Banff National Park is home to several stunning lakes surrounded by towering mountains. Waterfowl Lakes stands out among them with its serene blue waters, which call tourists for camping and hiking. These lakes are easily accessible, situated off Icefields Parkway. Whether you are planning for a full day’s trip or wish to halt just for some time, Waterfowl Lakes won’t disappoint. Believe me, we have visited this turquoise lake many a times, but this beautiful lake never fails to amaze us.
Let’s take a look at the things you should know before visiting Waterfowl Lakes…
Reaching Waterfowl Lakes
Waterfowl Lakes is located closer to the Lake Louise side of this popular road. If you are coming from the Lake Louise side, take an exit off the Trans-Canada Highway north of the Lake Louise turnoff onto Icefields Parkway (AB-93). You will reach the Banff National Park fee station shortly after beginning the drive down Icefields Parkway. Next, it is just a 35-minute drive from the fee station up to the lakes. If you are coming from this direction, then first you will arrive at Upper Waterfowl Lake.
Those coming from Jasper can go south on the Icefields Parkway from the fee station. You will reach the Lower Waterfowl Lake in less than two hours. Remember that both upper and lower waterfowl lakes have limited parking. It’s advisable to arrive early, as otherwise you might have to wait to get a spot.
Also, check out the spots you need to visit when driving Banff to Jasper..
Upper Waterfowl Lake
Difficulty: Easy
Distance: 0.9 – 1.2 miles
Elevation: About 34 meters
Duration: 30 minutes – 1 hour
Hiking To Waterfowl Lake
A dirt trail starts from the parking lot towards Upper Waterfowl Lake. The trail passes through the woods along the campground. Very soon you will arrive at the river flowing between the two Waterfowl Lakes. Multiple trails converge here with the Upper Waterfowl Lake trail.
Are you in the mood for more hiking? Cross the bridge and hike to Chephren Lake or Cirque Lake.
Alternatively, you can travel north from the bridge and reach the Lower Waterfowl Lake in less than half a mile’s hike. If you travel south towards Upper Waterfowl Lake, then you are bound to be stunned by the scenery. Plan your visit during September to enjoy the beauty of bright fall colors in the undergrowth. Very soon you will reach the north tip of Upper Waterfowl Lake.
This is an easy out-and-back trail covering a round-trip distance of between 0.9 and 1.2 miles. This distance depends on how far you walk along the lake shore. You can complete this hike in between 30 minutes and 1 hour, during which you will experience an elevation gain of 112 feet. Bring your dogs along but keep them on leash at all times. Also note that drones are not permitted. You shouldn’t feed the wildlife, and you should camp only at designated spots.
Camping at Waterfowl Lakes
Camping at Waterfowl Lakes provides an excellent opportunity for enjoying the scenery and accessing multiple trails when the crowds have thinned. Waterfowl Lakes Campground has 116 sites, making them the largest in the area. Be it small tents or small RVs, the Waterfowl Lakes camping site can accommodate it all.
Camping site is divided into 2 sections: one section is allocated for the tents and other for the RVs. The best part of this camping ground is it’s location. Keep in mind, there is no cellular service.
Special features include a fire pit, picnic tables, a sewage dump, running water, food lockers, and restrooms. Be prepared to pay $24 CAD per night for each site. An additional $11 CAD needs to be paid for getting a fire permit along with firewood. The campsites can accommodate one to two vehicles and a maximum of six people. The campground remains open to the public between the middle of June and the middle of September. Slots are available here on a first-come, first-served basis.
Lower Waterfowl Lake Viewpoint
The Lower Waterfowl Lake is located just a short distance down the road. As soon as you arrive, you can admire breathtaking views of rugged peaks and stunning blue waters right from the parking area. From there, you can continue south along the river toward the Upper Waterfowl Lake. As you keep driving, you will eventually reach the northern tip of Upper Waterfowl Lake. In addition, you will find a small field along the shore, beautifully lined with picnic tables.
What to bring along
Weather in the Canadian Rockies changes very quickly, so it is advisable to always come prepared. It can rain, snow or hail any time of the year. It is advisable to bring layers, waterproof clothes, hats and wear sunscreen. Also, dont forget to carry a bear spray whether you are camping or hiking. Make sure to know how to use the bear spray.
Here are some useful camping tips to know.
