On a lovely Saturday in May we invited some friends to go on a hike in the Rocky Mountains. Being more experienced in the region, I wanted to choose something photogenic, easy and relatively close to Banff where we had dinner reservations. Stewart Canyon on the North shore of Lake Minnewanka fit the bill.
Just like any hike, you can make this as challenging as you want. There are trails all over the place, going up the mountains and far off into the distance. This park system is tens of thousands of square kilometers of nothing but beauty.
Trails around lakes are relatively flat, the most difficult part was getting parking for two vehicles. Even in early May these parts can get crowded which is why its best to avoid this area in the summer, we come early or late in the season to Minnewanka.
It doesn't matter when you come though, the place is always beautiful and we have been here every single season since it is a great spot to spot animals. It's also the perfect place for a picnic and they have some camping.
This photo is from one of our previous visits, I think it could have last May as it was a much cooler Spring and the snow on the mountains is much more prevalent than the photo below of the same peaks, despite it being a week later in the Spring one year earlier.
They have boat tours of the lake and the shores are often booked for weddings. You can see why.
Since it was a hot day, people were hanging out on the beach and even going in the frigid waters. It's never warm enough to swim here, even in late July it would be about 12 degrees. This is a deep and long lake, partially formed by a dam, its over 100m to the bottom. This is the largest lake in the park and it features an underwater ghost town.
Trails like these are relaxing and perfect to walk along with friends on. There were no difficult parts so one could carry on a conversation without worry of overexertion.
It's not a very long hike to Stewart Canyon, perhaps twenty minutes if you don't stop too much. The canyon isn't very deep but it is pronounced, you would not want to fall in. Judging by the snow, hypothermia would finish you off.
We walked up along the edge of the canyon and explored some of the heights overlooking the area. It was a relaxing day, so we weren't trying to do any loops or stepping feats. It was still better than sitting on a patio all afternoon. Next time we might just bring a picnic as there were a few free spots.
Looking North into the Canyon, the trail keeps going but it was time to turn around. I could wander for hours here but something doesn't loop around, you don't want to go too far.
The bridge over the Canyon is impressive for something that was solely built for hikers. It's a popular spot for photos. If you're ever in the area, I highly recommend you visit as it is doable by almost anyone who can walk.
All photos taken with an s22 or a40 and unedited