Tucked away in Alberta’s northeast, right near the Saskatchewan border, Cold Lake is one of those spots that feels a bit off the radar, but that’s part of its charm. With crystal-clear waters stretching across 373 square km and depths plunging over 100 metres, it’s not only one of the largest lakes in Alberta, but it’s also one of the deepest. A haven for fishing, camping, boating, and summer beach days, Cold Lake is a favourite for those who love the outdoors and don’t mind sharing the water with a little mystery.
Long before Cold Lake became a go-to summer destination, the region was known by local Indigenous communities for something a little more unsettling. First Nations oral traditions spoke of a creature, massive, elusive, and feared. Early European settlers were told of “the big fish” lurking in the lake’s darkest corners, a being that was both respected and feared. This wasn’t just a big catch; it was a lake monster, later known as Kinosoo.
The Legend of Kinosoo
One of the most well-known stories tied to the legend involves a young Cree man who lived along the shore of Cold Lake. According to the tale, he had fallen in love with a young woman who lived across the lake. One calm evening, he set out alone in his canoe, eager to reach her. As the story goes, halfway across the lake, the peaceful night was interrupted by an enormous splash. Rising from the deep was the creature, Kinosoo, with its monstrous head and gaping jaws. In an instant, the beast is said to have bitten the canoe clean in half. The young man vanished beneath the waves, never to be seen again.
The heartbroken young woman waited near the shore for him to arrive. Days later, shattered pieces of the canoe washed up along the shoreline, bearing what appeared to be enormous teeth marks, deep gouges that didn’t belong to any ordinary fish. From that moment on, the legend of Kinosoo grew, passed down through generations, leaving a lasting mark on the region’s identity.
While Kinosoo may not make regular appearances today, its legacy certainly does. The name lives on at Kinosoo Beach, a popular summer spot known for its wide stretch of soft sand, shallow swimming waters, and family-friendly vibe. It’s hard to imagine anything sinister under the surface here; kids splash in the water, boats cruise across the bay, and visitors soak up the sun. But if you ask around, you’ll find that many locals still know the story, and more than a few will admit they keep an eye on the water, just in case.
Besides its legendary folklore, Cold Lake has plenty to offer those in search of adventure. Anglers love it for the abundance of lake trout, walleye, and northern pike. Paddleboarders, kayakers, and water skiers flock to the water when the sun is high, and campers fill the lakeside spots all summer long. Cold Lake Provincial Park is a popular place to pitch a tent, with easy access to hiking trails, beach areas, and peaceful lake views.
And while Kinosoo may not be a regular guest at beach barbecues, the town of Cold Lake doesn’t shy away from the legend. You’ll see Kinosoo referenced in local artwork, tourism campaigns, and even in the names of businesses. There’s something about a good lake monster story that sticks, especially when it's tied to one of Alberta’s most underrated summer getaways.
So if you're looking for a weekend escape filled with sun, sand, and a little splash of the supernatural, Cold Lake might be your next destination. Whether you believe the tale or chalk it up to tall stories from the past, one thing’s for sure: there’s more to Cold Lake than meets the eye. And somewhere beneath the surface, Kinosoo might still be watching.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
