Peyto Lake Tours and Activities

Peyto Lake featuring a lake or waterhole, views and mountains
Peyto Lake
Peyto Lake showing views, a lake or waterhole and landscape views
Peyto Lake featuring mountains, forests and a lake or waterhole
Peyto Lake which includes a lake or waterhole, mountains and landscape views


This glacial lake draws visitors for its turquoise waters and surrounding mountain scenery.

Peyto Lake is one of the most popular attractions in Banff National Park. It turns aqua blue in summer, creating a beautiful sight as the water is surrounded by snow-capped peaks.

The lookout high above the lake is the best place to see the water. Not many visitors hike down to the lake itself. There’s a car park just off the highway, and it’s a 10 to 15 minute walk to the lookout. The trail is paved and suitable for just about any fitness level. A second car park closer to the lookout is for tourist buses and disabled parking.

The lake is 25 miles (40 kilometers) north of Lake Louise, and about 63 miles (100 kilometers) north of Banff. Rent a car from either town and drive the scenic Icefields Parkway. Several tour companies run day trips through the National Park, and most include a stop at Peyto Lake Lookout.

Enjoy the uninterrupted views across snow-capped peaks, valleys, forests and the lake from the wooden viewing platform suspended over the edge of the mountain.

The lake is fed by glaciers. Rock particles enter the water when the glaciers melt in summer, which gives the water its turquoise color. The view is still worth the trip in winter, when the lake freezes over and the landscape is covered with snow.

Tourist buses bring big crowds to the lookout in summer. Sometimes it can be hard to even get a foot on the viewing platform. Come before 9 a.m. or after 4 p.m. to avoid the rush. Otherwise, continue on past the lookout. A 2-mile (3-kilometer) trail leads to Bow Summit Lookout. Fewer people take this route, so it’s less crowded, and there are some great photo opportunities.

A second trail leads from the Peyto Lake Lookout down to the lake. You’ll need several hours to attempt the return hike.

Plan a trip to see Peyto Lake

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Grande Rockies Resort - Bellstar Hotels & Resorts
Paradise Resort Club and Spa
Podollan Inn & Spa Grande Prairie

Popular places to visit


Best Lodging Options Near Peyto Lake

The Lodge at Bow Lake

The Lodge at Bow Lake

3.5 out of 5
Icefields Pkwy, Bow Lake, AB
The Lodge at Bow Lake
HI-Mosquito Creek Hostel

HI-Mosquito Creek Hostel

1 out of 5
Highway 93, Bow Lake, AB
HI-Mosquito Creek Hostel
Emerald Lake Lodge

Emerald Lake Lodge

3.5 out of 5
Emerald Lake Road, Field, BC
Emerald Lake Lodge
Lake Louise Inn

Lake Louise Inn

3 out of 5
210 Village Road, Lake Louise, AB
Lake Louise Inn
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

4 out of 5
111 Lake Louise Drive, Lake Louise, AB
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Mountaineer Lodge

Mountaineer Lodge

2.5 out of 5
101 Village Road, Lake Louise, AB
Mountaineer Lodge
Post Hotel & Spa

Post Hotel & Spa

4 out of 5
200 Pipestone Rd, Lake Louise, AB
Post Hotel & Spa
Deer Lodge

Deer Lodge

3 out of 5
109 Lake Louise Drive, Lake Louise, AB
Deer Lodge
Paradise Lodge & Bungalows

Paradise Lodge & Bungalows

2.5 out of 5
105 Lake Louise Drive, Box 7, Lake Louise, AB
Paradise Lodge & Bungalows
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Peyto Lake

Peyto Lake offers stunning photography spots with its iconic wolf-head shape and vibrant turquoise waters. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore a variety of activities, including hiking along nearby trails such as the Peyto Lake Lookout Trail, which provides breathtaking views. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are popular options, while summer invites visitors to enjoy picnicking and wildlife watching in this picturesque area of Alberta's Banff National Park.

Shopping

If you're up for a drive, you can visit Wilsons Mountain Sports and Samson Mall, both located 40.2km away from Peyto Lake. At these locations, you'll find a variety of outdoor gear and unique souvenirs that capture the spirit of the Canadian Rockies.

Recreation

Experience the serene beauty of Peyto Lake with guided meditation sessions amidst stunning mountain views. Explore nearby hiking trails for invigorating walks, and unwind with yoga classes focused on relaxation and mindfulness, all while surrounded by the breathtaking natural landscape of the Canadian Rockies.

Adventure

Experience thrilling skiing at the Juniper Express Ski Lift, located 40.2km from Peyto Lake, where you can enjoy the stunning mountain scenery. The Glacier Express Quad Ski Lift, also 40.2km away, offers exhilarating runs. For incredible views, don’t miss the Summit Chair Lift, located 38.6km from Peyto Lake.

Nightlife

Peyto Lake is known for its stunning natural beauty rather than a bustling nightlife scene. However, nearby Banff offers cozy pubs like The Banff Ave Brewing Co. for craft beers and local music. For a unique experience, consider stargazing in the tranquil surroundings after a day of adventure.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Peyto Lake

Discover the breathtaking beauty of Peyto Lake, Alberta, where you can explore stunning lakes, waterfalls, and lookout points. This area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts seeking adventure and romance. Don’t miss the chance to visit nearby Bow Lake and immerse yourself in the picturesque landscapes that surround Peyto Lake. Whether you’re hiking or simply enjoying the scenic views, this destination promises an unforgettable experience in nature.

  • Bow Lake: Located 6.4km from Peyto Lake, Bow Lake offers stunning beach scenery and outdoor experiences. The lake is perfect for relaxation or a romantic picnic, surrounded by majestic mountain views that capture the essence of the Canadian Rockies.
  • Crowfoot Glacier: Just 8.0km from Peyto Lake, Crowfoot Glacier presents breathtaking scenery. This impressive glacier, with its unique shape resembling a crow’s foot, provides an awe-inspiring backdrop for photography and exploration, showcasing nature’s raw beauty.
  • Takakkaw Falls: Situated 18.0km away, Takakkaw Falls is a spectacular waterfall that delivers an adventurous outdoor experience. The thundering cascade surrounded by lush wilderness is perfect for those seeking romance or thrilling hikes amid stunning landscapes.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Peyto Lake

To save on your trip to Peyto Lake, consider visiting in the cheaper months of February, April, or November, and book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates. Saturdays typically offer the lowest hotel prices, while Mondays are the most expensive. Keep an eye out for last-minute deals on Expedia, particularly those highlighted with a green banner. You can also save by bundling your hotel, flights, and activities in an Expedia package. Don’t forget to use the price filter to find the most affordable options that fit your budget.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Peyto Lake is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Peyto Lake are February, April and November, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Peyto Lake about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Peyto Lake is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Peyto Lake is Monday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some money by combining your hotel stay at Peyto Lake with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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