Lake Minnewanka, Banff National Park

Lake Minnewanka, nestled in Banff National Park just northeast of the town of Banff, is the largest lake in the park and a stunning showcase of natural beauty and cultural history. Spanning approximately 21 kilometers in length and reaching depths of over 140 meters, the lake was formed by glacial activity and is fed by several mountain streams. The name "Minnewanka" comes from the Stoney Nakoda First Nations people and means “Water of the Spirits,” reflecting the area's deep Indigenous significance. Historically, the shores of Lake Minnewanka were home to seasonal Indigenous camps for thousands of years, and archaeological sites near the lake contain artifacts that date back more than 10,000 years. Today, the lake is a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, picnicking, guided boat cruises, and canoe or motorboat rentals. The reservoir was expanded by damming in 1912 and again in 1941, submerging a small resort village called Minnewanka Landing, remnants of which can still be explored by scuba divers. Surrounded by rugged peaks like Mount Inglismaldie and Cascade Mountain, Lake Minnewanka offers dramatic scenery, abundant wildlife viewing, and easy access via Roam Transit from the Banff townsite, making it one of the most popular and accessible destinations in the Canadian Rockies.
Book the Banff Boat CruiseBooking the Banff Boat Cruise includes All taxes, fees and handling charges.