Quarry Lake Park

When you take in the dazzling views of Quarry Lake in Canmore, it’s hard to believe this area was an open-pit coal mine until the mid-70s.

You can chill out and gaze at the forest and mountains, but there’s much to keep you active, too. First of all, it’s a lake. And yes, you can swim. But brace yourself — it’s glacier-water cold. That doesn’t stop many brave souls from taking a quick dip. Some need to cool off if they hike from Canmore or zip in on mountain bikes.

To park at Quarry Lake, you must pay for parking. During the summer (May – October), we encourage everyone to take Roam Transit Route 12 to avoid parking fees.

Enjoy a picnic or walk around the lake; the trail is only 1 km (0.5 mi) long.