracts a lot of tourists as well. It is the second most popular lake in the list to swim in. We ended up having a small picnic, a relaxing swim and soaking the sun while reading! For me, this was the most relaxing lake we visited.
Which Lake near Banff are you Most Excited to Visit?
I loved Banff National Park, from the lakes to the glacial mountains to enjoying the wildlife it was definitely trip of a lifetime. Watching all the beautiful Alpine lakes was a major bucket list check and my high-recommended thing to do. Did I miss any lakes? Tell me about your favorite lake near Banff National Park in the comment section that you have or want to visit!
Excited? Need more ideas; Follow ⇒ Hngbygurleen for food, travel and more!
♥ Gurleen
FAQ about Must See Lakes in Banff National Park
Yes, you can swim in some of these lakes. We swam in Emerald and Two-Jack Lake on our trip.
Yes, you can swim in Lake Louise but I would advise against it because of the proximity of the glacier, the water is really cold and more than 5-10 mins in the water will probably lead to hypothermia!
Water Temperatues at Lake Moraine are cold throughout the year and it gets super windy most days which makes it very difficult to swim in the lake!
I have to say that the most beautiful sunrise you will see has to be Lake Moraine!
Even though most lakes in Banff have a beautiful blue color. Lake Louise and Lake Moraine are the most popular and bluest lake you will see in Banff!
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