Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka
4.5
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 7:00 PM
About
There’s no comparing the emerald green waters of Minnewanka with any urban landscape. Mountain ridges stretch as far as the eye can see, eventually blurring into a blissful cascade of colours.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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- goodmanboyCork, Ireland75 contributionsLovely spotLake Minnewanka is a short trip outside Banff which can be driven in a pleasant loop that also takes in Two Jack Lake. On the day we visited, the weather was overcast but the scenery was still wonderful. Boat trips are available which can take you far down the lake but we just walked around the closest part. It was peaceful and provided a real escape from the busy world.Hi goodmanboy, Thanks for choosing the Minnewanka area to escape the busy world for a little while! Hope to see you again. Travis Mann General Manager Lake Minnewanka CruiseWritten February 12, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten January 6, 2024
- sainbashaIrvine, California3,969 contributionsPretty lakeLake Minnewanka is around a 15 minutes drive from Banff downtown. This is another of the many beautiful lakes in the Banff park area. Lake is beautiful with canoeing and boat facility. It is a glacial lake with ample things to do. You can boat, fish for trout, walk, have a picnic and even have your wedding there. One of the things to do when visiting BanffThanks for visiting Lake Minnewanka. I agree, one of the must stops while in the area. Boat cruise, boat rentals, retail shop and Black Anchor Snack Shack are all fully open for the busy summer season. Or as you mention, a great spot for a walk and photos! Regards, Travis Lake Minnewanka CruiseWritten June 14, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited May 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 9, 2024
- DAROHATHCairns, Australia1,286 contributionsBeautiful frozen lake ❄️We loved our visit to Lake Minnewanka. Such a different experience visiting in early Spring whilst the lake was still frozen. We’d picked up some supplies in Banff and really enjoyed our quiet picnic lunch here.What a great way to experience Lake Minnewanka. Glad you took the time to soak in some of the beauty of the area. Travis Lake Minnewanka CruiseWritten June 14, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 13, 2024
- ShantanuNewDelhiGurugram (Gurgaon), India95 contributionsGive Lake Minnewanka a ShotNice short cruise on a beautiful lake in safe and sheltered boat that protects you from unwelcome rain. McKenzie (captain) and Kristie (guide) were superb. The views are spectacular all over the Canadian Rockies, and this was no exception. Additional advantages: ample parking, cafe for refreshments and restrooms on the shore for before or after. For those willing to rise early, the Lake is a good place to be at sunrise.Thank you for visiting Lake Minnewanka and taking in all the area has to offer! Lots of opportunities to get out on the water, or enjoy the scenery from the shoreline. Thanks for taking our interpretive tour and we hope you enjoyed your time in Banff National Park. Regards, Travis Lake Minnewanka CruiseWritten July 11, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 23, 2024
- Tina SGurnee, Illinois103 contributionsDon’t miss this!This is a beautiful lake with a beautiful mountain backdrop. You can spend just a little time or a long time here. We spent some time at the lake initially and then hiked to Stewart canyon which was about 1.5 km. It was not a challenging hike - but lots of roots and rocks so watch your step! And bonus! A mountain goat ran right in front of me on the way! The views on the hike are very pretty! I think this is a great place to spend an afternoon. There are picnic tables and many spots to eat and gather as well.Agreed, Minnewanka is not to miss! We appreciate the recommendation to stop by and check the area out. Regards, Travis Lake Minnewanka CruiseWritten July 11, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 23, 2024
- pjgradKent, Washington493 contributionsMust doWow! in an area with breathtaking views, this one is a stand out. Do the drive and then come back and spend some time on the beach. The water is SO cold but some daring souls were swimming. There is a little snack bar. You can take a boat tour or rent a canoe.Wow is a great way to describe the Lake Minnewanka area. I'd guess those brave swimmers used some stronger words too! Regards, Travis Lake Minnewanka CruiseWritten July 11, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 6, 2024
- Lena G2 contributionsEntertaining, knowledgable, MUST-DO!So glad we booked this on our trip up to Banff! Ben and Jo knowledgeably provided entertainment on Lake Minnewanka, that wouldn't have hit the same any other way. Experience Canadian history on a relaxing ride to the heart of the lake and back, while enjoying ancient, native lore, and taking in the serenity of the land surrounding you. This is a must-see experience, great for all ages!! Thanks so much :)Thank you, thank you, thank you! Loved reading your feedback, glad you enjoyed your time on the water with us. Thrilled to hear Jo and Ben made a difference in your experience. Regards, Travis Lake Minnewanka CruiseWritten August 13, 2024This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 16, 2024
- Procter Bingo BusPonta Delgada, Portugal63 contributionsDo Not Feed the Animals!Beautiful scenery and lovely views to be enjoyed by young and old. It can be windy so be prepared. I was disappointed in that a family left a large pan of food under a tree as they left. There are signs everywhere about not feeding the wildlife, but some visitors don't understand that human food makes the animals sick and DANGEROUS to the next visitors. Please do not feed the animals ever and leave no trace of your food in any forest. You are not being kind when you feed wildlife EVER.Visited August 2024Traveled soloWritten August 24, 2024
- DavidTelford, United Kingdom404 contributionsLovely placeI feel kind of bad for only rating here as a 4* but when compared the Lake Louise and Moraine Lake it does come up a little short. It is still a fantastic place to visit with some beautiful scenery but it isn't quite on the same scale as the other lakes. I would still recommend a visit here if time permits while you are in the Rockies.Visited September 2024Traveled with friendsWritten September 15, 2024
- Carol DHolderness, New Hampshire17 contributionsVery special experience!10/10. We did the beer cruise on 9/13. Even without seeing a mama and baby (spirit) bear swimming across the lake- it would still have been a really good time. Great Captain (Chrissy)and Great Guide. He did a nice job of giving a history of the beer and those associated with naming the beers.Visited September 2024Traveled with familyWritten September 16, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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4.5
3,865 reviews
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412
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45
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22
IzzyEdmonton
Edmonton, Canada699 contributions
Jul 2021
This lake is beautiful, just like all lakes in Banff National Park. It is a short drive from Banff but I would highly recommend leaving your car at the hotel and taking the #6 ROAM bus to the lake. That way, you don't have to fight for parking.
The lake is very large and you can take a cruise or launch your own boat. You can also enjoy the beach area where families set up picnics, BBQs and bring their inflatables to enjoy an afternoon with.
There is a snack shop where you can purchase hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, pizzas, desserts including gelato.
There is also clean bathroom facilities and lots of green space for picnics.
The lake is very large and you can take a cruise or launch your own boat. You can also enjoy the beach area where families set up picnics, BBQs and bring their inflatables to enjoy an afternoon with.
There is a snack shop where you can purchase hot and cold drinks, sandwiches, pizzas, desserts including gelato.
There is also clean bathroom facilities and lots of green space for picnics.
Written July 1, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Usharani V
1 contribution
May 2022 • Friends
I feel super lucky to have got the opportunity to witness this magnificent view of Lake Minnewanka through the cruise journey which got opened on May16th. When I was just leaving the town to go back to Toronto where I come from on Monday, my friends informed me that cruise has just started so we rushed to the place in hope of getting tickets. I went to this place two days back and the lake was completely frozen and was disappointed that I will not be able to experience the cruise journey. We met these two amazing folks Mr Thomas and Mr Jamie who greeted us with great hospitality and helped us with necessary information about the cruise.Although the journey was 2 hour long, this was made more exciting by Captain Kenji who narrated the stories of each and every point of the lake and the history of the place. He had really great sense of humour and good story telling techniques. I am thankful to captain Will who drove us there and assisted captain Kenji with additional facts.
If you are in Banff even for one day, this is a must visit place. The water reflects bluish green colour and looks like a giant emerald.
If you are in Banff even for one day, this is a must visit place. The water reflects bluish green colour and looks like a giant emerald.
Written May 17, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kburns195
Ontario, Canada30 contributions
Feb 2020
Took a drive out there from Banff on a very sunny February day. The drive was breathtaking! The lake was stunning with all the mountains surrounding it. The lake was frozen and was hoping that there would be a large spot to go skating, however there was just a small patch and some kids were using it, so we didn't bother to join them.
In the summer I am sure this is a spectacular spot with the water and the mountains. However we loved the trip out there and back from Banff, so it was well worth it!
In the summer I am sure this is a spectacular spot with the water and the mountains. However we loved the trip out there and back from Banff, so it was well worth it!
Written February 26, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi kburns195, thank you for visiting Lake Minnewanka. The scenery for skating doesn't get much better, hope next time the conditions are right.
If you're back in the summer time be sure to check us out again.
Regards,
Travis Mann
Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Written February 27, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
LM F
Rockville, MD63 contributions
Jul 2022
Lake Minnewanka was only a few miles from our hotel so we went to hike. Parking was not an issue because people are coming and going throughout the day. There are several trails from easy and short to full day hikes. Be aware that the longer trails are "restricted" certain times of the year. This means they require groups of at least 4 or there are civil fines (to protect you from bears). The lake has a beach area with picnic tables and bathrooms. It offered a nice short hike, beautiful views and water activities. The mosquitos are pretty insane here so bring bug spray and do the long sleeve/hiking pants thing because even spray didn't completely keep them away. Again, sneaker/hiking boots. Shocked to see people in flip flops/sandals trying to hike.
Written July 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Krista H
Indianapolis, IN75 contributions
Dec 2019
As an avid traveler abroad, I must say that Lake Minnewanka is one of the most beautiful natural scenic spots I've been to. With the snow and the frozen lake, it was truly picturesque. For those looking for winter activities, I saw plenty of skating, which included hockey practice. Definitely worth the drive.
Written January 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi Krista H, thanks for putting Lake Minnewanka and Banff National Park on your travel list. We appreciate the great review. Sure hope you can make it back in the warmer months too!
Thanks again,
Travis Mann
Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Written January 20, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Moscato-Mama
Airdrie, Canada3,543 contributions
Oct 2020 • Family
The drive from Banff if quite close, about 15 minutes. We arrived on a Sunday afternoon on Thanksgiving weekend and had no problem finding a place to park.
Large lake with stunning mountain views. We walked along the shore, many nice spots to take photos, throw rocks and enjoy the view. There are picnic tables and benches along the shore.
There is a little shop to get a snack.
There are washrooms with flush toilets near the parking lot.
There are boat tours but it was a chilly day with snow in the air so we didn't go on one.
Pretty place to see, and easy to keep your distance from others while here.
Large lake with stunning mountain views. We walked along the shore, many nice spots to take photos, throw rocks and enjoy the view. There are picnic tables and benches along the shore.
There is a little shop to get a snack.
There are washrooms with flush toilets near the parking lot.
There are boat tours but it was a chilly day with snow in the air so we didn't go on one.
Pretty place to see, and easy to keep your distance from others while here.
Written October 11, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you Moscato-Mama for stopping by Lake Minnewanka this past Thanksgiving. Glad you enjoyed your time here.
All the best,
Travis Mann
GM - Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Written October 20, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
ksufan88
Wichita, KS6,633 contributions
Jul 2022
Kara was our captain and Kanji was the guide that offered commentary. Kanji was a very entertaining guide, explaining how the native people could boil water using hot rocks. The 1 hour cruise consisted of cruising down the lake for 25 minutes, then drifting for about 10 minutes before returning to the dock. There were nice mountains around the lake, but the lake was not that exciting compared to others we had seen in this region of Canada.
Written July 31, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Westerner222
Calgary, Canada111 contributions
Aug 2022
The tour of the lake is only an hour long but is a peaceful ride and narrated by a guide with interesting history of the lake and area. Would like to come back and hire one of the guided fishing boats and catch one of those 40 pound lake trout. A gorgeous part of the park and worth taking the little trip away from Banff to see. Self guided small boats (9 hp) as well as canoes and paddleboards available to rent as well. Not much for food here.
Written August 19, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hansi
Gold Canyon, AZ1,374 contributions
Sep 2020
It’s large and it’s cold. The First Nation people called it “the lake of evil spirits”
It seems that whenever we visit this place, it evokes a feeling of coldness and mysterious surroundings. The drive to Lake Minnewanka is lovely, especially if you take the route via Two Jack Lake. Very worthwhile driving to.
It seems that whenever we visit this place, it evokes a feeling of coldness and mysterious surroundings. The drive to Lake Minnewanka is lovely, especially if you take the route via Two Jack Lake. Very worthwhile driving to.
Written September 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi RetinaOne, thanks for stopping by Lake of the Water Spirits, Lake Minnewanka. The drive up from Banff and the lake are both lovely, I agree. Hope you enjoyed your time in the National Park.
Regards,
Travis Mann
GM - Lake Minnewanka Cruise
Written September 5, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jacqui C
Sydney, Australia7 contributions
Oct 2024 • Couples
The boat cruise was a total waste of money. For C$90+ (incl tax), the boat takes you to the middle of the lake where the boat stays for about 20 mins and then it's time to head back to shore. The only "highlight" was the captain telling general knowledge and some history of the lake. It would have been more interesting if the boat had taken the passengers to a part of the lake shore and showed us interesting facts about the place.
Have never felt so ripped off.
Have never felt so ripped off.
Written October 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Close to lake have any bbq place
Or its allowed to bring own bbq machine
Written July 4, 2020
We're just travellers and have been to the lake many times, but we've never picnicked there. But it is a VERY busy place, especially with so many attractions closed, so parking is at a premium, and you'd have to go early to get any. Also, they have restricted the parking so that it is a good walk from any of the picnic tables and shelters. You'd have to haul any picnic gear a good distance, I think. But I don't know if the picnic tables there have their own bbq or not, sorry...
Written July 5, 2020
Hi what transport did you utilize to get to and from Banff to Lake Minnewanka as we are doing the beer cruise later this month and we all like a good beer hence no drivers.
thanks billy
Written August 1, 2019
Hey,
We actually drove to Lake Minnewanka.
However, there is a easy to catch roamer bus, that travels from downtown Banff to the lake, it is a return service so you can get back just as easy and with the lake being so close, it doesn't take long at all.
You can find more details online.
Hope you have a great time!
Sarah
Written August 1, 2019
A Tripadvisor member
Bonjour Michoudesbois, vous a coûtez combien les 3h de pêche?
Written July 22, 2019
Hola Venture06784609270 en nuestro caso pagamos US$ 100 por dos canoas durante 1 hora.
Written July 22, 2019
Hello, TJMorey, a question about motoboat OR family cruise boat, need your opinion. We are going to banff with 2 kids (8 and 5). For the stop on Minnerwanka Lake, which is better ?
Thanks.
Written May 31, 2019
I haven’t been on either but my parents enjoyed the cruise
Written June 3, 2019
May I know the timetable of the Lake Minnewanka boat cruise in June 2019, please?
Also is it better to book online via Viator or buy tickets at the Lake?
Written May 16, 2019
Hi! We're just travellers who've done the cruise a couple of times over the years. It's pricey but worth doing for sure. We found a "book now" link from the "Banff Jasper Collection" "Minnewanka" website, which we think is Brewster, which owns most of this type of attraction in the region. Whether to book in advance or just show up is a question. They have a few boats, all with indoor seating, so we can't imagine that they would be sold out on any particular day unless the Shriners are in. If the weather is horrible, it wouldn't be a bad rainy day option anyway... Depending on how you're getting around, if you're driving yourself, the loop via Johnson Lake and Two Jack Lake, and the Upper Bank former mine site is a highly scenic route in and of itself, with half a dozen worthwhile sights. With a boat ride, you could spend a complete day just in that area. Johnson Lake is a stunning short hike, a total wow if you have the time... You'll love this area!
Written May 18, 2019
Hi, I was just wondering how you get to Lake Minnewanka from Banff in the snow? We're going in March, is there a bus service available or is it only possible by cars? Thanks
Written January 15, 2019
Hi Emma,
We went via car, so not sure about public transport. The road was open even after a huge dumping of snow.
Written January 16, 2019
Lago Minewanka está muito próximo do centro de Banff. Tome a Banff Ave. Na direção oposta ao centro e vc chegará lá. É muito próximo da cidade, entre 5 e 10 minutos. Bom passeio.
Written October 8, 2018
hi,
how was the smoke condition and the visibility of mountains?
Written August 18, 2018
Same for us too. It’s three weeks ago now but it was really clear then. They did say it depended on wind direction but it hadn’t been a huge issue.
Written August 22, 2018
Olá!
Precisa pagar alguma taxa para acessar?
Tem estacionamento gratuito no local?
Obrigada!
Bianca
Written August 15, 2018
You need to have a park pass to navigate through the parks. Parking is free with the pass. However, difficult. Get there early or later in the day.
Written September 2, 2018
Juan V
Queretaro City, Mexico
Es recomendable comprar los tickets antes de ir al paseo o si se encuentran tickets en cualquier momento?
Written August 5, 2018
Hola,
No hecho el paseo por el lago, pero en el muelle hay una oficina que supongo vendan los tiquets...Los barcos no hiban muy llenos....En entrada estaban los guardias del los parques que daban la información sobre los diferentes lugares....Espero que te ayudado un poco,Saludos
Written August 6, 2018
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