Lake Minnewanka
About
Meaning "Water of the Spirits" in the Stoney Nakoda language, Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park. This spectacular, 21-kilometer-long glacial lake is framed by massive sheer rock mountains and dense pine forests. Rich in history, the lake has been a site of Indigenous summer camping for thousands of years and now offers scenic boat cruises, kayak rentals, lakeside hiking, and is even home to a submerged early-20th-century resort town that is a famous freshwater scuba diving site.
Highlights
What makes this place special
Lake Minnewanka Cruise
A narrated, one-hour boat cruise that takes visitors deep into the mountain-walled passages of the lake.
Stewart Canyon Trail
A scenic, relatively flat walking path that follows the shoreline and crosses a wooden footbridge over the canyon.
The Submerged Village of Minnewanka Landing
A fascinating underwater archaeological site where advanced scuba divers can explore preserved historic cottage foundations.
Things to Know
- •This area is a highly active wildlife corridor; hiking in groups of four and carrying bear spray is often a legal safety requirement during berry season.
- •Roam Transit Route 6 runs regularly from downtown Banff directly to the lake during the summer months.
- •This is one of the very few lakes within the national park that permits motorized boats, meaning private boat launches are available.
