Top 10 Must-see Lakes of the Canadian Rockies

The Canadian Rockies are home to some of the world's most breathtaking views. Filled with towering mountains and incredible waterfalls, there’s no shortage of stunning landscapes. It's also home to some of the most gorgeous lakes, each offering a unique blend of natural beauty and tranquility. These lakes showcase the awe-inspiring beauty of nature in its purest form, certain to leave an unforgettable mark on your heart and soul. From the iconic Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Alberta to the gems of Emerald Lake, and Lake O'Hara in B.C., I’ll cover my top 10 lakes in the Canadian Rockies. All of the below lakes can be accessed within Banff, Jasper, and Yoho National Parks.

1. Moraine Lake, Banff National Park

Located within the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake a.k.a Jewel of the Rockies is world-renowned for its mesmerizing blue waters complimented by beautiful picturesque mountains. The towering peaks reflected in the glass-like surface of the lake create a scene like it was made for an ideal landscape photography setting. It’s also surrounded by hiking trails and opportunities to explore further, granting access to breathtaking viewpoints. Be sure to take a canoe and enjoy the view from a little bit closer than the shores.

For more information and how and when to photograph at Moraine Lake, you can read further here.

Moraine lake storm — Moraine Lake with storm clouds passing through

2. Lake Louise, Banff National Park

Lake Louise is an icon of the Canadian Rockies. Surrounded by soaring mountains and crowned by the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel, this blue-green lake captivates visitors with its near-picture-perfect scenery. The hiking trails here add to the special aura of this location, with trails to the nearby tea house, or even higher to provide an almost over-the-top view of the special place. Not to mention the opportunity to take a relaxing canoe ride that you’ll wish never ended.

3. Maligne Lake, Jasper National Park

Maligne Lake is the largest natural lake in the Canadian Rockies. With dense forests and towering peaks, it offers a serene therapeutic escape. You can take a boat tour to Spirit Island, a world-renowned tiny islet nestled in the lake's pristine waters. But best visited by canoe, for the more adventurous types.

For more information and how and when to visit Spirit Island, Maligne Lake, you can read further here.

Spirit Island Jasper Maligne Lake — Spirit Island, on Maligne Lake

4. Emerald Lake, Yoho National Park

Within Yoho National Park, Emerald Lake lives up to its name with its lovely emerald-green calm and still waters. As you stroll along the lakeside trail, you'll be immersed in a landscape adorned with old forests and the presence of the surrounding mountains. A lodge lies within the lake, almost at its center, that can be used as a subject of interest in your photos. Canoeing on the calm waters of Emerald Lake is a popular activity, providing a unique perspective of this natural gem.

5. Lake Minnewanka, Banff National Park

Lake Minnewanka is the largest lake in Banff National Park. The size and depth complimented by the mountains make this a location you can spend all day navigating and photographing. It’s frequented by boaters, photographers, families for its picnic areas, and general tourists.

What makes this lake extra special is its lovely views facing North, which means on clear sky night you’ll have to opportunity to capture some lovely Astrophotography including star trails around Polaris, and, if you’re really lucky, the Northern Lights! For more information on stargazing and astrophotography at Banff National Park, you can read more here.

Northern Lights, Aurora Borealis at Lake Minnewanka

6. Peyto Lake, Banff National Park

Along the Icefields Parkway and a short hike from the designated parking lot is Peyto Lake, a natural masterpiece. The vibrant blue color of the lake, caused by glacial rock flour, contrasts dramatically against the rugged mountain backdrop. The panoramic viewpoint offers a bird's-eye view of the lake, which resembles the shape of a coyote or dog. Note that while the view is incredible, access to the shores of the lake is not available.

7. Lake O’Hara, Yoho National Park

Lake O’Hara is located in B.C. and is a highly desired spot for camping (with limited availability) and regular day visitors, who utilize the shuttle service available to book on the Parks Canada website. The lake is known for its crystal-clear waters surrounded by a ring of rugged mountains and alpine meadows. The area allows for a peaceful connection with nature. Be sure to venture on the hiking trails, some of which take you high above that provide a bird’s-eye view of the gorgeous scenery.

8. Bow Lake, Banff National Park

Conveniently located right off the Icefields Parkway is Bow Lake, which is known for its breathtaking scenery and is considered part of one of the most beautiful drives in the world. The crystal-clear waters of the lake, typical of most of the lakes in the Canadian Rockies, are surrounded by mountains that give you several options whether you’re photographing at sunrise or sunset. It’s also a great area to have a picnic, sit by the shores to relax, or for a short stroll in the area. But, I cannot say enough about the photography opportunities. The bridge, plants, and occasional wildlife in addition to the mountains and lake make this area another place you can spend all day enjoying.

9. Pyramid Lake, Jasper National Park

Pyramid Lake lies in front of the iconic Pyramid Mountain making it another picturesque location for landscape photography. It’s easily accessible off the roadside. Many options are available for your frames from boat docks, a small resort, and even the popular Pyramid Island, which is accessible by a small pedestrian bridge. Facing North, you’ll have nightscape photography options too with star trails around Polaris and the Northern Lights so keep an eye out for the aurora forecast. I highly recommend planning your night shoots when the moon is out as it will illuminate the peaks of Pyramid Mountain. This is the case at sunrise as well, as the glow of the sun amazingly lights up Pyramid Mountain. If photography really isn’t your thing, not to worry. Simply enjoy the view from a picnic site or sitting on the docks makes the visit here well worth it.

10. Vermillion Lakes, Banff National Park

Vermilion Lakes is comprised of three interconnected lakes, each offering its distinct flavour of natural beauty. These lakes are a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and photographers, and a short distance from the town of Banff. The area offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains, including Mount Rundle and Sulphur Mountain. The calm waters of the lakes often reflect the mountains, creating stunning mirror-like reflections, especially during sunrise and sunset. The wetlands and marshy areas around Vermilion Lakes attract a diverse range of wildlife as well from a variety of bird species, including ducks, geese, herons, and more. Mammals like elk, deer, and muskrats are also commonly seen in the vicinity. Just be sure to pack bug spray in the warmer months!

With so much to see and experience in the Canadian Rockies, it’s easy to make a bucket list and cross off every place you visit. But for a real serene experience, I recommend dedicating at least a day to each of the above. Ideally, more to experience the different weather conditions, etc., and how they affect the mood and visuals of the environment. This will increase your chances of getting a print-worthy photograph as well.

Enjoy!