Lake Louise is a hamlet located within the Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. It is a small settlement that primarily serves as a tourist destination and is famous for its stunning lake, also named Lake Louise. The hamlet is home to a few hotels, restaurants, and amenities that cater to visitors exploring the natural beauty of the area. Banff, which is approximately 57 kilometers (35 miles) away, is the closest town with a wider range of services and facilities. Here are some best places and things to do in Lake Louise:
The stunning glacial lake is the main attraction of the area. Surrounded by towering mountains, Lake Louise offers awe-inspiring views and is a photographer’s dream. Take a leisurely stroll along the lakeshore, rent a canoe to explore the crystal-clear waters, or simply relax and soak in the serene atmosphere.
Embark on a scenic hike to Lake Agnes Tea House, a charming alpine tea house located above Lake Louise. The 3.5-kilometer trail takes you through lush forests and rewards you with magnificent views of Lake Louise and the surrounding peaks. Enjoy a well-deserved break at the tea house, which offers a delightful selection of teas and homemade treats.
This breathtaking hike takes you deeper into the rugged beauty of the Canadian Rockies. The 14-kilometer round-trip trail leads you to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, offering jaw-dropping views of glaciers, mountains, and stunning alpine meadows. Keep an eye out for wildlife along the way, including mountain goats and marmots.
Just a short drive from Lake Louise, Moraine Lake is another natural wonder that shouldn’t be missed. Surrounded by towering mountains and featuring sparkling turquoise waters, Moraine Lake is often referred to as the “Jewel of the Rockies.” Take a hike around the lake, rent a canoe, or simply bask in the awe-inspiring beauty of the surroundings.
Embark on a scenic drive along the famous Icefields Parkway, which stretches from Lake Louise to Jasper National Park. This iconic highway offers jaw-dropping vistas of glaciers, turquoise lakes, and towering peaks. Make sure to stop at popular viewpoints like Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and the Columbia Icefield for unforgettable photo opportunities.
If you visit during the winter months, the Lake Louise Ski Resort offers world-class skiing and snowboarding opportunities. With over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain, the resort caters to all skill levels, from beginners to experts. Enjoy breathtaking mountain views and experience the thrill of gliding down pristine slopes.
Banff National Park, including the Lake Louise area, is home to a diverse range of wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for elk, deer, bighorn sheep, black bears, and even grizzly bears. Remember to maintain a safe distance and respect the animals’ natural habitat.
This iconic hotel overlooking Lake Louise is not only a luxurious place to stay but also worth a visit even if you’re not a guest. Explore the historic grandeur of the hotel, indulge in a gourmet meal, or enjoy a cozy afternoon tea while admiring the panoramic views.
Take a scenic ride on the Lake Louise Gondola for spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The gondola ride takes you to an elevation of 2,088 meters, where you can enjoy stunning vistas, go on guided nature walks, and spot wildlife.
Just at a short drive from Lake Louise, Johnston Canyon offers a unique hiking experience through a stunning limestone canyon. Follow the well-maintained trail that leads you along catwalks and bridges, passing by picturesque waterfalls. The Lower Falls and Upper Falls are particularly impressive and offer great photo opportunities.
Lake Louise is a paradise for rock climbing enthusiasts. The area offers a variety of climbing routes suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to experienced climbers. Whether you’re looking for traditional climbing, sport climbing, or bouldering, there are options available to satisfy your climbing desires.
Explore the pristine wilderness surrounding Lake Louise on horseback. Several outfitters in the area offer guided trail rides, taking you through alpine meadows, forests, and along scenic trails. It’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Rockies while enjoying a unique equestrian experience.
During the winter months, explore the winter wonderland of Lake Louise on snowshoes. The area offers a variety of well-marked trails suitable for all skill levels. Strap on a pair of snowshoes and venture into the snow-covered forests, where you can experience the tranquility of the winter landscape and spot animal tracks.
For thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies, Lake Louise offers the opportunity to try canyoning and ice climbing. Join a guided tour and descend into frozen canyons, rappel down icy waterfalls, and conquer frozen walls of ice. It’s an exhilarating adventure that allows you to experience the beauty of the winter landscape in a unique way.
Wilson Mountain Sports is a premier outdoor gear rental and retail shop in Lake Louise. Offering a wide range of equipment, including skis, snowboards, bikes, and hiking gear, they cater to outdoor enthusiasts of all levels. With friendly and knowledgeable staff, Wilson Mountain Sports ensures you have the right gear for your adventure in the stunning wilderness of Lake Louise.
Saddleback is a popular hiking destination in Lake Louise, Canada. This moderate to challenging trail takes you up to a stunning viewpoint overlooking the surrounding mountains and valleys. With its breathtaking vistas and rewarding summit, Saddleback offers a memorable hiking experience for outdoor enthusiasts seeking panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies.
Lake Agnes is a picturesque alpine lake nestled above Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Canada. Accessed via a scenic hiking trail, this enchanting destination offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests. Visitors can also enjoy a visit to the historic Lake Agnes Tea House, where they can savor a hot beverage and homemade treats while taking in the serene beauty of the lake. A visit to Lake Agnes is a must for nature lovers and hikers exploring the Lake Louise area.
Sentinel Pass is a challenging and rewarding hike located in Banff National Park, near Lake Louise, Canada. This scenic trail takes you through alpine meadows, dense forests, and rocky slopes, ultimately leading to the breathtaking Sentinel Pass viewpoint. From the pass, hikers are rewarded with panoramic views of majestic peaks and glaciers, making it a popular spot for photographers and nature enthusiasts. The hike to Sentinel Pass offers an unforgettable adventure and a chance to immerse yourself in the stunning beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Peyto Lake is a stunning turquoise-colored glacial lake located in Banff National Park, Canada. It is renowned for its breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and glaciers. A short hike takes visitors to the iconic Bow Summit viewpoint, providing an awe-inspiring vista of Peyto Lake and its vibrant blue waters. Peyto Lake is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and photographers seeking to capture the beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
The Beehive is a prominent mountain peak located near Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Canada. It offers a challenging but rewarding hike that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The trail takes hikers through lush forests, exposed ridges, and rocky sections, culminating in a stunning viewpoint. The Beehive hike is a favorite among adventurous nature enthusiasts looking for a memorable alpine experience in the Canadian Rockies.
