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Pull in off the Icelands Parkway. There is a lower parking lot if you want to pull in and hike up. The upper parking lot is for buses and those with disabled parking permits. There is a lovely built up lookout so that you can best see the full lake and appreciate the colour. You definitely get better sparkle and colours high up. Again, free!
Oh my goodness...this Peyto Lake has a fantastic lookout that everyone goes to. That's how you explore this lake, viewing the wonderful beauty it possesses from an overlook. Peyto Lake is situated, conveniently, right off famed Icefields Parkway about 46 kilometers north of the Lake Louise area. You'll see a sign for it right as you're driving along. The parking lot was pretty big when I arrived. Though, by reading my notes and seeing how popular of a place this was, I could sense that when you visit during peak times of the summer, Peyto Lake must get packed with tourists. All you have to do from the parking lot is climb 6/10's of a kilometer to arrive at the viewpoint. I came here in late afternoon/early evening around 7:30pm last week (in the middle of June, 2022) and it was relatively quiet at the wooden platform observation point. My only disappointment with my time spent here was the dreaded ole sun. As per usual, I was looking into the sun and snapping pictures which created the ole hazy/glare type of setting. So, ultimately, I never discovered the blue coloring of the lake. And that was unfortunate. So...I highly recommend visiting here in the morning time! Yes, mornings will certainly give you the best perspectives! And on a side note, I just wish more people would mention the positioning of the sun in the sky within their reviews. Because it's important to let others know the best times of day to visit, it's really helpful, lol. Regardless, not to fear for me...I'm headed up to Alaska this summer and will be returning here to Peyto Lake on my way back towards the continental USA....so I will have a second opportunity to come here, and yes, I want those blue waters and pristine backdrop!!! Some memorable aspects about the platform was how calm and quiet the backdrop was. It was myself and a few others and we each respected each others time at the primary spot for picture taking. There was no wind at all and the background felt like an untouched canvas painting. You have the snowcapped mountains on your left, Peyto Lake as the centerpiece in the middle and a further away mountain range set in the distance. Overall, the viewpoint was such a cool spot to stand and admire nature and the incredible surroundings of the Canadian Rockies! And...although for me I didn't have the chance to trek higher...from this lookout, you can climb almost 3 kilometers higher to Bow Summit Lookout which is the highest point on Icefields Parkway. When I arrived at this trailhead, it was pretty deep in snow and I just didn't feel like struggling all the way up to the peak in late afternoon time. Though...I will return probably in August to attempt the adventure, (and yes, in morning time!). Alright, well, coming here to Peyto Lake for wondrous views from the lookout is a MUST-DO while exploring Icefields Parkway and the Lake Louis area of Banff National Park. You will be quite impressed with what you see.
If you do not want to hike in Canada, this is one of those drives you must go on. This view point is one of the many you will encounter on this route and it is well worth it. Beware that if it is too cold they will shut down the entrance ( it can be steep and black ice is no go). When we were here it was raining and snowing, but thankfully hot enough to have the road open. We had mounds of snow around the parking lot. My husband and I looked at each other and knew we were not turning around. A few families trickled in after us and we hiked up as a group. Going up can get strep really fast. Bring a trekking pole here to help. Don't use the trip pod like we did to stabilize, it can make for an awful fall down. As with many hikes please bring a raincoat. You never know what the weather will be and always listen to your instincts no matter how short the trek may be. We made it to the platform after hiking up hill for a good 20 minutes. Many see different things, but we Botha greed this is a Fox.
This is just the most beautiful lake I've ever seen in my life. I truly have no other words to describe what I saw. Because the lakes in Banff have so much leftover residue from the glaciers, they appear much more blue than your average lake. The higher up you are, the more brilliant turquoise they appear. This was the highest point we were at in Banff that overlooked a lake, so this one therefore looked the most blue out of any we saw. There's a pull-off for this spot right off of the main road that goes through the park. Once you park, it's only about a five minute walk until you see this view. It's an absolute MUST.
This lake is absolutely stunning. It's right off of Icefields Parkway and it's a bright milky blue. It's said to be the bluest lake. I'm not sure if it's bluer than the others we saw, but it's definitely very blue. The parking lot is packed. We got there before 10 and it was already full, but we got a spot from someone leaving. By the time we left, cars were parked down the road. From the parking lot, you can hike about 10 minutes for a view of the lake. This is where most of the tourists will stop. Continue on by yourself for some solitude and the best view of the lake. We went up a ways to the right on the loop trail. Then there was a dirt path that split off to the right and went straight up the side of the mountain. We followed the steep path up for around 15 minutes until it opened up into a gorgeous view of the entire lake. It was definitely worth the climb and no one else was up there. This is a must see in the area and definitely get a view from higher up on the mountain!
It has been called the bluest lake in the Canadian Rockies, and one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Our tour bus was driving on the Icefields Parkway along the Continental Divide and the dividing line between British Columbia and Alberta. 2.5 hours south of Jasper and 1 hour north of Banff, right off the highway a short ways. We stopped at the Icefields to take the Ice explorers on the Athabasca glacier. A short ways away is Bow Summit, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway at 7,000 feet. Our bus roars into the upper parking lot, one of two parking lots for Peyto Lake. We had stopped previously at the Icefields, as Peyto Lake has only pit toilets and no eating facilities. And we all hate those pit toilets, especially for sit down jobs. From the bus parking lot it is maybe 200 yards hike up a paved trail to a look out point. If you come by car you have to park maybe a quarter mile down. Heavily forested area, with glances of a shocking turquoise water on the horizon. As we get closer, we get a postcard view of a perfectly still lake water of brilliant turquoise, framed by snow topped mountains on the other side. The water is glacier fed, with the minerals from the crushed rock creating the turquoise color. I've seen Lake Louise and the waters near Grinnell Glacier. Peyto Lake, named after the explorer who discovered this lake, is exceptional in it's beauty. You can see why it has been called the most beautiful lake in the world. The 37 of us quickly pile onto the lookout platform, clicking pictures and selfies, before the next bus load of tourists arrive. We are fortunate to arrive in the afternoon on a gorgeous sunny day, showing not only the brilliant turquoise color, but reflections from the adjacent mountains over this pristine lake. In the background to the southwest between the trees you can see the ice covered glacier which feeds into the lake. Enjoy it while you can in this first week in September, as within a week it would snow here, with smoke from forest fires intervening. Someone up there was looking out for us!
Considered one of the prettiest lakes in the Canadian Rockies, I can see where it got its reputation! Like Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, and many other lakes around the Canadian Rockies... Peyto Lake has that same vivid green-blue water. However, because you view the lake from a higher elevation, you get to see how it's surrounded by mountains and the trees. It's a beautiful sight worth visiting if you're exploring Banff National Park. The drive is about an hour north of Banff and is relatively easy - there's a dedicated parking lot for the trail to go up to the view point. If you're handicap, you can continue driving and there's a parking lot much closer to the view point. This is also the case for tour buses! Otherwise the trail up isn't too bad, with little elevation and nice scenery of meadows and forest. I'd say it's about 20-30 minutes one way. Once you reach the viewpoint, you can opt to get your photos taken near the railing... or go off the trail to get photos near the cliffside. Just be smart and careful about how close you get, but I thought it made for better pictures since the platform at the viewpoint got too crowded. Also the view was much nicer!
Peyto Lake is definitely worth a visit if you're in Banff. Our waiter, Bryan from Three Ravens Restaurant recommended this as one of his favorites. Peyto Lake, like Lake Louise, has that gorgeous blue-green water and is also surrounded by mountains. It's also less busier and there are two parking lots you can use: the upper and the lower. A few short hiking trails connect the two, but if you're ambitious you can hike a bit further to Bow Summit. Great place for some photos and a brief hike. The have limited bathroom facilities and not alot of signs.
Oh Peyto Lake. I must admit I've been tracking you on Instagram for quite some time now. As impressively photogenic you are, you're even more amazing in person. You are the definition of the color turquoise. Did you know that you get your color from being glacier fed? It's called glacial silt and yours comes from Peyto Glacier and the Wapta Icefields. Here's my journey to see you, a five star must see! 5 stars - Location. It's in Banff National Park, along the Icefields Parkway, on the west side, approximately 42kms north of Lake Louise. It's easy to find and clearly marked on the highway. 5 stars - Parking lot. There were a lot of parking spaces here, especially when you compare it to the other lakes along the Icefields Parkway. If you time it right and you get there when there isn't a tour bus in site, then scramble your way up the trail to the viewpoint. Here's why... 5 stars - People. Too popular of a place could mean too many people. I was lucky and didn't see that many people up at the top. Maybe twenty? People usually take photos at the viewpoint, and then they're on their way. 5 stars - Hiking Trail. It's a 15 minute trail to the first lookout. It's steep in some places. Tip: you gotta keep hiking higher from there to get the best views. I almost went back a second time on my way back from Jasper. Maybe I should have because I already want to come back to see you. I know I'll have enough photos to last a lifetime. But it still may not be enough. Stay blue! See ya next time!
The viewpoint and the color of the lake are stunning. The lake itself is at about 6,000 feet of altitude, making the viewpoint somewhat higher, so the uphill sections of the walk (and the crowds) may slow you down a bit if you're not accustomed to thin air - but it's well worth the slog. We visited during the summer of 2019, and there were indications in the National Park guide that the parking lot will be closed for improvements to the parking lot, restroom, and signs. The parking lot had some of the deepest pot holes I've ever seen, and the restrooms had long waits, so it appears my only 2 quibbles will soon be taken care of by Canada's amazing National Park people.
Wow! The water in Peyto Lake is the most beautiful of the lakes we visited (others being Moraine and Louise). Even though we had already seen two lakes, we made the right decision to drive the extra hour there. Since Peyto Lake is viewed from above versus at water level, you see it from a completely different angle. The turquoise water is surrounded by thousands of trees that line the majestic mountains. The whole scene is incredible.
You don't know what are missing if you visit Banff and Lake Louise but not here! I have been to this mountain lake a handful of times and every time I go I am in awe of this beautiful sight. The parking lot is always full so be prepared to park along the side of the road. This place has gotten quite busy over the years with many more international visitors than a few years ago. I got there around 8:00 pm this time and it was still quite busy. Everyone there was trying to get a good picture of the lake and all its glory. I waited about 10 minutes for my turn to take the perfect shot. I never get tired of seeing this breathtakingly turquoise coloured lake and the surrounding green mountains. It is all very calming. A short 10 minute hike on a concrete path is all that it takes to see the stunning view of the lake. Note: There is no cell service in the area.
Okay, everyone said you have to go to Peyto Lake when you're in Banff. So, of course it was on my MUST List to visit when I went last June. Unfortunately, this lake was so high in elevation, you won't know what kind of weather you get until you arrive there. My friend was there 2 weeks before me and it was sunny, and guess what happened when I got there?! SNOW!!! So, I wasn't totally prepared to hike when the wind was blowing so hard plus the snow, it's just bad combination basically. They even close the route for personal cars to go up because the road was slippery. Fortunately, I was with my mom and her tour bus, they allowed us to join their bus to take photos. Let me tell you, it was soooo worth it. The view with the snow just gorgeous, yes it's foggy but the lake was sooo blue, instead of emerald due to the clouds. Gorgeous not even the right word to describe it, you just have to see it for yourself. I will definitely come back again to Banff to hike this lake, it's a MUST!
Same thought with Peyto Lake; too many tourons that only want an Instagram picture and climbing over railings and acting a fool. 3rd world country stuff here. If you take the trail off the beaten path, you can hike for miles without another person and get some peace and quiet to yourself! The overlook is a 2/5 for me, the trail is a 5/5! read more
This is a scenic and attractive lake with an entrancing deep turquoise color. It is conveniently located right off of the Icefields Parkway about halfway between Banff and the Columbia Icefield, so there's really no excuse for not stopping for a view. There are actually two parking levels and only tour buses are allowed on the top level closer to the Kodak viewing lookout. Private cars need to park on the lower level and folks need to do a modest hike upward to the lookout. This lake is fed by a receding Peyto glacier that is in view also. We saw quite a few lakes on this trip, but they are all worth seeing and all spectacular in their own individual way, and this one was no different in that regards. read more
3 years ago
One of our favorite hikes on our drive between Banff and jasper was Peyto lake, and Bow Summit. If you are coming just to observe Peyto lake, I would definitely recommend hiking slightly past the first viewing deck, as it is extremely crowded and continue on just a little further. If you go off the paved path and follow the trail through a little bit of woods, you'll find a beautiful opening with huge rock boulders, and a completely unobstructed view of Peyto lake - with no tourists. In addition to stopping for photos of Peyto lake, we continued onward and hiked to Bow Summit. It was challenging, but so worth it for the views at the end. There were very few people who completed this hike, so we pretty much had the entire summit to ourselves. read more
3 years ago
Pull in off the Icelands Parkway. There is a lower parking lot if you want to pull in and hike up. The upper parking lot is for buses and those with disabled parking permits. There is a lovely built up lookout so that you can best see the full lake and appreciate the colour. You definitely get better sparkle and colours high up. Again, free! read more
Oh my goodness...this Peyto Lake has a fantastic lookout that everyone goes to. That's how you explore this lake, viewing the wonderful beauty it possesses from an overlook. Peyto Lake is situated, conveniently, right off famed Icefields Parkway about 46 kilometers north of the Lake Louise area. You'll see a sign for it right as you're driving along. The parking lot was pretty big when I arrived. Though, by reading my notes and seeing how popular of a place this was, I could sense that when you visit during peak times of the summer, Peyto Lake must get packed with tourists. All you have to do from the parking lot is climb 6/10's of a kilometer to arrive at the viewpoint. I came here in late afternoon/early evening around 7:30pm last week (in the middle of June, 2022) and it was relatively quiet at the wooden platform observation point. My only disappointment with my time spent here was the dreaded ole sun. As per usual, I was looking into the sun and snapping pictures which created the ole hazy/glare type of setting. So, ultimately, I never discovered the blue coloring of the lake. And that was unfortunate. So...I highly recommend visiting here in the morning time! Yes, mornings will certainly give you the best perspectives! And on a side note, I just wish more people would mention the positioning of the sun in the sky within their reviews. Because it's important to let others know the best times of day to visit, it's really helpful, lol. Regardless, not to fear for me...I'm headed up to Alaska this summer and will be returning here to Peyto Lake on my way back towards the continental USA....so I will have a second opportunity to come here, and yes, I want those blue waters and pristine backdrop!!! Some memorable aspects about the platform was how calm and quiet the backdrop was. It was myself and a few others and we each respected each others time at the primary spot for picture taking. There was no wind at all and the background felt like an untouched canvas painting. You have the snowcapped mountains on your left, Peyto Lake as the centerpiece in the middle and a further away mountain range set in the distance. Overall, the viewpoint was such a cool spot to stand and admire nature and the incredible surroundings of the Canadian Rockies! And...although for me I didn't have the chance to trek higher...from this lookout, you can climb almost 3 kilometers higher to Bow Summit Lookout which is the highest point on Icefields Parkway. When I arrived at this trailhead, it was pretty deep in snow and I just didn't feel like struggling all the way up to the peak in late afternoon time. Though...I will return probably in August to attempt the adventure, (and yes, in morning time!). Alright, well, coming here to Peyto Lake for wondrous views from the lookout is a MUST-DO while exploring Icefields Parkway and the Lake Louis area of Banff National Park. You will be quite impressed with what you see. read more
3 years ago
If you do not want to hike in Canada, this is one of those drives you must go on. This view point is one of the many you will encounter on this route and it is well worth it. Beware that if it is too cold they will shut down the entrance ( it can be steep and black ice is no go). When we were here it was raining and snowing, but thankfully hot enough to have the road open. We had mounds of snow around the parking lot. My husband and I looked at each other and knew we were not turning around. A few families trickled in after us and we hiked up as a group. Going up can get strep really fast. Bring a trekking pole here to help. Don't use the trip pod like we did to stabilize, it can make for an awful fall down. As with many hikes please bring a raincoat. You never know what the weather will be and always listen to your instincts no matter how short the trek may be. We made it to the platform after hiking up hill for a good 20 minutes. Many see different things, but we Botha greed this is a Fox. read more
This is just the most beautiful lake I've ever seen in my life. I truly have no other words to describe what I saw. Because the lakes in Banff have so much leftover residue from the glaciers, they appear much more blue than your average lake. The higher up you are, the more brilliant turquoise they appear. This was the highest point we were at in Banff that overlooked a lake, so this one therefore looked the most blue out of any we saw. There's a pull-off for this spot right off of the main road that goes through the park. Once you park, it's only about a five minute walk until you see this view. It's an absolute MUST. read more
7 years ago
This lake is absolutely stunning. It's right off of Icefields Parkway and it's a bright milky blue. It's said to be the bluest lake. I'm not sure if it's bluer than the others we saw, but it's definitely very blue. The parking lot is packed. We got there before 10 and it was already full, but we got a spot from someone leaving. By the time we left, cars were parked down the road. From the parking lot, you can hike about 10 minutes for a view of the lake. This is where most of the tourists will stop. Continue on by yourself for some solitude and the best view of the lake. We went up a ways to the right on the loop trail. Then there was a dirt path that split off to the right and went straight up the side of the mountain. We followed the steep path up for around 15 minutes until it opened up into a gorgeous view of the entire lake. It was definitely worth the climb and no one else was up there. This is a must see in the area and definitely get a view from higher up on the mountain! read more
It has been called the bluest lake in the Canadian Rockies, and one of the most beautiful lakes in the world. Our tour bus was driving on the Icefields Parkway along the Continental Divide and the dividing line between British Columbia and Alberta. 2.5 hours south of Jasper and 1 hour north of Banff, right off the highway a short ways. We stopped at the Icefields to take the Ice explorers on the Athabasca glacier. A short ways away is Bow Summit, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway at 7,000 feet. Our bus roars into the upper parking lot, one of two parking lots for Peyto Lake. We had stopped previously at the Icefields, as Peyto Lake has only pit toilets and no eating facilities. And we all hate those pit toilets, especially for sit down jobs. From the bus parking lot it is maybe 200 yards hike up a paved trail to a look out point. If you come by car you have to park maybe a quarter mile down. Heavily forested area, with glances of a shocking turquoise water on the horizon. As we get closer, we get a postcard view of a perfectly still lake water of brilliant turquoise, framed by snow topped mountains on the other side. The water is glacier fed, with the minerals from the crushed rock creating the turquoise color. I've seen Lake Louise and the waters near Grinnell Glacier. Peyto Lake, named after the explorer who discovered this lake, is exceptional in it's beauty. You can see why it has been called the most beautiful lake in the world. The 37 of us quickly pile onto the lookout platform, clicking pictures and selfies, before the next bus load of tourists arrive. We are fortunate to arrive in the afternoon on a gorgeous sunny day, showing not only the brilliant turquoise color, but reflections from the adjacent mountains over this pristine lake. In the background to the southwest between the trees you can see the ice covered glacier which feeds into the lake. Enjoy it while you can in this first week in September, as within a week it would snow here, with smoke from forest fires intervening. Someone up there was looking out for us! read more
9 years ago
Considered one of the prettiest lakes in the Canadian Rockies, I can see where it got its reputation! Like Lake Louise, Emerald Lake, and many other lakes around the Canadian Rockies... Peyto Lake has that same vivid green-blue water. However, because you view the lake from a higher elevation, you get to see how it's surrounded by mountains and the trees. It's a beautiful sight worth visiting if you're exploring Banff National Park. The drive is about an hour north of Banff and is relatively easy - there's a dedicated parking lot for the trail to go up to the view point. If you're handicap, you can continue driving and there's a parking lot much closer to the view point. This is also the case for tour buses! Otherwise the trail up isn't too bad, with little elevation and nice scenery of meadows and forest. I'd say it's about 20-30 minutes one way. Once you reach the viewpoint, you can opt to get your photos taken near the railing... or go off the trail to get photos near the cliffside. Just be smart and careful about how close you get, but I thought it made for better pictures since the platform at the viewpoint got too crowded. Also the view was much nicer! read more
Peyto Lake is definitely worth a visit if you're in Banff. Our waiter, Bryan from Three Ravens Restaurant recommended this as one of his favorites. Peyto Lake, like Lake Louise, has that gorgeous blue-green water and is also surrounded by mountains. It's also less busier and there are two parking lots you can use: the upper and the lower. A few short hiking trails connect the two, but if you're ambitious you can hike a bit further to Bow Summit. Great place for some photos and a brief hike. The have limited bathroom facilities and not alot of signs. read more
Oh Peyto Lake. I must admit I've been tracking you on Instagram for quite some time now. As impressively photogenic you are, you're even more amazing in person. You are the definition of the color turquoise. Did you know that you get your color from being glacier fed? It's called glacial silt and yours comes from Peyto Glacier and the Wapta Icefields. Here's my journey to see you, a five star must see! 5 stars - Location. It's in Banff National Park, along the Icefields Parkway, on the west side, approximately 42kms north of Lake Louise. It's easy to find and clearly marked on the highway. 5 stars - Parking lot. There were a lot of parking spaces here, especially when you compare it to the other lakes along the Icefields Parkway. If you time it right and you get there when there isn't a tour bus in site, then scramble your way up the trail to the viewpoint. Here's why... 5 stars - People. Too popular of a place could mean too many people. I was lucky and didn't see that many people up at the top. Maybe twenty? People usually take photos at the viewpoint, and then they're on their way. 5 stars - Hiking Trail. It's a 15 minute trail to the first lookout. It's steep in some places. Tip: you gotta keep hiking higher from there to get the best views. I almost went back a second time on my way back from Jasper. Maybe I should have because I already want to come back to see you. I know I'll have enough photos to last a lifetime. But it still may not be enough. Stay blue! See ya next time! read more
The viewpoint and the color of the lake are stunning. The lake itself is at about 6,000 feet of altitude, making the viewpoint somewhat higher, so the uphill sections of the walk (and the crowds) may slow you down a bit if you're not accustomed to thin air - but it's well worth the slog. We visited during the summer of 2019, and there were indications in the National Park guide that the parking lot will be closed for improvements to the parking lot, restroom, and signs. The parking lot had some of the deepest pot holes I've ever seen, and the restrooms had long waits, so it appears my only 2 quibbles will soon be taken care of by Canada's amazing National Park people. read more
9 years ago
Wow! The water in Peyto Lake is the most beautiful of the lakes we visited (others being Moraine and Louise). Even though we had already seen two lakes, we made the right decision to drive the extra hour there. Since Peyto Lake is viewed from above versus at water level, you see it from a completely different angle. The turquoise water is surrounded by thousands of trees that line the majestic mountains. The whole scene is incredible. read more
You don't know what are missing if you visit Banff and Lake Louise but not here! I have been to this mountain lake a handful of times and every time I go I am in awe of this beautiful sight. The parking lot is always full so be prepared to park along the side of the road. This place has gotten quite busy over the years with many more international visitors than a few years ago. I got there around 8:00 pm this time and it was still quite busy. Everyone there was trying to get a good picture of the lake and all its glory. I waited about 10 minutes for my turn to take the perfect shot. I never get tired of seeing this breathtakingly turquoise coloured lake and the surrounding green mountains. It is all very calming. A short 10 minute hike on a concrete path is all that it takes to see the stunning view of the lake. Note: There is no cell service in the area. read more
Okay, everyone said you have to go to Peyto Lake when you're in Banff. So, of course it was on my MUST List to visit when I went last June. Unfortunately, this lake was so high in elevation, you won't know what kind of weather you get until you arrive there. My friend was there 2 weeks before me and it was sunny, and guess what happened when I got there?! SNOW!!! So, I wasn't totally prepared to hike when the wind was blowing so hard plus the snow, it's just bad combination basically. They even close the route for personal cars to go up because the road was slippery. Fortunately, I was with my mom and her tour bus, they allowed us to join their bus to take photos. Let me tell you, it was soooo worth it. The view with the snow just gorgeous, yes it's foggy but the lake was sooo blue, instead of emerald due to the clouds. Gorgeous not even the right word to describe it, you just have to see it for yourself. I will definitely come back again to Banff to hike this lake, it's a MUST! read more
Wow! This lake is stunning! The color of the lake is a milky blue. With the surrounding landscape, it's so picturesque. Like most popular destinations, parking is a challenge. We took the first spot available after turning into the parking lot. If you're willing to loop the parking lot, you could probably get a paved spot closer to the trailhead. It's definitely a hike from the lower parking lot to the overlook. It's a paved path with a decent elevation gain. There's a second parking lot for handicap parking and tour buses that is closer to the overlook. Must see! Do not pass on this destination. read more
7 years ago
This is the best lake out of all the ones you could visit on the ice fields parkway. The hike to it is about 10 minutes and if you aren't from high elevation can take your breath away a little bit. But I saw older people, little kids, and people in flip flops doing it- so you can too. The lake is STUNNING and shaped like a wolf's head! It gets busy but is worth it. read more
Yes, it's really that blue. You have to come and see for yourself. -- PARKING -- There's 2 lots available. The one closest to Peyto lake is reserved for tours. The other one requires a short hike (~10 minutes) up to the lookout point. The hike itself is pretty steep and at that altitude I was feeling a little out of breath (but I'm not the most fit person). A lot of people go down under the railing to take pictures closer than the viewing platform. Just don't be dumb. read more
10 years ago
One of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Peyto Lake is so breathtaking that pictures cannot do its beauty justice. The hike from the parking lot is a quick 15 minute walk up, but at some points very steep. I saw several older people capable of walking up, so it's very manageable. If you come on a tour bus, the main view point is a 2 minute walk from the tour bus lot. For an even better view, continue hiking up, you will eventually reach a tiny sign with that says Bow Summit Lookout. At this point you can either choose to loop back to the parking lot or continue to a higher lookout. This was a great trail early in the morning as we felt like we had the place to ourselves. To hike up to the lookout and back, with rest stops to take pictures took about 2 hours. read more
9 years ago
Through the short trail FULL of mosquitoes eating you alive lies a beautiful , sky blue lake that lays in front of you as you get to the observation lake. Great place to take a picture BUT you can't really get to it too far and hence the disappointment because you can't really get a good photoshoot when the lake looks like the size of the model BUT for just looking at it and spending some time here it's okay. Fortunately there are many, many other lakes in this park so you won't have to worry that this is your only shot at a lake. Be careful because again, this place has tour bus parking lots so you will be left with a bunch of people. There are two ways to get here. The long way which we took heading south but if you keep driving a bit more you'll see another parking lot you can go to in order to reach the overlook faster! read more
7 years ago
I visited Peyto Lake ("the bluest lake of the Rockies") last month and it was completely covered in snow. If you go in the summertime, the lake will have that turquoise emerald blue color. Both just as beautiful. Peyto Lake can be viewed from Bow Summit (highest point of the Icefields Parkway) which is just about a 10 to 15 min walk from the parking lot. The walk is not bad at all, just a slight elevation gain. Since I went in the winter, we barely made it to the edge of the parking lot and had to walk to rest of the way since the road was covered in snow. Look out for a big Bow Summit sign to your right and from there, it is a 3 min walk to view the lake. Be careful to not miss this sign. Since it was half covered in snow, my friends and I missed it and we veered left and off into the moutains we went. The scenary was beautiful but we were so lost haha Peyto Lake is so unique since it's shaped like a wolf! The spirit of the wolf lives on! Super cool :) read more
7 years ago
By far one of the prettiest vistas you'll ever see in life. Peyto is one of the iconic images you'll see associated with the Canadian Rockies. You can park inside of a mile to get the view, and it's an easy walk on paved path to get to it. Expect to be sharing the view with others, especially at the height of summer. There are some nice hikes that branch off from the viewpoint, like Caldron Lake, and Bow Lake is just down the road. Even the drive to get here is one of the prettiest you can imagine, along the Icefields Parkway. This is absolutely a must see, and a nice place to stop if you're heading toward Jasper. read more
8 years ago
Great experience with even better views . Definitely worth a trip. I suggest that if you're medically challenged or have really small children to reconsider , the trail is extremely steep and damp . read more
Wow. WOW. The pictures of this don't do it justice, which is saying something! This is the kind of view that just takes your breath away. It seems that nature had a perfect moment here. A beautiful icy blue glacier lake that looks like a laying down bear (or your favorite animal!), surrounded by evergreens that meet rock mountains. It doesn't get better. It is a bit crowded, but wait your turn, be patient, and just relax. There is no reason to rush in the Rockies. read more
8 years ago
8 years ago
11 years ago
10-minute trek from the parking lot to the viewing area. Dress warm. It is chilly. There is also a short hike to another viewing area that is not so crowded with people & such a larger view. Simply stunning! read more
10 years ago
A must-see for anyone...its unique blueish tint is unique.Spend the five minutes hiking to the lookout, and try to go in the mid-afternoon on a sunny day to see the colour captured in the attached photo. read more
9 years ago
More info about Peyto Lake
Banff National Park, Improvement District No 9
Banff, AB T0L
Canada
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Review Highlights - Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake - lakes - Updated May 2026
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