The second largest country globally, Canada is celebrated for its natural splendor and extensive outdoor activities. It contains eight unique forest regions, two mountain ranges, volcanoes, and the arctic zone. Moreover, Canada possesses the highest concentration of freshwater lakes worldwide, distributed throughout all ten provinces and three territories.
It is estimated that Canada is home to over 2 million lakes, with 31,752 of these exceeding three square kilometers in size. Notably, 561 lakes boast a surface area greater than 100 square kilometers. Indeed, over nine percent of Canada’s land area is dedicated to freshwater, which amounts to more than 890,000 square kilometers! Considering the vast number of lakes, determining the most exceptional becomes quite a challenge. However, some lakes stand out even more than others. Here is our selection of the 15 most remarkable lakes in Canada.
1. Lake Louise; Banff National Park, Alberta
One has not truly experienced Canadian lakes until visiting Lake Louise. This glacial lake, although small, astounds with its emerald-green water and breathtaking surrounding peaks.
Situated at the base of Mount Victoria at an elevation of 1,750 meters, Lake Louise is one of Banff National Park’s key attractions, not just for its scenic beauty, but also for various outdoor pursuits including hiking, mountain biking, boating, ice climbing, and ice fishing.
At the eastern shore lies the elegant Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, one of Canada’s notable railway hotels. Additionally, the lake is conveniently located near the Lake Louise Ski Area, which is among the three major ski regions within the national park and the initial stop on the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup.
2. Garibaldi Lake; Garibaldi Provincial Park, British Columbia
This turquoise-hued alpine lake is nestled within Garibaldi Provincial Park at an elevation of 1,484 meters. The striking lake is almost entirely encircled by mountains, their reflections visible in the lake’s mirror-like surface.
Garibaldi Lake spans over 990 hectares between Whistler and Squamish. Access requires hiking along the nearly nine-kilometer Garibaldi Lake Trail.
In winter, visitors can engage in backcountry skiing or snowshoeing, all while marveling at the lake’s beauty. During other seasons, hiking is popular, allowing one to enjoy the meadows, flowers, and waterfalls.
3. Moraine Lake; Banff National Park, Alberta
While Lake Louise often receives more focus, Moraine Lake in Banff National Park is equally captivating. This picturesque glacial-fed lake resides in the Valley of the Ten Peaks at an elevation exceeding 1,880 meters.
This lake may be recognizable from advertisements, video games, or even login screens, yet such representations scarcely capture its true allure. It is arguably one of the most photographed lakes across Canada.
Surrounding the lake are various walking trails that present spectacular vistas of both the lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks beyond. Moreover, it serves as the trailhead for the Perren Route, a challenging eight to ten-hour trek to the Neil Colgan Hut.
4. Emerald Lake; Yoho National Park, British Columbia
Emerald Lake stands as the largest among the 61 lakes in Yoho National Park and is recognized as the finest of them all. This stunning emerald-green lake is entirely encircled by the majestic mountains of the President Range, situated at an elevation exceeding 1,200 meters.
The lake is a premier attraction in Yoho National Park, offering opportunities for canoeing, hiking, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. Notably, it is easily accessible by vehicle, despite being in a remote location.
Frozen from November to June, it reaches its peak beauty in July when the surrounding snow melts into the lake. Regardless of the season, visitors to Emerald Lake will be thoroughly impressed.
5. Spotted Lake; British Columbia
Spotted Lake is a natural phenomenon that becomes apparent during the summer months when evaporation leaves behind distinct spots of mineral deposits. This unique sight is only observable during summer, the prime time to appreciate its magnificence.
As summer progresses, the size and locations of the spots evolve, and their colors change in response to increased evaporation.
Located in the Similkameen Valley near the arid town of Osoyoos, the lake is accessible via road (Highway 3). It is protected by a fence due to its cultural and ecological significance, although visitors can still capture photographs from a distance.
6. Abraham Lake; Alberta
Situated in Alberta along the North Saskatchewan River, Abraham Lake is an artificial lake formed in 1972 by the Bighorn Dam. It lies in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains at an elevation of 1,340 meters.
Although modest in size, the lake captivates with its deep blue hue, a result of the rock flour generated by the mountains.
A key reason to visit Abraham Lake is to witness the formation of frozen bubbles beneath its icy surface during winter months. This remarkable natural occurrence arises from decaying plants in the lake that release methane gas, forming bubbles that become trapped under the ice.
7. Lake Superior; Ontario
The largest of North America’s Great Lakes, Lake Superior is renowned as the world’s largest freshwater lake. Its immense size is such that some countries are smaller than this lake.
Shared with the United States, one of Lake Superior’s primary attractions is found on the Canadian side: the Lake Superior Provincial Park. This park, located along the northeastern shores of the lake, is home to the famous Agawa pictograph, 11 hiking trails, and three campgrounds.
Although it is not feasible to walk the 2,783-kilometer shoreline, driving along the Great Lakes Circle Tour scenic route is highly recommended. This route provides excellent opportunities to appreciate the cliffs, canyons, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife surrounding the lake.
8. Great Slave Lake; Northwest Territories
As the deepest lake in North America, Great Slave Lake should be a priority on any travel itinerary, especially when visiting the Northwest Territories. This lake carries a rich cultural history that extends over 8,000 years and remains a vital aspect of the local communities’ lives today.
The capital city of Yellowknife extends along the lake’s shores, as do several Indigenous communities. This lake represents a blend of rich culture and untouched wilderness that offers unparalleled views of the aurora borealis.
For eight months each year, Great Slave Lake becomes isolated from the outside world, although visitors can partake in snowmobile tours across its surface. In the summer, activities like kayaking and fishing are popular.
9. Maligne Lake; Jasper National Park, Alberta
This magnificent lake features striking azure-blue waters, a defining characteristic that attracts attention, along with its remarkable surrounding peaks, three glaciers, and charming Spirit Island.
Maligne Lake is conveniently reached by road, with numerous shuttle services operating from the nearby town of Jasper. It is also accessible via a 44-kilometer hike along the Skyline Trail, which connects the town to the lake.
The lake houses two registered historic buildings and three camping sites that can be reached only by canoe. From spring to autumn, boats transport visitors to the iconic Spirit Island.
10. Peyto Lake; Banff National Park, Alberta
Peyto Lake, another glacier-fed jewel, is located within Banff National Park at an elevation of 1,860 meters above sea level. While only 530 hectares in size, its beauty is indeed remarkable.
Though situated at a high elevation, access is convenient via the Icefields Parkway, a scenic drive that showcases the stunning vistas of the lake as well as viewpoints like Bow Summit.
The viewpoint provides a trail leading down to the lake alongside another that ascends further to reveal even more breathtaking views.
11. Lake Memphremagog; Quebec
Formed by ancient glaciers, Lake Memphremagog is a magnificent lake straddling the border between Quebec and the U.S. state of Vermont, with about 73 percent located in Quebec. The name derives from an Algonquin term meaning “where there is a big expanse of water.”
The scenic beauty of Lake Memphremagog is enriched by the rolling hills to the east and rugged mountains to the west. The area is also home to 21 islands, 15 of which are situated in Canada.
It is common to observe yachts of various sizes sailing across the water, particularly since summer day excursions commenced in 2011. Furthermore, the Sargent’s Bay Yacht Club, a children’s sailing club, is located along its shores.
12. Berg Lake; Mount Robson Provincial Park, British Columbia
Berg Lake is a remarkable sight, positioned directly in front of Canada’s highest peak, Mount Robson. The stunning turquoise lake benefits from glacial feeds and is surrounded by impressive icebergs, even during summer.
The journey to Berg Lake is equally mesmerizing, traversing through the spectacular Valley of a Thousand Waterfalls.
Accessing Berg Lake requires a hike along the 19-kilometer Berg Lake Trail that begins at a parking area and follows the Robson River. Campsites are available along the route.
13. Kootenay Lake; British Columbia
Kootenay Lake, a part of the Kootenay River, resides between the Purcell and Selkirk mountain ranges, contributing to its serene environment. Notably, much of its 145-kilometer shoreline remains undeveloped, enhancing its natural charm.
This lake ranks among British Columbia’s largest and was formed through river and glacier erosion. Presently, it is rich in biodiversity, supporting seven fish species including rainbow trout, white sturgeon, kokanee salmon, and mountain whitefish.
The Kootenay Lake Ferry operates year-round, crossing between Kootenay Bay and Balfour, accommodating a maximum of 80 vehicles and 250 passengers. This ferry service is notably the longest free scenic ferry in the world.
14. Lake Ontario; Ontario
Lake Ontario serves as a vital source of drinking water for over nine million individuals in both Ontario and the U.S. state of New York. Additionally, it is a picturesque lake adorned with cliffs, beaches, and urban centers.
This lake not only showcases stunning landscapes (especially with the Toronto skyline in view) but also provides opportunities for activities such as paddleboarding, windsurfing, and canoeing. Furthermore, it ranks among the largest lakes globally.
Lake Ontario is rich in freshwater biodiversity, housing numerous species of animals both within and around its waters, in addition to the diverse flora and fauna in its vicinity.
15. Kluane Lake; Yukon
Located at an elevation of 781 meters near Kluane National Park, Kluane Lake is a glacial-fed lake renowned for its striking turquoise color, mirroring the surrounding mountains.
The lake is particularly noted for its fishing opportunities, especially for lake trout and whitefish. Additionally, the Aishihik and Kluane caribou herds migrate near the lake’s perimeter.
The Alaska Highway runs alongside most of Kluane Lake’s southern shore, providing spectacular views of the lake and its surrounding landscape.
