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Banff National Park // Lake Minnewanka

Improvement District No. 9, Alberta

Details

Distance

13 miles

Elevation Gain

4921 ft

Route Type

Out-and-Back

Description

Added by Jared Evangelista

If you ever find yourself in Alberta, CA, this is an absolute MUST visit. Lake Minnewanka has some of the most epic scenery in Banff.

Lake Minnewanka is an incredible glacial lake located in Banff National Park. The convenience of this location is a huge plus. Activities range from rustic backpacking to a simple stroll down the edge of the lake.

Parking at Lake Minnewanka is super easy, as there's a lot just a couple hundred yards away from the dock. Starting at the dock, you're able to make your way down to the Lake Minnewanka Trail that runs parallel to the lake (about 13 miles). We did a simple day-hike to take in the views before turning back because of bad weather. Most visitors generally walk about 2 miles to the Cascade River before turning back to explore other locations in the park.

The trail is semi-challenging if you have a heavy pack on. But for the general visitor who travels light, it really isn't too bad. The scenery along this trail is unbelievable. Tall snow-capped mountains towering over the light blue water creates an adventurous atmosphere. After walking down the trail and ending up at the Cascade bridge, we turned around and headed back to our van. The best way to finish the trip at Lake Minnewanka is to grab some ice cream at the shop directly across from the dock.

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Features

Photography
Hiking
Dog Friendly
Easy Parking
Family Friendly
Forest
Hot Springs
Lake
Picnic Area
Scenic
Wildlife
Swimming Hole

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Leave No Trace

Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations. Please explore responsibly!

Nearby

Kayak Two Jack Lake

Explore Bankhead Ghost Town

Explore Lake Minnewanka

Snowshoe to Johnson Lake

Hike to the Hermit of Inglismaldie

Take in the View at the Mount Norquay Green Spot