Top 10 Lakes around Edmonton
Lakes around Edmonton offer diverse recreational opportunities and natural landscapes. While large natural lakes are not typically within the city, several options are a short drive away. These lakes provide settings for water sports, fishing, hiking, and wildlife observation. The region features a mix of natural and man-made lakes, contributing to the area's outdoor appeal.
Best lakes around Edmonton
- The most popular lakes is Big Lake Viewing Deck, a viewpoint that offers a vantage point for birdwatching. It includes binocular stations for observing wildlife.
- Another must-see spot is Hermitage Park Pond, a broad, peaceful lake. It is a favored location for walkers, anglers, and cyclists, with a path circling the shoreline and views across calm water.
- Visitors also love Canossa Lake, a family-friendly lake within the city. It is part of the Castle Downs area, known for its themed naming conventions.
- Edmonton is known for its natural lakes, man-made ponds, and provincial park lakes. These include options for swimming, boating, and quiet nature observation.
- The lakes around Edmonton are appreciated by the komoot community, with 8 highlights and 5 photos shared by visitors.
Last updated: September 30, 2026
Hermitage Park
Highlight • Rest Area
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Big Lake Viewing Deck
Highlight • Viewpoint
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Guinevere Park Lake and Boardwalk
Highlight • Lake
This ornamental park was named after Queen Guinevere, the wife of King Arthur, of England's Arthurian legends. The name was requested by area developers because it fit with their proposed Arthurian marketing theme. Guinevere Park is located in the Glastonbury neighbourhood and has an area of 0.61 ha.
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Galbraith Park Pond and Bridge
Highlight • Lake
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Canossa Lake
Highlight • Lake
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Popular around Edmonton
Tips from the Community
Nice park to ride through. Just need to keep an eye out for dogs, since there is an off-leash area here.
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Hermitage Park is a wide, open green space along the North Saskatchewan River in northeast Edmonton, known for its ponds, riverside paths, and easy wildlife viewing. The paved and gravel trails link smoothly into the Kennedale and Rundle Park network, making it a convenient start or end point for longer routes. With open water, shaded sections, and plenty of room to wander, it’s a relaxed stop on this stretch of the river valley.
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Scottish-born Alexander Galbraith (1853-1928) was an early educator at agricultural schools. Galbraith emigrated from Scotland to the United States in 1883. There, he formed a partnership with his three brothers and became an importer and breeder of Clydesdale, Suffolk and Shire horses. After the firm's collapse in 1893, Galbraith went to work as a lecturer at the Farmers' Institute at the University of Wisconsin. In 1901 he moved to Manitoba and in 1915 to Edmonton. In Edmonton, he became the provincial superintendent of fairs and institutes and was a lecturer at agricultural schools in the province.
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This lake was named after the area it is in. The name is consistent with the famous castles theme of the Castle Downs area. The Canossa castle was built around 940 ad near Bologna in northern Italy. Over the next three centuries, Canossa sheltered many notable guests, including Pope Gregory VII. The castle later fell into the hands of imperial troops and was destroyed in 1255. Though it was restored numerous times over the centuries, Canossa today lies in ruins.
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Large pond with nice wooden walkways and a lookout pier. Good place for a picnic! This ornamental park was named after Queen Guinevere, the wife of King Arthur, of England's Arthurian legends. The name was requested by area developers because it fit with their proposed Arthurian marketing theme. Guinevere Park is located in the Glastonbury neighbourhood and has an area of 0.61 ha.
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Great vantage point to take a break and see the birds, etc... There is a table with a couple of binocular stations. Just make sure you have a windbreaker for the breeze coming off the lake.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which lakes near Edmonton are best for a day trip with family?
For a family-friendly day trip, Wabamun Lake is a versatile option with clear, warm water, a sandy beach, and a spray park. Pigeon Lake also offers sandy beaches, designated swim areas, and free lifejacket rentals, along with hiking trails. Long Lake is ideal for families due to its shallow, warm waters and amenities. Within the city, Canossa Lake is a family-friendly spot in the Castle Downs area.
What kind of water sports can I do at lakes around Edmonton?
Many lakes offer excellent opportunities for water sports. Wabamun Lake is known for waterskiing, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, and windsurfing. Pigeon Lake is great for kayaking and pontoon cruising. Sylvan Lake provides a vibrant atmosphere with jet ski rentals, banana boat rides, and waterskiing. Lake Isle, with its calm waters, is also suitable for various water activities.
Are there good hiking or walking trails near the lakes?
Yes, several lakes offer walking and hiking opportunities. Pigeon Lake has 12 kilometers of hiking trails. Within Edmonton, Hermitage Park Pond features a path circling its shoreline, perfect for a relaxed walk. The Multiway Trail System connects to Telford Lake in Leduc, offering an 8.2 km trail for walking, cycling, and more. For more options, you can explore easy hikes around Edmonton or general hiking routes around Edmonton.
Which lakes are best for swimming near Edmonton?
For swimming, Wabamun Lake is popular for its clear, warm water and sandy shoreline. Sylvan Lake boasts clear, shallow waters and a long sandy beach. Long Lake and Lac Ste. Anne both feature warm, shallow waters and sandy beaches, making them particularly suitable for families. Hubbles Lake is noted for its exceptionally clear water, though it's a private beach with an access fee.
Where can I go birdwatching or observe wildlife near Edmonton's lakes?
Birdwatching is popular at several locations. The Big Lake Viewing Deck offers binocular stations for observing various bird species, including Ospreys. Wabamun Lake is known for Osprey nesting. Lake Isle is excellent for birdwatching and wildlife, especially in late summer and early fall. Hermitage Park Pond is a good spot to see ducks, geese, and red-winged blackbirds, while Telford Lake is also popular for birdwatching.
Are there any lakes with amenities like picnic areas or playgrounds?
Yes, many lakes are well-equipped. Wabamun Lake Provincial Park offers picnic areas and campgrounds. Pigeon Lake Provincial Park has day-use areas with fire pits and picnic tables. Sylvan Lake features grassy areas, picnic tables, and volleyball courts. Gull Lake's Aspen Beach Provincial Park includes a playground and concession stand. Within the city, Guinevere Park Lake and Boardwalk is a good place for a picnic.
What are some quieter, less crowded lake options?
If you're seeking a more peaceful experience away from the crowds, Lake Isle is a great choice. It's known for its calm waters, low boat traffic, and natural beauty, appealing to those looking for a tranquil escape.
Can I go cycling near lakes around Edmonton?
Absolutely. Hermitage Park Pond has a path that cyclists enjoy. Telford Lake in Leduc is connected to the Multiway Trail System, which is popular for cycling. For more extensive cycling routes, you can check out road cycling routes around Edmonton, which may pass by or near some of these lake areas.
Which lakes are good for fishing?
Pigeon Lake is well-stocked for fishing, with species like pike, perch, whitefish, burbot, and walleye. Hermitage Park Pond is also a favored location for anglers looking for a quiet spot within the city.
What makes Sylvan Lake a popular destination?
Sylvan Lake is known as the 'undisputed queen of Alberta's beach scene' due to its vibrant, urban-feeling atmosphere. It features a long sandy beach, a bustling lakefront promenade, and a wide range of water sports, including an inflatable 'AquaSplash' waterpark. The town also hosts live concerts and offers various restaurants and shops, making it a lively destination.
Are there any lakes within Edmonton city limits that offer recreational activities?
Yes, within Edmonton, Hawrelak Park Lake offers accessible recreational opportunities like paddle boating and walking along its scenic lakefront. Hermitage Park Pond is a peaceful spot for walkers, anglers, and cyclists. Beaumaris Lake also provides significant green space for recreation within the city.
What is unique about Hubbles Lake?
Hubbles Lake is distinguished by its crystal-clear waters, which were once used for scuba diving lessons. It boasts a gorgeous sandy beach and is considered one of the most pristine places to swim around Edmonton. Note that it is a private beach and requires a fee for access.
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