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Vermilion Lakes, Banff National Park

Water Body · Hidden Gem · Nature / Park
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Home to spectacular wildlife and breathtaking scenery, Vermilion Lakes are the perfect place to be at one with nature. Formed within the Bow River Valley, under the shadow of the impressive Mount Rundle, the lakes and surrounding are make a perfect spot for canoeing, wildlife-watching, hiking, picnicking, and enjoying views of the sunrise or sunset. Keep an eye out for wildlife, such as bald eagles and elk. If you get lucky, at night you may be granted with the opportunity to witness the magical Aurora Borealis. Self-guided interpretive panels provide information about the natural wonders and cultural riches of the area. Arrange your visit to Vermilion Lakes and discover more family-friendly attractions in Banff National Park using our Banff National Park online visit planner.
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Vermilion Lakes reviews

TripAdvisor traveler rating
TripAdvisor traveler rating 4.5
911 reviews
Google
4.6
TripAdvisor
  • There is a handy pull over on the side of the road for this viewing point. Set in an unusual marshy valley, the lakes are home to a wide variety of wildlife 
    There is a handy pull over on the side of the road for this viewing point. Set in an unusual marshy valley, the lakes are home to a wide variety of wildlife  more »
  • Pretty nice walk along the lakes! Very scenic and absolutely worth the time. You can park near train station for free and walk there 
    Pretty nice walk along the lakes! Very scenic and absolutely worth the time. You can park near train station for free and walk there  more »
  • The Vermilion Lakes Scenic Drive is beautiful at dusk. We got one of the best photos of our trip here. As the sun was setting there was a pink hue in the sky and a gorgeous reflection of Mt Rundle.....  more
    The Vermilion Lakes Scenic Drive is beautiful at dusk. We got one of the best photos of our trip here. As the sun was setting there was a pink hue in the sky and a gorgeous reflection of Mt Rundle.....  more »
Google
  • Was here in June 2022. Incredible panorama of forest, mountain, lake, and sky. All rolled into one beautiful and inspiring view of nature. Note that we couldn't find a place to park to enjoy the views. So we parked at Fenland Trailhead and walked.
  • Goods views of the lakes and surrounding mountains. Is easy access from the minor road that runs parallel to the highway, which good for those with mobility issues , but does mean there is often a traffic problem and parking issues. Are a few pull-off areas a parking spots with area to take strolls along the lake. The lake road also popular with cyclists.
  • Got some nice views around sunset. Surprisingly, not that many people along the scenic driving route. If there are lots of people, both driving and sightseeing will become difficult from most spots near parking. The path to drive is narrow. It's a nice stop that, hopefully, won't be bogged down by a crowd of people. Scenic drive is a one way.
  • We thought of experiencing sunset at Vermilion Lake backdrop of Mount Rundle. Picturesque sunset. But my suggestion please have this experience before traveling to Lake Louise or to Moraine Lake or Peyto Lake. My thought sunrise will also be beautiful, let see if we can come back. Note: Parking is not tough though, plus this has a good viewpoint also.
  • We walked the easy route along the Fenland trail from Banff town and along Vermilion lakes road to visit the lakes. The lakes are stunningly beautiful with panoramic views of the mountains. Only a shame about the noise from the highway right next to it them

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