Lake Minnewanka

The namesake of the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive, there's plenty to keep you occupied at the "Water of the Spirits," named by the First Nations.

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Plan Around Lake Minnewanka

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Lake Minnewanka Details

The namesake of the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive, there's plenty to keep you occupied at the "Water of the Spirits," named by the First Nations. The glacial lake is fed by the Cascade River and is the largest body of water in all of Banff National Park. Due to its size, plenty of activities are permitted on and around the lake, including fishing, boating (canoe/kayak/motor), hiking, biking, SCUBA diving (yes, SCUBA diving!), wildlife viewing and picnicking. In the winter, cross country skiing, snowshoeing and ice diving are popular here. And don't forget to look skyward - the Aurora Borealis has been spotted over Lake Minnewanka. The lake is about 11 kilometers (6.8 miles) from the Town of Banff, heading north on Banff Avenue and continuing onto the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive until you reach the lake itself, where you'll find a parking lot, unloading ramp and parking area for boats and trailers, canoe and boat rentals, restrooms and even a snack bar. Once you've arrived at Lake Minnewanka, you may spend as little as half-an-hour to a full day, depending on how much of the lake you want to enjoy, and how you want to enjoy it.

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