Lake Minnewanka is a glacial lake located just 3 miles from the Banff townsite, and it’s the longest lake in the Canadian Rockies parks system! There are guided boat tours which can take you across the lake, or you can rent a canoe as well. Lake Minnewanka is located next to Two Jack and Johnson Lakes, and they’re all accessible by a loop road that connects you back to Banff.

 

The scenery makes for a gorgeous drive, and it’s very likely that you’ll see wildlife by the side of the road! There’s all kinds of trails for walking, hiking, (6 backcountry campsites are accessed through this area) and watersports. It’s also a runner’s paradise, with rolling trails everywhere.

The colors of each lake, and the mountains surrounding them are breathtaking. There are beach areas at each lake, and there are many great spots for a picnic and swim.

We hiked around Johnson Lake, (above photo) and sat on the golden grassy knoll that you can see in the middle of the picture. It was a great place to soak up some rays while the sun was setting.

See you next week as we head into the Lake Louise area!