6 Canadian Lakes With Hilarious Names You Won’t Believe Are Real

With more surface area covered by lakes than almost any other nation, Canada required an extraordinary amount of naming during its surveying and mapping history. While many bodies of water bear traditional Indigenous names or honor prominent historical figures, local surveyors, trappers, and settlers often resorted to colorful, literal, or humorous titles when logging new territories.

Whether born out of an inside joke, a minor mishap during an expedition, or sheer descriptive literalism, these six Canadian lakes stand out for their hilarious and memorable names.

6 Unforgettably Named Canadian Lakes

• Peepee Lake (Ontario): Located in the Nipissing District of Ontario, this small, isolated lake never fails to elicit a chuckle from travelers scanning regional maps. Despite its comedic name, the lake offers quiet, untouched wilderness views typical of northern Ontario.
• Goof Lake (Ontario): Situated in Algoma Country, Goof Lake got its name from early local outdoorsmen. Whether named after an amusing hunting misadventure or a lighthearted nickname, it remains a favorite curiosity for backcountry campers.
• Blow Me Down Lake (Newfoundland and Labrador): Found in the scenic region of western Newfoundland near Blow Me Down Provincial Park, this lake takes its name from the fierce, sweeping coastal winds that blow across the surrounding mountains, frequently threatening to knock hikers off their feet.
• Old Wives Lake (Saskatchewan): As one of the largest saline lakes in Canada, Old Wives Lake carries a dramatic local legend. According to regional folklore, a group of elderly Cree women volunteered to stay behind at an encampment to keep fires burning, distracting an opposing tribe and allowing the younger villagers to escape safely under cover of night.
• Kitchi Manitou Lake (Saskatchewan): Translating to "Great Spirit" in Algonquin traditions, this lake is often colloquially known by locals as "Little Manitou Lake." Due to its high mineral concentration, the water provides unusual buoyancy, allowing swimmers to float effortlessly much like in the Dead Sea.
• Frying Pan Lake (British Columbia): Named literally after its distinct physical outline when viewed from nearby vantage points, Frying Pan Lake sits tucked within British Columbia's lush forest trails, proving that early mapmakers often relied on everyday household objects for visual inspiration.

A Unique Way to Explore the North

Visiting Canada’s uniquely named lakes offers a refreshing alternative to standard tourist itineraries. Beyond the humorous photos next to trail signs, these destinations introduce travelers to regional folklore, local histories, and untouched wilderness that might otherwise be overlooked on standard travel routes.