Lake Louise, Alberta, your guide to a must-see in Canada
Updated: Mar 31
Discover the breathtaking wonders of Lake Louise in Canada, one of Earth's finest natural wonders. From its crystal-clear waters to the majestic mountain views, experience the enchanting beauty of this crown jewel destination in Banff National Park, Alberta. This comprehensive guide will help you plan your visit to one of the world's most iconic bucket list lakes.
Read on for our highlights, a bit of history, facts, and all you need to know to plan your trip to Lake Louise, or head to your preferred section via the content list below.
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Our Lake Louise highlights
Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Lake Louise is a natural wonder that has captured the hearts of travelers and locals alike. Known for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, majestic mountain views, and year-round recreational opportunities, Lake Louise is a crown jewel destination that attracts visitors from all over the world.
The beauty of Lake Louise is simply breathtaking. The lake is fed by glacier meltwater, which gives it a striking turquoise color that changes throughout the day. The surrounding mountains, including Mount Victoria and the Victoria Glacier, provide a stunning backdrop that is reflected in the mirror-like surface of the lake. In the summer, the surrounding forests and alpine meadows burst with wildflowers, while in the winter, the lake is transformed into a winter wonderland, surrounded by snow-covered peaks.
Visiting Lake Louise was part of our self titled 'Great Canadian Adventure'. We drove from our home in Ontario, embarking on an epic 38 hour, 3600km road trip to get here. It was one of our first stops in Banff, and perhaps one of the finest too! The drive was really special, with virtually every window view feeling like a picture postcard.
We visited Lake Louise in the summer of 2020, during a very brief lifting of the provincial travel ban implemented due to the Covid pandemic. It was eerily quiet, given that the lake and the surrounding areas usually attract several million visitors annually. Banff National Park as a whole typically sees over 4 million visitors per year, and Lake Louise is one of the most popular destinations within the park.
It almost felt like a once-in-a-lifetime moment, being able to enjoy uninterrupted lake-side views at one of the world's (usually) busiest lakes. While that particular opportunity has now come and gone, do not let the crowds stop you from coming here. Trust us, it is totally worth it! Find out how you can avoid peak times later on in this post.
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History of Lake Louise in Canada
Lake Louise is named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria and the wife of the Marquess of Lorne, who was the Governor General of Canada from 1878 to 1883. The lake was officially named in 1884, but it has been known to the local First Nations people for centuries. The Stoney Nakoda people, who have lived in the area for over 10,000 years, call the lake "Ho-run-num-nay," which means "Lake of the Little Fishes."
In the late 1800s, the Canadian Pacific Railway built a line through the Rockies, and Lake Louise became a popular stop for tourists. The grand Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which opened in 1890, quickly became a symbol of luxury and elegance in the wilderness. Today, the Chateau is still one of the most iconic landmarks of Lake Louise, and it remains a top destination for travelers seeking a luxurious mountain getaway.
Read on for more information on how to get there, visiting times, and our Lake Louise rating.
10 Facts about Lake Louise
1. Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, and is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.
2. The lake is named after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria and the wife of the Marquess of Lorne, who was the Governor General of Canada from 1878 to 1883.
3. The turquoise color of Lake Louise is caused by the sunlight reflecting off the rock flour, or glacial silt, in the water.
4. The lake is approximately 2.5 kilometers long and 90 meters deep.
5. Lake Louise is fed by several glaciers, including the Victoria Glacier, which is visible from the lake.
6. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a grand hotel that opened in 1890, is located on the eastern shore of the lake and is one of the most iconic landmarks of Lake Louise.
7. The Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in North America, with over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain.
8. Lake Louise is a popular spot for ice skating in the winter, with a skating rink set up on the frozen lake.
9. The lake is surrounded by a network of hiking trails, including the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail and the Lake Agnes Trail.
10. Lake Louise is also a popular spot for wildlife viewing, with opportunities to see grizzly and black bears, elk, moose, and mountain goats in the surrounding area.
Lake Louise visiting times
⪢ Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Lake Louise is open to visitors year-round, although the specific visiting times may vary depending on the activities and facilities you're interested in. Generally, the park gates are open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, but some facilities such as the Lake Louise Visitor Centre or the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise may have different hours of operation.
⪢ Skiing & Ice Skating
In the winter, the Lake Louise Ski Resort is open from mid-November to early May, and the skating rink on the lake is typically open from mid-December to mid-April, weather permitting.
⪢ Hiking & Canoeing
In the summer, hiking trails and the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail are accessible from mid-June to mid-October, depending on snow conditions. Canoe rentals at the Lake Louise Boathouse are typically available from early June to early September, again depending on weather and ice conditions.
It's always a good idea to check the specific visiting times for the activities or facilities you're interested in before you go, as they may vary depending on the season and weather conditions.
Best time to visit Lake Louise
⪢ Peak Season: June to August
Lake Louise is a very popular destination, and it can get quite crowded during the peak tourist season, which is typically from June to August. If you're looking to avoid crowds, the best time to visit Lake Louise is during the shoulder seasons, which are in the spring (April to early June) and fall (September to November).
⪢ Best time to visit: April to June, September to November
During these times, you'll likely experience fewer crowds and have a better chance of enjoying the scenery without too many people around. Additionally, the weather during the shoulder seasons can be quite pleasant, with mild temperatures and generally clear skies.
⪢ Best time for Skiing & Ice Skating: January to March
If you're interested in winter activities such as skiing or ice skating, visiting Lake Louise during the colder months can also be a great option for avoiding crowds, as many visitors prefer to come during the summer months.
⪢ Go on a weekday to avoid crowds
Even during the shoulder seasons, weekends and holidays can still be quite busy, so if you're able to visit during the weekdays, you'll likely have an even better chance of avoiding crowds.
Things to know when visiting Lake Louise
Before visiting Lake Louise, it's a good idea to be aware of some important things to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some things to know before visiting:
⪢ Weather
The weather in the Canadian Rockies can be unpredictable, so be prepared for a range of conditions. It's a good idea to check the weather forecast before your trip and bring appropriate clothing and gear for rain, snow, or sun.
⪢ Altitude
Lake Louise is located at a high altitude, which can make it more difficult to breathe, especially for those who are not used to high altitudes. Be sure to drink plenty of water and take it easy when you first arrive to acclimate to the altitude.
⪢ Wildlife
Lake Louise is located in a natural area with a lot of wildlife, including bears, elk, and moose. Be sure to follow all posted guidelines for wildlife safety and keep a safe distance from any animals you may encounter.
⪢ Respect for the environment
As a national park, it's important to respect the natural environment and follow Leave No Trace principles. This means packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and avoiding any actions that could harm the local wildlife or vegetation.
⪢ Reservations
Some activities, such as accommodations or canoe rentals, may require reservations in advance, especially during peak season. Be sure to check availability and make any necessary reservations before your trip.
⪢ Parking
The parking lot at Lake Louise can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Consider taking a shuttle or arriving early to ensure a parking spot.
⪢ Fees
There may be fees associated with visiting Lake Louise, such as park entry fees or fees for specific activities. Be sure to check the Banff National Park website for up-to-date fee information.
By keeping these important things in mind, you'll be better prepared for a safe and enjoyable visit to Lake Louise.
Things to do at Lake Louise
In addition to taking in the pure natural beauty of Lake Louise, there are plenty of activities to keep you busy during your visit. Here are some of the top things to do at Lake Louise:
⪢ Hiking
There are over 200 kilometres of hiking trails in the Lake Louise area, ranging from easy walks to challenging hikes. Some of the most popular trails include the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, the Lake Agnes Trail, and the Sentinel Pass Trail.
⪢ Skiing and Snowboarding
Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the largest ski resorts in North America, with over 4,200 acres of skiable terrain. The resort offers a variety of terrain for all skill levels, from beginner runs to challenging backcountry skiing.
⪢ Wildlife Viewing
Lake Louise is home to a variety of wildlife, including grizzly and black bears, elk, moose, and mountain goats.
⪢ Walking Trail
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of Lake Louise is to take a stroll along the shoreline. The Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail is a 4-kilometer trail that hugs the lakeshore and offers stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains. The trail is easy to navigate and suitable for all ages and skill levels.
⪢ Canoe Ride
Another way to experience the beauty of Lake Louise is to take a canoe ride on the lake. Canoes are available for rent at the Lake Louise Boathouse, and there's no better way to get up close and personal with the turquoise waters and surrounding scenery.
⪢ Ice Skating
In the winter, ice skating is a popular activity on the lake, and the frozen surface provides a unique perspective on the surrounding landscape.
How to get to Lake Louise
Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, and there are several ways to get there depending on your starting location.
⪢ By Car
If you're driving, Lake Louise is located on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), approximately 180 km (112 miles) west of Calgary and 60 km (37 miles) west of the town of Banff. From Calgary, take Highway 1 west towards Banff, and continue on towards Lake Louise. The drive from Calgary takes approximately 2.5 hours.
⪢ By Bus
There are several bus companies that offer transportation to Lake Louise from Calgary or Banff. Brewster Express and Sundog Tours are two popular options.
⪢ By Train
The Rocky Mountaineer train offers scenic tours through the Canadian Rockies, with stops in Banff and nearby Lake Louise.
⪢ By Air
The closest airport to Lake Louise is the Calgary International Airport, which is approximately a 2.5-hour drive away. From the airport, you can rent a car, take a bus, or arrange for a private transfer.
⪢ Parking
Once you arrive at Lake Louise, there are several parking lots available, although they can fill up quickly during peak season. Alternatively, you can take a shuttle bus or walk to the lake and surrounding areas.
We walked on the Athabasca Glacier in stunning Jasper, Alberta, Canada. You can too, read this blog to find out how!
Our Lake Louise experience rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Without doubt, Lake Louise is the finest lake we have ever visited. It helped to inspire our plans to see other great lakes of the world and we have been to a fair few since, including Uzungöl in Türkiye, nearby Lake Moraine in Canada and the incredible Lake Ohrid in North Macedonia. It will always remain a special place for us, being part of our first ever Canada road trip. Banff itself is one of our favourite parts of Canada given its incredible beauty, and we cannot wait to go back again one day!
As ever thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. All feedback on the post is welcome too!
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