Lake Minnewanka & Stewart Canyon

Lake Minnewanka and Stewart Canyon Trail near Banff Alberta

Getting here

From Banff it is a 15 min drive. You will take Banff Ave North out of town, this road will lead you right to the parking lot. It will be on you left hand side. Be early as it does get full.

If you are coming from Jasper or Canmore you will get off on Banff Ave and head North.

What to bring

This is nature so make sure to bring your bug spray. As always, make sure if you are planning on doing the trails that you bring your bear spray. Sunscreen is a must. Also bring water. There is a small food stand here if you want to get a coffee, water or snacks. More on that below.

Lake Minnewanka History

For more than 100 centuries people hunted and camped this area. The Nakoda People (the Stoney people) called it “Minn-Waki” meaning Water of the Spirits. Multiple dams were put in back in 1912 and 1941. This raised the lake by 98 feet and put an entire town underwater.

This is a great area for day activities. This is one of 2 lakes that allow motorized boats in the National Park. There is great diving here with amazing sites such as the old town of Minnewanka. You can take a boat tour or rent a kayak. Or you can a hike on some of the many trails here.

Stewart Canyon Trail

Stewart Canyon trail is the smaller of the trails here and very easy to do. Only 3km round trip, this trail will take you about 2 hours to do. It is a high traffic trail with little incline. There are many lookout points along the way. The trail starts in a day camp area and makes its way into the forest. This trail is perfectly groomed and great for those not in the greatest of shape. As you make your way along the path you will be going from lush forest to stunning views of the lake. As you get closer to the bridge you will find yourself along the Cascade River.

If you are planning to go further please note you must be in a group of 4 or more to hike on the other side of the bridge.

Lake Minnewanka Trail

As I said before, you must be in a group of 4 to continue on the trail past Stewart Canyon

The Lake Minnewanka trail is a long one at 57 km in and out. With an elevation of 1346m. It starts off at the marina and takes you around the north side of the lake. This trail also branches out to other trails. Be sure to check out AllTrails.com for all the information.

I wasn’t able to do this trail on my trip but the reviews are amazing and the top comments are that the views are stunning.

Other trails to check out

Aylmer Lookout trail – 11.8km one way. This trail will take you to amazing views of Lake Minnewanka and the surrounding mountains.
Aylmer Pass – 13.5km one way. This trail leads you to wide open meadows of wildflowers and views of Palliser

Looking for more trails to explore around Banff? Check out Top Hiking Trails Around Banff

Top viewing spots

views — There not a spot you can go to around Lake Minnewanka that doesn’t have an amazing view. Here are a couple spots where you can just sit and take it all in. As you make your way along the north shore you will see a rock pile and small island sticking out. The second is along the trail to Stewart Canyon. Just before you get to the mouth of the river on the right side you will see a small pier like formation sticking out.

Don’t forget your snacks!

On your way in or out make sure to take a break. Head over to Black Anchor and get yourself a brownie and hot chocolate. Take your treats and head down to the water. There is no better time to just sit back, relax, and take it all in.

Read : The ultimate guide to Banff