Alberta's Best Kept Secret Swimming Hole Is Just A 2.7 km Hike Away (VIDEO)
Find us on the sandy beach. Chances are the warm weather has you daydreaming of going for a swim. But you don't need to travel far to find powdery sandy and brilliant turquoise water. This 2.7-kilometre hike leads you to a turquoise blue swimming hole in Alberta and it's a secret only locals know.
Within Jasper National Park, you can find Lake Annette, the ideal spot for a summer staycation. Unlike many of the other lakes in the province, here you can find a gorgeous beach.
At the lake, you'll be able to walk along the coastline, feeling the soft sand between your toes and listening to the soothing sound of the waves lapping on the shore. It is absolute bliss.
Getting here is remarkably easy too. There is a well-marked loop trail you can follow just a few steps from the parking lot.
The route is flat through the forest and provides stellar views of the mountains and water. But if you are feeling particularly lazy, you only have to walk a small section before you arrive at the beach.
Then it is time to start relaxing and having the best day ever.
So go ahead and find a spot to set up your beach towel and soak up the sunshine with your friends.
There is also a fantastic picnic area nearby, where you'll see people barbequing lunch or playing Frisbee.
If you don't have air conditioning at home, you'll want to spend your weekends here to make the heat more bearable. Even in July and August, the water stays refreshingly cool.
We could easily spend the entire afternoon alternating between wading in the water and hiking.
Or, if you prefer, you could always see how far you can explore on a stand-up paddleboard. If you follow the shore, you'll get to enjoy nearly the same views as the hiking trail.
Lake Annette
Price: $10.00
Address: Lake Annette, Jasper, AB
Why You Need To Go: You can feel like a mermaid as you swim in the bright turquoise water.
We strongly advise that before you go swimming or visit any location, you check the most recent updates on potential hazards, security, water quality, and closures. If you do plan to visit a location, respect the environment.