This Peyto Lake engagement session is probably one of my favourite small sessions I have done. Not only because of the stunning scenery and how adorable these two are together, but also because I had such a great time with Kyle & Karin! Shooting at Peyto Lake & Bow Lake in Banff National Park proves in my mind once again that autumn is the best time for photos.

A couple embraces on a steep rock with a view of peyto lake on a cloudy day

Kyle grew up with my husband (Mitch) in Winnipeg, so he has always been a good friend of ours. Karin also had ties to Winnipeg, but it took a trip to Austria for them to meet and spark a connection. If you were to ask me to name a couple that was perfectly matched for each other, I would say these two. They are both easy-going, goofy, but care deeply about others around them.

We started the day out by driving all the way from Lacombe, AB and enjoyed the brilliant autumn colours of the trees along the side of the road. They were so irresistible that we had to stop and take a couple of photos in the forest along a random pull-out. Once in Banff National Park, we stopped at Bow Lake and on the highway in between before heading to the lake lookout. It’s just a short walk, but there are several trails so you have to be careful not to get lost. Though the clouds threatened to unleash an Alberta downpour, we were really lucky and they stayed at bay the entire time! I can truly say that this didn’t really feel like a workday, but just a fun adventure with friends.

Tips for Visiting/Eloping/Portrait Sessions at Peyto Lake:

Check that it’s Open!: Since 2019 there has been construction to improve the parking lots, trails, and bathrooms in the area. It says that it should be open by August 2021, but check THIS site to make sure!
Check the Road Conditions: In the fall, winter, and spring this is a good practice to follow, as highway 93 is not as regularly maintained as the number 1. There are sometimes closures, or it might not be plowed and if you are driving a car without winter tires, it might not be the best idea to attempt the trip out there. Consider putting together a plan so you’re prepared for the weather, or have a backup location in mind.
Go on a Weekday: This seems to be a tip every time, but it makes a big difference in your experience! Banff is very popular, and for good reason! As you can see it’s one of the most beautiful places in the world. That means that there are a lot of visitors, and especially in the summer, it’s important to go on weekdays to give yourself a better chance at finding parking, and enjoying the views with fewer people around. You don’t want to literally wait in line to get a picture in front of the view or have a bunch of people stare at you as you try to get cuddly on the rocks.