It is not the most famous lake in Banff National Park, but Two Jack Lake (or 2 Jack Lake) is a gem. Located at the southwest side of Lake Minnewanka and at a stone’s throw from the town of Banff, it offers excellent camping, hiking, boating and picnicking. You can also just enjoy the views, of course.
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FAST FACTS
Altitude: 1,475 m (4,839 ft)
Deepest point: 15.2 m (50 ft)
Length: 4.61 km (2.85 mi)
Widest point: 500 m (1,640 ft)
Coordinates: 51.2280° N, 115.4966° W
Two Jack Lake is a kind of offshoot of Lake Minnewanka as the two lakes are connected. In fact, Two Jack Lake is also fed by the Cascade River, which originates from the neighboring Cascade Mountain, the mountain that rises above Banff in the north.
Both lakes are separated by a dam. The view is equally magnificent. Looking south, Two Jack Lake offers a fantastic view of Mount Rundle. And in the evening the lake is an excellent location for stargazing.
Via Stewart Canyon, the water of the Cascade River flows into the lake. Many other streams feeding the lake come from Mount Inglismaldie, Mount Girouard and Mount Peechee, east of the lake.
The area of Two Jack Lake is literally quieter than Lake Minnewanka, as no motorized boats are allowed on the water. However, the peace and quiet is relative. Especially in high season it can be crowded on and around Two Jack Lake as there are usually many kayakers. Additionally, two campgrounds are situated on the shore.
LOCATION OF TWO JACK LAKE
Two Jack Lake is located eleven kilometers (6.79 mi) northeast of the Banff townsite and about 27 kilometers (16.67 mi) north of Canmore. Like Lake Minnewanka, the lake is sandwiched between Mount Girouard to the south, Mount Aylmer to the north and Cascade Mountain to the west. It is also close to Cascade Ponds in the southwest (6.8 km or 4.20 miles) and Johnson Lake in the south (4.5 km or 2.78 miles).
If you want to know more about neighboring Lake Minnewanka, read the ultimate guide to Lake Minnewanka.
BEST TIME TO VISIT TWO JACK LAKE
You can visit Two Jack Lake year-round, but it’s best to visit during the summer months when the weather allows for hiking, fishing, picnicking, and canoeing and kayaking on the lake. When the lake is frozen in December, Two Jack Lake is excellent for ice skating. The snow also makes it possible to snowshoe around the lake.
BEST TIME OF THE DAY TO VISIT TWO JACK LAKE
The best time to visit Two Jack Lake is early morning or late afternoon/early evening. These times will give you the best lighting for your photographs and you will get the beautiful sunrise and sunset as an amazing bonus. Although it can still be quite chilly in the morning. You’re in the mountains, after all.
It’s also relatively quiet around the lake at these times of day, so you can enjoy the calm waters in peace. In the middle of the day it can get quite busy, especially in high season.
HOW MUCH TIME DO I NEED AT TWO JACK LAKE?
The amount of time you’ll need at Two Jack Lake depends on what you plan to do there. If you’re just looking to take a quick look at the lake and snap a few photos, 30 minutes to an hour should be enough.
But if you plan to hike around the lake or have a picnic, you’ll need a couple of hours. Hence, you could easily spend a day at the lake if you plan to bring a kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP).
ACCESSIBILITY OF TWO JACK LAKE
The lake is close to the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) and is easy to reach. At the first intersection to Banff, seen from the direction of Canmore, drive the Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive 7 kilometers (4.32 mi) to the northeast.
Parking at Two Jack Lake
At Two Jack Lake, there is a lower and an upper parking lot. Both are not very large. In the summer months they quickly fill up. Especially in the afternoon you have a big chance of finding a full parking lot.
If you want to launch your boat, kayak or canoe it’s best to park in the lower parking lot (at the upper parking lot you have to carry down your boat). You can drive your car right to the lake shore. Be sure to arrive early to be able to park right at the water’s edge.
Public Transport to Two Jack Lake
Don’t have a rental car? Take the bus from Banff to the lake! It stops at Cascade Ponds, Johnson Lake, Two Jack Lakeside Campground and Two Jack Main Campground along the way before arriving at the Two Jack Day Use stop.
Bus to Two Jack Lake
The bus departs from the Transit Hub at Banff High School on Banff Avenue, across the Elk and Avenue Hotel.
Campers at Two Jack Main Campground or Two Jack Lakeside Campground can travel to Lake Minnewanka or Banff for free (a surcharge applies for the return trip to the campground). This allows you to park your car or RV without having to deal with parking hassles.
More Information:
Bow Valley Regional Transit Services Commission
Address: 221 Beaver Street, Banff
Phone: +1 403 – 762 0606
E-mail: info@roamtransit.com
Website: roamtransit.com
CAN I SPEND THE NIGHT AT TWO JACK LAKE?
You can camp at Two Jack Lake. There are two campgrounds near the lake. Staying in a hotel at the lake in not possible, but the Banff Townsite with numerous hotels is only a 15-minute drive away.
Below, I included three good hotel options. The first one is the Elk + Avenue hotel, situated on Banff Avenue, close to the shopping district. Perfect location!
Elk + Avenue Hotel
Address: 333 Banff Avenue
Irwin’s Mountain Inn is a relatively friendly priced hotel on Banff Avenue with lots of amenities and within walking distance of the shopping district of Banff. Worth checking out!
Irwin’s Mountain Inn
Address: 429 Banff Avenue
Below you’ll find Buffalo Mountain Lodge. It’s located on Tunnel Mountain and therefore relatively close to Two Jack Lake. It’s a bit further away from downtown Banff, but the beautiful scenery more than makes up for it. Besides, at 1.8 kilometers (1.12), downtown Banff is still very close.
Buffalo Mountain Lodge
Address: 700 Tunnel Mountain Road
Camping at Two Jack Lake
The lake has two campgrounds: Two Jack Lake Main Campground and Two Jack Lake Lakeside Campground. The Tunnel Mountain Village Campground is an alternative if these campgrounds are full. It’s situated a little further down the road, close to Banff town and consists of three separate campgrounds.
Two Jack Lake Main Campground
Address: Lake Minnewanka Scenic Dr, Alberta T0L 2C0
Phone: +1 877 – 737 3783
Overnight stay: based on availability, reservations possible
Number of sites: 380
Facilities: drinking water, flush toilets, cooking area, picnic tables, fire pits and sani dump
Kind of accommodations: motor homes and tents
Price: CAD 21.97
Period: 24 June – 7 September
Bus stop: Roam Transit
Distance to Two Jack Lake: 500 m (0.31 mi)
Two Jack Lakeside Campground
Address: Lake Minnewanka Scenic Drive, Improvement District No. 9, AB
Phone: +1 877 – 737 3783
Overnight stay: subject to availability, reservations possible
Number of sites: 74
Facilities: camp kitchens, picnic tables, fire pits, flush toilets, hot showers, disabled access
Campfire permit: available at the campsite
Kind of accommodations: motor homes and tents
Price: CAD 28.00
Period: 21 May – 4 October
Distance to Two Jack Lake: 300 m (0.19 mi)
Tunnel Mountain Village I Campground
Address: Tunnel Mountain Road, Banff
Phone: +1 877 – 737 3783
Overnight stay: subject to availability, reservations possible
Number of sites: 618
Facilities: camp kitchens, picnic tables, fire pits, firewood, hot showers, flush toilets, handicap access, sani dump
Campfire permit: available at the campground
Kind of accommodations: motor homes and tents
Price: CAD 28.00
Period: 13 May – 4 October
Distance to Two Jack Lake: 11.7 km (7.22 mi)
Tunnel Mountain Village II Campground
Address: Tunnel Mountain Road, Banff
Phone: +1 877-737-3783
Overnight stay: subject to availability, reservations possible
Number of sites: 188
Facilities: camp kitchens, picnic tables, fire pits, firewood, hot showers, flush toilets, handicap access, sani dump
Campfire permit: available at the campground
Kind of accommodations: motor homes and tents
Price: CAD 33.01
Period: all year
Distance to Two Jack Lake: 12.8 km (7.90 mi)
Tunnel Mountain Trailer Court
Address: Tunnel Mountain Road, Banff
Phone: +1 877 – 737 3783
Overnight stay: subject to availability, reservations possible
Number of sites: 321
Facilities: camp kitchens, picnic tables, fire pits, firewood, hot showers, flush toilets, disabled access, sani dump
Campfire permit: available at the campground
Kind of accommodation: motorhomes
Price: CAD 39.04
Period: 13 May – 4 October
Distance to Two Jack Lake: 13.1 km (8.09 mi)
HOW BUSY IS TWO JACK LAKE?
Two Jack Lake can be busy during the tourist season, especially in the middle of the day. The good news is that it’s generally less crowded than some of the other popular lakes in Banff National Park, such as Lake Louise or Moraine Lake.
Visiting in the early morning or late afternoon/early evening can help you avoid the crowds. Also good to know: weekdays are generally less busy than weekends, so consider visiting during the week if possible.
WHEN DOES TWO JACK LAKE FREEZE AND MELT?
Two Jack Lake usually starts to freeze at the end of November and remains frozen until the end of May. By mid-June the lake usually thaws and the water begins to warm.
Of course this varies from year to year depending on the weather conditions. Be careful when visiting the lake during the winter months as ice conditions can be unpredictable and potentially dangerous.
WHAT TO PACK FOR TWO JACK LAKE?
The weather is often moderate and pleasant during the summer. It can change though, so it’s important to pack appropriately. Here’s a short list of things you should pack for your visit to Two Jack Lake.
- Sturdy hiking boots
- Warm jacket for the chilly mornings and cooler evenings
- Long pants (in case there are too many mosquitoes, it varies from year to year)
- Sunscreen
- Sun glasses
- Water bottle
- Snacks
- Bug repellent
- Camera (or smartphone)
ACTIVITIES
Even though Two Jack Lake is much smaller than Lake Minnewanka, you can still find activities here, both in summer and winter. You can hike, fish, rent a kayak or canoe, and in winter, you can snowshoe and skate. Enough reasons to visit Two Jack Lake during your stay in Banff National Park.
Hikes near Two Jack Lake
You can take several hikes in the immediate vicinity of Two Jack Lake. I’ve listed them below and added a short description of what to expect.
| NAME | DISTANCE (round trip) | DURATION (round trip) | ELEVATION | TRAILHEAD |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Two Jack Lake Trail | 3.2 km (1.99 mi) | 1 – 1.5 h | 184 m (4416 ft) | Upper Two Jack Lake Parking |
| Stewart Canyon | 6.6 km (4.1 mi) | 2-3 hrs | 257 m (843 ft) | Lake Minnewanka Day-use Area |
| Lake Minnewanka Lakeside Hike | 17.1 km (10.56 mi) | 4 hrs – 6 hrs | 360 m (1181 ft) | Lake Minnewanka car park |
Two Jack Lake Trail
The Two Jack Lake trail is a relatively easy and flat hike that offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trail is approximately 3.2 kilometers (1.98 mi) round trip and is not too strenuous. It takes about 1-2 hours to complete.
The trail starts at the Two Jack Lake Day Use Area and follows the shoreline of the lake, so beautiful views guaranteed! The trail is well maintained and doesn’t have too much elevation gain, making it suitable for families with young children.
There are benches and picnic areas along the way where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery. You might also spot some wildlife such as beavers, ducks or even a moose if you’re lucky.
Stewart Canyon Trail
The Stewart Canyon Trail is a moderate hike. It’s about 6.6 kilometers (4.1 mi) out and back, and you should be able to complete it in 2-3 hours.
The trail begins at the parking lot near the Lake Minnewanka Day Use Area, just past the main dock area, and follows the Lake Minnewanka shoreline offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding forests and mountains. The trail is well maintained but can be rocky and steep in places, so wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots.
Along the way you’ll pass the historic Stewart Canyon Bridge, which offers great views of the Cascade River with white water rapids, and high canyon walls. It’s a popular snapshot spot. And if you’re lucky you’ll also see wildlife such as elk and deer.
Lake Minnewanka Lakeside Hike
The Lake Minnewanka Lakeside Hike is a great way to spend your afternoon in the Rockies. It’s quite long, but it’s also relatively easy and flat, giving you stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trail is a 17.1 kilometer round trip and can be completed in about 4-6 hours.
The trail begins at the Lake Minnewanka Day Use Area and follows the lake’s shoreline, providing beautiful views of the lake and surrounding forests. The trail is well maintained and doesn’t require too much hiking experience as the trail is easy to follow and there’s not too much elevation gain (360 meters or 1181 ft).
You’ll find several benches and picnic areas along the way.
Mountain Biking near Two Jack Lake
There’s no specific mountain bike trail around Two Jack Lake. However, Two Jack Lake is featured on the Lake Minnewanka Loop Ride, though it is not a mountain bike route per se as it takes you over a public (paved) road.
| NAME | DISTANCE (round trip) | ELEVATION | TRAILHEAD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Minnewanka Loop Ride | 17 km (10.49 mi) | 178 m (584 ft) | Cascade Ponds car park |
Diving at Two Jack Lake
Two Jack Lake is one of two lakes in Banff National Park where you can dive (the other being the adjacent Lake Minnewanka). The depth varies from 6.1 m (20 ft) to 15.2 m (50 ft) and there is no current, making the lake ideal for divers who want to practice their skills. Visibility varies from 5 to 10 meters (16 to 32 feet).
If you want to know more about diving in the park, check out the post The Atlantis of Banff, Scuba Dive to the Park’s Hidden Gem.
CANOE, KAYAK OR SUP AT TWO JACK LAKE
Two Jack Lake is a beautiful destination for water activities in Banff National Park. You can bring their own kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard (SUPs) to the lake and launch them from the designated boat launch area.
Canoe, kayak and SUP rentals are not available at Two Jack Lake. If you wish to launch your own kayak, canoe or SUP, please be aware that Parks Canada requires you to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species. Therefore, you must comply with the clean, drain and dry requirements before entering Two Jack Lake.
Fishing on Two Jack Lake
Two Jack Lake is a great place to cast a line. You do need a national park permit, though. This permit is available at the two visitor centers and most sports shops in the park and online. A national park pass is also required. A provincial fishing license (Alberta) is not sufficient.
Any angler under sixteen may fish in the lake without a license if accompanied by someone under sixteen who holds a national park license. The maximum number of fish to be caught is then equal to the limit of the license of the person holding a license.
There are two types of fishing permits:
Day Permit: CAD 9.80
Annual permit: CAD 34.30
Note:
– The use of natural bait is not permitted in Banff National Park.
– In addition to a fishing license, you must also have a national park pass.
Fish Species in Two Jack Lake
You can catch American lake trout, walleye and Rocky Mountain whitefish in Two Jack Lake.
Two Jack Lake Fishing Season
The fishing season of Two Jack Lake usually lasts – just like Lake Minnewanka’s fishing season – from 19 May until the Tuesday after Labour Day weekend (early September).
Skating on Two Jack Lake
Just like Lake Minnewanka, Two Jack Lake is popular among skating enthusiasts. Although the lake is much shallower than its big brother, you have to be careful. Parks Canada warns to stay well away (at least 100 m / 328 feet) from the lake’s dam as there is always open water and thin ice.
Snowshoeing near Two Jack Lake
You can also go on lovely hikes near Two Jack Lake in the winter. In the coldest months, you can navigate the deep snow with the help of a pair of snowshoes. Along the lakeshore, you can take a pleasant trip. If the ice is thick enough, you can also walk on it.
HISTORY OF TWO JACK LAKE
Two Jack Lake was named on 3 April 1959, after two Jacks who lived in the region in the early twentieth century, John ‘Captain Jack’ Stanley (1865-1946) and John ‘Jack’ Watters (1878-1950). At the time, Stanley operated a boat concession on Lake Minnewanka. Watters worked as a mine manager in Bankhead. This mining town originated in 1904 at the foot of Cascade Mountain. It remains unclear what the exact relationship was between the two.
The lake only became a separated body of water with the construction of a dam on the north side of the lake. The lake’s transition into Lake Minnewanka is where this dam is situated.
MORE INFORMATION
Banff Visitor Centre
Opening hours (daily): 9 am – 5 pm
Address: 224 Banff Avenue, Banff
Phone: +1 403 – 762 1550
E-mail: pc.banff-vrc.pc@canada.ca
Lake Louise Visitor Centre
Opening hours (daily): 9 am – 5 pm
Address: Samson Mall, 201 Village Rd, Lake Louise
Phone: +1 403 – 522 3833
E-mail: pc.lakelouiseinfo-infolakelouise.pc@canada.ca
TWO JACK LAKE FAQ
Do I need a park pass for Two Jack Lake?
Yes, you need a valid park pass to enter Banff National Park, which includes Two Jack Lake. You can purchase a pass online or at various locations throughout the park, including the Banff Visitor Centre.
Can I buy a park pass at Two Jack Lake?
No, you can’t purchase a park pass at the Two Jack Lake. The neareast location where you can get a park pass is at the Banff Visitor Centre.
Are dogs allowed at Two Jack Lake?
Yes, dogs are allowed at Two Jack Lake, but they must be on a leash at all times and you must clean up after them.
Can I swim in Two Jack Lake?
Yes, you can swim in Two Jack Lake, but the water is extremely cold, with temperatures rarely getting above 4°C. This means that you can only swim for short periods, typically around 15 minutes, before becoming hypothermic.
Can I hike around Two Jack Lake?
Yes, the Two Jack Lake Trail goes around Two Jack Lake in Banff National Park. It’s approximately 5.8 kilometers (3.60 mi) round trip and is rated as an easy hike. The trail offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains and is a great option for families with young children.
Can I bike to Two Jack Lake?
Yes, you can bike to Two Jack Lake. From the town of Banff, you can easily get there via the Minnewanka Scenic Drive. It’s only 11 kilometers (6.84 mi).
Can I bring my own kayak/canoe/SUP to Two Jack Lake?
Yes, you can bring your own kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard (SUP) to Two Jack Lake. There is a boat launch area at the lake where you can launch. If you arrive early in the morning, you should be able to park near the water and easily unload your kayak, canoe or SUP.
Can I fly a drone at Two Jack Lake?
No, flying drones is not allowed in Banff National Park, including at Two Jack Lake.
Can I get altitude sickness at Two Jack Lake?
Two Jack Lake is located at an elevation of 1,475 meters (4,839 ft). High altitudes range between 1,500 and 3,500 meters above sea level. At 1,475 meters, Two Jack Lake technically falls below the lower threshold. Therefore it is not considered to be at a high altitude.
However, that doesn’t mean you can’t suffer from altitude sickness (although it’s not likely). Some visitors may experience symptoms of altitude sickness, such as headache, nausea, and fatigue. To avoid these symptoms, stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and strenuous activity, and acclimate slowly to the altitude.
Can I see the northern lights at Two Jack Lake?
While it is possible to see the northern lights (aurora borealis) at Two Jack Lake, it’s not a common occurrence. The best time to see the northern lights is typically in the winter months, when the nights are longer and darker.
Can I rent ice skates at Two Jack Lake?
No, you can’t rent ice skates at Two Jack Lake. Your nearest option is in the Town of Banff. You can rent them at:
- Snowtips-Bactrax
- Banff Adventures Unlimited
- Ultimate Sports Downtown
- Chateau Mountain Sports (Inside the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel)
Do I need bear spray at Two Jack Lake?
Yes, bear spray is recommended at Two Jack Lake and all areas of Banff National Park. Bears are common in the park, and can be unpredictable.
You can rent or buy bear spray in Banff as well as in Lake Louise.
In Banff, it is available at the Visitor Centre (224 Banff Avenue) and at most sporting goods stores, such as Atmosphere (124 Banff Avenue), UNLTD Skate & Snow (319 Banff Avenue), and Monod Sports (129 Banff Avenue).
You can also visit the Visitor Centre in Lake Louise (201 Village Road) and Wilson Mountain Sports (101 Lake Louise Drive).
To keep bears at bay, make noise by talking, singing, or clapping your hands. Bears are more likely to avoid you if they hear you coming.
And always hike in a group. As Two Jack Lake is busy in summer there will always be other people on your trail which makes a bear encounter less likely.
Can I drink from Two Jack Lake?
It is not recommended to drink water directly from Two Jack Lake, as it is not treated for consumption.
Other articles you might be interested in:
• How to Make Sure Mosquitoes Don’t Ruin Your Stay in Banff
• Plan Your Banff Itinerary – Know the Distances
• How Much Does a Banff Vacation Cost in 2023? (Crazy Numbers)