Moving to Canada means discovering a whole new way of life—including how to enjoy the great outdoors. With thousands of lakes and rivers across the country, summer is the perfect time to get out on the water, whether it’s for a quiet paddle, a refreshing swim, or a relaxing day of boating.
Exploring these natural spaces is just one part of settling in. We hope this Remitly guide will help you make the most of the country’s spectacular nature as you settle in Canada.
Why visit Canada’s lakes and rivers in the summer?
Canada’s beautiful natural landscape features nearly two million lakes and thousands of rivers. In the summer, these waterways come alive as tourists and locals alike flock to them, to swim in crystal-clear waters or enjoy a holiday in the great outdoors.
With long daylight hours and warm temperatures, summer is the best time to experience Canada’s freshwater wonders. The country’s lakes and rivers give visitors an unmatched way to escape everyday concerns and connect with nature during the summer months.
Beyond their beauty, Canada’s lakes and rivers hold deep cultural significance. Indigenous communities have relied on these waterways for millennia, not just for sustenance and travel but as places of spiritual connection and storytelling.
The most beautiful Canadian lakes to visit in summer
There’s nothing quite like a Canadian lake in the summertime. From crystal-clear glacial waters nestled in craggy mountains to calm, tree-lined shores perfect for a lazy afternoon, each lake offers a unique escape.
The Great Lakes
Stretching across the border between Canada and the United States, the Great Lakes—Superior, Huron, Michigan, Erie, and Ontario—are among the largest freshwater lakes in the world.
The sheer size of the Great Lakes make them feel almost like inland seas, with waves, sandy beaches, and even shipwrecks in their waters. Unsurprising when you learn that they hold nearly one-fifth of Earth’s fresh surface water.
Lake Superior, the largest, has a rugged, untamed beauty, while Lake Erie is known for its warm, shallow waters—ideal for summer swimming. Lake Ontario, which borders Toronto, offers urban waterfront adventures, while Lake Huron’s Georgian Bay is famous for its turquoise waters and scenic islands.
The Great Lakes offer a perfect mix of nature and culture. You can go from kayaking alongside towering cliffs in the Canadian wilderness to relaxing on sun-drenched beaches and exploring a vibrant lakeside town, all in the same day.
Lake Louise
Located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Lake Louise is one of Canada’s most iconic alpine lakes. Fed by glacial meltwater, its vibrant blue-green waters shift in colour as the light changes throughout the day.
Surrounded by the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise has a serene, untouched feel. This makes it a favourite for anyone looking to get outdoors and unplug from the noise and traffic of city life.
In summer, visitors can paddle across the glassy surface in a rented canoe to arrive at scenic hiking trails—like the famous Plain of Six Glaciers—that lead to breathtaking viewpoints. Alternatively, you can simply paddle to a nearby shore to relax and take in the view.
For those seeking tranquility and natural beauty, Lake Louise delivers exactly what you need during the warmer summer months.
Moraine Lake
Another destination in Alberta’s famous Banff National Park, Moraine Lake is nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
The lake is one of the most photographed landscapes in Canada. That’s thanks to its vibrant turquoise colour, which comes from light reflecting off fine particles of glacial rock suspended in the water, and the dramatic peaks that surround it.
The best time to visit is late June, but because of its popularity, there are limited passes available each day. This, and the ruggedness of the terrain, means that it’s usually best to book ahead of time or go with an organized tour.
However you choose to visit, you’ll definitely want to go canoeing or hiking when you’re there. Rockpile Trail is an excellent choice for a hike; it’s a little tough, but you’re rewarded with an incredible panoramic view of Moraine Lake at the end.
Peyto Lake
Another of Banff National Park’s lakes, Peyto Lake is located along the Icefields Parkway high up in the Canadian Rockies. It’s a dazzling natural wonder known for its distinctive wolf-head shape. Fed by glacial runoff, this lake has a milky hue that seems to glow under the summer sun.
Peyto Lake is a tranquil, lesser-travelled gem that’s best explored by kayak or canoe. The peaceful waters make it an ideal spot for a quiet dip surrounded by towering peaks, offering a more secluded experience than some of Banff’s more crowded destinations.
While the glacial temperatures mean that the lake isn’t ideal for jumping straight in, they are great for cooling down after a hike. For those looking for a short but rewarding hike, the Peyto Lake Panorama View trail provides some jaw-dropping views.
Of course, there’s also plenty of opportunity to enjoy a lakeside picnic, take some incredible photographs, or simply breathe in the fresh mountain air.
Lake Minnewanka
Lake Minnewanka is a paradise for water lovers. Spanning over 21 kilometres, it’s the longest lake in Banff National Park, making it perfect for kayaking, canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding, and even motorized boat tours.
The lake’s vast size means there’s plenty of room to explore, whether you want a peaceful paddle along the shoreline or a high-speed adventure on open water.
Fishing is another major draw, with lake trout and whitefish thriving in its deep, clear waters. Licensed anglers can try their luck from the shore or venture out in a boat to cast a line in deeper waters.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, scenic cruises operate throughout the summer, offering guided tours with breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Beneath the surface, Lake Minnewanka also hides a fascinating secret: an underwater ghost town. The remains of a flooded 19th-century village make this like a unique destination for certified scuba divers to explore history beneath the waves.
Adventures and activities on Canadian lakes and rivers
Canada’s lakes and rivers offer endless opportunities for adventure. Whether you’re looking for a thrill-packed experience like whitewater rafting, to just get your feet wet in calm waters, or a day of fishing in the great outdoors, there’s something for you.
Canoeing and kayaking
Canoeing and kayaking are some of the best ways to experience Canada’s lakes and rivers on a budget. From gliding across a peaceful lake to navigating river rapids, these activities offer a fun way to immerse yourself in Canadian nature.
No matter your skill level, paddling through Canada’s breathtaking landscapes is an unforgettable summer experience. Beginners can start on calm waters like Ontario’s Algonquin Park or British Columbia’s Okanagan Lake, while more experienced paddlers might enjoy the thrill of river kayaking on the Ottawa River in Canada’s capital city.
Rentals and guided tours are widely available, making it easy to get started.
Boating and water sports
If you’re looking for a bit of engine-powered speed and excitement on the water, you’ll be spoiled for choice on Canada’s lakes. Wakeboarding, waterskiing, jet skiing, and tubing are all popular ways to enjoy the waves.
Many lakes, like Lake Simcoe in Ontario and Shuswap Lake in British Columbia, have rental companies that offer motorboats, pontoon boats, and personal watercraft to visitors. Plus, there are often lessons and guided sessions, making it easy for beginners to join in.
Lake cruises and boat tours
A cruise or guided boat tour is a great option for taking in Canada’s scenic lakes in a more relaxing way. These excursions offer stunning views, wildlife spotting, and even historical insights, all without the need for paddle power.
The Thousand Islands National Park in Ontario is a popular cruise destination due to its extensive, scenic waterways, while Maligne Lake in Jasper National Park gives you an excellent chance to see the famous Spirit Island.
For an extra-special experience, we recommend booking a sunset departure with dinner on board. It’s a great way to unwind after a long day outdoors while still giving you the opportunity to soak in stunning scenery.
Top cities for summer lake and river experiences
Many of Canada’s most popular cities are built around beautiful lakes and rivers. From waterfront parks to urban kayaking routes, these waterways bring nature right into the heart of city life, offering endless opportunities for summer adventures just steps from downtown.
Toronto
Sitting on the shores of Lake Ontario, Toronto offers a mix of urban energy and waterfront relaxation.
Visit Sunnyside Beach to catch a tan. Or take a stroll along the shore in the Harbourfront area and a stop at one of the many parks to take in the views. In the summer months, you’re likely to stumble across cultural events like concerts and markets if you’re visiting at the weekend.
There’s also plenty of opportunity to get out onto the water. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the shoreline or take a ferry to the Toronto Islands to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Alternatively, take in the stunning skyline views during a boat cruise.
Montréal
Montréal sits on the Saint Lawrence River, giving the city a lively waterfront culture and offering you plenty of ways to enjoy the water in summer.
Parc Jean-Drapeau, which comprises two islands—Saint Helen’s Island and the artificial Notre Dame Island—is a great place to start. Rent a kayak or paddleboard on the Lac des Cygnes, then grab a picnic and relax in the sun at Jean-Doré Beach.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, a jet boat ride through the Lachine Rapids could be just the answer. There’s also the option to take a relaxed boat cruise from the Old Port to see the city from the water.
Winnipeg
Winnipeg isn’t just one of the most affordable Canadian cities for immigrants. With rivers winding through the city and vast lakes just beyond, it also offers plenty of ways to get on the water in summer.
Lake Winnipeg, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the world, is less than an hour’s drive away, offering sandy beaches, fishing spots, and room to sail or windsurf.
Closer to the city itself, the Red and Assiniboine rivers provide an urban escape. Paddle along the water for a fresh perspective on the city, or hop on a scenic river cruise at The Forks to enjoy a relaxed ride past historic landmarks.
Greater Sudbury
With more than 300 lakes within its city limits, Greater Sudbury is a dream destination for water lovers.
Ramsey Lake, right in the heart of the city, is perfect for a day outdoors. You can take a paddleboard or kayak out from Science North, or follow the Bell Park boardwalk for a scenic lakeside stroll.
For a more secluded escape, head to Lake Wanapitei, one of the largest crater lakes in the world. The lake’s deep waters are great for scuba divers eager to explore submerged rock formations and anglers looking to catch walleye and northern pike.
Tips for a safe and enjoyable experience
Canada’s lakes and rivers are incredible places to explore, but safety and environmental responsibility should always come first. Here are some key tips to stay safe and make the most of your time on the water:
- Wear a life jacket
Required by law when boating and highly recommended for all water activities. - Check weather conditions
Sudden storms or strong currents can turn a calm outing into a dangerous situation. - Know local rules
Some areas have restrictions on fishing, motorized boats, or water access. - Be mindful of wildlife
Keep a respectful distance from animals and avoid disturbing their habitats. - Leave no trace
Pack up what you take out and dispose of waste properly to keep lakes and rivers clean. - Stay within your skill level
If you’re new to kayaking, boating, or swimming in open water, start in calm, designated areas.
Following these tips ensures a safe, fun, and environmentally friendly experience on Canada’s fantastic waterways.
FAQs
What do Canadians like to do in summer?
Canadians enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and exploring national parks during the summer months.
Why are lakes and rivers important in Canada?
Lakes and rivers in Canada are vital for hydroelectric power generation, providing water for irrigation and domestic use, and supporting diverse ecosystems. Many of them are also sacred places to Canada’s Indigenous peoples.
Which city has the best summer in Canada?
It’s tough to pick one, but cities like Toronto and Vancouver are popular summer destinations because of their vibrant festivals and good weather.