When water levels are high enough, the first and second Vermilion Lakes are connected by a channel that parallels Vermilion Lakes Road. Together, the two lakes create about a 10 km paddling loop, with lots of opportunities for bird spotting/photography, surrounded by beautiful mountains.
One of three lakes on the scenic Lake Minnewanka drive, Two Jack Lake is a scenic, easy option for kayaking, canoeing and SUPing. From-the-water views include Mount Rundle, Cascade Mountain and Mount Aylmer. More adventurous paddlers on SUPs or kayaks can pull themselves under the low bridge across the canal and go another 1.5 km south along the canal before turning back.
Lake Minnewanka Loop is a short, scenic road ride. In 2021, Parks Canada is piloting a 4 day/week vehicle free road cycling option during shoulder season.
The trail to Taylor Lake is entirely below treeline, which means it’s relatively lower risk for avalanche. It’s on the Park’s Canada list of difficult snowshoe/winter hiking trails in the Lake Louise area, with a warning of avalanche danger beyond reaching the lake. With over 600 meters elevation gain, this is a relatively challenging winter hike/snowshoe destination.
An easy, half-day winter hike/snowshoe to a narrow mountain lake. Expect to share the trail with skiers, snowshoe hares and spruce grouse.