Waterfowl Lakes
Stunning turquoise lakes on the Icefields Parkway, famous for mirror-like reflections of towering Rockies peaks.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Waterfowl Lakes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, best light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Stunning turquoise lakes on the Icefields Parkway, famous for mirror-like reflections of towering Rockies peaks.
"A must-stop on the Icefields Parkway for breathtaking views and incredible photo opportunities."
🚗 Park Smart
Day-use parking fills fast in summer. Arrive early or late. Some pull-offs offer quick photo ops too!
📸 Capture the Reflections
The water's mirror-like surface is magical, especially during sunrise and sunset. Bring your camera!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Upper Waterfowl Lake Reflection
Upper Waterfowl Lake
Witness the majestic peaks mirrored perfectly in the stunning turquoise waters. A photographer's dream!
Lower Waterfowl Lake Serenity
Lower Waterfowl Lake
A quieter gem offering serene views and a chance to spot local waterfowl in a picturesque setting.
Icefields Parkway Drive
Icefields Parkway (Highway 93)
This iconic drive is a destination in itself, with Waterfowl Lakes being a must-stop for breathtaking scenery.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Day Use vs. Camping
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Park Smart
Day-use parking fills fast in summer. Arrive early or late. Some pull-offs offer quick photo ops too!
📸 Capture the Reflections
The water's mirror-like surface is magical, especially during sunrise and sunset. Bring your camera!
👟 Trail Ready
The day-use lot is a trailhead for hikes. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore beyond the roadside views.
🦢 Wildlife Watch
Keep an eye out for diverse waterfowl and other animals in the surrounding habitat. Always maintain a safe distance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Park Smart
Day-use parking fills fast in summer. Arrive early or late. Some pull-offs offer quick photo ops too!
📸 Capture the Reflections
The water's mirror-like surface is magical, especially during sunrise and sunset. Bring your camera!
👟 Trail Ready
The day-use lot is a trailhead for hikes. Wear comfortable shoes if you plan to explore beyond the roadside views.
🦢 Wildlife Watch
Keep an eye out for diverse waterfowl and other animals in the surrounding habitat. Always maintain a safe distance.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Waterfowl Lakes is celebrated for its stunning, easily accessible natural beauty, particularly the breathtaking reflections of the surrounding mountains in its turquoise waters. Visitors rave about its photogenic qualities and its prime location on the scenic Icefields Parkway. Some find parking challenging during peak summer months.
"Waterfowl Lakes is a stunning location situated within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. It is known for its striking natural beauty and proximity to various recreational opportunities. Below are the details about Waterfowl Lakes, including what it contains and why it is famous:
Location
Waterfowl Lakes are located along the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), which is one of the most scenic drives in the world. They are situated approximately halfway between Jasper and Banff, making them easily accessible for visitors traveling within these popular regions.
Features and Attractions
— Natural Beauty:
— Waterfowl Lakes consist of two lakes: the larger upper lake and a smaller lower lake. The lakes are surrounded by mountains, creating a picturesque setting that is particularly striking with the reflection of the peaks in the water.
— Wildlife:
— The surrounding area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including various waterfowl species, bears, deer, and other mammals. Birdwatching can be particularly rewarding here.
— Hiking Trails:
— The Waterfowl Lakes are part of a network of hiking trails in the region, including access to trails leading to popular destinations like Bow Glacier and Bow Falls. The trails offer varying levels of difficulty and incredible views of the Canadian Rockies.
— Campsites:
— There are campgrounds near Waterfowl Lakes, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in nature. The sites usually offer basic amenities and are popular among campers looking to experience the wilderness.
— Photography:
— The area is a favorite among photographers due to its breathtaking landscapes, especially during sunrise and sunset when the colors of the sky and the reflections on the surface of the lakes can be spectacular.
Why It Is Famous
— Scenic Drive: Waterfowl Lakes is located along the Icefields Parkway, a route that is celebrated for its stunning mountain vistas, glaciers, and wildlife sightings. Travelers consider it a must-stop destination along their journey.
— Natural Attractions: Its proximity to all the other attractions in Banff National Park makes it a convenient and beautiful spot for visitors looking to explore the Canadian Rockies.
— Outdoor Activities: The lakes are popular for a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, camping, canoeing, and fishing. This makes Waterfowl Lakes a versatile destination for nature enthusiasts.
— Photogenic Landscapes: The combination of crystal clear waters, lush forests, and towering peaks creates some of the most scenic landscapes in Canada, attracting visitors and photographers from around the world.
Conclusion
Waterfowl Lakes is a prominent feature within Banff National Park, known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and outdoor recreational opportunities. It is a treasure for hikers, photographers, and those looking to connect with nature in one of Canada's most beautiful regions. Whether you're driving along the Icefields Parkway or exploring the area on foot, Waterfowl Lakes offers a unique glimpse into the majestic landscapes of the Canadian Rockies."
shamsan alammari
"Waterfowl Lake is a scenic stop on the Icefields Parkway in Banff Alberta. A spectacular views all around, stunning turquoise water and amazing mountain view. Easy parking at the side of the road but the parking space will be full in summertime. Don't miss such a beautiful sight."
Allan NGUYEN
"Lake was stunning with blue waters. Its close by yo the roads. There is no trail required."
Muthu Mukil
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Waterfowl Lakes are located directly on the Icefields Parkway (Highway 93), about halfway between Banff and Jasper National Parks. There's easy parking right off the highway for quick stops and viewpoints.
The Icefields Parkway is generally open year-round, but winter conditions can cause temporary closures. Always check Parks Canada for current road status before you travel, especially outside of summer months.
Many visitors stop for photos along the highway. For a deeper experience, utilize the day-use parking lot which serves as a trailhead for hikes around the lakes.
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Banff National Park. You can purchase this online or at park gates. Day-use parking itself is typically free once you have your pass.
Yes, Waterfowl Lakes are conveniently located between both towns. It's approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Banff and a 2-hour drive from Jasper along the scenic Icefields Parkway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a specific ticket for Waterfowl Lakes itself. However, you must have a valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass to enter Banff National Park, which is where the lakes are located.
Waterfowl Lakes are an outdoor natural attraction and are accessible 24/7. However, the best viewing and hiking conditions are during daylight hours.
Parking at the day-use area is generally included with your Parks Canada Discovery Pass. However, parking can be limited and fills up quickly during peak season.
The Waterfowl Lakes Campground operates seasonally. It's advisable to check the Parks Canada website for opening dates and to make reservations well in advance, as sites are popular.
If the main day-use parking is full, look for designated pull-offs along the Icefields Parkway for brief photo stops. Be cautious of traffic and always park safely.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can enjoy stunning photography, short walks along the lake shores, and use the day-use area as a trailhead for longer hikes like the Cirque or Chephren Lake trails.
Yes, the day-use parking lot provides access to trailheads for hikes such as the Waterfowl Lakes hike, and trails leading to Cirque and Chephren Lakes.
Absolutely! Waterfowl Lakes are renowned for their photogenic landscapes, especially the reflections of the mountains in the turquoise water. Sunrise and sunset are particularly spectacular.
While the water is beautiful, it is extremely cold year-round due to its glacial origins. Swimming is generally not recommended or practiced.
The area is home to various waterfowl species, deer, and potentially bears. Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities directly at Waterfowl Lakes. You'll need to pack your own food and drinks or plan to eat in the towns of Banff or Jasper.
Yes, the day-use area offers picnic spots. It's a perfect place to enjoy a meal surrounded by incredible mountain scenery. Remember to pack out all your trash.
The closest services are at the Saskatchewan River Crossing (about 30 minutes north) or Num-Ti-Jah Lodge (further north). Otherwise, plan for meals in Banff or Jasper.
📸 📸 Photography
The shoreline of both the upper and lower lakes offers incredible vantage points. Look for areas with clear reflections of the surrounding peaks.
Early morning and late afternoon provide the best light for capturing reflections. The 'golden hour' before sunset is particularly magical.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A tripod is highly recommended for low-light conditions and sharp reflection shots.
Focus on the mirror-like reflections of Mount Murchison and Mount Sarbach. Also, look for opportunities to capture the vibrant turquoise color of the water.
Drone usage is restricted in National Parks. Always check the latest Parks Canada regulations regarding drone operation before flying.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
For families with older children interested in a short adventure, the initial parts of the Waterfowl Lakes hike are manageable and rewarding. Ensure everyone has comfortable shoes, even for short walks. Remember to bring snacks and drinks, as amenities are scarce. Always supervise children closely, especially near the water's edge, and be mindful of wildlife.
📸 Photographers
Bring your widest lens to capture the grandeur of the landscape and a sturdy tripod for sharp shots, especially in low light. Don't overlook the details – the textures of the mountains, the subtle color shifts in the water, and the surrounding flora can all make for compelling compositions. Be prepared for crowds during peak times; arriving very early or staying late can offer more solitude and better photographic opportunities.
🚗 Road Trippers
Make sure to factor in time for a stop here, even if you're on a tight schedule. The day-use parking area provides access to short walks along the lake, allowing you to truly appreciate the scale and beauty. Pack snacks and drinks, as services are limited on this stretch of highway. It's an ideal spot for a quick picnic lunch with an unforgettable view.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Icefields Parkway
When driving the Icefields Parkway, be prepared for frequent stops. Key attractions include Peyto Lake, Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield, and Athabasca Falls. The road is well-maintained but can be busy during peak season. It's crucial to check road conditions and weather forecasts, especially outside of summer, as snow and ice can lead to temporary closures. Parks Canada offers visitor centers and information along the route to enhance your experience.
Hiking and Exploration
Remember that hiking in the Canadian Rockies requires preparation. Always carry bear spray and know how to use it, as you are in bear country. Inform someone of your hiking plans, pack plenty of water and snacks, and wear appropriate footwear. Trail conditions can vary, so check with Parks Canada or local visitor centers for the latest information. The effort is well worth it, as these trails lead to some of the most spectacular, less-crowded vistas in Banff National Park.
Photography Paradise
To make the most of your photography experience, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons or early/late in the day to avoid crowds and capture softer light. A wide-angle lens is ideal for encompassing the vastness of the scenery, while a tripod is essential for sharp, clear shots, especially in low light or when capturing long exposures of the water. Be patient; the reflections can change with the slightest breeze, so waiting for calm conditions will yield the best results.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit