Peyto Lake

Peyto Lake is a glacial lake in Banff National Park, located high in the Canadian Rockies with distinctive turquoise-colored water. The water gets its striking color from fine rock particles created by glacial grinding and suspended in the lake.

The lake was named after Bill Peyto, who worked as one of the first wardens of Banff National Park in the early 1900s. His role in the area helped shape the park's early management and protection.

The turquoise color of the water draws photographers from around the world, and on clear days you can see people lining the viewpoint with cameras. The striking hue is what first captures your attention when you arrive, making it one of the most photographed spots in the park.

A short, mostly level walk of about 10 minutes leads from the parking area to the main viewpoint overlooking the water. The path is well-maintained and easy to navigate for most visitors.

The turquoise color is not constant but shifts with the seasons and the amount of glacial water flowing into the lake. The water appears more vivid in some months and paler at other times depending on glacial melt patterns.

Location: Alberta

Elevation above the sea: 1,880 m

Address: Peyto Lake, Improvement District No. 9, AB T0L, Canada

GPS coordinates: 51.72500,-116.52222

Latest update: December 14, 2025 21:04