One of the best things about summer in Canada is having the opportunity to cool off in one of the 31,753 lakes in the country (that’s more than any other country in the world). Canadian lakes come in all shapes and sizes and whether you make a day trip out of it or plan a longer stay, consider spending time at one of these swim-worthy lakes on our list.
Lake Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Lake Winnipeg is the 10th largest freshwater lake in the world. The world class beaches surrounding the lake make it a prime spot to swim in the summer months for both locals and visitors. One of the most popular beaches on Lake Winnipeg is Grand Beach, which stretches for three kilometres and has been called one of Canada’s best beaches
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Lake Louise, Banff, Alberta
While too chilly to actually jump into unless you’re brave enough to handle the glacial water, Lake Louise is just too beautiful not to mention and you’ll definitely want to dive in. The scenic alpine lake sits at the base of glacier-covered peaks and is known for its sparkling, ultra-blue waters. Rather than take a frigid dip (unless you dare), spend some time on the water canoeing or kayaking.
Kathleen Lake, Yukon
Located in Kluane National Park & Reserve, Kathleen Lake is a beautiful lake surrounded by mountain scenery. It’s a justifiably popular spot for many water-based activities including canoeing, kayaking and of course, swimming along the sandy, pebbled beach. There is also plenty to do in the national park itself including hiking, mountain biking and backcountry camping.
Little Manitou Lake, Watrous, Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan’s Little Manitou Lake is known as Canada’s Dead Sea thanks to its mineral density, which is three times saltier than the ocean. This allows swimmers to float effortlessly in the water as they can also do in the Dead Sea. You’ll want to dive in for the unique experience and the purported healing qualities of the saline water. A nearby mineral spa is another way to take advantage of the waters.
Lake Huron, Ontario
Lake Huron is the fifth largest freshwater lake in the world and the second largest Great Lake by surface area. Lake Huron also has the longest shoreline of the Great Lakes. It’s not surprising then, that Lake Huron has an abundance of beaches where you can take a dip this summer. Sauble Beach boasts 11 kilometres of golden sand and has been rated Canada’s number one freshwater beach. Other popular and scenic spots for a dip in Lake Huron include Grand Bend and the 10 kilometre stretch of sand in Pinery Provincial Park.
Lake Simcoe, Ontario
A good portion of the Lake Simcoe shoreline is beach, so there are many areas to cool off in the water. One popular spot to swim on Lake Simcoe is Sibbald Point Provincial Park, which has large, sandy beaches. The area does get crowded during July and August, but you can still usually find a spot of sand to set up on. Willow Beach Conservation Area is another is another good beach spot and ideal for families.
Sylvan Lake, Red Deer, Alberta
Make your way to Sylvan Lake Provincial Park in Red Deer for a scenic swim along the 1.6-kilometre long sandy beach. The popular day-use park is also an ideal spot for other summer activities such as fishing, canoeing, kayaking, sailing and water skiing.
Lost Lake, Whistler, British Columbia
You can find Lost Lake in Lost Lake Park close to Whistler Village. The scenic lake features a popular sandy beach with great swimming, kids’ area, picnic tables, a concession stand, docks and an off-leash area for any furry friends you might bring with you for a dip in the lake. If you’re feeling active before or after your swim Lost Lake Park has nearly 100 kilometres of hiking and biking trails.
Alice Lake, near Squamish, British Columbia
This pretty lake in Alice Lake provincial Park is well worth jumping into. There are two beach areas to choose from in the park, both with a sandy beach and changing houses. The water here is usually warm in the summer months, so you won’t have to worry about too much of a shock. Swimming areas are marked by floats and a floating dock is available at South Beach, which is just a short walk from the campground.
Featured image: Arnaud DG, Lost Lake Panorama via Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0
