Scenic Views · Fishing · Alberta
Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint
A Trans-Canada Highway pull-off overlooking the Vermilion Lakes wetlands just west of Banff, with mountain reflections, wildlife and access to Vermilion Lakes Drive below.
What visitors say
The Vermilion Lakes Viewpoint is a pull-off on the Trans-Canada Highway just west of Banff, looking across the wetlands and shallow lakes of the Bow Valley toward Mount Rundle and the surrounding peaks. Visitors describe an open, expansive view, still water with mountain reflections on calm days, and a frozen, snow-covered scene in winter.
It's quick and easy. The parking lot is right off the highway and cleared of snow in winter, and many people give it five to ten minutes on the way into town. Evening light is popular, when the mountains take on colour and shadows move across the ridges.
For a closer look, Vermilion Lakes Drive runs along the lakes below, with small jetties where you can walk out over the water. Cyclists like the ride from town, and moose and other wildlife turn up. The lakes are open to paddling and to fishing in season with a Parks Canada fishing permit, but all fish must be released and bait isn't allowed.
Highway traffic is loud at the upper viewpoint. Along the drive there's no separate footpath, so walkers share the road with cars, and there's no loop trail.
Summarised from visitor reviews on Google Maps. Based on 1,047 Google reviews. Conditions and rules change — check current park, access and fishing regulations before you go.