Bright blue water and dreamy scenery aren't hard to come by when it comes to Alberta lakes, but this one in particular feels like a hidden oasis deep in nature.

Horseshoe Lake can be found along Icefields Parkway in Jasper and it's the ideal stop on an epic Rockies road trip. You can pull off and swim into the stunning turquoise waters with picturesque views to top it all off.

The lake is around 20 minutes south of the town of Jasper and it's well worth the trip if you're looking to cool off from the summer heat.

To get to the lake from the trailhead, you'll need to take a quick 1.6-kilometre hike but once you reach the lake, you can relax for the rest of the day in one of the dreamiest spots around.

Make sure to bring your towels, sunscreen and a picnic and set up camp on rocks bordering the water where you can gaze out over the impressive landscape.

The lake, which is literally shaped like a horseshoe (as the name suggests), is surrounded by lush forest and rocky cliffs, and it also has incredible mountain views, to make the entire experience that much more unforgettable.

While you're there, you can cool off on a summer's day with a dip in the water or float away the afternoon on a raft or paddleboard on the calm water.

While the lake is pretty deep, the water is incredibly clear so you can keep to a depth you're comfortable with.

The spot is also known for cliff diving, but Parks Canada asks people to avoid doing it as it is extremely dangerous, stating that on average, they are called out to two to three major rescues per year from the spot.

While cliff-diving is a no-go, Horseshoe Lake is the place to be for a relaxing lake day.

Of course, Horseshoe Lake isn't the only Alberta spot where you can head for some peace and tranquillity. If you're looking for spots nearer Calgary, this stunning Rockies lake is just over an hour away from the city or you could head to this beach, without even leaving the city.

This article has been updated since it was originally published on June 11, 2022.

Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.