This Alberta swimming hole with turquoise water is the perfect summer destination

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it a million times over again. Alberta is full of happy surprises! This summer, for those looking to get their adrenaline up – we’d cautiously recommend checking out the watering hole at Horseshoe Lake in Jasper National Park.

Now it’s important that we preface this by saying that if you do decide to make the trip that you be prepared, careful, and smart while there.

Although hiking to and swimming in this spot is typically pretty safe, it’s also not unusual for people to see the tall surrounding cliffs, give in to temptation, dive off of them, and hurt themselves badly in the process.

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You see, although there are places where you can successfully jump from overhang to water, there are just as many spots where you won’t so please – be careful!

Horseshoe Lake is gorgeous, but it also has deceivingly shallow pockets of water – again, totally safe for lounging around in, but not always safe for diving into.

Lecture aside, this place is incredible and definitely worth checking out – especially if you’re looking to beat the heat.

To get to the Horseshoe Lake watering hole, here’s what you need to know!

Once in Jasper, follow Highway 93 south until you get to the Horseshoe Lake Trail – it’ll take you approximately a half hour. Once there, hike into the forested area across from the parking lot for about 1.5 km. This is where you’ll find the cliffs, water, and the perfect summer hang.

It really is bliss, so pick a weekend and hit the hills!

Enjoy, Alberta – and don’t forget to bring a towel!

HORSESHOE LAKE

Where: Directions here
Distance from Calgary: 386 km
Distance from Edmonton: 391 km