The early morning light casts a soft glow on the dark water. Across the lake, the mountains stand stark and impressive against the sky. A lone deer is drinking at the shoreline, and you can hear the faint tapping of a woodpecker somewhere in the woods. A shuffling noise behind alerts you to a herd of majestic bighorn sheep watching you inquisitively. Nature is coming alive around you and you’re happy you woke early to experience it. This is what you came to the Canadian Rockies for. Lake Minnewanka has a rich history. For more than 100 centuries, people have hunted and camped along the original shores of the lake. Lake Minnewanka is the largest and deepest lake in Banff National Park, located east of Banff, about 15 minutes' drive. Its name comes from the Indian Stoneni tribe, which means "water spirit". The Minnesota Valley is home to many wild animals, surrounded by beautiful scenery and unique rocks.