Discovering Abraham Lake: A Convenient Day Trip from Red Deer (2024)

Abraham Lake in Alberta is a stunning natural wonder famous for its mesmerizing ice bubbles — located just a scenic drive from Red Deer, right next to the David Thompson Highway. Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, this stunning lake is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

As you plan your trip for 2024, why not make Red Deer your home base? Offering all the comforts of city life, centrally located between Calgary and Edmonton, Red Deer provides the ideal spot to relax after a day of adventure. To get the best Alberta experience in the Canadian Rockies in 2024 and beyond, here is our quick guide.

The Scenic Drive to Abraham Lake in Alberta

One of the best parts of visiting Abraham Lake is the scenic drive from Red Deer. The journey takes just over an hour and a half and offers stunning views of the Alberta countryside. As you head west on the Trans-Canada Highway, you’ll be treated to picturesque landscapes, charming small towns, and the impressive sight of the mountains rising in the distance. The route is straightforward and perfect for a leisurely day trip.

Oh, and have we mentioned the scenic panoramic beauty you can expect when you visit Abraham Lake? What's particularly striking is the contrast of the blue water against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks!

Stunning ice bubbles: Every winter, this lake is well-known for its frozen methane bubbles trapped beneath the ice, creating a captivating natural phenomenon that draws nature enthusiasts and photographers from far and wide.

What’s the Best Time of Day to See the Abraham Lake Ice Bubbles?

If you’re aiming to catch the ice bubbles in all their glory, timing is key! The best time of day to see the ice bubbles is during midday, usually between late morning and early afternoon. 

But here are a few other things to consider when waiting for the best time to see the ice bubbles:

• Optimal Lighting: The sun is higher in the sky during midday, which provides optimal lighting to see the frozen bubbles beneath the ice. In other words, the sunlight illuminates the contrast between the ice and the bubbles. 
• Fewer Shadows: When the sun is at its peak, you can see fewer shadows on the ice. At other times of day, these shadows can obscure the bubbles. If you like to take Instagram photos or create images for other social media platforms, midday is the time to minimize the glare and capture better photographs of the Abraham Lake bubbles. 
• Comfortable Conditions: In the early morning hours, you should be well-dressed to counter the low temperatures. Later in the day, however, the ice surface often starts to soften or develop a thin layer of snow or frost. As a result, this obscures the view of the ice bubbles. 

To sum up, the midday or early afternoon are the best times of day to enjoy this natural phenomenon.

Experiencing Abraham Lake

Once you arrive at Abraham Lake, you’ll quickly understand why it’s a must-see destination. The lake, known for its striking blue waters and stunning mountain backdrop, is perfect for photography, hiking, and picnicking. The most popular activities include:

• Hiking: There are numerous trails surrounding the lake, catering to all skill levels. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely stroll or a more challenging hike, the area has something for everyone.
• Water Activities: In the warmer months, you can enjoy kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding on the calm waters of the lake. Bring your own equipment or rent from local outfitters to make the most of your day.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including elk, deer, and a variety of bird species. The natural beauty of Abraham Lake provides a perfect backdrop for a wildlife-watching adventure.

How Do You Reach and Where Do You Stay at Abraham Lake?

By now, you may be impatient to find out how to get there. Simply put, you can take a few different routes, including:

• Icefields Parkway (also called Highway 93) is a key junction for travellers heading toward Abraham Lake. This route also connects two national parks: Jasper and Banff.
• David Thompson Highway (also known as Highway 11) connects to the Icefields Parkway at Saskatchewan River Crossing, leading towards Abraham Lake. 

Another thing you need to know before you go is access points where you can rest or enjoy other sights. So, we bring you the big ones for your reference.

Abraham Lake in Winter (and Summer): A Fish Lake

When you travel along and around Abraham Lake, you'll witness the untold natural beauties of Alberta. But apart from the bubbles, you can also enjoy your time there by ice fishing.

For illustration, this bubble lake features several species of fish, including:

• Lake Trout can be found throughout the year, but they are more active in cooler water temperatures. 
• Rocky Mountain Whitefish is also a popular catch among anglers. 
• Bull Trout is native to the region, but they are more common in streams and rivers that feed into the lake.
• Rainbow Trout is the least abundant fish species and can rarely be found in Lake Abraham.

Sure, this lake is often frozen and used for ice skating. But at times when the ice is thinner or before the lake begins to freeze, it's suitable for fishing.

Other Nearby Lakes You Might Enjoy 

If you have plenty of time on your hands, you may also want to visit other blue colour lakes in Alberta's beautiful landscape. Some of these include:

• Lake Louise
• Moraine Lake
• Lake Minnewanka
• Emerald Lake
• Peyto Lake
• Bow Lake

All these are at a reasonable distance from Abraham Lake, and you can visit them on your trip.

Visit Alberta & See the Frozen Bubbles Today

Making a Day of It

After a day of exploring Abraham Lake, return to Red Deer for a relaxing evening. Enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants, where you can savour regional dishes and unwind after a day in nature.

Why Stay in Red Deer?

While many people flock to nearby towns like Canmore and Banff for their proximity to Abraham Lake, staying in Red Deer offers a few distinct advantages:

1. Affordable Accommodations: Hotels in Red Deer are typically much more budget-friendly than those in more tourist-heavy areas. You can enjoy a comfortable stay without the steep price tag, allowing you to save more for activities and dining.
2. Convenient Location: Red Deer serves as a central hub, making it easy to explore not only Abraham Lake but also other nearby attractions. Whether you want to hike, cycle, or simply enjoy a picnic by the water, you’ll have everything within reach.
3. Local Amenities: Staying in Red Deer means you can enjoy a variety of local restaurants, shops, and attractions that might be overlooked in the more touristy towns. Explore the local culinary scene, visit parks, or even catch a cultural event during your stay.

If you’re looking for an accessible and affordable getaway, Abraham Lake is calling your name. By staying in Red Deer, you can enjoy everything this stunning destination has to offer while taking advantage of budget-friendly accommodations and the charm of a local community. So pack your bags, hit the road, and prepare for a memorable adventure just a short drive away!

Stay in Red Deer where hotels are affordable and make a day trip to Abraham Lake!

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