EVERYTHING you need to know before visiting Lake Louise (2023) 

What is Lake Louise? 

Lake Louise is a jaw dropping, world famous lake known for its turquoise waters, mountain views, and Victoria Glacier. There is a reason why this lake is on many bucket lists and why people from all over the world choose to visit the Rocky Mountains each year. With its crisp mountain air, cool glacier waters, and stunning views from above, Lake Louise is a place you cannot miss. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know before visiting Lake Louise. 

Where is Lake Louise? 

Lake Louise is about 55 km west or a 40 minute drive from the town of Banff and about 2 hours from Calgary. Visiting Lake Louise is definitely doable in a day if you are staying in Banff or Canmore. If you want more time in the area, you can opt to stay over in the Lake Louise area, keep reading for more details on where to stay. 

The lake itself is about a 5 minute drive from Lake Louise village, where you will find the visitor centre, dining options, and some places to stay. 

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are about a 20 minute drive from each other. If timing permits, many people will opt to see both lakes as they each are unique and stunning. 

If you are planning to explore Canmore on your trip to Lake Louise, check out my other blog post for a Guide to the Stunning Town of Canmore or check out my detailed guide I created on DriftFeed: 5 Days in the Rocky Mountains.

How to get to Lake Louise?

You have three options to get to Lake Louise. Drive and park there, take the shuttle from the Park & Ride, or take a tour. 

Driving to Lake Louise

Parking is extremely limited at Lake Louise (and at Moraine Lake). There is more parking at Lake Louise than Moraine Lake, however during peak months (June-September) the parking fills up early in the morning and stays full till sunset. 

I have had luck finding parking if I arrive early or right at Sunset, but it is always a risk that there will be none and you will have to turn around. 

If you are lucky enough to get a parking spot, paid parking is reinforced from 7am-7pm mid-May to mid-Oct. It costs $12.25 per vehicle per day. You are not allowed to park overnight. You must also have a National Park entry pass. 

Looking to rent a car? Check Discover Cars for the best deals on car rentals!

Taking the Shuttle to Lake Louise

Booking a shuttle with Parks Canada guarantees that you will be able to visit Lake Louise. In fact, booking the shuttle allows you to visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake with one ticket. 

Starting in 2022, the Park & Ride is located at the Lake Louise Ski Area at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. Click here for directions. 

The shuttle will then take you to either Lake Louise or Moraine Lake first based on what you selected when reserving your seat. 

Once you’re at one of the lakes, the Lake Connector will take you between the two lakes at no additional cost. Click here for more information about the shuttle service!

You are encouraged to book your seat ahead of time! You can now book for the remainder of the 2022 season, click here for more details. 

If there are no seats left for the day you are wanting, don’t worry. A small number of tickets are released on a rolling basis 48 hours prior to the departure day starting at 8am MDT. Be on your computer ready to book! There are also a small number of tickets that can be purchased at the Park & Ride but they are on a first come first serve basis. 

There can be long lines at the shuttle service and you may have to wait for a shuttle. However, the one time I took the service, it was well organized and got us to where we wanted to go. 

Shuttle Prices 

Adult (18-64): $8.00

Senior (65+): $4.00

Youth (6-17): $2.00

Child (under 6): Free

Taking a Tour to Lake Louise

If you are not wanting to rent a car, or not wanting to deal with the headache of finding parking or taking the shuttle, your other option is to sign up for a tour. GetYourGuide has many different tour options that range in length and price.

Best time to visit Lake Louise?

The best time to visit Lake Louise really depends on what you are hoping to do while you are there. 

Going in the summer is great if you are wanting to appreciate the turquoise waters. I would recommend going between end of June and beginning of October to be sure the lake has melted. There is a reason why July and August are the most popular months! 

If you are wanting to skate on the lake or experience skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort, then you should visit during the winter months. Typically January and February have the most snow. Although you won’t get to see the turquoise waters, you will get to appreciate Lake Louise in a whole different way. 

Personally, I would recommend going in September. There are less crows than in July and August, but the water is still beautiful and the weather will be a little cooler making hiking in the area more pleasant. 

It is also important to note, if you are hoping to visit Moraine Lake during your visit to Lake Louise, the road to this lake is typically open from June – mid October. It is closed for cars during the winter months as the road becomes an Avalanche Hazard. 

When does the Lake melt? 

Lake Louise usually melts the first week of June. The timing changes each year, so you want to see the blue waters I would plan to visit later in June at the earliest just to be safe! 

When does the Lake freeze?

Lake Louise usually begins to freeze in early November. If you go during this time, you may be lucky enough to see the blue waters of the lake with snow all around you. It feels so dreamy, the definition of a winter wonderland. 

Where to Stay at Lake Louise?

If you want an experience of a lifetime, I would recommend staying at the Fairmont Lake Louise. Although pricey, it truly is an experience like no other. Check them out here! 

During my stay at the Fairmont, I was able to enjoy delicious meals overlooking the lake, go out in the middle of the night and stargaze with no one around, and wake up to the most beautiful view out of my window. 10/10 would recommend. 

As a guest, you get hotel guest-only experiences such as booking a sunrise canoe ride on Lake Louise. Click here for more information. 

If you are not wanting to stay in Lake Louise, check out my post here about Staying in Canmore versus Banff.

There are also other hotel options around that are all a short drive to the lake. Check out your other options below:

Fairmont Lake Louise | Book here

Other hotels options | Booking.com

What to do at Lake Louise?

There are many different ways to explore Lake Louise throughout the year – everything from being on the lake to seeing it from above!

1. Rent Canoes 

A visit to Lake Louise isn’t complete without a paddle across the turquoise blue waters. 

You can rent canoes on a first-come-first-serve basis. I would recommend getting there early if you don’t want to wait for a canoe. 

You rent canoes from the boathouse, which is on the west shore of the lake. 

Canoes are rented on an hourly rate. Stand-up paddle boards and kayaks are not available at the boathouse, only canoes. 

Lifejackets are provided, and you are required to wear one while on the canoe. 

Details 

Cost | Guest staying at Fairmont: $95+GST one hour

Guest staying at Fairmont: $85+GST 30 minutes

Day Visitor: $145+GST one hour

Day Visitor: $135+GST 30 minutes

Hours of Operation | 8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Canoe Size | The canoe can hold three adults, or two adults and two children 

More details | Canoe rentals

Voyageur Canoe Experience 

A Mountain Adventure Guide will take you on an experience paddling Lake Louise from a beautiful 26’ cedar canoe. The guide will share stories about the area as you make your way across the lake.  

Details 

Cost | Guests staying at Fairmont: $55+GST per adults, $30+GST per youth (8-12)

Day Visitor: $65+GST per adults, $35+GST per youth (8-12)

Hours of Operation | Reservations are for hotel guests – check here for more information. 

Video | 

2. Paddle on the Lake 

You can also bring your own canoe, kayak, SUP and paddle on the lake yourself. However, there is no boat launch. 

If you are coming to visit from afar, the easiest (although pricey) option is to rent a canoe from the boathouse. 

3. Visit the famous Lake Agnes Tea House

Since 1905, the Lake Agnes Tea House has been serving people tea. What was once meant as refugee for hikers and built by the Canadian Pacific Railway – now serves thousands of tourists each year. 

If you have never been to Lake Agnes and the Tea House, it is well worth your time to do the moderate hike and experience this unique Tea House! 

The trail can be quite busy depending on the time of year, so I would suggest starting the hike earlier in the morning and enjoying the Tea House for a mid morning snack or lunch. 

Hike Details 

Length | 7.4 Km out and back

Time | Around 3 hours to complete 

Elevation Gain | 435m

Difficulty Level | Easy-Moderate

You will first pass Mirror Lake (great spot to take a break) before reaching Lake Agnes Tea House.

I would also recommend walking around the lake, and dipping your feet in the cold water to cool off on hot summer days. 

Although the Tea House is not open year round, the hike can be done any time of the year. There can be lots of snow depending on the time of year so you will want to dress appropriately. Lake Agnes is typically frozen until mid June. 

Once you make it to the Tea House, you can enjoy snacks, sandwiches, soup, and of course, tea. 

Tea House Details 

Menu | Lake Agnes Tea House

Hours | Early June – Canadian Thanksgiving: 8:00am – 5:00pm 

Canadian Thanksgiving – Early June: Closed 

Payment | Cash is preferred, card is accepted for a $1 fee 

Washrooms | There are washrooms available 

Horses are also available for hire at Brewster or Timberline Stables, if you would rather a less strenuous and unique way to get to the Tea House. 

Once you are finished at Lake Agnes, you can either continue the hike to Beehive or Devil’s Thumb (for some spectacular views!) or turn around and return to Lake Louise. 

4. Hike Big Beehive 

This hike is totally worth it for the amazing views at the end! I would recommend starting early, and taking a break at Lake Agnes Tea House for a snack before continuing. 

Hike Details 

Length | 10.9km

Type | Out and Back 

Time | About 4hr 40min

Elevation Gain | 776m

Difficulty Level | Moderate-hard 

This hike starts on the East side of Lake Louise, where you will begin hiking up switchbacks that lead away from Lake Louise and towards Mirror Lake. 

Many people will take a quick break at Mirror Lake to embarrass the views of their end goal (the Big Beehive). 

You will then continue on your way to Lake Agnes and the Lake Agnes Tea House, where you can take a break if you’d like, use their washroom, and enjoy their menu. 

The Tea House can fill up, so starting your hike early will ensure you get a spot at the Tea House to take a break if you wish! 

Once you are finished at Lake Agnes, you will begin the second half of the hike. Many people turn around at Lake Agnes, so you will find that the remainder of the hike is quieter. 

If you decide to keep going, you will walk alongside Lake Agnes towards the Big Beehive. The trail begins to get steeper (elevation grade sometimes reaching 60%), and depending on the time of year this part can be icy as well. 

Once you make it to the top, the trail ends and you have a few different options of ways to go. To get to the Big Beehive you will stay to your left (right is towards Devil’s Thumb and straight is a second way back down) and walk for about 200m before getting to the end of the trail – and wow the views are absolutely worth it! 

If you feel like continuing – you have a few options! You can hike to Devil’s Thumb or to the Little Beehive. 

5. Hike Little Beehive 

The Little Beehive starts off the same way as the Big Beehive. You will make your way to Mirror Lake by following the switchbacks from Lake Louise.  

Once you get to Mirror Lake, take a little break and enjoy the views. As you continue, there will be a fork in the road for Little Beehive or Lake Agnes, take the Little Beehive path. 

From here, you will hike about 1.2km to the Little Beehive view. It doesn’t sound like much, but the trail is uphill the whole way so you will definitely break a sweat! 

You can also opt to continue following signs to Lake Agnes instead of taking the fork in the road. Once you are finished at Lake Agnes and the Tea house, you can continue your hike to the Little Beehive along the Little Beehive Trail (where the washrooms are). It will add around 500m to your hike, but will allow you to visit the Tea House.

Hike Details 

Length | 9km

Type | Out and back 

Time | About 3hr 30min

Elevation Gain | 535m

Difficulty Level | Moderate 

6. Hike to Devil’s Thumb

The Devil’s Thumb hike is definitely considered a more challenging route to hike. 

Hike Details 

Length | 12.9km

Type | Out and back 

Time | About 5hr 30min

Elevation Gain | 883m

Difficulty Level | Hard

The hike starts off the the same way as both the Little and Big Beehive. You will take the switchbacks from Lake Louise to Mirror Lake. This part of the hike is typically the busiest, as people are heading to Mirror Lake and Lake Agnes. Once at Mirror Lake, you will continue to Lake Agnes. 

Once you are at Lake Agnes, this is a great opportunity to take a break and visit the Tea House. 

As you make your way past Lake Agnes, the crowds tend to disappear. 

From here, you will continue along the same path as the Big Beehive, walking alongside Lake Agnes and then up the steep switchbacks (with elevation grade reaching 60% at some points!). 

When you get to the top, the trail feels like it disappears. You are left with a few options. To get to Devil’s Thumb you will want to go right and continue on. If you go left, you will get to the Big Beehive lookout, and straight will bring you back down to Lake Louise. 

At this point, you will hike for another 1km before getting to Devil’s Thumb. 

7. Hike to Fairview Lookout 

If you are wanting a shorter hike than Lake Agnes of Beehive, with a view of Lake Louise and the famous hotel at the end, this may be the lookout for you. Just beyond the carpark, is a 1.8km hike each way (yes, it is a little steep at times) that takes you to a lookout on the West side of Lake Louise. 

Hike Details 

Length | 2.4km

Type | Out and back 

Time | About 1hr

Elevation Gain | 167m

Difficulty Level | Easy – Moderate

You are walking mostly in a forest for the duration of the hike, until you get to the top where there is a lookout. 

This is a great option if you have time for a short hike and would like to get away from the tourists. 

8. Check out Other Hikes 

There are other hike options around Lake Louise, if none of the hikes above interest you, I would suggest checking out AllTrails. They have lots of information about hikes in the area. 

Check out my blog post about 5 Awesome Hikes in the Banff Area for some more ideas of hikes to do!

9. Walk the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail

If you are not interested in hiking or don’t have the time, I would highly recommend that you at least walk the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail. 

The “classic” photo spot of the turquoise waters and Victoria Glacier in the background is what you are blessed with right when you arrive at Lake Louise. So there isn’t much walking that you have to do to get to the famous view. However, this view is often very crowded with tourists. 

Although you won’t have the “classic” view of Lake Louise, walking along the Lake Louise Lakeshore will provide you with other great photo spots and a quieter view of the lake. 

If you continue walking along the lakeshore trail, you will actually get to a beach. If you dare, you can take off your shoes and walk along the beach and dip your toes in the (freezing) streams leading to Lake Louise. 

Here you will get a great view of the Fairmont Lake Louise, and a perspective of the lake that many don’t venture far enough to see. 

10. Horseback Ride 

Perhaps you want to experience Lake Louise and the stunning Rockies in an adventurous way on horseback. There are a few companies that allow you to do such a thing. They have everything from day trips to 1-7 night horseback experiences. 

Details

Summer Trail Rides | Brewster Adventures

Timberline Tours 

2-4 Night Horseback Vacations | Timberline Tours 

Brewster Adventures 

11. Shopping in Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 

It is worth mentioning that there are a few stores in the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. If you want to spend some time inside the Fairmont, be sure to check out the different souvenir stores, outdoor gear stores, Roots, and galleries. 

Shops are located both in the Lower Lobby Level, along the Retail Arcade (to the right of the lobby when facing the front desk), and in the Barriott Wing (to the left of the lobby when facing the front desk). 

12. Spa Day at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise 

If you are looking for something more relaxing to do at Lake Louise, you can check out the Spa at the Fairmont Chateau. With many services including massages, facials, and even children’s massages – this may be the perfect activity to help fill a day in paradise. 

Details 

More information | Fairmont Spa 

Book | Online Booking

Winter Activities at Lake Louise

1. Skate on the Lake 

Getting to glide on Lake Louise is truly experiencing the magic of the mountains in a different way. 

Depending on weather, skating on Lake Louise is typically available from mid-December to mid-April. Snow is cleared daily from the ice, so 

The Fairmont team also created an ice castle and an additional rink open to any and all hockey fans wanting to play a game of pickup hockey in arguably the most scenic hockey rink in the world. 

Skates can be rented on a first-come first-serve basis from the Chateau Ski & Snow which is located beside the front desk inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Click here for more details.

Video |

2. Cross Country ski the trails 

There are around 100 kms of groomed trails around Lake Louise, with many of the trails between the village and the Fairmont Chateau. 

If you are wanting to try out this activity, you can rent skis at Wilson Mountain Sport located in the Lake Louise Village. 

It is important to check the weather, the trail, and the avalanche report before venturing on the cross country ski trails! 

Details 

Hours | 8am – 7pm 

Renting Skis | Wilson Mountain Sport 

Trail Report | Banff National Park 

Avalanche Report | Parks Canada 

3. Enjoy the Ice Bar

Through mid-December to mid-April (weather permitting), you can enjoy a bar made out of entirely blocks of ice. Imagine sipping on mulled wine overlooking the frosted mountain. 

Details 

Hours of Operation | 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Menu | Ice Bar 

Reservations | No reservations, walk in only. Priority service given to Fairmont hotel guests. 

4. Experience the Ice Magic Festival 

Every year, Lake Louise holds the Ice Magic Festival, which is an ice carving exhibition. Although the festival is 12 days long, the carving competitions happen over the first 3 days. 

Tickets are required on weekends between 10am-5:30pm, but the event is free throughout the week. 

This year, the festival falls on January 18-29, 2023.

5. Explore Lake Louise by Dog sled 

Dogsledding is such a unique way to explore the mountains and landscape around Lake Louise. Soak in the crisp air and the frosted mountains, while interacting with husky dogs. Dogsledding tours happen between December and April when there is snow on the ground. 

The Great Divide Tour starts at Lake Louise, then takes you 16km through some of Banff’s most stunning scenery. 

The Narnia Trail Tour is a shorter 30-minute dogsledding experience. Perfect for those who want a shorter tour or an introduction to dogsledding. 

Both of these tours are run by Kingmik Dog Sled Tours. For more information about this company, click here.

6. Sleigh rides

I can’t think of anything better than soaking in the crisp cold mountain air from under a blanket on a horse drawn sleigh! Enjoy views of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise on evening rides of the Ice Falls on daytime rides with Brewster Adventures. 

Details

Sleigh Rides | Brewster Adventures 

Where to Eat at Lake Louise?

Lake Agnes Tea House 

Although it is a bit of a workout to eat at the Tea House, it is always worth it. The views are stunning and the idea that you worked for you food somehow makes everything taste better. 

Because you have to hike to get to the Tea House, it is only possible to eat here if you give yourself enough time at Lake Louise. It takes about 3 hours roundtrip to get to and from the Tea House (not including the time it takes to eat). 

Details 

Menu | Lake Agnes Tea House

Hours | Early June – Canadian Thanksgiving: 8:00am – 5:00pm 

Canadian Thanksgiving – Early June: Closed 

Payment | Cash is preferred, card is accepted for a $1 fee 

Washrooms | There are washrooms available 

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Food Options 

There are many Dining (and drinking) options within the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Everything from delicious brunch buffets, to dinners overlooking the Victoria Glacier. 

TO NOTE – until further notice, restaurants within the Fairmont Chateau are only available to hotel guests.

1. Fairview Bar and Restaurant 

Stunning windows line the restaurant and look out onto Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier. The afternoon tea is a great experience – especially if you can reserve a table at one of the windows. 

Details 

Hours of Operation | Afternoon Tea: Daily 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM 

Lunch: Daily 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM 

Dinner: Daily 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM 

Menu | Fairview Bar and Restaurant

2. Lakeview Lounge 

This restaurant is known for its views overlooking Lake Louise. During warmer months, there is also a patio – with arguably one of the best views around! The patio has heaters and blankets that are provided in cooler months. 

Details 

Hours of Operation | Lunch: Daily 11:00 AM – 5:00 PM 

Dinner: Daily 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM 

Menu | Lakeview Lounge

3. The Guides Pantry 

The Guides Pantry is a cafe style deli, where you can pick up cold sandwiches, salads, and pastries. Perfect if you need some snacks for a hike, or a quick bite. 

Details 

Hours of Operation | Open 24 hours 

Menu | The Guides Pantry

4. Lago Italian Kitchen 

Located on the lobby level in the Mount Temple Wing, Lago Italian Kitchen is where you will find a hearty breakfast in the morning, and a Mediterranean inspired cuisine in the evening. 

Details 

Hours of Operation | Breakfast: Daily 6:30 AM – 11:00 AM 

Dinner: Daily 5:00 PM – 9:30 PM 

Menu | Lago Italian Kitchen

Country Christmas Dinner 

If you are around Lake Louise during the Christmas season, you may want this once in a lifetime country Christmas dinner experience. 

The dinner starts off with a sleigh ride from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to the Dance Barn where you will be welcomed by a live country band. 

From the Christmas decorations to the buffet dinner to the line dancing, you will leave the dinner with full bellies and happy hearts. 

Details 

Menu | Brewster Adventures

Cost | $95 per adults

$55 per child (6-12)

Free for children 5 and under 

Hours of Operation | December 23, 28, and 30 2022

Sleight departs Fairmont at 6pm and 6:30pm

Book | Brewster Adventures 

Best Photo Opportunities

A trip to the world famous Lake Louise isn’t complete with a few pictures to remember this occasion. But, where are the best photo ops? 

1. The “classic” picture

Everyone must get a picture with the turquoise waters and the Victoria Glacier behind them. This photo can be taken anywhere along the shores of Lake Louise. During peak months, it can be quite busy but there is plenty of room along the shore to take a picture. 

2. Along the Lakeshore Trail 

Although you don’t have the classic angle of Lake Louise, you can get some really nice photos along the Lakeshore Trail where it is less busy. 

3. With the famous Fairmont in the background 

If you continue along the Lakeshore Trail, you will end up at the beach where you can get awesome pictures of the blue waters with the Fairmont in the background. 

4. From on the Water 

Nothing beats a picture of Lake Louise than one from the water. Renting a canoe is a great option for (many) photo opportunities. 

5. From Above 

The long strenuous different hikes all have views that are SO worth it. Make sure to soak in these views and then take a few pictures for memories. 

What is there to do around Lake Louise? 

Moraine Lake 

If you are making the trip to Lake Louise, then you are likely wanting to visit Moraine Lake as well. Depending on the time of year, you may be fortunate enough to see this stunning gatorade blue lake. 

About a 20-minute drive from one another, both lakes are a MUST if you are visiting for the first time.

The road to Moraine Lake is open from June – mid October, so you will want to plan accordingly if you are hoping to visit both Lakes. 

Lake Louise Ski Resort 

If you are visiting in the winter, then you are likely wanting to experience the skiing that the Rockie Mountains offer. Located about a 7 minute drive from Lake Louise, the Lake Louise Ski Resort has activities all year round. 

In the winter, you can ski, snowboard, tube, and snowshoe your way through the over 4000 acres of terrain. 

In the summer, you can experience the sightseeing gondola, enjoy a guided hike, or visit the wildlife interpretive center. 

The resort also has dining and Après ski options – everything to help you experience a true Canadian winter. 

Details 

More information | Lake Louise Ski Resort 

Summer Activities | Click here

Winter Activities | Click here

Lake Louise Village 

As Lake Louise is just a small village, there are a limited number of stores. The Samson mall is the main strip of stores in the village, and you drive by it when heading to Lake Louise from the Trans-Canada Highway. The mall has both a grocery store, a liquor store, and a cafe. 

Wilson Mountain Sport is also located in the Lake Louise Village, and they have ski and bike rentals available. They are a great option if you are looking to do some biking or skiing around the area. Check them out here. 

Can you Swim at Lake Louise?

Short answer, yes. However, thanks to the glacier melt, the water temperatures never really get about 4 degrees celsius, so you won’t be in the water long. 

I stepped in the water in September, and my feet were so cold they hurt. So if you decide to go for a swim, let me know! You are one brave human. 

Is Lake Louise worth visiting?

If you are taking a trip through the Rockies, the a stop at Lake Louise is definitely worth it! Although Lake Louise can be crowded with tourists, it truly is one of the most breathtaking places you can visit.

To be able to soak in and enjoy the magnificent views, I would suggest planning to spend more than a few hours at the Lake. Tourists tend to gather right at the entrance of Lake Louise along the shoreline, where the classic view is found. In saying this, planning an activity such as a hike, a meal, or a walk along the Lakeshore is a great idea to get away from all the tourist. 

I would also suggest arriving EARLY so that you can take advantage of the parking, and see the stunning views with less crowds around. 

This guide has provided you with everything you need to know before visiting Lake Louise! If you’ve been, what is your favourite things to do at Lake Louise?

xoxo