Canadian Rockies: The 12 Most Beautiful Lakes in Banff National Park
Heidi KellerAre you wanting to visit the Lakes in Banff National Park? You’re in the right place!
Feeling the pull towards those gorgeous mountain lakes of the Canadian Rockies you see plastered all over top travel sites?
From the bright turquoise blue shores of beautiful Lake Louise to the quiet serenity of Herbert Lake, there’s surely a lake for everyone in Banff.
Best lakes in Banff National Park
1. Lake Louise
Inarguably Banff’s most iconic lake, Lake Louise is a must-see lake when visiting Banff.
Of course, with being the most popular of Banff’s lakes comes, yep, you guessed it…crowds. So, if crowds aren’t your thing, head to Lake Louise very early or late in the day.
One of the best ways to explore this aqua gem is to rent one of the iconic red canoes here. At an eye-popping $155 per hour for non-hotel guests, expect to shell out for this famous experience.
If you’d rather remain a land-lover, the best way to experience Lake Louise is by hitting the lakeshore trail. You’ll curl around this gorgeous azure blue lake, and soak in those famed views from shore.
Because Lake Louise is the most popular lake in Banff, finding it is easy. Expect about a 45-minute drive from the town of Banff along the Trans-Canada Highway.
The exit is well-marked and can’t be missed, and there are multiple on-site parking lots.
⭐️ Pro Tip* The parking sign at Lake Louise always states the lots are “FULL” whether they are or not. Not once did we find the lots even close to full on several trips there, yet the sign always indicated lots were totally full.
If you’re willing to fork over the $21 Canadian for a primo parking spot on-site, continue past the “lot full” sign, and have your credit card handy.
2. Lake Minnewanka
Dubbed “The Water of the Spirits” by indigenous peoples, the largest lake in Banff National Park is the stuff bucket lists are made of. This stunning body of water fed by the adjoining Cascade River offers chances to see such wildlife as bighorn sheep, elk, and deer. If you’re lucky, you may even spy a Grizzly or black bear.
Spectacular views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies make this the perfect place for a scenic boat cruise. This incredibly popular tour has you soaking in scenic views while guides describe the history of Lake Minnewanka.
Hiking options include the beautiful Minnewanka Lakeside Trail, or, for a more challenging hike, check out Aylmer Lookout Trail.
Love to fish? Lake Minnewanka makes the list of the top ten Lake Trout fishing spots in all of Canada, so bring along your rod and reel!
You’ll also find some of the best picnic areas in Banff here.
Not adventurous enough for your taste? Strap on your SCUBA tank and take it underwater to explore the hidden town of Minnewanka Landing.
Yep, this beautiful glacial lake features a real abandoned town from the 1800s, completely underwater!
A mere 15-minute drive from the town of Banff, Lake Minnewanka can be found by way of Lake Minnewanka Road via the Trans-Canada Highway.
⭐️ Pro-tip: When traveling to Banff in the summer months, be sure to pick up a bottle of bear spray. With the exception of the Lake Louise lakeshore, as it’s so incredibly busy, bear spray is wise to carry in the Banff wilderness.
3. Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is yet another must-see turquoise lake nestled in the Canadian Rockies. This is one spot you don’t want to miss. During the summer months, the lake will be at its brightest blue, so it’s quite possibly the best time to visit Banff.
While Moraine Lake boasts several great hiking trails, the most popular is the Rockpile Trail. With very little (under 80 feet) of elevation gain, and clocking in at less than 1,000 feet long, it’s an easy choice.
Atop the rock pile, you’ll find yourself gazing upon one of the best views in Banff. And the most photographed view in Canada.
Canoeing is another excellent way to enjoy the lake, and (at $115 per hour) is slightly less expensive than at nearby Lake Louise.
Or, for a flatter jaunt, hit the lakeside trail, and soak in the views of the gorgeous Ten Peaks.
Getting to Moraine Lake is simple. Expect around an hour’s trip (one-way) from the town of Banff. You’ll take the Trans Canada Highway to Lake Louise Drive.
⭐️ Pro Tip: Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles, so if you want to get there, hop on the Parks Canada shuttle bus, and relax your way to this stunning glacial lake.
At $8 per adult, and free for kids under 18, it’s well worth the price. Vehicles with handicapped plates or passes are exempt and are granted access to parking here.
4. Two Jack Lake
This emerald-green stunner is sure to capture your heart. Two Jack is a perfect place for active watersports, SUP, kayaking, swimming, fishing, and canoeing here.
So, if getting out on the water is your jam, definitely head to Two Jack Lake. Fans of this spectacular mountain lake come for the stunning views of the famed Mount Rundle and stay for the many activities it offers.
Hikers enjoy the moderately-rated Two Jack Lake Trail, a three-mile out-and-back jaunt through picturesque mountain views.
Two Jack Lake is also home to the top-rated Two Jack Lakeside Campground. So, if sleeping under the stars is your game, this is your spot.
You’ll find Two Jack Lake just a short drive from nearby Lake Minnewanka, and only 10 minutes from the town of Banff, making it a popular choice for tourists.
From Banff town, jump on the Trans-Canada Highway and exit Banff Avenue. From there, you’ll turn onto Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive.
5. Lake Agnes
This lake offers a truly unique hiking experience. Yes, there are, of course, beautiful views to be had here. But, the crown jewel of adventuring here is the hike up to the Lake Agnes Tea House. Yep, here you’ll find an adorable tea house, ready to serve you tea, and a number of other goodies, amongst the forest.
Think it can’t get any more special than this? Guess what…the water used to make the tea literally comes from Lake Agnes.
Though this hike is family-friendly, it’s uphill the whole way to the Tea House, so be sure you’ve packed adequate water, and wear those hiking shoes.
Plan for this hike to take a total of 3 hours or so, and be sure to head up early. The Tea House isn’t open late, and you’ll find yourself disappointed if they’re closed.
On your way up to the Tea House, you’ll pass by beautiful Mirror Lake, in addition to a small waterfall just before the Tea House. These are great opportunities for photo ops.
To hike Lake Agnes, you’ll park or take a Parks Canada shuttle bus to the Lake Louise parking lots. So, you’ll get the chance to see Banff’s most famed lake on your way.
⭐️ Pro Tip: The extremely popular Lake Agnes Trail is shared as a horse trail, so you’re likely to find large amounts of horse droppings along the trail. Be sure to wear appropriate shoes for this hike.
6. Peyto Lake
Located very close to the Icefields Parkway, Peyto Lake is a great place to pencil in if you’re thinking of heading up to Jasper National Park. Another of Banff’s stunning glacial lakes, Peyto does not disappoint.
This spectacular, turquoise lake gets its rare color from large amounts of glacial rock flour depositing into the lake. If you’re looking to capture that Instagram-worthy photo, the best spot to head is Bow Summit.
Another of the quite popular lakes in Banff, Peyto Lake has seen a huge investment in upgrades to make it more visitor-friendly, including adding year-round restrooms, a larger parking lot, and massive upgrades to the popular viewing platform.
Considered one of the very best overlooks in Banff National Park, the Peyto Lake Lookout sits at the very highest elevation on the famed Icefields Parkway.
The views are so beautiful, it sits atop most of the must-do lists for Banff, so don’t miss it!
Getting to Peyto Lake is simple. Just west of Lake Louise, you’ll hop on the Icefields Parkway. You’ll find the exit about 30 minutes away.
7. Vermilion Lakes
Vermilion Lakes are a popular choice for many, as they’re located within a stone’s throw of the town of Banff, in the gorgeous Bow River Valley. Here, you’re able to experience all sorts of fun water activities, and still make it back into town for a delicious meal.
Vermilion Lakes are made up of three different lakes. Vermillion Lakes are not glacier-fed, so don’t expect the bright aqua color you’ll find at Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, but they’re still a beautiful spot to explore.
This series of lakes has a wide array of both water and on-land activities available, from stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing, to hiking and birdwatching. You’ll find all these great options here at Vermilion Lakes.
It’s also a really excellent spot for photo ops, as you can often catch the reflections of Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain in your pics.
Getting to Vermilion Lakes from Banff is easy and is only about a 5-minute jaunt, making it quite a popular spot. You’ll take Mt. Norquay Road to Vermilion Lakes Road, simple and easy!
8. Herbert Lake
Looking to escape the crowds and find a more peaceful lakeside? Head to beautiful Herbert Lake. Located just off the Icefields Parkway, this wonderful mountain lake is often overlooked.
If you’re a fan of those beautiful views of mountains reflected on the water, pop over to Herbert Lake early in the day for some Instagram-worthy snaps.
Not adventurous enough for your taste? Jump on the lakeshore trail here and head to the backside, where you’ll find a diving board. Yes, a diving board, no joke!
Herbert Lake is a bit warmer than the surrounding lakes, so if you’re feeling brave, make a splash here!
Or, for families or those looking for an easy hike, soak up the stunning views of the lake along the easy, flat Herbert Lake Trail loop.
It’ll take you around the whole lake, with very little elevation gain, and in only one mile. It’s an excellent option for those with kids in tow.
Getting to Herbert Lake is easy. Hop on the Trans-Canada, and exit onto the Icefields Parkway just a few miles after Lake Louise. You’ll see the Herbert Lake parking lot on your left.
9. Hector Lake
Hector Lake is another of Banff’s most beautiful lakes.
If you have kids in tow, be sure to plan carefully if you choose to visit here, as reaching the lake requires crossing a river.
This lake may best be suited to adults only, as the river levels may vary.
You’ll also want to be sure to wear water shoes, or other sturdy hiking sandals for the river crossing. If you do decide to visit, you’ll be handsomely rewarded with a glacial lake full of natural beauty.
Many people who visit Hector Lake choose to camp here, and you’ll find pit toilets and picnic tables at the campsite here.
Hector Lake is also known as an excellent lake for fishing rainbow trout, so go ahead and bring along your tackle box.
The hike itself is only 1.6 miles to reach the lake, so it’s not an incredibly long hike, though the river crossing increases the challenge.
Hector Lake can be found by taking the Trans-Canada west from Lake Louise to Icefields Parkway. Travel approximately 11 miles further and Hector Lake parking will be on the left.
⭐️ Pro Tip: The trailhead is not well-marked here, so arrive in daylight, if possible, and look carefully. You’ll find a rather small wooden sign marking Hector Lake Hike.
10. Johnson Lake
Have your heart set on taking a dip in Banff? Welcome to Johnson Lake, the warmest lake in Banff. Since many of Banff’s lakes are glacier-fed, they tend to be quite chilly for swimming.
Here, you’ll find ample opportunities to stand up paddleboard, kayak, and swim. This beautiful lake is also really close to the town of Banff, making it a popular spot for daytime activities before dinner in town.
Some of the best picnic areas in Banff may be found here at Johnson Lake. You’ll also find excellent fishing here, in addition to mountain biking and bird-watching.
Looking to hit the trails? The Johnson Lake hike offers scenic views of the surrounding mountain peaks while looping around the lake.
The trail is flat and is an excellent option for families. With a beautiful beach for kids, excellent picnic areas, and more, this lake tops our list of family-friendly lakes in Banff.
Getting here from the town of Banff is quick and easy. Jump on the Trans Canada Highway and take the exit marked for “Two-Jack Lake.” On your right will be signing for Johnson Lake.
11. Bow Lake
If you’re looking for another option for a stunning, turquoise lake in Banff, Bow Lake is a great choice. Located along the Bow River, this lake is fed by meltwater from the Bow Glacier, giving it that distinct aqua-blue color.
Photogs rejoice as Bow Lake is yet another of Banff’s lakes capable of giving you gorgeous mountain views reflected in the water.
On a clear day, you may find the peak of the beautiful Bow Summit reflecting on the lake’s surface.
There are several options here for excellent hiking. The lakeshore trail is rated as easy and fits the bill for families, or those looking for a beautiful, simple hike.
For those looking for a bit more challenge, Bow Glacier Falls would be an intermediate hike, or check out Bow Hut for a challenging hike here.
Beautiful mountain views surround you here, along with Crowfoot Mountain, which rises above Bow Lake.
Be sure to check out the Peyto Lake Viewpoint while you’re here. For a more challenging hike, keep going to the Bow Lake Summit. You’ll be rewarded with views of gorgeous, snowy peaks, and glaciers, right before your eyes.
Expect a considerable crowd along the way to the Peyto Lake Viewpoint, but venture further, and the crowd thins considerably.
You’ll find Bow Lake about an hour from the town of Banff, as you take the Icefields Parkway from the Trans Canada Highway.
12. Consolation Lakes
Consolation Lakes are another incredibly beautiful choice to visit. One of the most popular trails to hike here begins at the base of the Rock Pile at Moraine Lake.
There isn’t a huge elevation gain on this trail, though it begins somewhat rocky. At just under 2 miles, each way, it’s a kid-friendly trail with a gorgeous view of the surrounding Rocky Mountains.
You’ll pass by the beautiful Tower of Babel on this hike, and It’s also dog-friendly, but they must be kept on a leash.
Warm summer months aren’t the only time of year worth visiting Consolation Lakes. The lakes are a popular snowshoeing spot in Banff in the winter months, so bring your snowshoes along!
Since Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles, your best bet for getting here is to take the Parks Canada shuttle bus to Moraine Lake and hike to Consolation Lakes.
Best Lakes Near Banff National Park
Looking to venture out of Banff? Whether you head just slightly west, into beautiful British Columbia, or hike the beauty of Alberta, there’s so much more to this gorgeous area.
Behold the Most Beautiful Lakes Near Banff National Park
- Lake McArthur Yoho National Park
- Maligne Lake Jasper National Park
- Emerald Lake Yoho National Park
- Floe Lake Kootenay National Park
- Lake O’Hara Yoho National Park
- Dog Lake Kootenay National Park
- Pyramid Lake Jasper National Park
- Lac Beauvert Jasper National Park
- Olive Lake Kootenay National Park
Best Hotels for visiting Banff National Park
You’ll want to have a good central location to stay in when exploring Banff and the area around it. I highly recommend you reserve your accommodation early as they will book up quickly.
Luxury Hotels Near Banff
These are the best choices for top-notch hotels in Banff:
✅ The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is an iconic landmark with breathtaking views of turquoise blue, glacier-fed waters.
Located in the stunning Canadian Rocky Mountains, this luxurious destination offers travelers a variety of activities and amenities, including skiing on world-class slopes, hiking on grandiose trails, and soaking in the unparalleled vistas that surround it.
With its exceptional services and unique style, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is an unmatched experience for those seeking adventure or just wanting to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
➡️ Check Availability of Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
✅ Peaks Hotel and Suites in Banff, Alberta is the perfect place for a special getaway. With breathtaking views of the Canadian Rocky Mountains and easy access to Banff National Park, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Enjoy stunning views from your luxury suite or take advantage of the many amenities on-site, including a heated outdoor pool, spa, fitness center, restaurants, and shops.
➡️ Check Availability of Peaks Hotel and Suites
✅ Fairmont Banff Springs is a luxury hotel that opened in 1888. Located in the heart of Banff National Park, it offers guests breathtaking mountain views and access to some of Canada’s most popular attractions.
From skiing and snowboarding to golf and spa treatments, Fairmont Banff Springs has something for everyone. The property also features world-class restaurants, featuring regional specialties like Alberta beef and locally sourced produce.
Fairmont Banff Springs
- Pool
- Hot Tub
- Spa
- Pet friendly
Moderate Hotels Near Banff
✅ Johnston Canyon Lodge and Bungalows– is the perfect destination for those who want to experience nature while enjoying the comforts of home.
With stunning views, rustic and cozy lodgings, and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, or skiing, this lodge offers something for everyone.
✅ Banff Aspen Lodge– this beautiful lodge is nestled in the Canadian Rocky Mountains. Enjoy breathtaking views, world-class ski-slopes and a plethora of outdoor activities that will make your stay unforgettable.
Cozy up next to the fireplace after a long day or explore our quaint town for some shopping and dining experiences.
✅ Canalta Lodge– in Banff is a cozy mountain retreat offering guests luxurious accommodation and stunning views of the surrounding Canadian Rockies.
The lodge features free breakfast, a restaurant, a bar, two hot tubs, bicycle rentals, a sauna, and ski passes. It is an ideal getaway for outdoor enthusiasts who are looking to explore Banff’s many lakes and trails.
Guests can also enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot tubs or take advantage of the sauna after an active day outdoors.
The lodge also provides ski passes for those wishing to hit the slopes on their stay. With all that plus complimentary breakfast included in your stay, Canalta Lodge is sure to be your perfect mountain holiday destination.
Canalta Lodge
- Breakfast included
- Hot Tub
- Pet friendly
Budget-Friendly Hotels in Banff
While this is a tourist area, and the lodging prices reflect that, these hotels are a little easier on the pocketbook than the others on the list.
✅ Mount Royal Hotel– If you’re looking for a convenient stay close to Upper Hot Springs (just 2.5 mi away), Mount Royal Hotel is the perfect choice!
With a ski shuttle available, it’s the ideal base for all your winter activities, from thrilling downhill skiing to adventurous cross-country skiing.
Looking for a place to chill and grab a drink? The bar is an awesome spot! Oh, and if you’re feeling hungry, you gotta check out Brazen. They serve delicious American cuisine, and they’re open for both lunch and dinner.
There are some exciting features to look forward to, such as a rooftop terrace, an additional terrace, and a lovely garden. A ski storage is also available for your convenience.
✅ Banff Boutique In
✅ High Country Inn– With clean rooms, free parking, and free Wifi, High Country Inn is a good value option for your stay near Banff.
You’ll be near hiking, skiing, horseback riding, and white water rafting.
Plus, you can bring your dog, as High Country Inn is pet-friendly!
High Country Inn
- Pool
- Ski Facilities
- Pet friendly
Best Camping Near Banff National Park
Of course, there are camping options in this gorgeous natural setting! These are our top picks for camping near Banff.
⭐️ I recommend and use the Dyrt app for finding campgrounds, including free dispersed camping, and Harvest Hosts for epic RV camping spots!
⛺️Tunnel Mountain Village Campground
⛺️Two Jack Lakeside Campground
⛺️Waterfowl Lakes Campground
⛺️Johnson Lake Campground
Banff Lakes FAQs
What is the most beautiful lake in Banff?
Each and every lake in the Banff area is spectacularly beautiful in its own way. Though many might say Lake Louise or Moraine Lake are some of the most beautiful.
Which is better Lake Louise or Lake Moraine?
Honestly, you can’t go wrong visiting either of these gorgeous lakes. Better yet, explore them both! They’re both beautiful, bright turquoise, glacial lakes. Both offer spectacular hiking and awesome Rocky Mountain views.
What lakes in Banff can you swim in?
Most of the lakes in Banff are fed by glaciers, so you’ll find them quite chilly. Johnson Lake is the warmest lake in Banff, so it makes for a refreshing summer dip.
Why is Moraine Lake so popular?
Moraine Lake is incredibly popular as it’s one of the brightest turquoise lakes in Banff, and the natural beauty you’ll find here is bucket-list quality.
Can you do Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in one day?
Yes! You can definitely visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in a single day. You’ll want to start your day early, though!
Do you have to pay to see Moraine Lake?
There is no entrance fee to Moraine Lake. However, Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles.
Unless you have handicapped plates (and are therefore allowed parking at the lake), or you bike to Moraine Lake, you will have to pay a small fee for a Parks Canada shuttle to the lake.
What is the best month to visit Banff?
The peak season in Banff for hiking and warm weather activities runs through July and August. Banff has a second high season from February to April for ski season.
What is the busiest month in Banff?
July is the busiest month in Banff.
Final Thoughts on Lakes in Banff National Park
No matter which lake you choose in Banff National Park, you’re sure to connect with nature and enjoy some breathtaking scenery.
Banff is a famed bucket list destination for very good reasons, and any nature lover will find special experiences and breathtaking natural beauty here.
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