lake minnewanka cruise shuttle

Lake Minnewanka • DETAILED Guide to Visiting This Banff Lake

Lake Minnewanka is a beautiful lake in Banff that is just a ten-minute drive away from the town of Banff. The lake is 21 km long and 142 meters deep and helps power Banff with hydroelectric power. One of the top things to do in Banff National Park is to stroll along or take a boat ride on Lake Minnewanka.

In the summer, it’s a busy place to hike, picnic, and go canoeing. In the winter, Lake Minnewanka can make for one of the grandest ice skating rinks in the world. The mountains towering over Lake Minnewanka are awe-inspiring all year round. Oh yeah, and there’s also a Canadian resort ghost town right under the lake! Read on for a helpful guide to visiting Lake Minnewanka.

A Guide to Visiting Lake Minnewanka

Lake Minnewanka is a large glacial lake five kilometers (three miles) from the town of Banff. Lake Minnewanka is 21 kilometers (13 miles) long and 142 meters (466 feet) deep. It is a beautiful spot, popular for picnicking, mountain biking, hiking, canoeing, diving, and snowshoeing. 

For over 100 centuries, people have camped and hunted along the original shores of Lake Minnewanka. The indigenous Stoney Nakoda First Nations people called it Minn-waki (Lake of the Spirits) because they respected and feared the lake for its resident spirits. Early European settlers would later name it Devil’s Lake. 

The magic surrounding Banff National Park’s largest body of water is palpable. Even now, a ghost resort town sits on the lake floor, adding to its mysticism. Forests around Lake Minnewanka stir with wildlife, including mule deer, bears, wolves, elk, bighorn sheep, and an abundant birdlife population. If you’re searching to spot some of the park’s famous wildlife, the drive to the lake and its shoreline is a safe bet.

Lake Minnewanka is one of our favorite places to relax on a summer evening in Banff. A plethora of picnic areas and an easy walking trail make this particularly easy. So head here with some take-out and enjoy a meal with a view of the wilderness. If relaxation isn’t your only goal, there are several activities that visitors to Lake Minnewanka can enjoy on or around the lake.

The History of Lake Minnewanka

Artifacts have been found on the shores of Lake Minnewanka that date back to 13,000 years ago, and the lake has a long human history. It’s believed that humans have settled along its shores for millennia. The name Minnewanka comes from the Stoney Nakoda language.

The history of Minnewanka is also closely tied to Banff National Park itself, as one of the first resorts in the park was located along its banks. The Lake served as a summer escape for Calgarians who came to stay at Minnewanka landing over a century ago.

Most notable was the wood log hotel named the Beach House, built in 1886, which spurred the development of a resort town. Over time the town would grow to four avenues, dozens of cottages, hotels, restaurants, and multiple sailing companies to take guests out on the Lake Minnewanka.

As the power demand increased in the 20th century, a dam was built in 1912 by the Calgary Power Co., which flooded part of the resort town. However, the resort continued to exist until 1941. With the onset of WWII and the demand for power in manufacturing even greater in Calgary, a new dam was built. The new dam raised the lake level by 96 feet flooding the resort entirely and forever altering the landscape around the lake.

Since the water here is icy glacial water, it has preserved much of the resort town and makes for a unique dive site. The diving in Lake Minnewanka attracts as many as 8,000 divers each year to see the submerged resort.

When Is The Best Time To Visit Lake Minnewanka?

Lake Minnewanka is technically a year-round destination, but to enjoy the lake, it’s best visited in the summer months. From June to October is when Lake Minnewanka really comes alive. By mid-June, the boat docks and lake tours begin operating.

The best time to visit would be around this time until early October when operations begin to shut down as the snow comes. In the summer, you’ll be able to take full advantage of everything that Lake Minnewanka offers.

During the Lake Minnewanka winter months, the lake remains frozen and covered in a heavy layer of snow/ice.

Lake Minnewanka begins to freeze around December and will remain frozen until the end of April when the lake unfreezes. There’s a short period in the winter when the lake freezes, but the snow has yet to cover the ice making it a fantastic place to go ice skating in Banff.

Getting to Lake Minnewanka by Car

Getting to Lake Minnewanka by car is extremely simple. If you are traveling from Calgary to Banff, you’ll want to get off on the exit “Banff/Lake Minnewanka Loop.” This is right off Highway 1 after you pass the park gates. The turn will be on your right-hand side if coming from Canmore.

You’ll see signs for Cascade Pond/Two Jack Lake. Once you get onto the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Route Drive all you have to do is keep driving until you reach Lake Minnewanka. You’ll pass a turn-off for Johnson Lake on the way, as well as Two Jack Lake Campground and Two Jack Lake.

During the winter, the western part of the road is closed as it’s a wildlife corridor. You’ll only be able to drive the eastern section of the road in the winter. In the summer, the full loop is open to vehicles.

If driving, please watch out for cyclists on the road.

Getting to Lake Minnewanka by Public Transport

Roam Transit runs a bus service to Lake Minnewanka in the summer months. Route 6 leaves downtown Banff every 30 minutes and takes approximately 25 minutes to reach the lake.

This service operates 7 days a week, and the first bus departs at 8AM each morning. Stops along the way include Cascade Ponds, Johnson Lake, Two Jack Lakeside Campground, Two Jack Main Campground, Two Jack Day Use Area, Lake Minnewanka Lookout, and finally, Lake Minnewanka. Service typically starts in late May and runs until late September.

The cost is $2 for adults and $1 for Seniors/Youth. Strollers and crated pets are allowed on board. All Roam buses are wheelchair accessible.

Other Alternatives to Get to Lake Minnewanka

If you don’t have a car and don’t want to take the bus, a bike is one of the best ways to get to Lake Minnewanka. The Lake Minnewanka Loop Rd is a great road to cycle. We particularly love riding the Legacy Trail from Canmore, as an underpass goes under the Trans Canada for bikes off the Legacy Trail.

This takes you past Cascade Ponds, Two Jack Lake, and Lake Minnewanka. If you go this way, it’s a bit of a climb to Two Jack, but it’s all downhill and super cruisy and fun once you get past Two Jack. The Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr is approximately 13 km. I love to ride this a few times a year in the summer!

Or you can book a Lake Minnewanka tour, some of our favorites are:

• Banff: Lake Minnewanka Cruise
• Banff Wildlife and Sightseeing Minibus Tour Banff: Lake Minnewanka Cruise

Parking at Lake Minnewanka

There are two large lots for parking at Lake Minnewanka, including a large lot for trucks with boat trailers. On an average day, it’s not too difficult to get parking, but the parking lot quickly fills up during peak times in the summer. The peak times are weekends from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. You can still visit during these times, but parking will be difficult.

You have several options, though, for easy access to the lake. You can park at the Minnewanka Park & Ride or the Banff Train Station and hop on the Roam Transit (route 6), which will take you to the lake. The bus route also stops at Two Jack Lake, Johnson Lake , and Cascade Ponds . Rides are $2 for adults and $1 for children. The bus only operates in the summer from May 19th to September 15th (season dependent).

Is Lake Minnewanka Free to Visit?

Lake Minnewanka is free to visit by purchasing a National Parks Pass. You can purchase a Parks Canada pass at any park gate, and the entrance to Banff National Park is just before Lake Minnewanka.

Parks Canada Day Pass Rates

Or you can buy Parks Canada passes in advance online. A Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which gets you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for the year, is only $154.25 for a family. Day passes are $11.00 per person, so depending on how many days you are staying and if you have plans to go to Banff, you may want to consider the Discover Pass.

Boating on Lake Minnewanka

You have a wide range of boating options on Lake Minnewanka, including canoes, motorboats, kayaks, or even stand-up paddleboards. If you’re seeking more of a challenge or to experience canoeing on open water, head to Lake Minnewanka.

The large lake is well known for its “swells” that occur when the wind gust picks up. More advanced paddlers can plan multi-day camping trips along the lake with their own canoes.

The boat launch managed by Pursuit also rents small motorboats as Minnewanka is the only lake in the park that allows motor-powered boats in addition to kayaks and double kayaks. All rentals come with necessary equipment, which includes gas with the motorboat rental.

You don’t have to rent a boat or canoe/kayak, though, as personal watercraft are allowed, and there is a boat launch at the lake. However, jet skis or sea doos are not permitted on the lake. The only requirement is that the boat be free of anything, such as mussels or algae, as it can damage the lake’s ecosystem. Additionally, any boat outside BC or Alberta requires a provincial inspection in the last 30 days.

Lake Minnewanka Boats and Canoe Costs

• Location : Pursuit Collection Lake Minnewanka Boat Dock
• Canoe Cost : $85 first hour/$42.50, additional hours
• Kayak Cost : $45 for first hours/$22.50 additional hours
• Double Kayak Cost : $85 for the first hour/$42.50 additional hours
• Motor Boat Cost : $155 first hour/$77.50 additional hours/Half Day (4 hours) $355
• Season: June to October

* Rentals are available on-site at the Lake Minnewanka boathouse on a first-come, first-served basis. It’s best to arrive first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid waiting.

Take a Lake Minnewanka Cruise

One of the most popular activities on Lake Minnewanka is to hop on a lake cruise run by the Pursuit Collective. The hour-long panoramic cruise heads to Devil’s Gap at the end of Lake Minnewanka and back.

It’s a unique natural feature that looks out to the east and the plains of Alberta while enveloped in a mountain amphitheater. You’re guaranteed spectacular mountain vistas while you cruise across the emerald water.

You can buy individual tickets for the Lake Minnewanka cruise , but for the best deal, consider purchasing the Banff Jasper Collective’s Banff Explorer Pass, which includes the Banff Gondola, Columbia Icefield Adventure – Including Skywalk, Maligne Lake Cruise, and the Golden Skybridge. Lake Minnewanka cruises open for the 2024 summer season in mid-May (date TBD) and runs until October.

Beer lovers can enjoy the Lake Minnewanka Beer Voyage Cruise in the summer. This 90-minute cruise runs daily at 5pm and allows guests to enjoy local craft brews while enjoying the views. Guests of 2 are given 4 beers total for the tasting, and you can bring home any unopened cans you don’t consume. If this will affect your driving to and from Lake Minnewanka, consider taking public transit to Lake Minnewanka.

Advanced Purchase Pricing:

• Classic One-Hour Cruise: $65.00 / adult, $42.25 / child
• Premium Cruise (1.5 hours) : $74.00 / adult $48.10 / child
• Beer Voyage Cruise (1.5 hours): $91.00 / adult
• Age 5 & Under – Free
• Pursuit Pass Banff Gondola + Lake Minnewanka Cruise : $110.00/ adult $71.50 / child.
• Pursuit Pass Rockies Value (Package Includes Banff Gondola (anytime) Lake Minnewanka Cruise (after 3:30 pm) Columbia Icefield Adventure – Including Skywalk (after 3:30 pm), Maligne Lake Cruise in Jasper (after 3:30 pm) Golden Skybridge in Golden (after 3:30 pm). $219.00 / adult and $142.35 / child

Book Online in Advance

Alberta residents save up to 20%

Fishing on Lake Minnewanka

You can fish on the lake on your own, or you can hire a chartered boat with companies like Banff Fishing Unlimited or Pursuit. The boat charter is expensive, but they know all the local fishing holes. To fish in the park, you must have a Parks Canada Fishing Permit and be aware of current regulations. This means you know fishing limits and can identify the various fish within the park. No live bait fishing is allowed in the park.

Kids under 16 can fish on their accompanied pass, but their catch is included within the permit holders’ daily limit. Please reference Park Canada’s website for the latest fishing information , as it changes seasonally .

Fishing Permit Price:

• Daily – $12.75
• Annual – $44.25

Can You Camp at Lake Minnewanka?

Front Country Camping at Lake Minnewanka

The closest front country campgrounds to Lake Minnewanka are Two Jack Lake Main Campground and Two Jack Lake Lakeside Campground . These sites are among some of the most popular campsites in Banff , and you’ll need to reserve these campsites in advance. They book up fast – almost as soon as reservations open. If you can score a campsite, we highly recommend staying at the Two Jack Lake Lakeside Campground, as it’s only a few meters walk to the lakeshore.

Backcountry Camping Around Lake Minnewanka

There are a few backcountry campgrounds around Lake Minnewanka for those who wish to hike or canoe. There are 3 campgrounds along the shoreline of Lake Minnewanka: Alymer Pass Junction (Lm8), Alymer Canyon (Lm9), and Mt. Inglismaldie (Lm11) . You can hike or paddle to these campgrounds. Outside the summer months, you can also mountain bike some of the way (between July 10th and September 15th, the trail is closed to bikes).

There are also three more called Mount Costigan Campground (Lm20), The Narrows (Lm22), and Ghost Lakes (Lm31). These are best reached by experienced kayakers and canoers as they are very far from the car park, and the headwinds on Lake Minnewanka can turn an already long day longer and make the journey quite treacherous. You must have camping reservations even for backcountry sites.

Hiking Around Lake Minnewanka

There are several great hikes around Lake Minnewanka. You can take simple strolls along the lake, summit nearby Mt. Alymer (scramble), head up the Mt. Alymer Lookout, or make a multiday backpacking trip out of it.

One of our favorite hikes in the area is C-Level Cirque . Which is a nice challenge that provides astounding views of Lake Minnewanka and the Bow Valley.

Lake Minnewanka Hikes

• Stewart Canyon Trail
• Lake Minnewanka Trail
• Alymer Lookout Trail
• C Level Cirque

Can You Walk Around Lake Minnewanka?

The Lake Minnewanka Lakeside Trail follows Lake Minnewanka from the parking area for about 8km and back. It has some elevation gain and decline and provides fantastic lake views.

It’s a popular trail, though, especially in July and August. To beat the crowds, head there in June. The lakeside trail is popular if you are into trail running!

Can You Bike Around Lake Minnewanka?

The Lake Minnewanka Loop ride is a beautiful paved ride that turns off from the Legacy Trail in Banff and follows the road past Two Jack Lake and up to Lake Minnewanka and back to the town of Banff, Cascade Ponds , or wherever you decide to park.

No matter how you take the loop, you are in for some elevation gain (around 175 m). You can detour to Johnson Lake for some extra mileage as well. It’s a wonderful ride I love completing on a nice summer day.

You can also mountain bike on the Minnewanka Lakeside Trail, but this option typically closes to bikes around July 10th until mid-September. It’s a moderate mountain bike trail with many challenging ups and downs but nothing too technical.

The Minnewanka Lakeside Trail can take Banff bikers to Ghost Lakes Campground. The trail is 29.4 km one way with 45 meters of elevation gain. Many reviews mention this trail as easy, but when we attempted it, I found the trail more moderate/difficult (I am a novice mountain biker).

Many exposed sidehill sections and plenty of obstacles await bikers. You also have many hikers to contend with when on a bike. Mountain bikers should aim for weekday rides as the trail is extremely busy on weekends.

Can You Ice Skate on Lake Minnewanka in the Winter?

If you’re in Banff around Christmas or New Year, watch Lake Minnewanka, as it typically freezes over enough to ice skate during this time.

This is before snow builds up on the frozen lake surface so you can skate. The entire surface looks like a piece of glass, and you can skate the whole width of the lake, which means going for nearly 2km in one direction. The most common sight of Lake Minnewanka in winter is a snowbound and frozen landscape. You can still walk along the edge near the boat dock, making it a spectacular sight.

The Ice Bubbles at Lake Minnewanka

Many visitors to Banff think they have to venture out to Abraham Lake near Nordegg to see the famous methane ice bubbles in the winter. However, you can see them at Lake Minnewanka; there are not endless amounts of them, but I promise they are there!

Can You See the Northern Lights at Lake Minnewanka?

When the Northern Lights are on display in Banff , one of the most popular places to try to see them is Lake Minnewanka. It’s the perfect location away from town, so you don’t get much light pollution. In the dead of winter in Banff, Lake Minnewanka is incredibly dark. It’s an excellent spot for stargazing as well!

What are the Holidays at Lake Minnewanka?

Lake Minnewanka is always busy in the summer, but you should take note of the following holidays as they’re even busier. It’s really packed on Canada Day when everyone heads to the picnic area for a BBQ in the park. Canada Day at Lake Minnewanka is always when I see the most trash thrown about.

If you’re going to recreate in Banff, it’s crucial to Leave No Trace, dispose of your garbage properly, and never leave trash behind. There are plenty of bear-proof dumpsters at Lake Minnewanka, so there is no excuse to litter.

• Victoria Day Long Weekend – Last Monday preceding May 25 
• Canada Day – July 1st
• Heritage Day Weekend – 1st Monday of August.
• Labour Day Weekend – 1st Weekend/Monday of September.

Facilities at Lake Minnewanka

As far as lakes in Alberta go, there are quite a few facilities at Lake Minnewanka. Expect a large car park, with a large public restroom nearby. The bathrooms have flush toilets, which may be closed during winter.

Plenty of picnic spots around Lake Minnewanka, so pack a lunch and enjoy the views. Please remember to toss your trash in the bear-proof bins afterward, there are plenty about. If you look hard enough, you’ll be able to find a few of the famous Parks Canada red chairs.

There is one restaurant at Lake Minnewanka. Black Anchor Snack Shop is the only eatery in the area and is only open in the summer – they serve basic snacks, ice cream, and coffee.

A  Parks Canada Discovery Pass grants you entrance to all Parks Canada destinations for a year. For many visitors, purchasing an annual pass makes more sense, as an adult’s day pass is $11.00 per day. The pass also grants access to historic sites such as Cave & Basin along with any other national park in the country.

Parks Canada Discovery Pass Fees

Our ultimate guide to purchasing a Canadian Parks Pass

Our Favorite Tours and Excursions in Banff

• Banff Gondola: Get up on top on Sulphur Mountain!
• Banff Hop on Hop Off: Explore the park at your own pace.
• Lake Minnewanka Cruise : Enjoy a guided tour on the largest lake in Banff.
• Guided Glacier Hike on The Athabasca with IceWalks: Because when else can you walk on a glacier?
• From Banff: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Sightseeing Tour
• Radventures Earlybird Explorer: Sunrise at Moraine Lake with treats!
• Moraine Lake Bus Company : An alternative option to the Parks Canada shuttle, this tour provides early access to Moraine Lake with shuttles starting as early as 4am.
• Mt Norquay Via Ferrata: Conquer your fear of heights

Recommended Hotels Nearby

The Rimrock

Is a super great pet-friendly option in Banff. It’s close to Sulphur Mountain and the Banff Hot Springs. It’s one of the most popular places to stay in Banff, so book it in advance.

Check Rates

The Banff Springs

Stay in a literal castle in Banff! You can’t get more iconic than the Banff Springs. It’s beautiful year round!

Elk & Avenue

Elk & Avenue is right on Banff Avenue. It has a fantastic location and offers a more affordable place to stay with underground parking!

The Moose Hotel

Our favorite hotel on Banff Avenue, with an excellent location, and super comfortable rooms!

Other Great Lakes in Banff to Visit

Of course, there are so many other lakes to visit after Lake Minnewanka. Two Jack Lake is right down the road, as well as Johnson and Vermilion .

Plan Your Trip to the Canadian Rockies

• Tours (New in 2024): The Banff Blog is partnering with one of the leading tour companies in Western Canada so readers can experience the magic of the Rockies with other travelers – without having to think about a thing. See all our 2024 tour offerings here!
• Hotels in the Rockies: There are many places to stay, from luxury hotels to wilderness cabins. See all our favorites here.
• Get to Banff or Canmore Without a Car : The Banff Airporter provides fantastic service connecting you from the Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Banff or Canmore.
• Get Around : We suggest renting a car to get around. You can search for rental cars on Rentalcars.com. Or embark on an epic campervan trip. We like to compare prices on Motorhome Republic and Outdoorsy .
• Cheaper Airfare: We also use Going to watch for cheap airfare deals!
• Hop On, Hop Off : This tour is taking Banff by storm. It’s exactly what it sounds like, hop on and off a bus bound for all the best attractions at your own pace!

↓ Join the community ↓

The  Banff Blog Facebook Group  is your headquarters for Canadian Rockies travel advice and information, including hike and off-season travel information. You can also meet new adventure buddies.

About Cameron

Cameron is a resident of Canmore, Alberta. After traveling the world for six years, he settled down in the beautiful Bow Valley with Natasha. He has been featured as a travel expert with numerous publications worldwide and has spoken on several occasions about the power of travel. He has a passion for all things in the Canadian Rockies and loves to spend his time snowboarding, scrambling, camping, biking, and trail running. Conservation is a deep fundamental in his life, and he aims to inspire others to care about our natural world. You can learn more on the about us page. If you have found the content on this site helpful to your trip planning please consider supporting The Banff Blog. You can say thanks directly by buying us a coffee . All support is much appreciated!

5 thoughts on “Lake Minnewanka • DETAILED Guide to Visiting This Banff Lake”

Does anyone offer a boat tour over the flooded resort? Either over the side or a glass bottom boat style?

I’m not aware of any type of tour like that.

Hi Natasha, I am just amazed and super happy that I found your blog – it has been the best guide to plan our trip! My partner and I will be arriving in Banff in 3 weeks. I know this may be a weird request, but I was wondering if you offer photography services. We are absolutely in love with your photos and just thought that would be wonderful to have a couple of good photos of us in the rocky mountains! Thank you, Karen 🙂

Thanks for the kind words, and we are so happy it has helped! Unfortunately it’s not something we are offering quite yet, but maybe sometime in the future! Wild Alpine Images gets recommended a lot in our Facebook group, and there are many photographers in the area on Airbnb Experiences that offer affordable shoots 🙂

Your blog is wonderful, greatly appreciate. Interested in seeing the aurora. Places to stay, things to do. Best times of year.

Thank you so much!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Related Posts

Understanding The Lake Louise Shuttle in 2024

What’s Staying at the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel Really Like?

Is The Lake Minnewanka Cruise Worth It?

Social Media Links

Go cruising, lake minnewanka boat cruise, adventure details, book your adventure, classic lake cruise, beer voyage.

For the best experience, leave the drive to us. Show your tour ticket to the Route 6 bus driver of the Bow Valley's Roam Public Transit service from Downtown Banff to Lake Minnewanka and get a FREE RETURN RIDE. Visit Roam Transit to see the bus schedule.

The Classic Lake Cruise departs daily on the hour from 10am - 6pm with additional departures on the half hour during peak summer. This tour departs from mid May until mid October.

The Beer Voyage departs at 5pm daily from mid May to late September & requires a minimum 2 guests per booking.

What is the Lake Minnewanka Cruise?

How long are the tours, what time do the tours depart, how do i get to lake minnewanka, is the lake minnewanka cruise pet friendly, can i bring my stroller on board, how many people can fit on the boat cruise, what other amenities / facilities are available at lake minnewanka, can i swim in the lake, can i fish on lake minnewanka, do i need to make a reservation for the boat cruise, will we get wet, what is the cancellation policy, you might also like..., hoodoo float trip, banff explorer, ultimate explorer package, big canoe tours.

Wildlife Tour + Chairlift + Lake Cruise

• BOOKING TERMS
• Attractions
• Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise & Tours
• Sightseeing Gondolas & Attractions
• Wildlife Tours

Combo Package; look for wildlife on a twilight tour, ride a chairlift to 7,000′ and do a fun and informative cruise Banff’s Lake Minnewanka.

Included: evening wildlife safari (start time varies seasonally).

Where do you find the animals of Banff when the sun goes down? Your guide will know! Keep your eyes peeled for twilight wildlife encounters as you view rare animal artifacts and learn about local wildlife, safe wildlife watching practices and the importance of wildlife management in Banff National Park.

Included: Banff Sightseeing Chairlift (open ticket)

Soar to the sky on an 8 minute open-air chairlift ride over a natural bear habitat up to 7,000 feet at Mt Norquay, with breathtaking views of Banff and the Bow Valley. At the top, you can relax over a snack or meal, craft brews or a glass of wine at the Cliffhouse Bistro, or look for bighorn sheep as you walk along the interpretive walkway.

Included: Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise (various times available)

Take to the water on Banff National Park’s largest lake, Lake Minnewanka, on a 1 hour interpretive boat cruise under the towering peaks of breathtaking mountains. Interpretive guides will share stories of native folklore and the submerged village of Minnewanka Landing while you survey the shoreline for animals such as bighorn sheep.

• Activities in this package can be taken on the same day or on different days.

The best parts of the Evening Wildlife Safari for most people include the following:

Wildlife viewing, interpretation and education, the best parts of the banff sightseeing chairlift for most people include the following:, ride to 7,000 feet at mount norquay, mountain top dining and facilities, the best parts of the banff lake cruise for most people include the following:, 1 hour interpretive boat tour, devil's gap, how long is the evening wildlife safari, what does the evening wildlife safari include, where is our pick up and drop off from for the safari, where does the evening wildlife safari go, is there a lot of walking involved on the evening wildlife safari, what animals can you see on the safari, can we pat the animals on the evening wildlife safari, what should i bring with me on the safari, what is the cancellation policy on the safari, should i tip my guide on the evening wildlife safari, where is the meeting point for the banff sightseeing chairlift, when does the free shuttle bus run for the chairlift.

The free shuttle bus runs throughout the day from Banff with several pick-up locations.

When does the Banff Sightseeing Chairlift operate?

When is the last ride up the banff sightseeing chairlift, how long is the banff sightseeing chairlift ride, what's an open-air chairlift, what's at the top of the banff sightseeing chairlift, what hiking trails are at mt norquay.

Stoney Squaw Mountain Distance: 4.2 km return Elevation Gain: 190m Time Required: 2 hours Difficulty: Moderate Hike through a beautiful lodgepole pine and spruce tree forest for a unique view of Cascade Mountain, and peaks of the Fairholme Range. During the ascent, hikers will enjoy unique views of Banff, Vermilion Lakes and surrounding mountain ranges. This trail is also popular for mountain biking.

Cascade Amphitheatre Distance: 15.4 km return Elevation Gain: 640m Time Required: 4-6 hours Difficulty: Moderate The hike begins at the Mt. Norquay ski area, crosses a bridge over Forty Mile Creek, and then zigzags its way through the dense forest to Cascade Amphitheatre. As you emerge into the amphitheatre, impressively enclosed by limestone cliffs, keep your eyes out for wildflowers.

What is the cancellation policy for the Chairlift?

How long is the lake minnewanka boat cruise, what does the banff lake cruise include, when does the banff lake cruise operate, where is the meeting point for the banff lake cruise.

Alternatively, the Roam Transit bus runs seasonally from downtown Banff to Lake Minnewanka.

Will I see wildlife on the Banff Lake Cruise?

Will we get wet on the banff lake cruise, what should i wear on the banff lake cruise, what is the cancellation policy for the banff lake cruise, do you have to pay to go to lake minnewanka, is the lake minnewanka cruise worth it, do you need a park pass for lake minnewanka , is lake minnewanka open.

• Wildlife sightings are not guaranteed.
• The minimum age for this package is 2, and children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
• The maximum combined weight is 226kg (500lbs) per chair.
• Photo ID may be required for identity verification.
• Tours for the Banff Lake Cruise are weather permitting, particularly early and late season departures.
• Please note that the Evening Wildlife Safari requires a minimum of 4 participants, please call the day prior to confirm the tour.

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE

Banff Gondola + Lake Cruise

Horseback Ride + Gondola + Lake Cruise

Lake Minnewanka Cruise – What To Expect

I love the water colors of the lakes in Banff National Park and couldn’t wait to get out on the water on a Lake Minnewanka Cruise. We were one of the first cruises of the day at 10am which meant we pulled right in and parked without a problem.

We headed down to the dock about 9:30 – the time they recommend you get there. With a bathroom stop by the parking lot before heading all the way down to the dock. Tip: Don’t pass the bathroom as there is not a bathroom on the dock and you will have to turn around and walk back up to the parking lot.

Once we got to the dock we walked into the gift shop on the dock to check in and were assigned seats and a boarding time of 9:45am. It was great that they assigned us seats since it meant we could board at 9:45 and know we were sitting together and didn’t have to worry about getting in line to secure our seats together.

Table of Contents

Getting Tickets

You can purchase tickets for the Lake Minnewanka boat cruise here . You should buy your tickets ahead of time so you can be sure there is availability for the time slot you would like.

If you plan to do more than one activity in Banff – which we do recommend! You will want to look into the Pursuit Pass.

We got on and sat down in our seats and waited for the boat cruise to take off at 10am. Once it started our tour guides for the trip gave us our safety lesson and shared with us what the 1 hour long trip would look like. About 25 minutes out to the middle of the lake, shut the engine off, float around for a few minutes, turn around and come back.

He also mentioned he would be talking for the whole first half but not all of the second half. That was kind of true :). He did continue talking in the 2nd half but was very informative and funny so it was all good! There was also time to ask questions.

During his presentation he shared about the history of the lake. Back to the first settlers to current times. He had a variety of pictures he walked around to show to support what he was sharing which was helpful for all of us to get a better idea of what he was talking about.

He also had a hot stone that he poured water over and walked around to let everyone touch it. This was related to the first settlers in the rocky mountains area and how they used to cook.

Back Of The Boat

One of my favorite parts was when we hit the half way mark and the captain shut the boat engine off and our tour guide told everyone we would be quiet for the next 10 seconds and take in the sounds of the backcountry of Canada.

We were quiet for longer than 10 seconds but it was so cool to just sit out there in the middle of the lake in silence!

After that she started the engine back up and off we went! At this point me and a few of the kids headed to the back of the boat to sit out on the back deck of the boat. This gave us amazing views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.

We docked back right at 11am! There is a coffee shop, picnic tables, personal boats/kayaks to rent and an area to hang out and enjoy the lake views after the cruise is done. This is a popular destinations for people to come when visiting Banff National Park.

We all enjoyed being on the boat with the windows open and the lake breeze blowing in on us as we learned about the history of the area and took in the amazing colors of the lake water and the Canadian Rockies!

Q&A About The Lake Minnewanka Cruise

@crazyfamilyadventure Things To Do In Banff National Park: Lake Minnewanka Boat Cruise We headed out on the 10am 1 hour long boat ride on Lake Minnewanka with Pursuit Collection. The water color is amazing and the scenery is gorgeous! Plus our tour guide did a great job giving us an overview of the Lake and sharing a lot of history about the lake and the area. It is a great way to start your morning in Banff National Park! Follow @crazyfamilyadventure on our adventure from Wisconsin To Alaska in our RV! Follow @crazyfamilyadventure on our adventure from Wisconsin To Alaska in our RV! #hosted @pursuitbanffjasper #pursuitlife #banff #travelwithkids #lakeminnewanka #explorecanada #familyvacation #familytravel #familyroadtrip ♬ original sound – CrazyFamilyAdventure

Is Lake Minnewanka worth seeing?

Yes! You won’t want to miss seeing the beautiful lake water color with the mountains around. The contrast of the mountains, the trees and the water color is breathtaking.

How long is Lake Minnewanka tour?

It is 1 hour total on the boat itself. It is recommended you arrive 30 minutes before you depart. And they let you start to board 15 minutes before your departure. They leave right on time and it is a good 5 minute walk from the parking lot to the boat and parking can take time so make sure to give yourself enough time to get there, get parked and make the walk down.

If you are early you can hang out by the lake, grab a coffee, and just enjoy the beautiful views.

How far is Banff to Lake Minnewanka?

It is a 17 minute drive or 10km from downtown Banff to Lake Minnewanka. When using Google Maps you will need to put in Lake Minnewanka Cruise. If you just put in Lake Minnewanka it won’t work.

How do I get to Minnewanka?

You can easily drive here from downtown Banff. Just be prepared. You may have to drive around and wait for someone to leave to get a parking spot. People are always coming and going as they leave after their boat cruise.

Some will hang out by the Lake but it isn’t a spot most people are at for the whole day.

If you don’t want to drive there is another option. You can take Roam Transit (route 6) either by parking at the Minnewanka Park & Ride or the Banff Train Station (summer months only). You can learn more about route 6 and the Roam Transit here.

Pursuit Collections

The Lake Minnewanka Cruise is run by Pursuit Collections. They offer a variety of other activities around Banff, Canada and Alaska. We are very impressed with the company and loved their inclusive philosophy. Along with their focus on sharing information about the first nations people in Canada on their activities.

Banff National Park Itinerary

If you are planning your trip to Banff you can purchase a digital copy of our 4 day itinerary for $3.99 and download it immediately!

Additional Activities You Don’t Want To Miss In Banff National Park

There are so many great things to do in Banff National Park . Here are a few we don’t think you should miss.

Banff Gondola – we had an awesome time going up on the Banff Gondola. We loved taking in amazing views and hike to the top of Sulphur Mountain!

Horseback Riding With Banff Trail Riders – we went on an enjoyable 1 hour horseback ride along the Bow River with Banff Trail Riders.

Golden Skybridge – we had a blast spending the afternoon at the Golden Skybridge. Walking across suspension bridges, zip-lining and doing the ropes course!

Columbia Icefield Adventure – Walk on a glacier and out on a glass bottom skywalk over a canyon!

Johnston Canyon Lower Falls Hike – Don’t miss this quick, easy and beautiful hike while you are in Banff!

Whitewater Rafting – be sure to set aside an afternoon to go white water rafting with Chinook Rafting! We had so much fun!!

Pin this post for later:

**We were hosted by Pursuit Collections on our Banff Gondola experience. All opinions are our own.

• Recent Posts

• 5 Tips On How To Leave The Stress Behind And Enjoy Your National Park Trip - April 11, 2024
• 21 Fun Things To Do In Port St Joe Florida - April 6, 2024
• RV Living VS Living In A Sticks And Bricks – Our Experience - April 1, 2024

DISCLOSURE : This post may contain affiliate links, meaning I get a commission if you decide to make a purchase through my links, at no cost to you. Please read my disclosure for more info.

Vacationing woman killed when shuttle bus crashes into group of people near cruise port

HONOLULU ( KHNL/KGMB/ Gray News) - A woman on vacation was killed when a shuttle bus dropping passengers off near a cruise port in Hawaii crashed into a group of people.

Dianna Cricelli, 68, from Pocahontas, Illinois, was taken to a hospital in critical condition where she later died, according to police traffic investigators.

She was reportedly with family celebrating her 46th wedding anniversary. Her husband, 66-year-old Frank Cricelli, was also seriously injured in the crash.

“The family is mourning the loss of Dianna. They are asking for privacy during this difficult time,” Frank Cricelli said in a message relayed by the Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii.

Three others, including a 67-year-old woman, a 55-year-old woman, and a 58-year-old man, were also seriously injured in the crash, according to officials.

Additionally, a man in his 70s was taken to the hospital in stable condition while six other adults, ranging in age from their 40s to their 70s, suffered minor injuries and declined transport.

The crash happened at about 10:20 a.m. Friday in a private parking lot near a cruise ship port in Honolulu. Honolulu police reported the 57-year-old driver of the shuttle bus was dropping passengers off and picking others up when he was notified that the vehicle was moving forward.

According to police, the driver jumped into the driver’s seat in order to stop the bus but pressed the gas pedal instead of the brakes.

“Somebody screamed, and then I looked over and the bus hit into the crowd,” Janet Lightfoot, an ER nurse from Florida, said.

Lightfoot and her mother had been on a cruise and just disembarked Friday morning to go shopping. They were waiting for a shuttle when they saw a bus with a Hilo Hatties logo heading toward a crowd of people.

“It just kept going and my daughter yells out, ‘There’s nobody driving the bus.’ And then poof, it hits the wall,” Linda Reck, who was vacationing from Florida, said.

Police said the bus crashed into a group of people, pinning several against concrete barriers.

“It just kept going until it hit the wall there. Big, cement block was pushed out and the bus hit into the wall,” Lightfoot said. “I ran over and kind of started triaging people and trying to help.”

Bystanders said the chaotic scene unfolded in seconds.

“It was shocking,” witness Mike Frost said.

Lightfoot said she’s accustomed to seeing traumatic injuries, but that witnessing this crash felt different.

“We’re on vacation. The husband of one of the family members was there and just sad,” she said.

The Visitor Aloha Society of Hawaii said those who were seriously injured were all from Illinois and that they are being offered assistance.

Carnival Miracle issued a statement following the crash, reporting that nine of the people hit by the shuttle bus were guests on their cruise.

“Members of the Carnival Care Team are assisting the guests,” the statement said in part. “Our thoughts are with the guests affected and their loved ones.”

They reported the ship was on a 15-day trip that departed from Long Beach, California on April 6.

Honolulu police said it’s unknown if drugs or alcohol were factors in the crash.

Copyright 2024 KHNL/KGMB via Gray Media Group, Inc. All rights reserved.

3 tornadoes confirmed in SWLA; power outages remain after severe storms

SWLA school closures

Man accused of breaking into Jennings High caught after hours-long manhunt; school to resume Tuesday

Final decision handed down on former Barbe baseball star’s expulsion

24 vehicles involved in two pileups on 210 bridge, all lanes now open

Latest news.

Can law passed responding to Enron scandal be used in Jan 6 prosecutions? Supreme Court to decide

CSE partners with charity to provide local kids with refurbished instruments

First 6 jurors are chosen for Trump’s hush money criminal trial; 12 more still needed

• Guided tour

River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat

• Description
• Choose date

Equipped with ice-breaking technology, these huge fancy yachts are the only river cruisers running all year around. The round trip journey takes two and a half hours and floats past all the big sights like the White House, Novodevichy monastery and the Kremlin. There’s a large open air observation deck up top, while the main body of the ship houses a restaurant with a dance floor for a romantic post dinner dance. For a particularly romantic experience take one of the evening boats and admire the bright lights of the city skyline at night.

The most relaxing and picturesque tour that Moscow can offer: a great way to see the city center and its main attractions. This is a perfect alternative to exploring the city by car, if you only have time to do sightseeing during weekday rush hours.

Your English-speaking guide is eager to share every bit of their knowledge about the surrounding landscape, the architecture and historical details.

We conduct Moscow river tour on Radisson Flotilla boats all year around!  It’s warm inside during winter months, while there’s air conditioning during hot summer days. You may also treat yourself to drinks, lunch or dinner on board (drinks and food are not included in tour price).

The cost of an excursion with a personal guide for 1 person

Quay at Radisson Collection Hotel

Government Headquarters ("the White House")

Kievsky Railway Central

Novodevichy Convent

Luzhniki Stadium

Academy of Sciences

Monument to Peter I

Cathedral of Christ the Saviour

Moscow Kremlin

St.Basil's Cathedral

Novospassky Monastery

U-turn and back to Quay at Radisson Royal Hotel

Choose your dates

Who's going.

• Excursion River Cruise on Luxurious Radisson Boat
• Date and time:
• Who's going:

See photo of the meeting point

City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise

• Hop-on or hop-off at any of Moscow’s main highlights
• Views of Moscow from an open-top, double-decker bus
• Learn about the city with recorded commentary
• Visit Red Square, Alexander Gardens, and more
• Bus pass inclusions: 48 or 72 hour bus pass + walking tour
• Boat pass inclusions: 60 minute boat trip + walking tour
• Bus & Boat pass inclusions: 48 hour bus pass + 60 minute boat trip + walking tour
• Vouchers valid for 12 months
• Hotel pickup and drop-off
• Food and drinks, unless specified
• Location Name: The route begins at Red Square but you can board at any stop
• Wheelchair accessible
• Stroller accessible
• Near public transportation
• Confirmation will be received at time of booking
• Red Route runs from 10:00am - 6:00pm, every 25 minutes. Duration - 60 minutes. First stop - Bolotnaya Square.
• Most travelers can participate
• Green Route runs from 10:00am - 6:00pm, every 60 minutes. Duration - 120 minutes. First stop - Bolotnaya Square.
• Orange Route (currently suspended) runs from 10:30am - 6:30pm, every 30 minutes. Duration - 140 minutes. First stop - Museum of Cosmonautics
• Walking tour runs daily at 10:45am. Duration - 2 hours 30 minutes. Meeting point - Next to monument of Saints Cyril and Methodius.
• Boat tour operates 5th May - 20th October, from 11:30am - 6:30pm. Duration - 60 minutes. Meeting point - Zaryadye Park Pier.
• Mobile and paper vouchers are accepted for this tour.
• Vouchers can be redeemed at any of the stops along the routes.
• Vouchers are valid for 12 months
• For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

• DebbJ 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Great way to get oriented to Moscow We started our Moscow experience with the hop on hop off. It was a great way to get orientated to the city. The additional optional tours were also good, we did the Metro tour which I highly recommend, we also paid for the Kremlin tour. The hop on hop off has three different lines all included. Only fault was the bus was sometimes full and you had to wait for the next one which was about 15 minutes (in the cold). Read more Written January 6, 2020
• UmaDelhi 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles 2 days are required Very very good audio guides- the voice quality was also good and also the anecdotes of history were brilliant. Russia is truly beautiful Read more Written September 1, 2019
• BeverleyT 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Boat trip - TERRIBLE We got on the bus, but couldn’t buy a 1 day ticket. They suggested we do the 1 hour boat trip and said they would drop us to the dock. 1) they dropped us in the wrong place 2) they were lost because of the marathon Then the boat, after we finally found it: 1) stinking fumes, actually gagging 2) no commentary, in fact, no interaction unless you begged 3) offered us 2 for 1 icecreams as they had melted and refrozen as the fridge gets turned off at night Honestly, we enjoyed the afternoon in the boat but spent all of it laughing at just how awful it was!!! The worst thing in Moscow! Read more Written August 18, 2019
• niruDurbs 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Not the best value for the price The ticket is quite expensive and covers three different routes in a 24 hour period. The red route is quite exciting and takes about an hour. The bus comes every 10 to 15 minutes. However the other two routes take about two hours each and buses come every 30 to 40 minute period. If the bus is full then you have to wait at the stop for the next bus. So personally I feel that not much can be seen this way. I definitely was not impressed. However it must be noted that one can learn a lot about the history of Moscow Read more Written July 3, 2019
• IrishCueTravel 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles SLO Motion Not all their fault , but if you plan on trying this Attraction be patient! Traffic is a big problem first and foremost. But to add additional unnecessary delays; the bus stops at each site for 15 minutes at a time or More ! I gave up half way through ( 45 minutes) ; and walked back to the starting point in 10 minutes! Read more Written June 4, 2019
• michael g 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Worst hop on/hop off EVER Waited for 40 minutes in the cold rain for a bus that never came... unacceptable. Traffic is so bad that when on a bus the previos day it was barely moving. My advice-get a subway pass and a good travel guide book and do sightseeing on your own! Read more Written October 24, 2018
• Rebecca J 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Boat element was excellent We purchased a ticket online for the boat and bus for 2 days. The boat element was wonderful, we saw some amazing parts of Moscow along the river side. The bus element was very disappointing as it only started at 10am and was finished by 6:30pm. It was extremely warm when we were there and it would have been great to do the tour in the cool of the day. There was also no air conditioning in the down stairs part of the bus. They also turned away passengers at one of the stops as the bus was full and there was not another bus for 40 minutes. Read more Written September 26, 2018
• Monismith2014 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles it was very enjoyable it was very interesting seeing things we saw walking around from the bus. so much more to see. we had a lot better view of the attractions from the height of the bus.also the bus was reasonable slow which gave us time enough for photos. it stopped at sparrow hill for 10 minutes for picture taking Read more Written September 20, 2018
• fati666222 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles The best way to see Moscow We did both routes but if you have little time then only do the red route.Its very informative and it takes you to the important sights.The staff on the bus are very friendly and helpful. Read more Written August 20, 2018
• adolfo17 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles The worst hope-on hope-off service I've ever seen Diffiult to understand the route maps and stops. Staff wouldn't help either. Lengthy stops. No air conditioning. Read more Written August 4, 2018
• Peter F 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Two Routes There is a short red route which depending on the traffic takes about an hour. The route is generally around the Red Square area. The ear phones were small and sometimes the commentary did not link up with the sites you were seeing. The green bus takes you on a longer route and ours took two and a half hours due to the heavy traffic. I would not recommend this trip unless it is raining or you want to fill in time. The sights we saw were nothing outstanding with plenty of time at certain stops for photos. Also the driver stop for a bite to eat at one stop. Read more Written July 30, 2018
• Bernardo P 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Boat Trips Moscow, Russia Yesterday, I booked a boat trip with the GetYourGuide.com web page and was totally horrible, didn’t have audio guide as it shows on the picture-Nobody Talk-. The girl on the picture-light blue bag-ask for 100 Rubles for show her the QR Code while I had the Booking and PIN number cause she must see the vessel name-Didn’t say nothing and after she said board any vessel. I suggest take the trip and pay on site, avoid fake internet pages, there are many other services with a lot of entertainment, don’t take this ones. Read more Written July 14, 2018
• Kathrynowl91 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Good way to see some sites We usually do these tours when we travel. They get you round and you see the sight . The traffic is quite heavy so it is a bit slow but there is not a lot they can do about it. We only did the red route. Just a note people don’t queue here when the bus comes it’s a bit of a free for all. Read more Written July 13, 2018
• Daniyal91 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Was Ok.! Started our tour of moscow from here, We had got the 2 Day Pass with the boat ride. The route and the map was good but not well managed. The bus didn't stop at many points. Were were unaware a couple of times at what point we were and missed them. Headphones and maps were provided. Would recommend one should check out the route map before going and decide which places to stop in advance, this way one can manage and enjoy the tour more and us it more effectively.! The boat ride was Ok, a little crowded. No guide provided, just a boat ride with restaurant service Read more Written July 12, 2018
• WilliamDyer 0 contributions 1.0 of 5 bubbles Poor service on boat and too many waiting times on buses For the price, you should expect at minimum English speaking tour guides with decent experience, but at least in my case that did not happen both in buses and boats. And in the boat even tough we were 90% English speaking tourist at least, the tour guide spoke 95% of the time in Russia, and only 3 sentences in English, I really counted how many times she spoke in English. And at the end she asks us if we have any questions? Of course I told her I couldn’t ask her anything since I didn’t understand 95% of what she was saying. The boat tour is not worth it, just take the bus that would be my advice. Second minus is the waiting times, in the boat they made us wait an hour before it departed, and in many stops with the buses waiting times of 20-30 minutes. I actually think I lost that day around 2 hours doing nothing. Be careful. Read more Written July 10, 2018

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

City Sightseeing Moscow Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour with Optional Cruise provided by City Sightseeing Moscow

• Location & Hours
• Premium Cruise
• Junior Explorer Cruise
• Beer Voyage

Chart your own course and explore Lake Minnewanka by kayak, canoe or motorboat.

Rent your own vessel and try your luck fishing in one of our 16-foot aluminum motorboats. Or enjoy an hour or two exploring the lake by kayak or canoe. Our rental boats come complete with all the necessary equipment, including gas for motorboats.

Please note that we have limited equipment available on-site at the Lake Minnewanka boathouse on a first-come, first-served basis. We recommend arriving first thing in the morning or late in the afternoon.

No person under the age of eighteen (18) shall rent equipment. A parent must sign all waivers and children 15 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the period of rental use. 

2024 Rental Hours

• Maximum 4-5 passengers per 16 foot aluminum boats with 8 and 9.9 hp outboard motors.
• Rates are subject to GST and are quoted in Canadian funds. VISA, MasterCard, American Express accepted with reservations.
• Half-day (4 hours) rental boats are only available on weekdays, Monday to Friday.
• Operating season is weather dependent.

The #LakeMinnewanka Experience

Connect with @LakeMinnewankaCruise on       

A member of our team will respond within 24 hours (weekdays) and 48 hours (weekends).

1.866.606.6700   |  CONTACT US

Stay connected