Lake Swimming in McLeod Lake ▣

McLeod Lake offers a great introduction to open-water swimming in subalpine lakes. The water is crystal clear, shallow near the shore but gradually becoming very deep—and much colder—in the middle. It's a smaller lake, so not necessarily ideal for long workouts (which will require many laps). But the hike up from Horseshoe Lake is short and easy, and the setting, with Mammoth Crest rising above the southern shore, is beautiful. The lake is also a popular fishing spot, especially for float-tube fly fishermen, so keep an eye out for long casts and flying hooks!
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McLeod Lake offers a great introduction to open-water swimming in subalpine lakes. The water is crystal clear, shallow near the shore but gradually becoming very deep—and much colder—in the middle. It's a smaller lake, so not necessarily ideal for long workouts (which will require many laps). But the hike up from Horseshoe Lake is short and easy, and the setting, with Mammoth Crest rising above the southern shore, is beautiful. The lake is also a popular fishing spot, especially for float-tube fly fishermen, so keep an eye out for long casts and flying hooks!

Experience Checklist
- Day pack
- Dry Clothes
- Energy bars/electrolyte replacement
- Knowledge and understanding of local conditions
- Sunglasses
- Sun hat
- Sunscreen/lip protector
- Swim Cap
- Swim goggles
- Swimsuit or wetsuit
- Towel
- Wetsuit for Open Water Swimming
Public Services
Experience Information

Trail Length
1.2 miles

Trail Surface
Water

Duration
Less than 4 hours
This experience is accessed from the Horseshoe Lake Trailhead.
- Get driving directions to Horseshoe Lake Trailhead
- Get public-transit options*
*Note that not all facilities are accessible via public transit.