Lake Minnewanka
A 21-km mountain lake just outside the Banff townsite.
About Lake Minnewanka
At about 21 km long and 142 m deep, Lake Minnewanka is one of the largest lakes in the Rockies' mountain parks. A short scenic drive from Banff leads to boat cruises, lakeshore trails, picnic areas and frequent bighorn sheep sightings.
A brief history
A small dam was first built in 1912 to store water. In 1941, during the Second World War, a much larger dam raised the lake by about 30 m and submerged the resort village of Minnewanka Landing, which had stood there since 1888. Its remains are now a well-known dive site.
RV tips
- The Minnewanka loop road is narrow in places, and parking at the lake fills on summer weekends. Smaller rigs or the tow vehicle work best.
- Check Parks Canada for seasonal road closures.
- Bighorn sheep often stand on the road. Never feed them.
Before you go: Hours, road conditions, campground availability, passes and fire bans change. Check the official source below, 511 Alberta and Alberta Fire Bans before you travel. National parks need a Parks Canada pass, and Kananaskis needs a Conservation Pass.
Campgrounds nearby
- Two Jack Main (Parks Canada, typical about $30/night)
- Two Jack Lakeside (Parks Canada, typical about $34/night)
Costs are approximate (checked October 2026). All Alberta campgrounds →
Sources & more information
Related trip planning: Alberta RV routes · Pre-trip checklist · Crown land camping