Canada is the second largest country in the world by land mass. However, a significant portion of this space is occupied by water bodies. There are over 30,000 lakes around Canada, and each has exciting features that draw attention. This guide will highlight six of the most stunning Canadian lakes you should see with your own eyes .
If you plan to tour Canada, ask your tour guide which of these lakes you can visit. You may even be lucky enough to see a few on your package. While these lakes are scattered around the many cities in Canada, you can easily shuttle between them especially by train. Check out reliable train schedules and affordable train tickets on canadatrains.com
1. Moraine Lake, Alberta
Located in the Banff National Park, anyone who has visited Moraine Lake will agree that it is one of the most stunning lakes in the world. Even though Canada boasts of hundreds of gorgeous lakes, Moraine lake is a world of beauty ahead of many others. Many people who have visited the lake rank it number one of the most stunning lakes they have seen. You will agree after seeing the lake in person.
The beauty of Moraine Lake comes from the reflection of light off the rock surrounding the lake. You can appreciate this beauty fully as you canoe across the water. Unfortunately, you cannot swim in Moraine Lake or fish there.
2. Lake Louise, Alberta
You can swap any of the top two lakes on this list, and you will be correct. Lake Louise is also located in the Banff National Park and is a pride of the country. Situated at the foot of Mount Victoria, the two attractions go hand in hand as postcards of Canadian natural beauty.
Everyday experiences en route to Lake Louise include hiking, mountain biking, and trekking. In addition, you can get boat rides when you get to the spot or engage in ice climbing. When you are ready to rest for the day, book a room at Fairmont Chateau Lake to enjoy a view of the lake from your room.
3. Lake Superior, Ontario
Visiting Lake Superior is an experience of a lifetime. The lake has a fitting name as it is superior to many others through its unique features. You can start getting amazed when you learn that it covers almost 32,000 square miles of space. You indeed cannot walk around it. However, you can enjoy the drive as your eyes feed on the cliffs, canyons, and waterfalls across the vast space expanse.
You can row across Lake Superior, but it is not an easy task. If you can do it, you will be part of a minority of tourists who have done so successfully. If you can’t, settle for a long road trip or fly-drive tour.
4. Emerald Lake, British Columbia
If you visit Emerald Lake once, you will understand why it is on many people’s bucket lists. The mesmerizing lake is the main attraction in Yoho national park, even with the President mountain range surrounding it. Get your camera ready to take amazing pictures as you follow the hiking trail on the edge. This is your best option if you visit during the winter when the lake is frozen. However, if you are feeling more adventurous, you can do some cross-country skiing across the frozen surface.
Tourists who visit during the summer or fall enjoy the best feature of the lake; its stunning emerald green color. Also, you can do some canoeing on the lake’s surface with the unfrozen lake.
5. Maligne Lake, Alberta
If you have ever seen a picture of Maligne Lake in Alberta, you will agree that it is beautiful. However, seeing it in person is a different experience entirely. The beautiful blue waters and surrounding glaciers will arrest your attention immediately. The peaks around the lake also add to the picturesque beauty nature photographers endlessly try to capture.
Everyday activities you can engage in at Maligne Lake include hiking and wildlife spotting. You can also take a boat to the nearby Spirit Island to spend some time. Just avoid getting too close to some of the wolves and bears in the area.
6. Garibaldi Lake, British Columbia
This list will not be complete without the stunning Garibaldi Lake. The turquoise color may be the first thing you notice or the natural structures around it. The snow-capped mountains, glaciers, and alpine meadows add to the views tourists marvel at while visiting the lake. Once you settle into the beautiful scenery before you, you can start exploring all the lake offers.
What Garibaldi Lake offers visitors include hiking along one of the walking trails, swimming, and canoeing. The hike can be challenging, but the view is worth the effort.
7. Spotted Lake, British Columbia
The uniqueness of the Spotted Lake puts it on our list of most stunning lakes in Canada. Located northwest of Osoyoos in British Columbia, the Spotted Lake has a whimsical look, featuring large polka dots speckling the water. Yes, you’re right; it derives its name from this feature. The lake is considered a sacred lake; possessing of healing powers especially to the natives of the Okanagan valley. More interestingly, the lake is said to be very concentrated with different minerals including magnesium sulfate, sodium sulfate, calcium and several others.
The lake has been designated as a protected area by the Canadian government and the indigenious communities, so public access near the river is restricted. However, you can catch a glimpse of the stunning view from afar, and be assured you won’t be any less wowed.
Canada boasts some of the most stunning lakes in the world, and this list cannot cover them all. However, seeing any of them in person will leave you with a memory you will cherish forever. So remember to take some pictures and print them as keepsakes.