Awesome Alberta: Check out Medicine Lake before it disappears (PHOTOS)

Sep 2 2020, 5:00 pm

COVID-19 still presents a very real and dangerous threat to public health. While much of Alberta’s outdoors have been reopened to visitors, it is recommended to plan ahead, check local restrictions and current public health measures, and avoid any areas that may be too crowded. 

No, we’re not pulling your leg. You’ll only be able to see Medicine Lake in all of its glory during the summer because by October, all the water will vanish.

It’s not really even a lake, because all of the water comes from the water flowing in from Maligne Canyon. Once autumn hits, the water slowly floods out and the only thing that’s left is just a shallow stream.

Come summer, glacier-melt waters stream down the canyon to fill the lake once more.

See it while you still can; otherwise, you’ll have to wait until next summer.

For your own safety, please make sure you are prepared before heading out on your next adventure. Information on how to prepare for your trip and stay safe while on your hike is available from Albertaparks.ca and AdventureSmart. Parks Canada visitor guidelines are available here. Always remember to leave no trace, pack out what you pack in, stick to designated trails, and refrain from feeding wildlife — and please note that irresponsibly taken selfies (even if they look great for the ‘gram) can be fatal

 

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Where is it?

This lake is tucked away in Jasper National Park just east of the town of Jasper.

 

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How do you get there?

This one’s a bit of a doozy. The drive there is a little over five hours from Calgary. You’ll have to follow 6 Avenue SW and Bow Trail SW to Sarcee Trail SW. Continue driving on Trans-Canada Highway/AB-1 W and AB-93 N to Maligne Lake Road in Jasper.

Follow Maligne Lake Road for 23 minutes until you reach Improvement District No. 12 where the lake is located.

Those driving from Edmonton will be making a four hour trip west along Highway 16 before hopping on Maligne Lake Road in Jasper.

 

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What’s there?

The lake, because that’s what you came here for! Rent a boat out to go fishing for some rainbow and brook trout. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some other wildlife… Or simply sit back and enjoy the mountainous view, because it’s only here for a short time.

 

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Hilary LeungHilary Leung

+ Curated
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