Follow the short winding trail from Jasper to Patricia Lake. Rent a bike, canoe or horse, go fishing or simply relax. You can even scuba dive down to see one of the strangest wrecks in the world. Have a picnic and rest at the lakeside, or stay for a few days and enjoy the Canadian wilderness.
The lake’s history is a fascinating one. Due to its remote location, it played an important role in World War II as the site for the top secret Project Habbakuk. This was an attempt by the the Allied Forces to create an unsinkable aircraft carrier out of a special material that contained pulp and seawater. The ‘Pykekrete‘ was to be frozen solid so it would float. The experiment was a failure and the remains of the first model was left to sink in the lake. In summer it is possible to scuba dive down and see the wreck.
Most people get involved in land-based outdoor activities. Canoeing, fishing for trout and whitefish, and horseback riding are just some of the highlights. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife. You can encounter black bears and grizzly bears, elk and birds of prey.
During winter, the area becomes popular among cross-country skiers, while the lake itself freezes over and becomes a temporary skating rink.
Immediately northeast of Patricia Lake is Pyramid Lake, an easy half-hour hike away. The kidney-shaped lake has an island and the snow-capped Pyramid Mountain looming behind it. Rent a boat or visit the picnicking area for a few hours of relaxing. If you want to hike up the mountain, its eastern slopes are the most gradual and easiest to navigate.Book a hotel room to stay the night if you plan an early sunset or sunrise hike.
Getting to Patricia Lake from Jasper is simple, especially in the summer months. The hiking trail is just three miles (five kilometers) across easygoing terrain.
