The Legend Behind Ghost Lake's Name: Is Ghost Lake Really Haunted?

Ghost Lake can be found right beside the town of Cochrane on Highway 1A, but is it really haunted? The lake gets its name from a fascinating tale of a ghost haunting the area. Today, it's a great spot for year-round fun and one of the best lakes near Calgary. It has an on-site marina, campgrounds with RV hook-ups, and plenty of freshwater fish for anglers to reel in. 

Thanks to Ghost Lake's ideal positioning at the edge of the foothills of the Rocky Mountains, the views are simply breathtaking. During the winter, it is a wonderful place that accommodates ice skaters, ice fishing, ice boating, and other sporting endeavors. Of course, during the windy nights, a ghostly-sounding howl seems to rumble through the area. Have no fear; a trip to Ghost Lake is always a good time. 

Why Is It Called Ghost Lake?

The lake was created in 1929 when a dam was built where the Ghost and the Bow Rivers meet. According to local history, it was originally known as Dead Man's Lake due to a legend of a ghost haunting the lake and the area.

The legend says that a ghost would prowl the valley by the river and collect the skulls of Blackfoot natives who lost in battle with Cree warriors. 1873, these lands were settled by John McDougall a reverend who eventually established a cattle ranch and mission near present day Morley, and soon after the Hudson Bay Company would establish a trading post in the area, as well. However, regardless of the stories, there are no ghosts to be found in the lake—that we know of, at least.

The Ghost Dam

The dam was built to provide Alberta with hydroelectric power, and it is still in use today. Since its first construction, it has been redeveloped and has become a picturesque part of the area. This damming created Ghost Lake by altering the water flow from both rivers.

The ingenuity of designers and engineers came to the rescue when Albertans were facing a power generation crisis. They found a solution in hydroelectricity, which at the time was far more cost-efficient than coal power generation. Upon its completion, the Ghost Facility's transmission lines were extended to Edmonton and was vital to the region's electrical system.

It's a Windy Lake Made for Year-Round Recreation

Today, this area has become a top spot for recreation all year long. Be prepared to experience some wind, and strong ones at that, by the lake. It's the perfect place for windsurfing and sailing as the breeze funnels through the narrow valley providing a steady stream of brisk winds. During the summer, people gather at the lake to enjoy a picnic, camping, kayaking, canoeing, jet boating, bird watching, fishing, and water skiing.

What Kind of Fish Are In Ghost Lake?

The fishing is fantastic at Ghost Lake, with an abundance of rainbow trout, bass, brown trout, cutthroat trout, lake whitefish, and mountain whitefish. If you're lucky, you may end up with a record-breaking lake trout or a rainbow trout biting on your line. As mentioned earlier, Ghost Lake fishing is very popular during all seasons, as there are 11 Indigenous species swimming in these waters year-round.

Can You Swim in Ghost Lake?

Swimming is permitted in Ghost Lake, Alberta, making it a popular spot for recreational activities during the summer months. The lake doesn't have the lounge space you might find at other beaches in the Calgary area, but the clear waters are perfect for a refreshing dip in warmer months. However, due to its popularity among motorboaters, swimmers are advised to stay close to the shore unless they have a companion boat alongside them.

Ghost Lake: Are You Brave Enough to Visit?

Being close to Ghost Lake is a huge perk of living in Cochrane, one of the best cities near Calgary. Here you can enjoy a leisurely day by the lake or engage in some adventurous water sports. The wind itself is something to experience, but you don't have to worry—Ghost Lake really isn't haunted! Or is it?