Grassi Lakes
Vivid turquoise and emerald lakes reached by scenic hikes, nestled in Alberta's stunning Bow Valley Provincial Park.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy calm waters
Grassi Lakes
Best Time
Beat the crowds & enjoy calm waters
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Vivid turquoise and emerald lakes reached by scenic hikes, nestled in Alberta's stunning Bow Valley Provincial Park.
"Absolutely beautiful lakes after about ~1h hike, with a stunning blue-green colour and a very serene setting."
🚗 Parking & Access
Parking can fill up fast! Arrive early or consider weekdays. Note: Provincial park fees may apply.
👟 Choose Your Trail Wisely
The harder trail offers better views, but can be steep. The easy trail is accessible for most.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Emerald and Turquoise Lakes
Grassi Lakes
Two stunning, vividly colored lakes nestled in the mountains. A truly breathtaking sight!
Scenic Waterfall
Harder trail route
A beautiful cascade adds to the natural beauty on the more challenging path.
Rock Climbing Routes
Surrounding cliffs
Watch skilled climbers scale the impressive rock faces near the lakes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Trail Choice Matters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking & Access
Parking can fill up fast! Arrive early or consider weekdays. Note: Provincial park fees may apply.
👟 Choose Your Trail Wisely
The harder trail offers better views, but can be steep. The easy trail is accessible for most.
💧 Slippery When Wet
Be cautious, especially after rain or snow. Good footwear is a must!
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant blue-green hues are best seen in good light. Early morning is ideal.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking & Access
Parking can fill up fast! Arrive early or consider weekdays. Note: Provincial park fees may apply.
👟 Choose Your Trail Wisely
The harder trail offers better views, but can be steep. The easy trail is accessible for most.
💧 Slippery When Wet
Be cautious, especially after rain or snow. Good footwear is a must!
📸 Capture the Colors
The vibrant blue-green hues are best seen in good light. Early morning is ideal.
🐻 Bear Aware
While rare, be aware of wildlife. Carry bear spray and know how to use it.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the breathtaking beauty of Grassi Lakes, with its stunning turquoise and emerald waters set against a mountainous backdrop. The hike is generally considered accessible, with options for different fitness levels, and the scenic rewards are deemed well worth the effort. Some find the parking and crowds challenging during peak times.
"Absolutely beautiful lakes after about ~1h hike, with a stunning blue-green colour and a very serene setting in the middle of the mountains and forests.
There are two trail options to reach the lakes, one being very easy and the other more challenging with steeper sections. The views at atmosphere at the lakes make the effort completely worthwhile."
Harry Hao
"Great views. Lots of trails around the lakes. Walked 9km. Beautiful and clear early morning . Easy route bypasses a lot of scenery but allows all levels of hikers access to the two lakes ."
Deb Ingham
"Come early in high season as it was heaving even at 5pm in August. Lakes are beautiful. The harder, left path is steep and tricky at the end but the views are amazing. Don't underestimate the incline on the easy path though. Fine if you're relatively fit."
Andrea Cadmore
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Grassi Lakes is about a 1 hour and 5 minute drive from Calgary, heading west towards Canmore. From Canmore, follow signs for the Grassi Lakes Trailhead. Parking is available but can fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
While often associated with Banff due to its proximity, Grassi Lakes is located in Bow Valley Provincial Park, just outside of Canmore, Alberta. 
The drive from Calgary to Grassi Lakes is approximately 100-110 kilometers, taking about 1 hour and 5 minutes without significant traffic.
Public transport directly to Grassi Lakes is limited. Most visitors drive. Consider carpooling or looking into local shuttle services if available from Canmore.
There is a parking lot at the Grassi Lakes trailhead. It is popular and can fill up very quickly, especially during peak season and on weekends. Arriving early is highly recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Grassi Lakes is located in Bow Valley Provincial Park. You will need a Kananaskis Conservation Pass to park your vehicle in the area. Passes can be purchased online or at visitor centres.
Grassi Lakes is generally accessible year-round during daylight hours. However, trail closures can occur due to wildlife activity or maintenance. Always check Alberta Parks for current conditions.
There is no direct entrance fee for the Grassi Lakes trail itself, but a Kananaskis Conservation Pass is required for your vehicle to park in the provincial park.
Tickets are not required for Grassi Lakes. However, you do need to purchase a Kananaskis Conservation Pass for your vehicle, which can be done online in advance to save time.
Trail closures can happen due to wildlife, especially during calving season or bear activity. It's essential to check the Alberta Parks website for any alerts or closures before your visit.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
There are two main trails. The 'easy' trail is relatively flat and suitable for most fitness levels. The 'harder' trail is steeper with some rocky sections but offers more scenic views, including a waterfall.
The hike to Grassi Lakes is typically around 1 hour roundtrip, depending on your pace and how much time you spend enjoying the views.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good grip, as the trails can be slippery, especially the harder route. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly.
Dogs are generally allowed on the Grassi Lakes trail but must be kept on a leash at all times. Be mindful of other hikers and wildlife.
Yes, the easier trail is considered very family-friendly and suitable for young children. The harder trail might be more challenging for very young kids.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning light offers the best conditions for capturing the vibrant colors of the lakes and can also help you avoid crowds.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery and lakes. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water.
Absolutely! The harder trail, in particular, offers stunning viewpoints, including a waterfall and panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains.
Drone usage is typically restricted in provincial parks to protect wildlife and ensure visitor safety. Check Alberta Parks regulations for specific rules.
The unique turquoise and emerald colors are due to glacial silt suspended in the water, which reflects light in a particular way.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Young Children
Pack snacks and water, and be prepared for the possibility of slippery sections, especially on the harder trail if you choose to explore it. The beauty of the lakes provides a magical experience for kids, and the short duration of the hike means little legs won't get too tired. Remember to check for any wildlife advisories before you go.
🚶♀️ Solo Hikers & Couples
Consider going early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and capture beautiful photos without the crowds. The serene atmosphere of the lakes is ideal for a peaceful walk or a romantic picnic. Be sure to have your Kananaskis Conservation Pass ready and wear appropriate footwear for the terrain.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the expansive mountain vistas and the unique water colors. The waterfall on the harder trail also makes for a beautiful subject. Be prepared for varying light conditions and potential crowds, so patience and an early start can be your best friends for capturing that perfect shot.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Choosing Your Path: The Grassi Lakes Trails
The 'harder' trail, often referred to as the 'upper' or 'scenic' trail, is more challenging. It involves steeper inclines and can be rocky, especially towards the end. However, this path rewards hikers with breathtaking panoramic views of the valley and a stunning waterfall. Many visitors recommend taking the harder trail up and the easier trail down, or vice versa, to experience both.
Regardless of the trail chosen, sturdy footwear is essential, as conditions can become slippery, particularly after rain or during icy periods. Always check trail reports before you go.
The Allure of the Lakes: Color and Serenity
Beyond their visual appeal, the lakes offer a sense of tranquility. The serene setting, surrounded by dense forests and towering peaks, makes it a perfect spot for quiet contemplation or a peaceful picnic. Many visitors describe the atmosphere as incredibly calming and a welcome escape from the everyday hustle.
While the lakes are the main attraction, the surrounding area also offers opportunities for rock climbing, with several popular routes on the cliffs nearby. It's fascinating to watch experienced climbers navigate the challenging terrain.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Best Practices
Remember that Grassi Lakes is located within Bow Valley Provincial Park, which requires a Kananaskis Conservation Pass for your vehicle. These passes can be purchased online or at local visitor centers, and it's advisable to secure yours in advance to avoid any last-minute hassle.
Finally, always be prepared for changing mountain weather. Dressing in layers and wearing appropriate footwear with good grip is crucial, as trails can be slippery. Checking the Alberta Parks website for any trail alerts or closures before your visit is also a wise precaution.
Social
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