Banff National Park is known for its natural beauty, including its beautiful lakes. Most visitors in Banff National Park know about Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, but there are many more lakes to see.
Here are the most beautiful Lakes in Banff National Park…
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake in Banff National Park is known worldwide for its stunning turquoise color, surrounded by ten towering mountain peaks. While it used to be accessible by car, visitors now need to plan due to road closures, high traffic, and new rules from Parks Canada. Open only from June to early October, this beautiful lake is a must-see for anyone looking to soak up Canada’s natural wonders.Â
To see this beautiful lake, you need a lot of planning. The easiest way to see the lake is by taking the Parks Canada Moraine Lake Shuttle. Once you reach Moraine Lake, you wont regret, every single effort is worth it. Once there, hike up to the Rockpile Trail for an even better view. Further, visitors can enjoy activities like canoeing, hiking, walking along the shore, and having a picnic.
Lake Louise
Lake Louise- A picturesque haven nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies. In my opinion, it’s hard to find a more majestic and awe-inspiring place in the world. After spending some time at the lake, consider going for a hike like: The Beehives or the Plain of Six Glaciers. In the summers, Canoeing is another popular activity. Unlike Banff National Park’s other lakes, Lake Louise boasts a sustained winter-long skating season. While other frozen lakes may succumb to relentless snowfall, this place remains a reliable destination for winter sports enthusiasts.
From mid-December to mid-April, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise diligently tends to the ice, allowing visitors and locals to enjoy ice skating all season long. Like Moraine Lake, visiting Lake Louise requires some effort. Parking fills up fast hence, planning your visit to Lake Louise is recommended. Consider looking into the Parks Canada Lake Louise Shuttle, or book a tour to get to Lake Louise. The best time to arrive is before 7am or after 7pm if you plan to drive there. Keep in mind, paid parking is in effect which costs $36 for the day per vehicle.
Peyto Lake
Known for its pristine blue waters, this glacier-fed wonder is the third most popular lake in Banff. With each step along the well-regarded trail, your excitement will increase. The gentle uphill hike will lead you to the spectacular viewpoint. The expanded viewing platform, new signage, and enhanced facilities added to the comfort of visitors while preserving the precious ecology around the lake.
June to September is the ideal time to visit Peyto Lake, but each season holds its unique allure. Spring brings wildflowers, summer keeps the lake at its bluest, and fall offers a chance to witness the changing colors.  However, during winter months the frozen lake and snow-draped surroundings present a whole new perspective. If you want to avoid crowds at Peyto Lake, then we definitely recommend arriving early.
Continue reading about 9 most beautiful Lakes in Banff National Park…
Bow Lake
As you continue your journey along the Icefields Parkway, another hidden treasure awaits— Bow Lake. And, oh boy, what a delightful sight! Its turquoise waters shimmers under the sun. Indeed, a mesmerizing sight fuelled by the melting glaciers of Crowfoot Glacier and Wapta Icefield. Take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore trail, to immerse in nature’s wonders. Bow Lake isn’t just a feast for the eyes but also a perfect spot for a relaxing picnic. The picnic site along the shoreline, complete with benches, is an ideal place to enjoy lunch while basking in the tranquillity of the surroundings.
Amidst the serene expanse of Bow Lake lies a quaint little café that boasts a local brewery. This charming place also offers an array of delectable sandwiches and a delightful assortment of freshly baked cookies and bread. This delightful establishment provides an outdoor patio where guests can revel in the sumptuous spread under the open sky. The sixth month of the year, June, is ideal to visit here! From June to September, when spring arrives and the lake melts. Wildflowers and the brilliant blue lake will be waiting for you all around! From September to October, you look for beautiful fall colors.
Lake Minnewanka
Nestled just a ten-minute drive from the charming town of Banff lies the enchanting Lake Minnewanka, a glacial wonderland stretching 21 kilometers in length and plummeting 142 meters into the depths. Lake Minnewanka is a year-round destination, but the best time to fully experience its wonders is from June to October. During these months, you can indulge in all that Lake Minnewanka has to offer, from boat tours to hiking.
A must-do activity is the Lake Minnewanka cruise, taking you to the stunning Devil’s Gap. For the best value, consider the Banff Jasper Collective’s Banff Explorer Pass, which includes this cruise along with other attractions. Additionally, beer lovers can savor local brews on the Lake Minnewanka Beer Voyage Cruise.
Two Jack Lake
In the heart of Banff National Park lies the breathtaking Two Jack Lake. A natural wonder renowned for its emerald waters and stunning Mount Rundle backdrop. Located just 10 kilometers from Banff, Two Jack Lake is an easily accessible 15-minute drive from the town center. If you prefer a more active route, cycling along the Minnewanka Lake Loop Road takes 30-45 minutes.
In summer, biking adds an adventurous twist to your journey. Although accessible year-round, this Lake truly shines in the summer. Two Jack Lake doesn’t hibernate during the winter. Instead, it transforms into an enchanting ice skating rink, offering a unique experience amidst snow-covered surroundings. Camping enthusiasts can revel in the Two Jack Lake Campgrounds, the second closest campgrounds to Banff town.
Johnson Lake
Nestled amid the majestic landscapes of Banff National Park, Johnson Lake emerges as an overlooked treasure, often overshadowed by the more popular Two Jack Lake and Lake Minnewanka. Johnson Lake stands out not just for its stunning beauty but for the plethora of activities it offers on a sun-kissed summer day. There are a lot of activities such as swimming, hiking, and paddling at this beautiful lake. Johnson Lake doesn’t hibernate in winter; instead, it transforms into a magical ice-skating wonderland. Timing is key – venture out just after the lake freezes but before the snowfall blankets it. With Cascade Mountain as your backdrop, gliding on Johnson Lake is a winter delight not to be missed.
Vermilion Lakes
Vermilion Lakes is one of the best stops that you will find in the west of Banff town. The ever- flowing water in the lake comes from the Canadian Rockies Bow River. Here, you can spot the best sunset point at Vermilion Lakes in Banff town. Enjoy the peaceful, natural beauty in and around the lake. Grab the chilled drinks, dress up in your best comfy set, and settle for a few hours on a peaceful, warm evening.
You are sure to capture a special click when the light falls on the Mount Rundle. Love to take short walks in nature then welcome to the Fenland Trail! You can treat it like a small hike, crossing the marshlands and those exciting white spruce forests near Vermilion Lakes. It is actually a simple Banff Hike of approx 2 kilometers.Â
Waterfowl Lakes
Waterfowl Lakes- a must-stop when you are driving the Icefields Parkway. Get ready to enjoy beautiful reflections of Mount Chephren and Howse Peak at the roadside stop of Waterfowl Lakes. But make sure to visit it early in the morning to enjoy the calm water. Hiking enthusiasts can walk through a 1.4 km long nature trail to Upper Waterfowl Lake to enjoy the wildflowers.
You can sleep under the stars at the Waterfowl Lakes Campground and enjoy amenities like hot running water and flush toilets. Adventure enthusiasts can engage in paddling at Waterfowl Lakes while enjoying the beauty of the surrounding mountains. Camping is available on a first come first serve basis.
