When the sun’s shining, there’s nothing quite like taking a dip in a lake, basking on the shore, or just floating on the water with a cold drink in your hand.
Alberta is fortunate enough to have a ton of lakes where you can spend a gorgeous morning or afternoon – just be ready to take a hike to get to some of them.
Here are a handful of beautiful Alberta lakes you need to visit.
Glacial Lakes
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake/Shutterstock
Moraine Lake is a glacial fed lake, so like many other glacial fed lakes has exquisite turquoise colour and blue as the Caribbean ocean. This one is sure to take your breathe away.
- Where is it: Banff National Park
- Distance from Calgary: 196 km
Lake Louise
Lake Louise is not only a winter destination, as it is often known for ski hill, but the lake itself is worth the drive to see itself, and get lost in the bright blue colouring of the water.
- Where is it: Banff National Park
- Distance from Calgary: 182 km
Lake Minnewanka
Don’t just stay on the shore of this lake, Lake Minnewanka offers water tours for you to enjoy on a boat. You’ll learn the history of the lake and surrounding area from the tour guide while you float along this magical place.
- Where is it: Banff National Park
- Distance from Calgary: 128 km
Peyto Lake
You’re in for a treat while visiting Peyto Lake; in order to get to the lake you must pass by the ice fields. That in itself is an jaw dropping experience.
- Where is it: Banff National Park
- Distance from Calgary: 225 km
Swimming Lakes
Sylvan Lake
Sylvan Lake is the definition of fun. There is so much to do and see in this town. The lake is a hot spot in summer, and is great for swimming, paddle boarding, or boating.
- Where is it: Sylvan Lake
- Distance from Calgary: 159 km
Long Island Lake
It may be a four-hour trek, but the sandy beach, and lush foliage is worth the drive.
- Where is it: Westlock County
- Distance from Calgary: 425 km
Quarry Lake
Quarry Lake is more of a swimming hole than a traditional lake, but that allows for the water temperature to remain quite warm in comparison to its neighbour lakes that are glacial fed, and freezing cold! This makes for a great place to spend a hot day, and cool down.
- Where is it: Canmore
- Distance from Calgary: 104 km
Chestermere Lake
Proximity makes this lake a sure bet. It’s only a 20 minute drive from Calgary, so it’s perfect for those late afternoon, last minute decisions to enjoy some fun in the sun.
- Where is it: Chestermere
- Distance from Calgary: 22 km
Wherever you choose to go, escape to the calming flow of water, and allow it to work its blissful magic in rejuvenating your mind, body and soul.
Follow Channels and Categories