29 Best Things To Do In Lake Louise [2025]

Lake Louise is one of my favourite places in Canada, with its beautiful turquoise lakes, breathtaking glaciers and towering mountains. It’s also one of the most visited areas in the country, attracting over 3.6 million visitors annually.

Situated in Banff National Park, this bucket-list destination offers numerous activities, such as hiking and canoeing in the summer months.

Although Lake Louise is famous for its bright turquoise blue colour in summer, it’s also great winter destination where you can ski, ice skate and snowshoe all in the same day!

While it can get crowded, planning ahead is key to making the most of your visit. I’ve been to Lake Louise on many seasons and there is so much more beyond the lake. That’s why I’ve put together this detailed guide on the best things to do in Lake Louise so you can plan the most epic trip!

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Best Things To Do In Lake Louise

1. Experience The Magic Of Lake Louise

It’s no surprise that the best thing to do in Lake Louise is Lake Louise itself! The crystal-clear waters of Lake Louise are fed by glaciers which is where the lake gets its famous turquoise blue colour from.

I have visited Lake Louise so many times and it never fails to impress me. There are countless beautiful photos online but seeing it with your own eyes is something else.

Lake Louise is one of the most accessible lakes in the Canadian Rockies and as a result is gets BUSY. The good news however, is that it is a big place and the lakeshore stretches quite far.

When you first arrive at Lake Louise you’ll crowds of people immediately, but if you continue walking to the right hand side of the lake you’ll find less people. I’ve always found a nice quiet spot to sit in this area.

Once you find a spot to sit, take time to enjoy the views. I personally love the view of Fairview Mountain (shown in the photo below) and the Victoria Glacier that sits between the mountains.

2. Go Canoeing on Lake Louise

Is there a more iconic activity in Banff than canoeing on Lake Louise? I think not!

I remember the first time I ever saw a video of someone canoeing on Lake Louise, and I knew one day that would be me. Canoeing on Lake Louise was everything I’d imagine it would it be.

But I wasn’t the only person who wanted to fulfil that dream – oh no, this is probably the most popular thing to do in Lake Louise so expect long lines.

This activity doesn’t come cheap however, a canoe rental will set you back $145 CAD for one hour, or $135 for half an hour. I do not recommend the 30-minute option, not only is it not worth the money but you’ll get nowhere and have to return. The canoes fit up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children.

Canoe rentals at Lake Louise are operated by The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Reservations are not accepted, only walk-ups. The Boathouse, where you’ll rent your canoe from, is located at the far left of the lake as you enter Lake Louise. It typically opens from 8am daily but check ahead online for up to date opening hours.

3. Have Afternoon Tea At The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

I celebrated my wedding anniversary with afternoon tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, but you don’t need a celebration to enjoy afternoon tea!

Many of the restaurants inside the Fairmont Chateau will be exclusively for guests during the high season, unless you reserve ahead of time, that includes their afternoon tea.

Afternoon tea has is a longstanding tradition at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, it has been running since 1925. I had a fantastic view of the lake while sipping on sea and eating finger sandwiches. You can request a lake view table, but it’s not always guaranteed.

Afternoon tea will set you back $85 CAD per person before taxes and service charge. This includes your choice of selected teas, a tiered tray of pastries and sandwiches, and the option add a glass of champagne.

Pro tip: Book ahead of time for afternoon tea at The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. You can make reservations up to 30 days in advance by phone or through their website.

4. Hike To The Lake Agnes Tea House

The Lake Louise area boasts some of the best hikes in Banff National Park. If you only have time for one hike in Lake Louise, make it the Lake Agnes Tea House. The hike is just over 7 kilometres long and takes approximately 2-3 hours round-trip.

You can find the the trailhead next to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, it is well-marked. The hike is considered moderate with many uphill sections but nothing too crazy. This is not a technical hike and the trail is quite wide.

At the top, you’ll find the Lake Agnes Tea House, a quaint little cabin that serves tea, sandwiches and other snacks. I recommend the vanilla Earl Grey and the homemade tea cake with Jam!

If you’re not a tea drinker they usually have a refreshing lemonade too. Just be prepared for a line as it is a popular spot for lunch. After snacking on some yummy treats, take a moment to enjoy the beautiful views of Lake Agnes itself.

5. Visit Moraine Lake

If you thought Lake Louise was beautiful, behold – Moraine Lake! Of all the lakes in Banff, I think Moraine Lake has the most stunning blue colour.

Known as the crown jewel of the Canadian Rockies, Moraine Lake is a glacially-fed lake that is famous for its vibrant deep turquoise colour. It’s known as being the most photographed lake in Canada!

Located 20-minutes from Lake Louise, Moraine Lake is easily accessible and is set against the stunning Valley of the Ten Peaks, including Mount Temple – one of the highest peaks in Banff National Park.

There are plenty of things to do at Moraine Lake. For the best view and an easy hike in Banff, visit the Rock Pile, which is a short walk from the parking lot. Another iconic attraction in Moraine Lake is canoeing on the lake itself. You can rent a canoe from the Moraine Lake Lodge, which is only open during the summer season.

If hiking is more your thing, there are several trails to choose from that start at Moraine Lake including the Larch Valley/Sentinel Pass trail and the Eiffel Lake hike.

Watching the sunrise from Lake Louise is a bucket-list experience. I was lucky enough to witness this spectacle before the ban on personal vehicles. The good news is, it’s still possible to see the sunrise at Moraine Lake!

Starting from 2023, personal vehicles can no longer access the Moraine Lake Road or parking lot. To visit Moraine Lake at sunrise, you’ll need to book a tour in advance.

If not visiting for sunrise, you can take the Roam transit bus, book the Parks Canada Park and Ride from Lake Louise Ski Resort, or book a guided tour.

6. Ride Up The Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola

An incredible way to see the views of Lake Louise in summer is by taking a ride on the Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola.

The 14-minute gondola ride takes you up 2,088 meters to the top of Mount Whitehorn where you’ll find breathtaking panoramic views of the Canadian Rockies, including views across the valley of Lake Louise and the Victoria Glacier.

In the winter it transports skiers to the slopes, but in summer it transforms into the sightseeing gondola where you can spot grizzly bears.

At the summit, there are multiple viewing platforms, a restaurant, and an interpretive centre where you can learn about the local wildlife through displays and nature talks. The Lake Louise summer sightseeing gondola is open from June to October.

7. Go Skiing Or Snowboarding

Lake Louise is not only a popular destination in the summer, it is also known for its world-class skiing and snowboarding.

The Lake Louise Ski Resort offers 4,200 acres of skiable terrain with 145 runs ranging from beginner to expert level. It’s no wonder this ski resort has been named one of the best in North America. The resort is conveniently located just 7 minutes from Lake Louise Village.

If you’re looking for more skiing options near Lake Louise, there are two other ski resorts in Banff National Park: Sunshine Village and Mt Norquay.

And let’s not forget, Lake Louise is also renowned for its world-class backcountry skiing. For an unforgettable winter adventure, make sure to explore Skoki Lodge and its pristine backcountry trails.

8. Go Cross-Country Skiing

If downhill skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, Lake Louise also offers world-class opportunities for cross-country skiing.

Cross-country skiing is a great way to explore Lake Louise in winter. It’s a great place to learn, with flat trails that aren’t too long. It’s also one of the few opportunities to ski on a frozen lake!

The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has a network of over 100km of groomed trails that cater to all levels. You can also try out the Great Divide Trail, which connects Lake Louise with Yoho National Park and boasts stunning views along the way.

If you’re new to cross-country skiing, it’s recommended to book a tour that provides lessons. On this tour, a group of up to four can spend a full day learning cross-country skiing basics from a private instructor. After the lessons, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the area and put your newfound skills to use.

9. Go Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is a great way to get off the beaten path and explore the winter landscape of Lake Louise. You can rent snowshoes at many locations around town, such as Wilson Mountain Sports, or join a guided tour for a more in-depth experience.

Snowshoe rentals come in pretty cheap so it’s an inexpensive activity in Lake Louise. If you have your own snowshoes, then it’s free!

A popular snowshoeing spot is the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail, which follows the shore of Lake Louise and is a total of 4 kilometres. Make sure to check the local avalanche conditions before heading out.

On this snowshoeing tour, a local guide will take you out on Lake Louise and give information about the wildlife and history of the area. It also includes snowshoe rental! Book this snowshoeing tour in Lake Louise online here!

10. Go Snow tubing

Snow tubing is a fun activity everyone can get behind when visiting Lake Louise in winter. This family-friendly activity is perfect for all ages and requires no experience or skill, which is great if you don’t ski or snowboard! Simply hop on a tube, slide down the hill, and repeat!

The Sunny Tube Park at Lake Louise Ski Resort offers a designated snow tubing area and also has tubes available for rent.

If you’re feeling adventurous, Mt Norquay tube park is the biggest in Alberta, featuring 8 lanes and also has a night tubing option. If visiting in summer, you can also experience the thrill of Via Ferratta at Mt Norquay.

Sunny Tube Park is open from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, seasonally. Tickets can be reserved online. Mt Norquay Tube Park opens from 9:00 am to 8:00 pm and you can reserve tickets through their website.

11. Hike To The Big Beehive or Little Beehive

The Big Beehive and Little Beehive are two of the absolute best hikes in Lake Louise. Both hikes lead to lookout points where you can see Lake Louise from below surrounded by mountains.

The view from both lookouts is very similar, with the Big Beehive being slightly higher up. Viewing Lake Louise from above is just magical, and something many visitors never get to see. I love both hikes but I think I prefer the view from Little Beehive just a bit more because you get a better panoramic view (and it’s easier!)

The Big Beehive is 10km with an elevation of 722 metres elevation, it will take you approximately 4-5 hours to complete. The Little Beehive is slightly easier at 9km with an elevation of 534 metres, and takes around 3-4 hours.

If you have the time and want a challenge, you could even hit up both in a day with a stop at Lake Agnes Tea House.

12. Hike The Plain Of Six Glaciers & Tea House

While Lake Agnes Tea House may be the most popular hike in Lake Louise, it’s not the only tea house in the area. The Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House is a slightly longer and more challenging hike and as a result less people visit compared to Lake Agnes.

The hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House is around 9km total round trip (when starting from the end of Lake Louise) but you can extend the hike and complete the entire trail which is an additional 5km total.

Even if you don’t complete the whole hike, the views alone are worth it. On the way up you’ll pass by several glaciers, so bring a jacket as it does get chilly. Once at the tea house, enjoy a delicious tea or a hot chocolate, with their famous tea biscuits and jam.

If you prefer a guided hike in Lake Louise, this 6-hour tour can take you to either the Plain of Six Glaciers, Lake Agnes, or both!

13. Go Ice Skating

During the winter months, when Lake Louise freezes over it’s transformed into an outdoor ice rink. This is a truly unique experience and one of the best things to do in Lake Louise in winter.

Rent skates at Chateau Ski and Snow, as they have a great selection and are conveniently located inside the Fairmont Chateau right next to the lake. If you prefer to bring your own skates, make sure they’re sharp enough for outdoor skating.

Lake Louise usually opens for ice skating from December to April, depending on the weather conditions and temperature.

14. Go See The Ice Castles

For a truly magical experience, make sure to visit the Lake Louise Ice Castle! Every January the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hosts the Ice Magic Festival, which features the stunning ice castle and other impressive ice sculptures.

The festival is a great opportunity to explore the beautifully crafted structures, take photos in front of them, and even watch professional ice carvers compete in the International Ice Carving Competition.

The festival runs for two weekends, typically at the end of January, but the ice sculptures themselves stay on display until they eventually melt.

After visiting the ice castle, head inside the Ice Bar where you can warm up with a mulled wine or hot chocolate.

Make sure to check the festival’s website for exact dates and plan your visit accordingly! It’s definitely an experience you won’t want to miss during your winter trip to Lake Louise.

15. Go On A Sleigh Ride

For a romantic and unique experience in Lake Louise in winter, consider taking a horse-drawn sleigh ride. Cozy up under warm blankets and take in the scenic views as you glide through the snow-covered landscape.

A variety of sleigh ride options are available, from short 30-minute rides to longer 1-hour rides. Brewster Adventures even offer romantic private rides for couples.

This is a truly special experience that will make you feel like you’re in a holiday movie. Make sure to book your sleigh ride in advance as they can fill up quickly during peak season.

16. Go Dog Sledding

Channel your inner adventurer and add dog sledding to your list of winter activities in Lake Louise. This traditional Canadian experience will take you on a thrilling ride through the snowy trails, led by a team of energetic sled dogs.

There are various tour options available, from introductory rides to full-day expeditions. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to learn about dog sledding and even try your hand at mushing the dogs yourself.

Kingmik Dog Sled Tours offer several tour options. Their Narnia tour is a great introductory to dog sledding, while the Great Divide tour gives you a full 1.5 hour tour and will take you up to the Continental Divide.

This is a great activity for families. Just be sure to bundle up as it can get very cold out on the sled!

17. Visit Peyto Lake

Besides Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, the other lake you absolutely must see is Peyto Lake! Peyto Lake is one of the must-do places to see on the Icefields Parkway, just a 30-minute drive from Lake Louise.

Peyto Lake is a fed by the Peyto Glacier and the resulting water is a beautiful turquoise colour. The best views of the lake can be seen from Bow Summit, the highest point on the Icefields Parkway. To get to the newly constructed viewing platform is an easy 15-minute walk from the parking lot.

Unlike Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, the view of Peyto Lake is from above, which I think it all the more special. From above you can see its distinct “wolf head” shape that the lake is famous for.

Pro Tip: Because this is a popular spot with bus tours, I suggest visiting early in the morning or later in the day to avoid crowds.

The view of Peyto Lake is truly breathtaking and definitely worth a visit in both summer and winter. Just make sure to dress warmly as it can get quite chilly and windy up at the summit.

If you are visiting Banff without a car, but would still like to see Peyto Lake (and I highly recommend you do!) then you can book a guided tour. This private tour from Lake Louise includes a visit to Peyto Lake as well as other Icefields Parkway attractions.

If you are spending a few days in Jasper, Peyto Lake is a great stop on any Banff and Jasper itinerary. This tour is a one way from Lake Louise to Jasper that also makes stops along the Icefields Parkway.

18. Go Horseback Riding

Take in the beauty of Lake Louise from a different perspective on a horseback ride through the surrounding forests and mountains. You’ll have the opportunity to explore some lesser-known trails and get a unique glimpse at the natural landscape.

There are various tour options available, ranging from short 1-hour rides to full-day excursions. Brewster Adventures offers guided trail rides that depart from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, giving you easy access to this activity.

This is a great way to add some adventure to your trip and experience the calm serenity of nature. Prices for the summer trail rides range from $167 CAD to $365 CAD. Brewster Adventures is the place to book your horseback riding tour online in advance.

19. Eat Fondue At The Walliser Stube

For a cozy and delicious dining experience, head to the Walliser Stube restaurant at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This Swiss-style restaurant offers traditional alpine dishes such as fondue, raclette, and schnitzel – three of my absolute favourites!

The rustic atmosphere and warm fireplace make for a perfect wintertime dinner spot. And of course, don’t miss the chance to indulge in some delicious cheese fondue with all the fixings.

Make a reservation in advance, as this popular restaurant can fill up quickly during peak season. And don’t forget to leave room for dessert – their chocolate fondue is a must-try!

20. Stay At The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

One of the most luxurious places to stay in Lake Louise is undoubtedly The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. This iconic hotel is located right on the lake shore and offers stunning views of Lake Louise. Many rooms come with a balcony or terrace so you can soak up the scenery from your own private space.

I have been lucky to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise in a lake view room and it the view was out of this world! Check out my full guide on the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to see just how amazing this hotel is.

The location cannot be beat. It makes for a sunrise at Lake Louise super convenient and then you can easily head out on one of the many hikes in the area.

And after a day of outdoor adventures, you can relax in the indoor heated pool or indulge in a spa treatment at the Fairmont Spa. You can check availability, prices, and book the Fairmont Château Lake Louise online here.

21. Drive The Icefields Parkway

A must-do activity when in Lake Louise is driving the famous Icefields Parkway. This scenic drive takes you from Lake Louise all the way to Jasper and passes by some of the most stunning landscapes in North America.

The entire drive is 232 km long and takes you past glaciers, mountains, lakes, and waterfalls along the way. Some of the best stops on the Icefields Parkway include Bow Lake, Peyto Lake, and Athabasca Glacier.

Driving is the best way to see the Icefields Parkway. If you took a flight to get to Banff, you rent a car. There’s also tour options that will take you one way to Jasper, or this tour that returns to Lake Louise.

The best time to drive the Icefields Parkway is during the summer months, from May to October when the road conditions are ideal. Make sure to bring your camera as there will be countless photo opportunities along the way!

22. Visit The Columbia Icefields & Athabasca Glacier

While on your drive along the Icefields Parkway, make sure to stop at the Columbia Icefield Centre and take a tour of the Athabasca Glacier. Nothing quite beats seeing these HUGE glaciers up close. I have been lucky enough to see them on several occasions.

The Athabasca Glacier is around 1.5 hours from Lake Louise, providing you don’t make any prior stops. You can visit as part of a day trip from Lake Louise, or as part of a road trip from Banff to Jasper.

This massive icefield covers an area of 325 square kilometres and is one of the largest non-polar ice fields in the world. The best way to access the Athabasca Glacier is with a guided tour in an all-terrain Ice Explorer vehicle, designed especially for this purpose.

On the tour you’ll learn about glaciers and how they form over time. As well as get a chance to walk on the glacier itself, where you can snap photos with a big Canadian flag, and fill up your water bottle with fresh glacial water.

The tour then takes you to the Glacier Skywalk where you can walk the glass bottom floor of a viewing platform that sits above the valley floor.

You can book either just the Skywalk, or the full blown tour which includes a stop at the Skywalk. I personally would either go all in or not at all – the Skywalk is cool but not worth the ticket price alone.

This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn’t be missed during your visit to Lake Louise. Make sure to book your tour in advance as it can get quite busy during peak season and you may find yourself waiting a while.

23. Fairview Lookout

For a shorter hike with a big payoff, check out the Fairview Lookout trail. This 2km round-trip hike leads you to a lookout point overlooking Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau.

It’s an easy hike that is suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a great alternative to both the Big and Little Beehives. Although the lookout point isn’t as high, the view is just as beautiful!

The trailhead is located on the left side of the lake shore, just past the boathouse. There are two trails leading to the lookout, one more steep than the other. As the trail is a short 2km in total, it’s a great way to hike in Lake Louise is you are short on time.

The best time to visit the Fairview Lookout is early in the morning when the light hits the mountains and lake, creating a magical golden glow.

24. Hike The Larch Valley & Sentinel Pass

The Larch Valley is one of the top hikes when visiting Banff in Fall. This 11km round-trip hike takes you through alpine meadows and past stunning lakes before reaching the top of Sentinel Pass.

The best time to hike this trail is during late September to early October when the larches turn a beautiful golden colour. But you can hike this trail any time of year and won’t be disappointed! It’s a popular hike, so be prepared to share the trail with others.

Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks as this hike can take anywhere from 4-6 hours to complete, depending on your pace. But the views at the top are well worth the effort!

In the fall the Roam transit system runs a bus specially for this hike. But you can book a full-day guided tour that will take you to Moraine Lake and up to Sentinel Pass with transport included.

25. Hike to Consolation Lakes

Consolation Lakes is another popular hike near Moraine Lake that’s doesn’t require a lot of climbing. The 6km round-trip hike takes you through a forest and past Moraine Lake before reaching the two crystal-clear mountain lakes at the end.

It’s an easy to moderate hike that is suitable for all ages and abilities, making it a great option for families. Make sure to bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the peacefulness of the lakes before heading back.

The best time to hike to Consolation Lakes is during late spring or summer when the trail is free from snow and ice. It’s also a great spot for birdwatching, so keep an eye out for local wildlife on your way!

26. Drive The Bow Valley Parkway

If you’re looking for a scenic drive that’s less crowded than the Icefields Parkway, check out the Bow Valley Parkway. The Bow Valley Parkway runs parallel to Highway 1 and connects Lake Louise to Banff. It’s the route I always recommend taking between the two if you are not in a hurry.

Although not nearly as impressive as the Icefields Parkway, this 51km stretch of road takes you through beautiful forests and past several viewpoints, including Morant’s Curve and my personal favourite, Castle Mountain.

Johnston Canyon is one of the best attractions in Banff, and sites on the southern end of the Bow Valley Parkway. You can visit Johnston Canyon in both summer and winter.

It’s also a great spot for wildlife viewing, so keep an eye out for elk, deer, bears, and other animals along the way.

Keep in mind the Bow Valley Parkway has seasonal closures in the summer months. Make sure you check ahead of your trip when and where these closures will be.

27. Rent A Bike Or E-Bike

Exploring the beautiful surroundings of Lake Louise on a bike is great way to explore the area without the hassle of parking. You can bring your own bike or rent one from several rental shops in town.

But if you want to explore further and venture into nearby trails, consider renting an e-bike. These electric bikes make it easier to tackle steep climbs and longer distances without getting too tired.

The road to Moraine Lake is a great trail for an E-Bike as it is uphill most of the way. Other popular biking routes include the Bow Valley Parkway and the Great Divide Trail. You can even bike in the winter with a fat tire bike.

You can rent bikes from both Wilson Mountain Sports or from Chateau Mountain Sports inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.

28. Walk The Lake Louise Lake Shore / Lakefront Trail

The Lakefront trail (lake shore) is one of the easiest hikes in Banff. The trail follows the shoreline of the lake and is an easy and flat 4 kilometres. It’s more of a long walk than a hike which makes it a great activity for anyone who isn’t into hiking, and families.

There are plenty of places to stop and take in the views as well as a few benches you can take a moment to rest at. When you reach the end there is a beachy area where the lake ends, this is a unique view few people get to see of Lake Louise but I think it’s definitely worth the effort.

Just next to the beach area is the beginning of the Plain of Six Glaciers hike, so if you plan on doing this hike in Lake Louise you’ll get to experience the Lake shore trail as well. Total time for this route is approximately 1-hour round trip.

29. Day Trip To Banff

Lake Louise is only a short drive away from the town of Banff, making it the perfect day trip from Lake Louise. If you are staying in Lake Louise, it’s worth checking out the town of Banff itself and some nearby attractions.

Banff has way more shops and restaurants than the town of Lake Louise, so it’s often bustling with activity. There are a ton of things to do in Banff, like Banff Avenue, Bow Falls, and Surprise Corner.

You can also take a ride up the Banff Gondola for stunning views of the town and several mountain ranges. You can buy tickets for the Banff Gondola online in advance.

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How To Get To Lake Louise

Lake Louise is situated on the border of British Columbia and Alberta. The nearest airport to Lake Louise is Calgary International Airport. It takes approximately two hours to reach Lake Louise from Calgary. The best way to reach Lake Louise from Calgary is by renting a car. Here are the most common routes to reach Lake Louise:

• From Banff Town: You can get from Banff to Lake Louise direct on the Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1 which takes around 40 minutes (about a 60 km drive) You can also go via the Bow Valley Parkway for a more scenic drive. Roam Transit operates daily buses between Banff and Lake Louise. You can check their schedule here.

• From Canmore: If you are staying in Canmore the drive is slightly longer. To drive from Canmore to Banff takes approximately an hour with a total distance of 80 km on the Trans-Canada Highway.

• From Calgary: If you are flying into Calgary airport, it’s a 180km drive from Calgary to Lake Louise, and takes approximately 2 hours on the Trans-Canada Hwy/AB-1.

• From Jasper: The drive between Jasper and Lake Louise is called the Icefields Parkway and stretches 320km. The total drive takes about three hours, but it can take longer due to the many scenic stops along the way. Many people include a stop at Lake Louise when driving from Jasper to Banff.

If you prefer guided tours or don’t have your own car, there are various tours available. This half-day tour takes you between Banff and Lake Louise, with stops at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.

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Where To Stay In Lake Louise

 Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise – The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is the most famous hotel in Lake Louise. It is known across the world due to its iconic location. If you want the ultimate bucket-list experience for your stay in Lake Louise then consider booking this beautiful hotel. Staying at the Chateau Lake Louise is a luxury experience like no other in the area. This hotel doesn’t come cheap but staying here is a dream come true. Perks of staying at the hotel are it’s proximity to the lake (it literally sits on the shore of Lake Louise!) easy access to the Lake (only guests can enter the hotel from the Lake itself, non-guests have to enter via the lobby) and discounted canoe rentals. The hotel has an indoor pool, fitness centre, spa and several dining locations. Paid parking and Valet is also available. 

Moraine Lake Lodge – Apart from the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, the other sought after luxury experience is Moraine Lake Lodge. Just like the chateau at Lake Louise, this hotel sits at the shore of the famous Moraine Lake. The decor of this hotel is quite different to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Moraine Lake Lodge has more of a log cabin type architecture. The lodge is beautiful and has easy access to the lake and also offers discounted canoe rentals for guests. 

Deer Lodge – Deer Lodge is another mid-range hotel in Lake Louise. This hotel is located just before the lake itself, just a few minutes drive. The great thing about the hotel being so close to the lake is that its actually within walking distance so no need to pay for the day parking at Lake Louise. Amenities offered by the Deer Lodge include free parking, free wifi, hot tub and sauna.  

Lake Louise Inn – The Lake Louise Inn is a moderate to budget option in Lake Louise. This hotel is beautiful and has a lot of character. The lobby is beautiful with a full rustic fireplace. Amenities are the hotel include an inside pool, hot tub, several dining locations and free parking. There is easy access to the actual town of Lake Louise as well which you can reach on foot to access the local grocery stores and gift shops.

HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre – The HI is your backpacker or budget friendly option in Lake Louise. You may think that because it’s a hostel that only young people stay here but you’ll see people from all walks of life including families. Different size dorms are offered as well as private rooms and the location is just a 15-minute from from Lake Louise. The hostel has an onsite restaurant which is budget friendly and offers free parking for guests. The HI Alpine Centre is located just opposite the Lake Louise Inn, so again very close to local shops and grocery stores. 

Parking In Lake Louise

Parking can be limited in Lake Louise, especially during peak tourist season. If you are staying at a hotel or lodge within the village of Lake Louise, parking is usually included as part of your stay. However, if you are just visiting for the day and planning to park at the lakefront area, there are a few things to keep in mind:

• Parking lots fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. It is recommended to arrive early in the morning (before 8am!) or in the late afternoon to secure a spot.
• There are paid parking lots at the lakefront area, with prices ranging from $21 CAD for a full day. Paid parking is in effect from 7am to 7pm.
• You can also park at the Park & Ride lot at the Lake Louise Ski Resort and take a shuttle to the lakefront area. Reservations must be booked in advance and you’ll need to choose a time slot.
• The Roam Transit buses also offer service from the Town of Banff to Lake Louise, making it easy for visitors without a car. Some busses to Lake Louise also need to be booked in advance.
• If you are staying at a hotel or lodge outside of the village area, check if your accommodation offers a shuttle service to Lake Louise. This can save you time and hassle with parking.

Thanks For Reading!

Lake Louise is a favourite destination of mine in Canada and no matter how many times I return I always find something new to do. I think you will fall in love with Lake Louise just as much as I have.

I hope this information has helped you plan your visit to Lake Louise and upcoming trip. If you have any other questions, feel free to leave a comment or refer to my other Banff guides for more articles on photography spots, lakes, hikes, and more.

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