Hiking around Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park

Hiking around Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park 

The trail head is located along the west shore of the lake next to the parking area at the far end of the picnic area. Usually you will find lots of people around the picnic area. There are several back country camp sites located around the lake along the trail. Permit is required one wants to camp overnight.

The total distance of the trail one way is 29.5 kms, which will take an approx estimated time of 10 hrs to hike. Elevation gain is 35m. The trail is well maintained by the park authorities making an excellent full day or half day hike depending on how far one wants to go. One needs to be aware that wild like is quite active around the lake and necessary precautions needs to be taken especially with bears. The north shore part of the trail is relatively flat. A hike to the Stewart Canyon can be completed in half a day. 

diving in Lake Minnewanka

 What makes diving interesting in Lake Minnewanka is that it has been dammed 3 times which makes it one of the best locations to dive in Alberta. There are several submerged buildings and artifacts you will find  at this site. There are two dams underwater the first one built in 1912 and the second one built in 1941 both sites within a short distance away from the newest dam.  You will find an old bridge,pump house, foundations of buildings, there is also a town site located mid-lake, because it is a dammed site, water depths can greatly vary. 

Lake Minnewanka Banff

Lake Minnewanka Banff

The Stoney name for the lake was Minnee-wah-kah: which means "lake where the spirits dwell". The cree knew it as Much-Manitou-sa-giagun:"teh devil's lake". A stoney legend tells of a creature-half fish, half human- that can move the lake waters at will. The stoneys would not canoe or swim in the lake.

Lake Minnewanka is a glacial lake, fed by Cascade river located in the eastern part of Banff National Park. It is about 5 kms from the town of Banff. It is the longest lake in the Canadian rockies 28 kms long and 142 m or 466 ft deep.

The lake is surrounded by Mount Pechee, Mount Girouard, Mount Inglismaldie which provide a perfect setting for a beautiful day out in the rockies. Hydroelectric dams were built which significantly changes the landscape of both the lake and the sourrounding areas.

Recreational  Activities 

This site is a recreational paradise in the summer. Popular among the locals with a wide array of activities possible throughout the year.  The natural setting amongst the mountains make it ideal for sightseeing with plenty of opportunities for photography or simply enjoy the lake minnewanka loop drive in the comfort of your vehicle 

The banks and trails around the lake are known to be frequented by big horn sheep, plenty of other wild life like bears, elk, coyote have also been frequently sighted. It is the only lake in the Park where a power boat can be launched. Fishing is a big draw. Boats are available for rent. There are boat tours conducted offered by private co.Plenty of sports for picnicking or designated areas for camping.

The lake is also a favorite for Hikers and Bikers.

 Getting There

From Banff, follow Banff Avenue cross the  Highway and drive for about 5 kilometres (3.4 miles) to the Lake Minnewanka parking area which is at the  west end of the lake.

Lake Minnewanka Fishing

Fishing in Lake Minnewanka

Fishing is a awesome outdoor activity for families or friends looking for a relaxing day away from everyday chores and cares. A day spent out in the fresh mountain air with  A fishing trip in Banff can be a great experience and worth the time, effort and money. It just not the fishing that’s the attraction. The beautiful mountains and serene waters of Banff National Park makes it a overall great experience. You will find in the lake e an abundance of lake trout and rocky mountain white fish. 

The lake is open from approx.  may 15 to Sept. 1 only – please check  at www.pc.ca, or call the Banff Park Office at (403)-762-1418 for accurate details. The best fishing conditions are when the water is clear on an overcast day

There are various option you can enjoy fishing at the lake. You can either hire a boat and go fishing on your own or do a charter with all the details taken care of by the guide. There are several companies that offer these services. Chartered fishing boats can take you out into deep waters. You can choose from half-day, full day or multi-day guided fishing trips, which include equipment, permits, transportation and meals.

The boat launch is from the southwest side of the lake. People have known to set up lines with a pickerel rig and a pair of large smelts for bait usually it works at a depth of 300 meters.

National park fishing license is required to fish in national parks. It is always a good idea to bring a camera you will have plenty of opportunities for a snap. Warm clothing is suggested depending on the weather. Be ready with rain gear if necessary with boots and hats.

Following companies provide fishing charter services

http://www.explorerockies.com

http://www.banff-fishing.com