The “Lake of the Spirits” offers fishing, boating and hiking facilities not far from Banff village.

Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park. It is a popular recreational spot for fishing, boating, hiking, scuba diving and picnicking. A car park and picnic area on the lake is just over three miles (five kilometers) northeast of the town of Banff.

Lake Minnewanka means “Lake of the Spirits” in the Stoney Indian language. Indigenous people who lived around the lake believed it was inhabited by spirits. Early Europeans called it “Devil’s Lake.”

In the late 19th century, a small summer town was built on the edge of the water, with hotels, wharves and restaurants frequented by vacationers. In 1941, a dam was built that raised the lake’s water level by 98 feet (30 meters) and submerged the town. Today, the underwater town is an attraction for scuba divers.

The lake is 466 feet (142 meters) deep in the middle and 17 miles (28 kilometers) long. Several companies run boat tours on the lake. Cruise the water for photo opportunities of the surrounding mountains. Book the cruise on the day from the main car park. Fishing tours can also be booked here. Spend a day on the lake fishing for lake trout.

Many hiking trails run around the lake, ranging from short strolls to day-long walks. Rent a bike in Banff and ride the entire circumference of about 15.5 miles (25 kilometers). Watch for wildlife and have a camera ready to take photographs. Deer, bears, mountain sheep and eagles roam the area. Stay well clear of the bears, and never hike alone.

Summer is the most popular time to visit. Facilities such as car parks and sheltered picnic spots fill up quickly, so come early in the day.

The lake freezes in winter. Many of the facilities close, but wildlife is easier to spot, because there are fewer people around.

Plan a trip to see Lake Minnewanka

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The Malcolm Hotel

Spring Creek

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￥88,953

per person

Oct 14 - Oct 17

found 7 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Toronto (YYZ) to Calgary (YYC)

9.4/10 Exceptional! (1,005 reviews)

Great location with friendly and helpful staff. In house dining had excellent selection of menu choices. Front desk staff were attentive, professional, helpful and knowledgeable.

Reviewed on Aug 25, 2025

Fairmont Banff Springs

Banff Springs District

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￥1,117,630

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Oct 19 - Oct 25

found 24 hours ago

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Tokyo (TYO) to Calgary (YYC)

9.2/10 Wonderful! (1,001 reviews)

I will start with the positives: The historic exterior of the property is charming, the flowers are gorgeous, and the view of Banff Springs is outstanding. The staff is also very friendly. The areas for opportunity: The cost is not worth the value. We paid $1,200 USD for one night and it was maybe worth half that. When we checked in at 5pm, we paid extra for an upgrade, and our room was not ready for ~3+ hours. The hotel did offer us a food and beverage credit, which we used at the chophouse. One of our meals was good, the other was terrible. The manager was very understanding and kind, but a disappointing experience. The rooms are VERY small and worn. Huge gauges in the walls, scuffs, incredibly small bathroom. While there are some positives, I would not recommend to stay here. There are other hotels that may not have the view and prestige, but the cost at the Fairmont is definitely not worth it.

Reviewed on Aug 17, 2025

Storm Mountain Lodge Cabins & Dining

￥285,003

per person

Oct 2 - Oct 7

found 10 hours ago

Roundtrip flight included

Tokyo (TYO) to Calgary (YYC)

9.2/10 Wonderful! (188 reviews)

We absolutely loved our stay at Storm Mountain Lodge. Our cabin was cozy and comfortable, and they provided kindling to have a fire in the fireplace. The lodge was cozy and charming, and our two dinners at the restaurant were both fantastic. I would return again in a heartbeat. The lodge was also a great location between Banff and Lake Louise, with nearby hiking also available.

Reviewed on Aug 9, 2025

Browse tours and tickets to explore Lake Minnewanka

Tours & day trips

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Lake Louise Moraine Lake Emerald Lake Yoho Banff National Park

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Private & custom tours

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From Banff/Canmore: Moraine Lake and Lake Louise Trip

Free cancellation available

Wildlife & nature

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Jasper: Columbia Icefield Skywalk and Ice Explorer Ticket

Water activities

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Banff: Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Winter activities

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Full-Day Icefields Parkway Tour

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