Lake Minnewanka: Day Trips and Tours from Banff

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, just a short drive away from Banff town, lies the breathtaking Lake Minnewanka.

This stunning glacial lake spans 22 square kilometers and boasts crystal-clear waters, stunning mountain views and a vibrant ecosystem teeming with wildlife.

Its rich history can be traced back to the First Nations people who have been using the area for thousands of years.

In summer, Lake Minnewanka is a mecca for outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, cruises, fishing, and canoeing on the lake. And in winter, it transforms into one of the world's most spectacular natural ice skating rinks!

The picturesque area also plays host to abundant wildlife, including bighorn sheep, elk and birds of prey; while its serene shoreline offers breathtaking sunsets and picturesque views of the surrounding mountains.

With its natural beauty and endless opportunities for adventure, Lake Minnewanka Day Trips from Banff — especially those which include lake cruises — are becoming more and more popular for tourists from near and far.

Here's all you need to know about Lake Minnewanka, one of the most exciting day trips from Banff.

How to get to Lake Minnewanka From Banff?

Lake Minnewanka is located in Banff National Park, in the province of Alberta, Canada. More specifically, it is situated about 8 kilometers (5 miles) northeast of the town of Banff, along the Minnewanka Loop.

Sitting in the shadows of Mount Girouard and Mount Costigan, it is the largest lake in Banff National Park, stretching over 21 kilometers in length and reaching depths of up to 142 meters (466 feet).

From Banff to Lake Minnewanka by car

To get to Lake Minnewanka from Banff, you can take the Banff Avenue and follow it to the east end of Banff town.

Then turn right onto Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive and follow it for about 8 miles until you reach the lake. The entire drive is easy and takes about 15-20 minutes.

From Banff to Lake Minnewanka by bus/public transport

If you don't have a car, there is also a Roam Route 6 shuttle service that runs between Banff and Lake Minnewanka during the summer months.

Operating every day, the service leaves downtown Banff about every 35 minutes and takes roughly 25 minutes to reach the lake.

Guided tour to Lake Minnewanka From Banff

The most straightforward and hassle-free option, however, is to join a guided tour from Banff. This way you don't have to worry about navigating the roads and can sit back and enjoy the scenery while your guide takes care of all the details.

These tours typically include pickup right in downtown Banff, as well as a boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka with a knowledgeable guide.

What is the typical itinerary?

Depending on your guided tour of choice, Lake Minnewanka day tours from Banff typically start with a pickup in downtown Banff. Once everyone is aboard the vehicle, your guide will drive you to the lake where you can begin your adventure.

Along the way, you'll hear stories about the area's history and culture, as well as get to enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding mountains – sometimes stopping at a lookout or two en route as well.

Once you reach Lake Minnewanka, most tours will include a boat cruise across the lake with a knowledgeable guide who can point out various sights along the way. During this time, keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife such as bighorn sheep and bald eagles.

After the boat ride, you can explore the area further by taking a leisurely stroll along one of the several hiking trails that line Lake Minnewanka's shoreline, or head to well-known local landmarks like Surprise Corner for some photogenic views of Cascade Mountain before heading back to Banff.

Some tours are much longer and combine Lake Minnewanka with other attractions in the area, such as Johnston Canyon or the Banff Hot Springs. On these full-day tours, you'll have plenty of time to explore the area and take in all the sights and sounds.

No matter what kind of tour you choose, Lake Minnewanka Day Trips from Banff are sure to be a memorable experience! After all the sightseeing is done, you'll be escorted back to Banff where your day trip will come to an end.

What kinds of tours are available to go to Lake Minnewanka?

There are several types of tours available to visit Lake Minnewanka from Banff — some are shorter, focusing on just the Lake itself, while others are longer, combining other nearby attractions as well.

Often, you'll have the option to join a small group tour, where you'll meet other travelers and explore the area together, or you can opt for a private tour that provides more flexibility as far as what sights you'd like to see.

If you can't see a private option online, simply contact the tour operator directly and they'll likely be able to customize an experience that meets your needs.

Tours are also available in both summer and winter seasons — although some activities may be limited due to weather conditions. The most popular tours are listed in detail below.

Guided boat cruise on Lake Minnewanka from Banff

Short and sweet, lasting about an hour, this tour is perfect for those who want to experience the lake by boat.

You'll be picked up from downtown Banff, taken to Lake Minnewanka and then board a vessel that will float you down the turquoise-hued lake in comfort — it's the ideal vantage point for the towering mountains and abundant wildlife.

An undisputed highlight is Devil's Gap, which reveals a stunning canyon view.

As you cruise around on the lake, you'll learn about the area's history and culture — which is heavily intertwined with indigenous heritage — from your knowledgeable guide, who'll point out all the best spots to keep an eye out for wildlife.

Full-day guided tour of Johnston Canyon, Lake Minnewanka and the Banff Hot Springs

Offering the perfect highlight reel of this stunning region, this tour is the perfect choice for those who want to explore it all.

After pickup from Banff, you'll drive to Two Jack Lake — an area known for its bighorn sheep — and admire the stunning vistas it presents.

From there, it's onwards to Lake  Minnewanka. In summer, you can board a boat for an hour-long cruise; in winter, you can see the rare phenomena of icy bubbles.

After the lake tour, you'll head to Johnston Canyon — one of the most popular hikes in the area. Here, you'll get up close and personal with the canyon’s magnificent waterfalls while your guide points out interesting facts about their formation over time.

Then, after about an hour's worth of free time in Banff, you'll be escorted to the Upper Hot Springs, where you can spend the remainder of your day soaking in the natural warm baths and admiring the incredible mountain views.

This tour is generally run in winter, however, summer alternatives do often pop up.

How much does a day trip to Lake Minnewanka from Banff cost?

The price of a day trip to Lake Minnewanka from Banff varies depending on the type of tour you choose.

Generally speaking, shorter tours range in price from US$40 - US$50 per person, while full-day tours can cost up to around US$100 per person.

When available, private tours tend to be more expensive than group options; however, they offer more flexibility when it comes to customizing your itinerary.

What will you see and do?

On day trips to Lake Minnewanka from Banff, you'll have the opportunity to explore some of Canada's most beautiful scenery.

Depending on the tour you choose, you may be able to take a guided boat cruise around the lake and admire its stunning turquoise-hued waters framed by towering mountains.

While on the water, you'll pass by Devil's Gap, which offers spectacular panoramic views, as well as be able to spot some of the abundant wildlife that inhabits its shores.

If you opt for a combination tour that lasts around 7-8 hours, you'll visit a handful of extra places in the area. Some of the most common are listed below

Johnston Canyon

Known as being home to some of the most picturesque waterfalls in all of Canada, Johnston Canyon is a must-visit spot.

The area's main trail cuts through woods and along cantilevered walkways, revealing unique rock formations, cascading waterfalls and a range of wildlife.

The canyon is accessible year-round as it's possible to trek in the winter to see frozen waterfalls.

Two Jack Lake

Located just a short drive from Banff, this area is known for being home to bighorn sheep — so keep an eye out as you take in the jaw-dropping views of the surrounding mountains!

Banff Upper Hot Springs

These hot springs have been attracting visitors to the area since the late 19th century. The baths offer a relaxing way to end your day trip and admire the stunning views of Mount Rundle, which rises majestically in the distance.

What are the opening times?

The lake itself never closes, however, cruises are generally only offered between 10 AM and 6 PM, during the summer and fall.

When is the best time to visit Lake Minnewanka?

The best time to visit Lake Minnewanka for a day trip from Banff depends on what activities you're looking to do.

For boat cruises and swimming, the summer months are ideal; however, if you'd like to explore Johnston Canyon in winter or take advantage of the Upper Hot Springs' natural thermal baths, then visiting during autumn and winter may be more suitable.

Either way, you're guaranteed to be captivated by the lake's stunning beauty.

Travel tips

• Book your tour and tickets in advance to guarantee availability at the best price.
• Wear comfortable shoes for exploring, as many of the trails are rocky.
• Don't forget to bring a camera — Lake Minnewanka is a photographer's dream!
• Bring layers of clothing so you can adjust to the changing temperatures in the area.