Minnewanka Loop

This 16 km (10 mi) circuit for motorists and cyclists accesses Lake Minnewanka, largest lake in Banff Park, as well as historic sites, trails and picnic sites (Map 3). From downtown, take Banff Ave north past the TransCanada Hwy interchange to Cascade Ponds, a picnic spot with shelters beside waters where locals swim. Continue clockwise to Lower Bankhead 1.1 km (0.7 mi) interpretive trail to ruins of an abandoned coal mine. Upper Bankhead at 2.9 km (1.8 mi) was the site of miners’ homes; it’s now offers picnic tables and a shelter. Walk the 3.9 km (2.4 mi) C Level Cirque Trail past mine ruins and Minnewanka Lake viewpoint to a Cascade Mountain basin (cirque) ringed by cliffs. Another 2 km (1.2 mi) is Lake Minnewanka with cruise, boat rentals and fishing. Bighorn sheep reside here, and there's a scuba dive to a submerged dam and town remnants. On the north shore is Lake Minnewanka Trail, popular for hiking and mountain biking. Continue south and east to Two Jack Lake with picnic sites. Detour left to shallow Johnson Lake with picnic sites, short trails and swimming. Note: The north section of the Loop is closed Nov 15-April 15 to allow wildlife to travel natural routes.

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