25 Beautiful Lakes in the Canadian Rockies to Visit

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The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the most stunning lakes in the world. Each offers something unique – whether its palette of colours, or its backdrop in the mountains. In this post, I’ve rounded up 25 beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies to visit across Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and Kootenay National Parks, as well as Kananaskis Country.

Some of the lakes are easy to get to by car while others require a hike – across a range of difficulty. Many of the lakes can be paddled, but you’ll need to follow the rules for each park relating to aquatic invasive species. The brave amongst you might also enjoy a bracing dip.

From iconic spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake to quieter gems like Chester Lake and Waterfowl Lakes, there’s something here for every kind of nature lover. Whether you’re planning a summer road trip in the Canadian Rockies or simply looking for scenic stops on your next mountain escape, this post will help you make the most of your time in the Canadian Rockies.

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Beautiful Vermilion Lake in Banff National Park at sunset

Location map of the beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies

Beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies in Kananaskis Country

If you want to visit any of the beautiful lakes in Kananaskis Country that are in the Canadian Rockies, you will need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass. They are $90 for a year or $15 for the day.

1. Upper Kananaskis Lake

Upper Kananaskis Lake is a popular destination for a lot of people including hikers, backpackers, mountain bikers, paddlers, paddle boarders and fishers. The lake is dammed and as such the water levels fluctuate, particularly in winter. The lake is deep (111 metres) and cold – though you do see the occasional hardy swimmer.

I love the day hike around Upper Kananaskis Lake – and the access from the lake to many fabulous backpacking trips in the area. The Point Campground that juts out into the lake is a beauty and one I’ve enjoyed spending the night at it – by way of a kayaking trip.

Upper Kananaskis Lake is one of the most accessible lakes in the Canadian Rockies and there is lots of camping nearby.

Upper Kananaskis Lake

2. Elbow Lake

Elbow Lake is the headwaters of the Elbow River which flows through Calgary. The lake is accessed via a 1.4 km hike that starts off steeply from the parking lot on Highway 40, not far from Highwood Pass. You will need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to visit.

Elbow Lake is family-friendly and a lovely spot to visit in summer. It’s also the gateway to several more hikes including Piper Pass, Rae Lake and Tombstone Lakes. You can reserve a backcountry campsite at the lake through Alberta Parks, 90 days before you want to visit.

Mountain bikes and horses are also allowed on the trail to Elbow Lake.

Early morning beauty of Elbow Lake

3. Rawson Lake

Rawson Lake is a picturesque alpine lake in the heart of Kananaskis Country. It’s a 3.9 km one-way hike to get there with an elevation gain of 300 metres. Start at the Upper Kananaskis Lake Day-use Area. Hike up through the forest to reach the stunning emerald-green lake surrounded by towering peaks, including the imposing Mt. Sarrail.

You can visit Rawson Lake year-round, though in summer the trail is often closed because of bear activity. In winter, it’s one of the premiere snowshoe outings in Alberta.

Rawson Lake is a beauty with its picturesque mountain backdrop combined with the reflective quality of the lake. This is definitely one of the beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies that is worth making the effort to see.

Rawson Lake in mid-June when the ice is leaving

4. Aster Lake

Not many of you will ever see Aster Lake – which is to too bad because it’s in a stunning, peaceful location, but it’s also off the beaten path. You can do an overnight hike to Aster Lake on its own or as part of the Northover Ridge hike, though there is some exposure that some of you might not enjoy. But when you get there, there’s a good chance you’ll have the lake to yourself.

Stunning Aster Lake seen on the Northover Traverse hike

5. Chester Lake

What Chester Lake lacks in size, it makes up for thanks to its stunning crystal-clear turquoise waters. With its dramatic backdrop, the 4.5 km one way hike to Chester Lake is a popular one in summer and fall when the larches turn colour. Pack a picnic and enjoy one of the idyllic spots along the lake.

The view from the far end of Chester Lake

Beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies – Banff National Park

Some of the most iconic lakes in Canada are in Banff National Park. That means they’re popular so always try to visit in the off-season or early or late in the day.

You will need a Parks Canada pass to visit any of the lakes in the national parks.

If you plan to paddle In Banff National Park, you can self certify your non-motorized watercraft if they meet certain specifications.

1. Lake Louise

Lake Louise needs no introduction. It’s one of Canada’s most beautiful lakes and one of the most popular lakes in the Canadian Rockies to visit. However, unless you’re staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, getting to Lake Louise is more problematic than it used to be.

Early risers may still be able to snag the pricey parking spots just a short distance from the lake. But most people will need to take public transit or arrive via one of the private shuttles.

For more information read How to Get to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

Once at Lake Louise, you can walk to the end of the lake – and continue to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse. Other fabulous hiking options from Lake Louise include Fairview Mountain (for a spectacular bird’s eye view of the lake), the Little Beehive – Lake Agnes combo, the Big Beehive hike and Mount St. Piran.

Lake Louise - the most famous and one of those most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies Lake Louise – the most famous lake and one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies

2. Moraine Lake – one of the most beautiful and popular lakes in the Canadian Rockies

Moraine Lake, situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, is fed by both snow and glacial melt. It’s distinctive and compelling azure blue colour draws people from around the world. But because of its fame, access to private vehicles is no longer allowed. You can cycle to the lake via a twisting narrow 15-kilometre road, but most people get there via private or public shuttles. (Check out the link on how to get there under Lake Louise.)

To get the best views of Moraine Lake, one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies, climb up the Rockpile on a well-worn trail. At sunrise the scene is particularly dazzling. Another fabulous way to experience Moraine Lake is by canoe. Moraine Lake Lodge offers rentals for around $160 per canoe – pricey I know.

There are several hikes you can do from Moraine Lake; simply do an easy out and back hike to the end of the lake, hike to Eiffel Lake, or try the Larch Valley – Sentinel Pass hike, especially in fall.

View of Moraine Lake from the Rockpile

3. Lake Agnes

Lake Agnes is a small but popular lake accessed via a 3.4 km hike from Lake Louise. There is a trail part way around it that takes you up to the Big Beehive, Devil’s Thumb and Highline trails.

The Lake Agnes Teahouse is very popular as a lunch or teatime destination. On sunny days, you can count on a line-up to get in, but in my experience it moves quickly. Although it’s a busy spot, Lake Agnes does have a magical quality about it.

Lake Agnes with the famous Lake Agnes Tea House seen in the distance

4. Consolation Lakes

If you’re visiting Moraine Lake it’s easy to include a side trip to the Consolation Lakes. It’s a family-friendly hike to get there that offers great views of the Tower of Babel, old-growth forest, and glacier-topped Mt. Fay.

Take a picnic lunch and enjoy the alpine meadows and wetlands around the lake. You will have to do some rock hopping to get to the lake at the end of the hike, but it’s pretty enough to look at from a short distance away.

Consolation Lakes in Banff National Park

5. Vermilion Lakes

Vermilion Lakes is just 3 km from downtown Banff, so you don’t even need a car to visit. It is the best place to get the quintessential Mount Rundle view, ideally at sunrise or sunset (pictured below). If you’re cycling the Banff Legacy Trail to the junction with Highway 1A, you’ll also bike by it.

No matter what season you travel to Banff, put the Vermilion Lakes on your must visit list.

Beautiful Vermilion Lakes with Mount Rundle as a backdrop

6. Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka, the largest lake in Banff National Park, is very different today compared to the original lake. The lake has been dammed three times, with the third dam raising the water level 30 m and flooding a town that once sat on its shores. It’s now popular with scuba divers.

However, most people enjoy the lake via a boat ride or a hike. From the parking lot, hike or mountain bike along the shores of Lake Minnewanka to the intersection with the Aylmer Lookout Trail. There is also the option to backcountry camp at one of six campsites, scattered along the length of the lake.

The view of Lake Minnewanka from Aylmer Lookout

7. Two Jack Lake

Two Jack Lake is a popular one. Not only is it a beauty but it’s close to the Banff Townsite. Enjoy sweeping views of Mount Rundle from well-placed red chairs. In summer you can swim – though it’s very cold. Paddle boarding is also popular.

Situated on Two Jack Lake is a rustic campground that is ideal for tents and smaller RV’s. There are also 10 oTENTiks. Reserve online.

Two Jack Lake with morning mist in the fall

8. Bow Lake

You can’t miss Bow Lake when you drive the Icefields Parkway – especially with its impressive backdrop that includes the Wapta Icefield and Crowfoot Mountain. Fortunately, there are a couple of places to pull off along the parkway to snap a picture of its gorgeous blue water or to enjoy a picnic along the shore.

You can stay beside Bow Lake at the historic Lodge at Bow Lake built by Jimmy Simpson, one of Banff’s early mountain guides. But you can also go for an easy hike along the shoreline. The more adventurous can do the four-hour return hike to Bow Glacier Falls.

Above Bow Lake is the Bow Glacier – the source of the Bow River that winds through Banff and Calgary to eventually join the Oldman River to form the South Saskatchewan River. The water you see below eventually empties into Hudson’s Bay.

Bow Lake on the Icefields Parkway is always worthy of a stop

9. Peyto Lake

Glacier-fed Peyto Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies. It’s located 35 minutes from Lake Louise along the Icefields Parkway. To see the lake, you’ll have to walk 0.7 km to a viewing platform. On summer weekends, it can get very busy. There are more trails with equally impressive views once you move away from the first viewing platform. Dogs on a leash are permitted.

While you won’t enjoy much of a view of Peyto Lake, it’s worth noting that Peyto Lake is one of the premier places to see the Northern Lights in Banff National Park because there is no light pollution.

Stunning Peyto Lake - one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies Stunning Peyto Lake – one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies

10. Glacier Lake

Glacier Lake, the fourth largest in Banff National Park is 3.75 km long by 750 m wide. It’s best appreciated via a backpacking trip so you can enjoy its beauty at sunrise and sunset.

At the far end of Glacier Lake is Southeast Lyell Glacier. Many campers will hike and bushwack to get an up close view of the toe of the glacier – but that’s approximately a 20 km return trip from the backcountry campsite.

Beautiful Glacier Lake first thing in the morning

11. Helen Lake

Helen Lake may be small but it’s pretty. However, you have to earn the view by hiking from the trailhead off the Icefields Parkway, a distance of 6 km one way. The lake sits below a massive headwall that heads up to Dolomite Pass.

The route to the lake is also gorgeous – especially in summer when there are wildflowers galore. If you scramble up to the ridge or even up to Cirque Peak, you can enjoy an aerial view of Helen Lake – in addition to Bow Lake and the Wapta Icefield.

The view of Helen Lake from above

12. Waterfowl Lakes

The Waterfowl Lakes, located beside the Icefields Parkway are bisected by the popular, first come-first served Waterfowl Lakes Campground.

Of the two lakes, Upper Waterfowl Lakes is the most scenic one though both lakes are glacial with the classic blue-turquoise colour. From the lakes you can do the 9 km round trip hike to Cephren Lake.

Fantastic views from Waterfowl Lakes Campground in Banff National Park

Beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies – Yoho National Park

1. Lake O’Hara

Lake O’Hara is a gorgeous lake, and the Lake O’Hara area is a world-class hiking destination. The lake is only accessible via a bus ride, or an 11-kilometre walk in. It’s very hard to get a seat on the bus, unless you’re one of the chosen ones through a lottery system, you’re staying at Lake O’Hara Lodge, Elizabeth Parker Hut or the campground. For detailed information on how to reserve through Parks Canada click here.

The beauty of the area is unbelievable. Lake O’Hara is the star and the easiest to visit, but for most hikers, it’s the starting point of a day in the mountains. One of the most scenic hikes in Canada is the Lake O’Hara alpine circuit.

Stunning Lake O’Hara is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies

2. Lake Oesa

There’s not an ugly lake in the Lake O’Hara area, but I think Lake Oesa is especially pretty because of its turquoise colour and stunning backdrop.

Unfortunately, getting to Lake Oesa is problematic as numbers are controlled by Parks Canada. You either must stay at pricey Lake O’Hara Lodge, share space at the Elizabeth Parker hut run by the Alpine Club of Canada, score a campsite, or get lucky with nabbing a seat on the bus. If you meet one of those criteria, then you can enjoy an easy hike to Lake Oesa and then a relaxing lunch on its picturesque shores before retracing your steps.

Lake Oesa is a turquoise beauty

3. Emerald Lake

One of the stunning lakes to visit in the Canadian Rockies is Emerald Lake, located in Yoho National Park, a short drive from Lake Louise. The lake’s turquoise-coloured waters are especially compelling – and easy to appreciate via a 5.2 km loop hike around Emerald Lake. That way you’re able to see the lake up close and enjoy the beautiful backdrop from all angles.

While personal canoes, kayaks and paddleboards are not permitted on Emerald Lake (because of aquatic invasive species), you can rent from the boathouse. That’s an especially great way to experience the beauty of this magnificent lake.

Beside the lake is Emerald Lake Lodge – a great place to stay and explore the area for a night or two.

Emerald Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies

Beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies – Kootenay National Park

1. Floe Lake

Glacier-fed Floe Lake in Kootenay National Park is a beauty with its magnificent location beneath 1000-metre cliffs. Not only is it a popular day hike, Floe Lake is one of the highlights on the outstanding Rockwall Trail.

To reach Floe Lake you must hike 10.7 km and climb 715 m (2,345 feet). It makes for a long day hike and is best appreciated on a backpacking trip. That way you can also enjoy an epic sunrise.

Floe Lake on the Rockwall Trail in Kootenay National Park – one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies

Beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies – Jasper National Park version

There’s a good chance you’ll want to paddle one of the beautiful lakes in Jasper National Park. If you’re renting a boat on Maligne or Pyramid Lakes you’re fine, but if you’re bringing your own boat be sure to clean, drain and dry all watercraft AND any items you plan to put in the water like paddles before you drive to Jasper.

1. Lac Beauvert

Lac Beauvert, a kettle hole lake formed by retreating glaciers, is one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies. It’s easily accessed from Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, but you don’t have to stay at the hotel to enjoy the lake. The public are welcome to do the 4-kilometre hike around Lac Beauvert. But keep an eye out for elk and errant golf balls.

Stunning Lac Beauvert in Jasper National Park

2. Maligne Lake – one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies

Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies, and its setting ringed by mountains is spectacular. Maligne Lake is one of the most popular lakes in the Canadian Rockies to visit, in large part because boat tours like this one stop at world-renowned Spirit Island.

Maligne Lake is also a wonderful paddling destination with three campgrounds over the 22-kilometre length of the lake. Many years ago, John and I enjoyed a three day kayaking trip in good weather. The lake is known for its cold water and temper tantrums, so you need to go prepared for cold, even snowy conditions in summer. But the rewards of this wilderness trip are fantastic – beautiful scenery, attractive campgrounds, and the option to hike to a glacier from the Coronet Creek Campground via the Henry MacLeod Trail.

The early morning beauty of Maligne Lake – one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies

3. Pyramid Lake

Pretty Pyramid Lake is a scenic destination, located at the end of Pyramid Lake Road, just 5 km from the Jasper townsite. It’s a great place to visit for a few hours, whether you’re planning to walk around Pyramid Island and enjoy a picnic or paddle the lake taking in the views of Pyramid Mountain. For the hardy, a swim and a beach await as well.

Pyramid Lake Lodge – directly across the road from the lake is a great spot if you want to explore more of the area. There are loads of hiking and biking trails from the front door of the resort.

Scenic kayaking on Pyramid Lake in Jasper National Park

4. Honeymoon Lake

With its tranquil setting, pretty Honeymoon Lake is a great stop if you want to swim, kayak, canoe or paddle board. Beside the lake is a first come, first served campground.

Honeymoon Lake is very popular because of the swimming and boating

Final thoughts

Which one of these beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies would you most like to visit? My personal top five favourites (because how can you just pick three) are Maligne Lake, Glacier Lake, Lake Oesa, Emerald Lake, and Moraine Lake.