Plizio Visual Lab
Lake Athabasca

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Lake Athabasca is situated on the border between Alberta and Saskatchewan and is the eighth-largest lake in Canada, covering 7,850 square kilometers. It spans 283 kilometers in length and reaches a maximum depth of 124 meters. Geographically, the lake is renowned for its ecological significance, particularly the Peace-Athabasca Delta at its western end, which is one of the world's largest inland deltas. The southern shore features the Athabasca Sand Dunes, some of the most northerly active dune fields on Earth. Historically, the lake was a hub for the fur trade, with Fort Chipewyan on the western shore being one of the oldest European settlements in Alberta. In the mid-20th century, uranium mining in the region brought economic growth alongside long-term environmental concerns. Today, the lake remains a critical habitat for migratory birds and a focal point for the traditional fishing practices of local First Nations communities.
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | -24 | -22 | -14 | -3 | 7 | 15 | 17 | 15 | 8 | -1 | -14 | -22 |
| Rain mm | 26 | 19 | 28 | 35 | 49 | 62 | 75 | 86 | 63 | 44 | 29 | 25 |
📋 Practical info
Geography
Facts
- The lake's surface area covers 7,850 square kilometers
- The maximum recorded depth is 124 meters
- It is the eighth-largest lake located within Canada
- Fort Chipewyan was established on its shores in 1788
- Home to the world's most northerly active sand dunes
- The Peace-Athabasca Delta is a UNESCO World Heritage site
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
In which provinces is Lake Athabasca located?
What are the Athabasca Sand Dunes?
Is there mining there?
How do you get to the lake?
Are there fish there?
Lake Athabasca: where is it located?
Lake Athabasca: when is the best time to visit?
Lake Athabasca: why is it worth visiting?















