Lake Minnewanka

For well over 10,000 years, the deep waters of Lake Minnewanka have held the respect and high regard of those who have visited and lived upon its wild shores. Known to the Stoney Nakoda First Nations people as Minn-waki or “Lake of the Spirits,” the lakeshore holds archeological sites with documented artifacts from as long as 14,000 years ago.

Learn about the human and natural history of the lake on a cruise or simply explore by foot along the lakeshore trail that leads to Stewart Canyon, impeccably carved by the Cascade River that flows into the lake.

Parks Canada is taking steps to help care for some of Banff National Park’s most sensitive bodies of water. To protect Lake Minnewanka, fishing with waders or wading boots as well as paddling and large inflatables are prohibited. Additionally, all motorized watercrafts must have a Park Canada Inspection prior to launching. For more information, visit the Parks Canada website.