Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive: A Comprehensive Travel Guide
Canada, north-america
13 km
1,537 m
moderate
Year-round
Hey fellow adventurers! If you're cruising around Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies, you absolutely HAVE to take the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive. Seriously, it's a total gem!
Just a hop, skip, and a jump from the town of Banff, Alberta, you'll find this paved loop road ready to whisk you away to the breathtaking Lake Minnewanka – or "Lake of the Spirits," as the Stoney Indians called it.
This 13km (8-mile) loop, also known as Lake Minnewanka Scenic Loop, starts and ends right off the Trans-Canada Highway. And while you could technically zip around it in 20-30 minutes, trust me, you'll want to budget way more time.
The highest point is at 1,537m (5,042ft), showcasing epic mountain views. The road is open year-round, though parts are closed November to April.
This drive is all about soaking up the scenery. You'll pass Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake, and of course, the stunning Lake Minnewanka. Plus, you'll even get a glimpse of the eerie ghost town of Bankhead.
Keep your eyes peeled, wildlife is abundant here, especially in the spring. Bighorn sheep love hanging out near the road, and you might spot elk, deer, foxes, wolves, coyotes, and maybe even a bear if you're super lucky! In the winter, it's a fantastic spot to catch the mesmerizing Northern Lights.
Where is it?
Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive: A Comprehensive Travel Guide is located in Canada (north-america). Coordinates: 57.2095, -105.9832
Road Details
- Country
- Canada
- Continent
- north-america
- Length
- 13 km
- Max Elevation
- 1,537 m
- Difficulty
- moderate
- Coordinates
- 57.2095, -105.9832
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