Amazing Summer Activities To Do In Lake Louise
Lake Louise has been a premier Canadian tourist destination since the late 1800s, and offers an abundance of incredible activities for visitors of all ages.
In this guide, we are going to highlight the most incredible activities that you can do while visiting Lake Louise in the summer.
If you’re looking for recommendations on what to do during your summer visit to Lake Louise this year, then this guide is for you.
From adrenaline-fuelled activities, to peaceful and relaxing ventures, this guide showcases all of the highlights of Lake Louise so you will be prepared to have the most amazing Summer visit to Lake Louise.
Summer in Lake Louise at a Glance
Highlights: Canoeing on Lake Louise; Hiking to Devil’s Thumb; Lake Louise Gondola Ride
Best Luxury Place to stay: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Best Affordable Place to stay: Lake Louise Inn
Best way to visit Lake Louise: rent a car through Rentalcars.com or take the 8X bus from Banff
Summer Activities in Lake Louise
Lake Louise is undoubtedly one of the most picturesque destinations on the planet. The scantily-believable, turquoise water attracts visitors from all around the world, and for good reason.
As the winter loosens its grip on Lake Louise and the ice begins to thaw, the astonishing beauty of Lake Louise is slowly revealed for another year.
Having lived and worked there for an entire year, we were fortunate enough to experience Lake Louise in all seasons, but it is in Summer where Lake Louise truly earns it’s world-renowned pedigree.
The crowds gather en masse on the shores of the lake in search of the perfect photo opportunity, but that shouldn’t be the end of your summer adventure in Lake Louise.
We are going to guide you through the most amazing summer activities you can do in Lake Louise, so you can tick everything off your bucket list in one trip.
Disclaimer - this blog post contains affiliate links where we can earn a commission, if you make a purchase through them (at no extra cost to you).
How many days should you spend in Lake Louise?
This is a question we get asked a lot and honestly, the more time the better.
The majority of people that visit Banff National Park tend to come on a day-trip to Lake Louise, walk to the back of the lake, perhaps jump in a canoe and then leave again.
While this is a brilliant way to spend a day in Lake Louise, it really does not even scratch the surface of what the incredible destination has to offer.
If you really want to get to grips with everything that makes Lake Louise such a fantastic place, then we would recommend taking at least 5 days to properly explore, but having said that, even if you only have 24 hours in Banff National Park, you could happily take a trip to Lake Louise and enjoy the beautiful views!
Ben canoeing on Lake Louise at sunrise
Visit the famous Lake Louise Teahouses
No summer trip to Lake Louise is complete without visiting the famous Teahouses.
Lake Louise is the home of two incredible teahouses - Lake Agnes Teahouse and Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse - that are sure to be the highlight of any hike in the area.
After the physical exertion of hiking up the side of a mountain, reward yourself with a delicious tea brewed on site. With over 100 different tea flavours to choose from, there is certainly going to be a tea up to everybody’s standards.
Many articles have been written on the quality of the chocolate cake available at the teahouses - it really does have to be tried to be believed!
Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse - Lake Louise
Canoe on Lake Louise
It is impossible to visit Lake Louise in the summer and not take a trip on one of the iconic red canoes.
If you don’t get a photograph of yourself idly floating on the lake, staring up at Victoria Glacier in the distance, we’re not sure that anyone would believe you’d actually been to Lake Louise at all.
In all seriousness though, canoeing on Lake Louise is a far greater experience than simply capturing a wonderful photo.
In a part of the world that is usually flooded with tourists, canoeing on the lake can offer the rarest of Lake Louise moments, to escape the crowds and feel as though you have the entire place to yourself, even if it’s just for a fleeting second.
Remember that no matter how many people are in your group, there will be a great canoeing option. Lake Louise offers 2-person canoes, 3-person canoes, and the voyageur canoe experience - where up to 10 people can paddle around on the same canoe with your very own, knowledgable guide.
More Information: our guide to canoeing on Lake Louise goes through the costs, the logistics and the safety information of canoeing on the famous lake.
Lake Louise Boathouse in the summer
Stay a night at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
There cannot be many hotels in the world that can compete with the views on offer at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
The experience is certainly not limited to the views either. From life-changing Cheese fondue at the Wallister Stube, to rich and creamy lobster rolls at the Lakeview Lounge, the hotel boasts an incredible array of dineries that cater to all palates.
Couple this with exclusive access to the spa and health club services, private fire pits by the lake, and arguably the most hospitable staff in the world, and you have a recipe for a truly wondrous night in the mountains.
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has been welcoming guests to Lake Louise since the late 1800s, and to this day it remains the standard in grand hotel experiences in Alberta, and indeed Canada.
Of all of the must-do summer activities in Lake Louise, staying a night at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is undoubtedly the most expensive, but it truly is one of the most picturesque hotel destinations on the planet.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Moraine Lake Visit
Moraine Lake is the equally stunning, if less-well known, cousin of Lake Louise. A mere 10 minute drive down Lake Moraine Road and you arrive at a hidden gem of Banff National Park.
Advertisers from all around the world, from beer breweries to computer manufacturers, have honed in on the beauty of Moraine Lake and you need to get a piece of the action.
A light walk up to the top of the Moraine Lake rockpile is a summer adventure that cannot be missed. The views from the rockpile are utterly remarkable. If you’ve ever seen the home page of our blog then you’ll know just how incredible the views at Moraine Lake really are.
One of the more striking summer activities in Lake Louise is watching the sunset over Moraine Lake. Sitting by the glacial water, staring across at the mountains as the sun disappears behind them, is a truly mesmerising summer experience.
Moraine Lake is undoubtedly one of the most magnificent places to see in the Canadian Rockies. If you plan on visiting Lake Louise this summer, then you have to make sure to factor in a Moraine Lake visit too.
View from Moraine Lake Rockpile Hike
Quick tip: the parking lot at Moraine Lake is very small and can only accommodate a small number of cars. Most travel guides tell you to arrive as early as possible to watch the sunrise (before 6am). Having lived in Lake Louise though, we prefer to tell people to visit later in the evening for sunset (6-8pm). There will be half the number of people than at sunrise and yet the view is still as spectacular.
Horse-trekking around Lake Louise
Venturing through the trails at Lake Louise is a thrill at the best of times, but add a horse-back adventure into the mix, and you have a summer activity that you will talk about for years to come.
At times when walking the trails of Lake Louise you can be guilty of looking down, trying to keep a stable footing, forgetting to fully take in your surroundings.
While on horseback, you have the luxury of a half-tonne mammal taking the steps for you. Allowing the chance to appreciate the backdrop and truly savour the beauty of Banff National Park.
Thankfully no horse-riding experience is needed to gallop along the trails of Lake Louise, so it’s a bucket-list activity suited to all travellers.
More information: visit Brewster Adventures to discover more of the summer trail rides in Lake Louise
Lake Louise Gondola Ride
Another summer activity in Lake Louise that cannot be missed, is the chance to take the relaxing, 14-minute gondola ride up to the peak of the Lake Louise Ski Hill.
During the winter, the slopes of Lake Louise Ski Resort are littered with adrenaline junkies, careering down the mountain on their snowboards without a care in the world. Once the snow melts though, the winter-sport enthusiasts make way for an entirely different beast altogether - the Grizzly Bear.
The Lake Louise Gondola Ride is renowned for being your best chance at spotting one of these intimidating animals in the wild, all from the relative safety of being suspended 20 metres above the ground.
At the top, head straight to the Whitehorn Bistro to sample some of Alberta’s finest craft beers on the decking, overlooking the valley below.
Time-saving tip: you can buy Lake Louise Gondola Ride tickets online before arriving at Lake Louise so you can skip the line and avoid the long-waiting time!
Lake Louise Gondola Ride
Afternoon Tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Very few experiences in life can match the luxury of High Tea at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Never has a scone tasted so good.
Indulgence at its finest, during afternoon tea you will be treated to a wonderful selection of sandwiches, pastries, cakes and sweets.
From the comfort of the idyllic Lakeview Lounge, stare longingly at Victoria Glacier while sampling an exclusive range of teas from all around the world. The overall high tea experience is one of grandeur and opulence.
If you’ve always wanted to stay at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, but it’s not particularly conducive to your travel budget, then experiencing High Tea is a perfect substitute. We certainly consider High tea at the Fairmont to be a once-in-a-lifetime activity in Lake Louise.
Picnic on top of a mountain in Lake Louise
If ever there was a summer activity that summed up Lake Louise, then having a picnic on top of a mountain while watching canoes float around like little ants below you, is certainly that.
Many places on the planet stake a claim as having the greatest picnic views around, but we personally think that Big Beehive mountain may just top the lot.
Nestled 647m above the water of Lake Louise, Big Beehive provides spectacular panoramic views into the valley and beyond. A brisk hour walk up the Lake Agnes trail, before a few intense, steep switchbacks, and you will arrive at the perfect picnic spot.
From that high up, you can just about make out the canoes criss-crossing on the lake. Bring a blanket and a flask of coffee, and let the world go by underneath your feet.
Our advice: there are many hikes, walks and strolls in Lake Louise but the Beehive trails certainly offer the most incredible picnic spots.
Little beehive picnic spot - Lake Louise
Join in the Canada Day Celebrations at Lake Louise
Canada is a very large and very proud nation. The mere mention of maple syrup or the humble moose can instil a sense of pride seldom seen elsewhere on the planet. Never is this more apparent than on Canada Day (July 1st), in the most Canadian of places, Lake Louise.
Join the festivities by witnessing the flag raising ceremonies in front of the mighty Chateau, listening to a rousing rendition of the National Anthem on the shoreline, or competing in the world-famous canoe race on the lake.
Stop-by the sweet shop in the chateau for an assortment of Canadian goodies, washed down with a traditional Caesar Cocktail (Vodka, Caesar mix and Worcestershire sauce), and you’ll be calling yourself a native Albertan in no time.
Canada Day celebrations at Lake Louise Boathouse
Visit Emerald Lake
Although Lake Louise is certainly the flagship lake for any Banff National Park visit, there are many other incredibly scenic lakes that call the Canadian Rockies their home.
One such glacial lake, in nearby Yoho National Park, is Emerald Lake. Found a 36-minute drive East along the Trans-Canada Highway from Lake Louise.
Emerald Lake has a vivid, dark blue hue that is particularly spectacular in early July, once the glacial ice has melted. Walking around the Emerald Lake Trail, a simple 6.8 mile (10.8km) loop, takes you around the shores of the beautiful lake. The trail begins and ends at the quaint Emerald Lake Lodge - a luxurious Canadian Rockies Mountain Resort that is sure to be an incredible highlight of any Emerald Lake stay.
If walking around the lake isn’t your thing, then perhaps you would be interested in hiring a canoe and paddling around the perimeter of the lake instead. Canoeing on Emerald Lake isn’t quite as popular as it is at Lake Louise, but do expect a slight line and wait for your canoe rental.
Emerald Lake, Yoho National Park, British Columbia
Hike to Devil’s Thumb
If you only have time for one hike in Lake Louise, then you have to make it the Devil’s Thumb hike.
This moderate to difficult hike initially takes you along a series of long drawn out switchbacks, eventually leading you to the world famous Agnes Teahouse.
Once you’ve stopped for a light refreshment, you continue onto the steepest part of the trail to Big Beehive. If you thought the views from here were good, wait until you actually reach Devil’s Thumb.
The last section of the hike isn’t always signposted well, but takes you from Big Beehive all the way up to the main viewpoint at Devil’s Thumb. The most incredible views await - Lake Agnes to your left and the majestic Lake Louise to your right.
If you squint, you can just about see all the little red canoes floating on the water down below. The Devil’s Thumb hike really is one of the best summer activities possible in Lake Louise.
Devil’s Thumb viewpoint - the best view in Lake Louise
Best places to stay in Lake Louise in Summer
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (£££)
0.0miles from Lake Louise - Stands on the shores of the lake itself
The world-renowned Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is not only the place we worked during our fantastic year in Lake Louise, it is also the most premier accommodation option in the whole of Banff National Park.
The iconic hotel features breathtaking views of Lake Louise, Victoria Glacier and the surrounding mountains.
Our advice: if you are looking for an elegant and refined stay during your summer adventure in Lake Louise, then you should look no further than the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Lake Louise Inn (££)
1.6 miles from Lake Louise - found in the centre of Lake Louise Village
For those that don’t want to stay directly on the shores of Lake Louise, or are perhaps looking for a slightly more affordable option, then the Lake Louise Inn may just be a great option.
Found in the centre of Lake Louise Village, less than 1km from the main highway that links Banff and Lake Louise, Lake Louise Inn is found in a wonderfully convenient location.
Lake Louise Inn is home to a number of different accommodation options, including fully-equipped private apartments and regular hotel style rooms. There really is something for everybody.
Lake Louise Inn with Victoria Glacier in the background (photo courtesy of Lake Louise Inn)
Banff International Hostel (£)
35 miles from Lake Louise - found in the centre of the town of Banff
The hamlet of Lake Louise is not particularly set up for cheaper hostel accommodation, so if it is a more affordable option that you’re searching for during your summer visit to Lake Louise, then it is best to stay in the nearby town of Banff and day-trip to Lake Louise.
The Route 8X bus operates a number of daily buses between Lake Louise and Banff for as little as CA$14 one-way, so it is very easy to journey between the two famous tourist destinations.
Banff International Hostel is best-known for its traditional hostel rooms where you will be sharing with other Banff National Park summer visitors, but you can instead opt for a private room for a slightly larger fee if you’d prefer.
The town of Banff is a great base for visiting Lake Louise
What is the weather like at Lake Louise in Summer?
The weather in Lake Louise in summer is fairly consistent and it is generally expected that it will be sunny and warm.
The average temperature in Lake Louise in July is 21°C/70°F but it regularly reaches upwards of 30°C/86°F so it is likely that shorts, t-shirts and sunscreen are going to be needed for your Lake Louise summer visit.
Is Lake Louise open all summer?
Lake Louise is open all summer long. The road up to Lake Louise from Lake Louise Village is accessible all throughout the summer months but be aware that it is often very very busy, particularly at weekends and holidays.
It is best to try to arrive in Lake Louise before 8am to avoid missing out on parking and to be in with the best chance of avoiding the crowds.
It is common for the road up to Lake Louise to be closed off when the parking lot is full so when visiting Lake Louise in summer, you want to try and be there early.
The Lake Louise Boathouse typically opens at the end of June and remains open until late September.
Orla canoeing on Lake Louise at sunrise
Where to Park at Lake Louise in Summer?
The best place to park at Lake Louise in summer is the Lake Louise Government Parking Lot which can be found close to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. From the Parking Lot it is only a short 2 minute walk to the front of Lake Louise.
As we have mentioned though, the parking lot gets very full in the summer months so try and get to the parking lot as early as you possibly can.
Best way to get to Lake Louise in Summer
The best way to get to Lake Louise in summer is to rent a car and visit Lake Louise independently. Renting a car gives you the freedom to visit Lake Louise at any time and means you can use your car to see nearby sights in Banff National Park.
Remember that the Parking Lot at Lake Louise is very full in the summer so try to get there as early as possible.
The alternative option is to get the regular public bus from Banff. The Lake Louise/Banff Express (8X route) operates regular buses from the Transit Hub in front of the Banff High School to the Lake Louise parking lot.
Hiking up to Lake Agnes - one of the best summer hikes in Lake Louise
Can you swim in Lake Louise in summer?
Technically yes you can swim in Lake Louise in summer, however we wouldn’t recommend it.
Lake Louise is a glacier-fed lake which means the temperature of the water is barely above freezing at any time during the summer. Instead of traditional swimming, lots of visitors to Lake Louise in the summer jump in the lake just to experience how cold it is.
Tips for visiting Lake Louise in the Summer
Lake Louise is an expensive place to visit
In a world-famous destination with the global appeal of Lake Louise, things are unfortunately going to be pricey. Don’t expect to pay less than CAD$25 for a sit-down table-service meal anywhere in Banff National Park.
A Canada Parks Pass is needed
If you’re visiting Lake Louise by car. The Parks Pass costs CAD$10 per day, per adult, and you need to have one in order to drive legally within the national park boundary.
You can purchase them online before you visit, or alternatively, you can pick one up from the Banff National Park gates when you enter the park. It is also possible to buy a Parks Pass from the Lake Louise Visitor Information Centre in Samson Mall.
There are no garbage bins on any of the trails in Lake Louise
Do your part in looking after the Banff National Park environment and come prepared. Make space in your bag so that you can temporarily put rubbish in there and dispose of it properly once you’re away from the trails. This is one of the most important things to know before visiting Lake Louise in the summer.
Lake Louise sunrise is more impressive than the sunset
The sunrise in Lake Louise (as early as 5.30am in summer) is absolutely breathtaking. In the evening, the sun disappears behind the mountain, but it can remain light for a number of hours afterwards. Whereas in the morning, you are greeted by a soothing orange glow on Victoria Glacier - it really is stunning!
Orla on the Voyageur Canoe at Lake Louise
We hope this round-up of amazing summer activities to experience in Lake Louise has inspired you to visit Banff National Park and get a taste for what summer in Lake Louise is all about.
Be sure to check out our other destination guides if you’re looking for more Lake Louise travel inspiration. Our Lake Louise Summer Destination Guide walks you through where to stay, where to visit and where to eat in Lake Louise.
