She began her career during the silent film era and often appeared in comedy shorts opposite Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle.

Arbuckle directed both films and was joined by Buster Keaton who had a leading role in Oh Doctor!.

Lake also played dramatic roles with Bert Lytell in Blackie's Redemption and The Lion's Den, both from 1919.

Following the introduction of talkies, her parts in films began to wane and she only performed in supporting roles.

For her contribution to the motion picture industry, Alice Lake has a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame at 1620 Vine Street.