Lake Minnewanka

The Stoney indigenous people who once inhabited the shores of this lake believed it was home to spirits. They called it "Lake Minnewanka": literally "Lake of the Spirits". It was later christened "Devil's Lake" by early European settlers. Despite these slightly eerie names, Lake Minnewanka is an idyllic spot and hugely popular for hiking, fishing, boating, picnicking and even scuba diving.

From Banff, head northeast there's a car park and picnic area just five kilometres from the town. In the summer months it's best to get here early, as parking spaces and shaded picnic tables go fast. If you're looking to book a boat tour or fishing trip you can do so on the day from one of the many tour companies based at the car park. Spend the day fishing for trout or taking snaps of the mountain scenery from the lake.

There are some incredible sights below the surface of the water too. More than 120 years ago, a town was established on the shores of Lake Minnewanka to cater for the tourist trade. Following the building of a dam in the 1940s, Minnewanka Landing was swallowed up by the lake, and the remains of its hotels, restaurants and quays now make it a popular destination for scuba-divers.

At 28-kilometres long and 142 metres at its deepest point, Lake Minnewanka is Banff National Park's largest lake. A great way to appreciate its scenery is to hire a bike in town and ride the 25-kilometre loop around the lake.

There are hiking trails of varying lengths for all abilities, but always hike with a buddy as there are bears in the area. You should hopefully spot some of the area's other wildlife, as Lake Minnewanka is also home to eagles, deer and mountain sheep.

If you're keen to do some wildlife photography, you're better off coming in winter the lake will have frozen over and many amenities will be closed, but without all the tourists, the animals will be easier to spot.