Lake Minnewanka

The waters are deep at Lake Minnewanka in Banff National Park. So is the history. The Stoney people called it Minni-waki, meaning Lake of the Spirits. Archeological sites on the lakeshore have turned up artifacts that are 14,000 years old. Today, Lake Minnewanka is a popular spot for visitors to the park. It’s a place of startling beauty with great views and many trails to explore. Visitors can take a cruise to get out on the water or rent a canoe at the boathouse. The lake is also popular with anglers who come in search of the big lake trout that the lake is famous for. Lake Minnewanka is also a great spot for scuba diving. The lake’s cool waters preserve a sunken city that was submerged in 1941 when a dam raised the level of the lake by 30 m (100 ft). If you prefer to stay on dry land, hit the lakeshore trail that leads to picturesque Stewart Canyon.