The Lakes of Banff - A Banff Photography Guide
I am so grateful to be surrounded by so many beautiful bodies of water here in Banff. From the iconic Lake Louise to smaller gems like Two Jack Lake - Banff National Park is home to over 30 lakes, each with their own story to tell. Whether you’re choosing a location for your session with Banff Photography, or simply planning your Banff itinerary - this guide will tell you everything you need to know about the lakes of Banff.
Lake Louise
You are likely already well acquainted with the Jewel of the Rockies - Lake Louise. Iconic turquoise waters surrounded by pine forests and towering mountains including the famous Mount Victoria standing tall to the Northeast of Lake Louise and known for its distinct pyramid shape. To the southwest of Lake Louise lies Fairview Mountain, a popular hiking destination whose summit provides a commanding vista of Lake Louise, the Chateau Lake Louise, and the surrounding terrain. Lake Louise is by far the most popular of the Banff Lakes for travellers near and far. Rent a canoe and paddle this beautiful lake in the summer, skate across the frozen waters in the winter, or just find a spot to hangout any time of the year and take it all in.
Emerald Lake
Located in Yoho National Park, just across the provincial border from Banff in Alberta, Emerald Lake offers yet another breathtaking place for locals, travellers, adventure-seekers and photographers to explore and enjoy. Only an hour from Downtown Banff and twenty minutes from Lake Louise, Emerald Lake is easily accessible from the TransCanada highway with a family-friendly walking trail Surrounded by the Presidential Range mountains, Emerald Lake is at it’s peak during the summer when the melting glaciers deposit a rock flour into the lake, causing the light to refract the brilliant green and blue hues the lake was named after. If you’re booking your session with Banff Photography, plan to visit Emerald Lake early in the morning or just before sunset in July and August for ideal conditions for your photoshoot.
Two Jack Lake
As one of the smaller gems of Banff, and my personal favourite - Two Jack Lake offers a more serene and secluded experience compared to the busy Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Tucked away on the eastern outskirts of the town of Banff, Two Jack Lake’s crystal-clear waters, pine forests and breathtaking backdrop of Mount Rundle make for the perfect spot to picnic, paddle-board, or you know - plan a surprise proposal with Banff Photography. Located only short 15 minute drive from the Banff town centre, Two Jack is a must on your Banff itinerary if you have a couple of hours to spare and want a slightly less busy spot to take in the Canadian Rockies.
Vermillion Lakes
The Vermillion Lakes are another series of stunning lakes here in Banff that are fed by the famous Bow River. Like Two Jack, they offer a breathtaking view of Mount Rundle. The lakes are surrounded by marches teeming with Canadian wildlife, which can easily be spotted during a leisurely paddle. Also renowned for their rich birdlife, the Vermillion Lakes are a popular destination for birdwatchers. As one of the quieter lake series in Banff, Vermillion is the perfect stop on your way if you’re looking to skip some crowds and catch some of the most beautiful sunrises and sunsets in the Canadian Rockies.
Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff, and full of magic! With thousands of years of history, this 21km long glacial lake is a must if you’re visiting Banff. Only a 10 minute drive from the Banff town centre, Lake Minnewanka is the perfect destination year round to enjoy classic Canadian activities, from canoeing in the summer to ice-skating in the winter. There are also plenty of walking trails looping around Minnewanka, giving you the best views of the surrounding mountain range - Mount Inglismaldie on the northeastern shore, Mount Alymer to the east, and Cascade Mountain which can be seen to the south east.
