Travel reviews
What to do
- Noteworthy
- Worth the detour
- Must see
Lake Louise is known as the "Jewel of Canada", and for good reason.
With its shimmering turquoise green water and surrounding snow-capped mountains, Lake Louise is a spectacular postcard-perfect destination that you won't want to miss.
BANFF NATIONAL PARK / LAKE LOUISE SECTORSeason: Open year-round, 24 hours a day. Visitor Centre: The Lake Louise Visitor Centre (201 Village St., Lake Louise). |
Lake Louise
The iconic lake is located just behind the Fairmont Château Lake Louise, one of the most prestigious buildings in the region. A paved trail runs along the water's edge for about 2 kilometres, with beautiful views of the lake, mountains, glacier, and the Château.
PLAIN OF SIX GLACIERS
Distance (round-trip): 10.6 km
Time (round-trip): 4-5 hours
Level: Intermediate
Elevation gain: 365 metres
To truly experience the magnificence of your surroundings, hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers . This moderately challenging and spectacular high mountain trail is 5.3 kilometres long (each way), with an elevation gain of 365 metres. The round-trip will take about 4-5 hours. You can stop for tea at an altitude of 2100 metres.
Moraine Lake
This immense turquoise lake is in the lovely Valley of the Ten Peaks, about 14 kilometres from the village of Lake Louise. The best time to visit is in July, when the reflected sunlight gives the water its stunning blue colour. Many people consider Moraine Lake to be the most beautiful spot in the Rockies. The road to Moraine Lake is now closed to personal vehicles. Read below for more details.
MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR VISIT!Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are extremely popular destinations and can be difficult to access in high season. Here is some important information to help you plan ahead: • In summer and fall, the parking lots at Lake Louise fill up early in the day. Arrive at Lake Louise before 9 am or after 7 pm. • Moraine Lake is open from late May to early October. The road to Moraine Lake is only accessible via the shuttle service. Personal vehicles access is now prohibited. • Free shuttle service is available between the Lake Louise Park and Ride and the lake itself, daily from mid-May to mid-October. Shuttles leave the parking lot for Lake Louise every 20 minutes, from 6:30 am to 6 pm (8 am to 6 pm from May 19th to May 31st), and the last shuttle leaves the lake at 7:30 pm. If you are going to pick up an RV rental in Calgary, it is strongly recommended that you use this shuttle service. • Free and mandatory shuttle service is also available between the Lake Louise Park and Ride and Moraine Lake, daily from early June to mid-October. Shuttles leave the parking lot every 20 minutes, from 6:30 am to 6 pm, and the last shuttle leaves the lake at 7:30 pm. Reservation is required and possible 48 hours in advance only (can be done online). • If you plan to go hiking at one of the lakes, take an early shuttle to avoid the crowds. For further information about transportation in the Lake Louise area, go to the Lake Louise Visitor Centre. Enjoy your visit! |
NEARBY
Yoho National Park
This national park offers much more than a forest and towering rock faces. Take the time to visit Takakkaw Falls , plunging a dramatic 254 meters over a rock face. Accessible mid-June until mid-October to small vehicles and bicycles only due to steep, tight switchbacks. The parking lot fills early, so it is better to arrive at the beginning or end of the day.
You will also want to stop off at Emerald Lake to breathe in the fresh mountain air and marvel at the incredible colour of this glacial lake. You can also take a short hike along the edge of the lake. Or why not enjoy a meal at one of the restaurants of the superb Emerald Lake Lodge?
Warning, parking is limited. Once again, arrive early or at the end of the day to avoid the crowds.
Yoho National ParkSeason: Open year-round, 24 hours a day. Visitor Centre: The Yoho National Park Visitor Centre, located on the Trans-Canada Highway. |
Where to eat
- $ Inexpensive
- $$ Moderate
- $$$ Upscale
- $$$$ Fine dining
Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House ($)
The Plain of Six Glaciers hiking trail follows the shore of Lake Louise before climbing up to a charming teahouse at an elevation of 2,100 metres. Enjoy a cup of tea or lemonade and some delicious fresh-baked goods while admiring the view. Note that the tea house only accepts cash, and the only way to get there is on foot (a 4-hour round trip hike).
Lake Louise Station ($$-$$$)
Dine in the oldest building in Lake Louise, the historic Lake Louise railway station. Try a bison burger, or go with the recommendations of your wait staff. The grounds offer a lovely view of the Bow River.
Post Hotel & Spa ($$$$)
Post Hotel & Spa is a Relais & Châteaux establishment offering European-inspired fine Canadian cuisine. For a truly inspired epicurean experience, opt for the six-course gourmet menu. Advance dinner reservations are required.
Storm Mountain Lodge ($$$)
Halfway between Banff and Lake Louise, Storm Mountain Lodge is a popular place for a romantic meal, be it breakfast, lunch or dinner. Experience fine dining in the rustic yet chic decor of this charming log lodge. Signature dishes feature beef and wild fish.
Where to sleep ?
Map
When to visit
- Very Favourable
- Favourable
- Unfavourable
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Climograph
- Very Favourable
- Favourable
- Unfavourable
| Month | Average temperature min (°C) |
Average temperature max (°C) |
Precipitations (mm) |
Overall score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | -15 | -8 | 12 | |
| February | -13 | -4 | 221 | |
| March | -11 | 1 | 73 | |
| April | -6 | 7 | 21 | |
| May | -2 | 13 | 42 | |
| June | 2 | 17 | 73 | |
| July | 5 | 21 | 80 | |
| August | 4 | 20 | 64 | |
| September | 1 | 14 | 70 | |
| October | -4 | 5 | 60 | |
| November | -9 | -3 | 73 | |
| December | -15 | -9 | 110 |
Travel reviews
BC Road Trip
Beautiful place
We did not spend much time there but it was lovely.
