What makes a lake blue?

Blue water lakes contain low concentrations of algae and other substances, resulting in high clarity and a deep blue color. Water molecules absorb longer, visible wavelengths (e.g. red light, 600-700 nm) while shorter, blue wavelengths (< 500 nm) pass deeper into the water column.



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As glacial meltwater carries sediments, it creates a suspension in the water, scattering light and causing it to appear blue. The combination of glacial milk and the reflective properties of the suspended rock flour particles results in lakes such as Lake Moraine and Lake Louise exibiting breathtaking shades of blue.

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Limestone is composed primarily of calcium carbonate (CaCO3) and is white in color. As the river breaks down this rock into tiny crystals, these crystals will get mixed up into the water. When sunlight hits the tiny crystals, it will reflect that beautiful blue color.

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To ensure warmer weather and an excellent chance to witness the most vivid turquoise water, the best time to visit Lake Louise is in July and August. That being said, the color never leaves, and you can witness the lake thawed until late October/early November when the lake freezes over.

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Moraine Lake: Nature's Gemstone: Located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks within Banff National park, Moraine Lake is often regarded as a gemstone amidst the Canadian Rockies. Its intense blue color, complemented by a ring of snow-capped peaks, makes it a photographer's paradise.

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1. Peyto Lake. Starting our list of the clearest lakes in Canada is Peyto Lake.

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It is common to see dyed water in public and recreational establishments, such as golf courses, recreation parks, ornamental ponds and decorative fountains. Aquatic dyes add blue or blue-green color to the water to reduce sunlight penetration.

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Cyanobacteria blooms (blue-green algae) are a frequent occurrence in the Great Lakes, particularly in Lake Erie, Green Bay, and Saginaw Bay. These blooms may cause fish kills and discolored or foul-smelling water, affecting both human and ecosystem health.

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The blue in Lake Michigan and Lake Huron is sediment brought to the surface when strong winds churned the lakes. The green in Lake Erie and in Lake Huron's Saginaw Bay is algae, which builds on the surface when winds are calm.

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Lake Louise has drawn visitors to the Canadian Rockies for over a century. The alpine lake in Banff National Park is a wild turquoise blue color fed by glacier melt and set by a backdrop of Mount Victoria and a hanging glacier. This pristine piece of wilderness draws in millions of visitors a year.

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