Overview
Lake Minnewanka, a 28km glacial lake east of Banff, is the largest lake in the Banff region. Its Indigenous name means 'Lake of the Spirits,' and on the lake bed lies the submerged historic village of Minnewanka Landing, flooded in 1912 - a draw for scuba divers. The 1-hour boat cruise is popular for spotting bighorn sheep, deer, and if you're lucky, a grizzly bear. Lakeside trails and picnic areas make it great for families. Boat cruise CA$72. About 15 minutes by car from Banff town.
Opening Hours
24 hours (cruises: May-October 09:00-16:30)
Travel Tips
Morning cruises offer calmer water and better wildlife sightings. Kayak and SUP board rentals are also available on the lake.
Hotels near Lake Minnewanka
Hotels and guesthouses in Banff, Lake Minnewanka, Banff
Other attractions in Banff
Lake Louise
An emerald lake fed by the Victoria Glacier — the symbol of the Canadian Rockies.
Banff Gondola
A gondola ride to the top of Sulphur Mountain for sweeping panoramic views of the Rockies.
Moraine Lake
A turquoise lake encircled by ten peaks — a scene once featured on Canadian currency.
Johnston Canyon
A popular trail winding through a canyon to waterfalls - and freezing into spectacular ice falls in winter.
Banff Upper Hot Springs
A natural hot spring set against the Rockies - a mineral-rich pool at 1,585m elevation.
Icefields Parkway
One of the world's great drives - 232km from Banff to Jasper through glaciers, lakes, and peaks.
Banff Avenue
Banff town's main street, framed by Cascade Mountain - a quintessential mountain village scene.