In the heart of the Canadian Rockies lies Banff National Park; a shimmering jewel of natural beauty. The park is home to more than 1,000 pristine lakes that captivate visitors year-round. Established in 1885 as Canada’s first national park, Banff has long been a sanctuary for adventurers, nature lovers, and photographers alike. Its glacial-fed waters—like the world-famous Lake Louise and the surreal Moraine Lake—offer breathtaking views and endless opportunities for recreation, from canoeing and kayaking in summer to ice skating and snowshoeing in winter. These lakes not only tell a story of ancient geological forces but also serve as a magnet for tourism, drawing millions annually to explore their crystal-clear depths and the surrounding alpine splendour. These postcard-perfect lakes have drawn visitors to the Rocky Mountains for decades. I hope you enjoy this small collection of historical photos featuring some of Banff’s most stunning lakes.
For related posts please see these previous stories including, Historic Photos of Lakes from Across Alberta, Hidden Lake: A Conservation Success Story, Old Photographs of Banff’s Wildlife Paddock, Historical Photos of Banff’s Cave & Basin, and The Spirit of Minnewanka.
The photos above were collected from Archives Canada. If you’re interested, additional information can be found for each photograph on their website. Stay tuned for additional posts featuring historical photos from across Alberta and Western Canada. We’d love to know what you think in the comment section below.
