With the summer days just wasting away, it’ll be fall in no time. Before the air gets too chilly, and the snow begins to fall, relish the sunshine while you still can. Whistler and its surrounding areas are full of beauty, so why not take advantage of the picturesque landscapes and clear waters while you still can? Here are six of the best Canadian lakes just waiting for you to dip your toes in the water.

Alta Lake

Why not start off at the lake where it all began? Alta Lake is one of Whistler’s most beautiful bodies of water, and it’s also home to where the town’s first residents posted up in 1911. Boasting a beautiful view of the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, the lake has a number of beautiful beaches, and docks where you can enjoy the wonderful view and clear waters. Also, be sure to check out Rainbow Park on the east shore of the lake.

Joffre Lakes

It’s a bit of a hike, literally, but the glacial waters and mountain peaks surrounding Joffre Lakes Provincial Park (30 min. outside Whistler) are well worth it. This park has it all: backpacking, hiking, camping, wildlife viewing, and even fishing. The park is full of rich glacial history, and boasts views of jagged peaks, deep valleys, and clear blue lakes and streams. Since the water is glacier runoff, it’s incredibly cold and not as popular for swimming, but the lakes are the perfect place to cool off your feet while hiking on a hot summer day.

Okanagan Lake

If you’re into swimming, boating, and watersports, then this is the perfect lake for you. A little over a five-hour drive from Whistler, this lake is a little bit out of the way, but it’s the ideal place to spend a weekend. Located in Penticton, the Okanagan area is one of the warmest areas in all of Canada, and its lake is no exception. Enjoy some fun in the sun while you still can, accompanied by a view of beautiful mountains in the background.

Sasamat Lake

A little under two hours from Whistler, Sasamat Lake is a truly unique beauty, and perfect for a day trip. Located in Port Moody, it’s one of the warmest lakes in the area, which makes it a prime swimming spot. The lake is also lined by a beautiful scenic forest and trails, and boasts a clean, white-sand beach – no wonder it’s one of the best Canadian lakes. Sunbathe, or just float around in the water, either way Sasamat Lake is sure not to disappoint.

Ivey Lake

If you’re looking for a little solitude, then Ivey Lake is your destination. Approximately 30 minutes from Whistler in Pemberton, this diamond in the rough is quiet, serene, and hidden right smack dab in the middle of British Columbia’s green coastal forests. On a sunny day, you can lounge in the shade of the pine trees, or try your hand at catching some of the area’s most beautiful rainbow trout. It’s one of the lower mainland’s only trophy fly-fishing lakes.

Hicks Lake

This one’s a bit of a drive (5 hours) from Whistler, but a trip to Hicks Lake is a great way to spend a few hot days at the end of summer. The lake, located in Sasquatch Provincial Park, is small and serene, and boasts some beautiful sandy beaches. It also has a walking trail that circles the lake, just in case you want to stretch your legs after the drive. There’s camping and cabins available for rent, and the lake is just a short drive away from the Harrison Hot Springs. It’s one of the best Canadian lakes for an overnight trip, but while you’re there, keep an eye out for bigfoot.