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Lake Louise is both a small mountain village and the glacier-fed lake above it, set in Banff National Park in the Bow Valley. The lake's milky turquoise color comes from fine rock flour carried down by meltwater from the Victoria Glacier, which hangs at the far end of the basin. The area has drawn travelers since the railway era, when the Canadian Pacific built its first lodge here.
The lakeshore path is the classic starting point, with the Fairmont Château Lake Louise at one end and canoes for rent in summer. A steady climb leads through forest to the Lake Agnes Tea House, which still serves tea and baked goods to hikers. Across the valley, the Lake Louise Summer Gondola climbs a ski hill that often shows grizzly bears grazing on the slopes below. Down in the village, the log Lake Louise Railway Station now holds a restaurant. Moraine Lake, ringed by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, is reached by shuttle, and the short trail to Consolation Lakes starts nearby. Peyto Lake lies a short drive north along the Icefields Parkway, and the Bow Valley Parkway leads to Johnston Canyon.
Summer is crowded, so early starts and reserved shuttles matter. Winter turns the area into a ski destination, with skating on the frozen lake.
WiserMap travel guideLake Louise Alberta Lake Agnes Tea House and Moraine LakePlan a trip to Lake Louise in Banff National Park with Moraine Lake, Lake Agnes Tea House, the gondola, Peyto Lake, Johnston Canyon, shuttles and where to stay.Read the guide
The turquoise glacial lake below Victoria Glacier is one of the most famous views in Canada. A flat shoreline trail of about 2 km runs from the Château along the lake's north side toward the back of the valley. Parking fills before dawn in summer, so use the Parks Canada shuttle or Roam transit, and visit early for calm water.
Set in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake has vivid blue water and a classic view from the Rockpile trail, a short climb near the outlet. The access road is closed to private vehicles, so arrive by Parks Canada shuttle, Roam transit or a licensed tour. Canoe rentals operate in summer, and the road closes in winter.
From Moraine Lake, a mostly gentle trail of about 3 km one way leads through forest and a boulder field to two quiet lakes beneath Mount Bident and Quadra Mountain. It is one of the easier hikes in the area. Parks Canada sometimes requires hiking in tight groups because of bears, so check trail restrictions first.
A steady 3.5 km climb from the Lake Louise shore passes Mirror Lake to reach Lake Agnes and its historic tea house, built in 1901, which serves tea, soups and baked goods. It is cash only and very busy midday. Start early, and continue to the Big Beehive viewpoint for a sweeping look down on Lake Louise.
This trail follows the Lake Louise shoreline and climbs about 5.5 km into the valley below Victoria Glacier to a rustic tea house built in the 1920s. Beyond it, a path continues to a viewpoint of the glaciers and the Abbot Pass area. The tea house accepts cash only, and you may hear avalanches thunder in early summer.
From Moraine Lake, switchbacks climb to Larch Valley, which turns golden with alpine larches in mid to late September, then continue to Sentinel Pass at about 2,611 metres for views of the Ten Peaks. Larch season is extremely busy, so book shuttles early. Group hiking restrictions often apply for bear safety.
The grand hotel at the edge of Lake Louise dates to the Canadian Pacific Railway era and has been rebuilt and expanded over time. Non-guests can visit its shops, cafés and the Fairview restaurant, and take in the lake view from the terrace. Afternoon tea in the Lakeview Lounge is a popular treat; reserve ahead.
Built in 1909 of logs, this historic station in the village is the last remaining original log station on the Canadian Pacific line through the park. It now houses a restaurant, with heritage rail cars alongside. Freight trains still pass right next to it. Stop for a meal or just to see the building and old cars.
In summer, the Lake Louise Ski Resort runs its gondola up Mount Whitehorn for views across the valley to Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier. The slopes are prime grizzly bear habitat, and sightings from the gondola are common. A wildlife interpretive centre sits at the top, and there is a lodge for lunch.
A short but steep trail of about 1 km from the Lake Louise shoreline climbs through forest to a wooden platform looking back over the lake and the Château. It is a quick way to escape the crowds at the water's edge. Go early in the morning for soft light, and wear good shoes as roots and rocks make the path uneven.
One of North America's largest ski areas, Lake Louise has terrain on several faces with runs for every level and some of the best views in the Rockies. The season usually runs from November to May. Free shuttles connect with Lake Louise village and Banff hotels, and lift tickets are cheaper when bought online.
The boathouse on the shore rents red canoes by the half hour or hour in summer, giving you the chance to paddle on the turquoise water toward the glacier. Prices are high and lines are long, so arrive early. Wear warm layers because the water is icy cold, and the lake can get windy in the afternoon.
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