Lake Minnewanka is one of Banff’s most easily accessible lakes, just a 15-minute drive from the Banff townsite. Unlike some of Banff National Park’s more remote lakes, Lake Minnewanka is easily accessible by public transit and offers year-round activities for visitors.
It’s the only lake in the Rockies where motor boating is allowed, and visitors can even go scuba diving to see the underwater resort town that lies beneath.
The name “Minnewanka” comes from the Stoney Nakoda First Nations word for “Lake of the Spirit” and it’s easy to see why – the 21-kilometer-long lake is surrounded by towering mountains and pristine wilderness that create an almost mystical atmosphere.
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Directions to Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is one of the most convenient lakes to visit in Banff National Park. Located just 5 kilometers northeast of the Banff townsite on Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive, it’s accessible by both personal vehicle and public transportation.
The scenic drive includes Lake Minnewanka (at the end), but it’s also well worth stopping at Two Jack Lake and Cascade Ponds along the way. The public bus route stops at all three, as well as Johnson Lake Road and Two Jack Campground.
From Banff townsite:
- Take Banff Avenue north
- Turn right onto Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive
- Follow the road for about 5 kilometers until you reach the lake
From Calgary:
- Take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) west
- Take the Banff East Exit
- Follow the signs to Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive
You will need a Park Pass to visit Lake Minnewanka as it is located inside Banff National Park.
Parking at Lake Minnewanka
During peak summer months (June-September), the parking lot can fill up quickly, especially between 10 AM and 4 PM. The weekends can be crowded as well. Arriving early morning or later in the evening is recommended. You can also consider taking the Roam Transit bus if visiting during busy times.
Washrooms and Facilities
Lake Minnewanka is well-equipped with facilities, including:
- Modern washroom facilities (wheelchair accessible)
- Picnic tables and shelters with wood stove
- Snack bar
- Bike racks
Historical Significance
Lake Minnewanka is one of Banff National Park’s most fascinating bodies of water, known to Indigenous peoples as “Minn-waki” (Lake of the Spirits). Originally a much smaller glacial lake, it has a particularly interesting history as it was artificially expanded in the 20th century.
In 1912, a small dam first raised the water level, but the most dramatic change came in 1941 when a larger dam was built for hydroelectric power during World War II. This raised the water level by 30 meters.
The flooding submerged a complete resort town called Minnewanka Landing that had been a popular summer destination since the late 1800s.
Best Time to Visit Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is accessible year-round, with each season offering unique experiences.
For the best experience, try to visit during weekday mornings to avoid peak crowds, especially during summer weekends when parking can be challenging.
If you’re interested in photography, the “golden hours” just after sunrise or before sunset offer the most dramatic lighting on the mountains and lake.
Summer (June-August):
Summer is the peak season when the lake really comes alive. During these months, visitors can enjoy boat tours, kayaking, and lakeside picnics. The lake is particularly stunning in early morning when the water is calm and reflects the surrounding peaks like a mirror.
- Peak season for boating and cruises
- Average temperatures: 20-25°C (68-77°F)
- Busiest period with largest crowds
- Extended daylight hours (5 AM – 10 PM)
Fall (September-October):
Fall (September-October) brings spectacular colors as the larch trees turn golden, with fewer crowds and crisp temperatures perfect for hiking.
- Beautiful fall colors, especially late September
- Less crowded
- Wildlife more active
- Cheaper accommodation rates
- First snow possible in October
- Limited services after Thanksgiving
Winter (November-April):
Winter transforms the lake into a serene wonderland, though the area can be quite cold. The frozen lake surface creates unique photo opportunities, and the area becomes popular for ice walking and cross-country skiing.
- Ice skating opportunities (usually January-March)
- Winter hiking and snowshoeing
- Ice climbing
- Northern lights viewing
- Ice fishing (December-March)
- Reduced services
- Access to winter trails
- Temperature range: -20 to 0°C (-4 to -32°F)
Spring (May-June):
Spring (May-early June) brings wildflowers and wildlife activity, though be prepared for variable weather and some facilities may still be closed from winter.
- Spring wildflowers
- Fewer crowds
- Variable weather conditions
- Wildlife viewing opportunities
- Lake thaws typically mid-May
- Shoulder season rates
Activities at Lake Minnewanka
Hiking Trails Near Lake Minnewanka
Download the AllTrails map before heading out, as cell service can be spotty in some areas.
| Hike Name | Trail Length (Round Trip) | Elevation Gain | Time to Complete | Difficulty Level | Best Season |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lakeside Trail | 15.6 km | 505 meters | 4.5 hours | Moderate | Year-round |
| Stewart Canyon | 5.8 km | 210 meters | 1.5-2 hours | Easy | May-Oct |
| Aylmer Lookout | 24 km | 560 meters | 7-8 hours | Moderate | Jun-Sep |
| C-Level Cirque | 9.8 km | 781 meters | 3-4 hours | Moderate | Jun-Oct |
While the main lake side is usually quite busy with visitors, you are required to carry bear spray if you venture off into less populated areas like hiking trails. Some trails also require groups of 4 to deter bears, so check the Parks Canada closures website before you head out. There are several Facebook groups to help you find hiking buddies if you need them!
Boating at Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is the only lake in Banff National Park that allows motorized boats! You can bring your own boat, rent one, or take the Cruise.
Wildlife Viewing
You will likely see some wildlife around Lake Minnewanka – especially on the road in! Common species include:
- Bighorn sheep (year-round)
- Elk (most active at dawn/dusk)
- Black bears (spring/fall)
- Grizzly bears (spring/fall)
- Various bird species
Viewing the Northern Lights
Lake Minnewanka is a Dark Sky Zone, making it a perfect spot to view the Northern Lights.
Sign up for aurora alerts to get an e-mail when the lights are most active!
Places to Stay Near Lake Minnewanka
While there are no accommodations directly at Lake Minnewanka, lots of options are available at the nearby Banff townsite (15 minutes away):
Luxury ($300+ per night):
- Fairmont Banff Springs
- Rimrock Resort Hotel
- Moose Hotel & Suites
Mid-Range ($150-300 per night):
- Banff Park Lodge
- Buffalo Mountain Lodge
- Banff Caribou Lodge & Spa
Budget (Under $150 per night):
- Banff International Hostel
- Samesun Banff
Camping Options:
Two Jack Lakeside Campground:
- Closest to Lake Minnewanka
- Open from May to October
- 64 unserviced sites + 10 oTENTiks
- Reservations are recommended
- Flush toilets + shower facilities
- Fire pits and firewood available
- Kitchen shelters
- Public transit to Banff stops here
Two Jack Main Campground:
- 380 sites
- Open from late June to early September
- More basic facilities
- Better for RVs
- Flush toilets + showers
- Cooking + picnic shelters
- Firepits
Tunnel Mountain Campgrounds:
- Year-round camping available
- Full RV hookups
- Close to Banff townsite
- Flush toilets + showers
Nearby Attractions
- Two Jack Lake
- Cascade Ponds
- Vermillion Lakes
