Lake Louise Summer Destination Guide
Lake Louise, Alberta, is a summer destination like no other. If you're planning on visiting Lake Louise this summer, then this guide is certainly going to help you out.
We have created a full Lake Louise Itinerary so you will know where to go, where to eat and what to do.
Lake Louise is a glacial lake within Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. It is situated 5km from Lake Louise Village, located just off the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1).
The name of the lake derives from the 4th daughter of Queen Victoria, Princess Louise, and at an elevation of 5,680 feet, Lake Louise is the highest permanent settlement in the whole of Canada.
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
Why should you visit Lake Louise in summer?
Visitors from around the globe flock to Lake Louise annually to catch a glimpse of the famous turquoise water. The water owes its unique colour to the crushed rock flour that flows directly into the lake from nearby Victoria Glacier.
In the summer months the water is populated by eager globetrotters, clambering to experience the allure of paddling across Lake Louise on the iconic red canoes. It is difficult to imagine a more amicable setting for a sunrise canoe, anywhere on the planet.
Being in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise also plays host to some truly breathtaking nature. Imposing mountains flank the lake on either side before rising to form the mighty Victoria Glacier - the majestic backdrop that dazzles onlookers and graces instagram feeds the world over.
The views, as remarkable as they are, are not the only reason visitors are attracted to the shores of Lake Louise en masse. The prospect of watching a Grizzly Bear Sow tend to her cubs on the banks of the lake certainly adds to the appeal.
The ‘most-photographed lake in the world’ really does have to be seen, to be believed.
Lake Louise Sunrise Canoe
How to get to Lake Louise in Summer?
Travelling from Calgary to Lake Louise:
Calgary International Airport, located 11 miles outside of downtown Calgary, is the closest major airport to Banff National Park and is the main airport used for international travellers to Lake Louise.
Hiring a car from Calgary International is a simple process as there are numerous different options available in the arrivals terminal. Avis, Budget and Zoom can all provide you with a rental-car to take you on the 2 hour onward journey to Lake Louise.
However, we would always recommend Rentalcars.com when renting a car when you travel. They are the gold-standard when it comes to rental cars and we can’t speak highly enough of them.
Alternatively, there are a number of shuttle bus options from Calgary International directly to Lake Louise - the shuttle bus typically takes 2-3 hours to Banff, and a further 45 minutes to Lake Louise. Brewster Express Shuttles start from CAD$72 per-adult one-way and can drop you off directly at your hotel.
Travelling from Banff to Lake Louise:
If you’re travelling to Lake Louise from Banff, it is an approximate 45 minute drive along the Trans-Canada Highway.
Roam Transit offers the 8X bus service between Banff and Lake Louise, starting from CAD$14 one-way. The bus picks you up outside of the Banff High School Transit Hub on Banff Avenue and can drop you off in Lake Louise Village, or at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Travelling from Jasper to Lake Louise:
If you are travelling to Lake Louise from Jasper National Park, then you should expect a 3 hour drive along the stunning Icefields Parkway.
Sundog Tours offers a bus service between Jasper and Lake Louise starting from CAD$69 one-way.
Lake Louise from Little Beehive Lookout
Where to stay in Lake Louise?
Lake Louise Inn
Lake Louise Inn, found in the centre of Lake Louise Village, boasts a collection of well-maintained guestrooms and suites that cater to all budgets.
A standard-double room starts from CAD$240 per night for June-August, making it one of the most affordable accommodation options in all of Lake Louise.
Guests of the inn can unwind in the indoor heated pool and hot-tub, before venturing to one of the 3 on-site restaurants for dinner. The Legends Restaurant offers a range of Canadian burgers, wraps and ribs, with Timberwolf Pizza Cafe providing the Italian staples, pizza and pasta, alongside their signature seafood fettuccine.
In the evening, head downstairs to Explorers Lounge - with a cosy, relaxed bar atmosphere, it is the perfect place to take it easy for the night.
With complimentary bike rental available to all guests in the summer, Lake Louise Inn is a wonderful place to call home for your Lake Louise stay.
Lake Louise Inn (Photo courtesy of Lake Louise Inn)
Deer Lodge
A 2-minute walk from Lake Louise, Deer Lodge is a unique, rustic mountain accommodation that has been greeting guests since 1925.
With standard-double rooms starting from CAD$289 per night for June-August, Deer Lodge offers the convenience of basing yourself at Lake Louise, for a fraction of the price of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
The Fairview Mountain Restaurant presents a range of Canadian delicacies, including hearty elk steaks and bison burgers, served with an unbeatable view of the magnificent Fairview Mountain.
With traditional drywood saunas and rooftop hot-tubs, the lodge guarantees plenty of options for a place to relax and unwind after a busy day of hiking.
Originally built as a teahouse, Deer Lodge has been welcoming travellers for nearly a century, and is a perfect place to base yourself for your Lake Louise getaway.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from Fairview Lookout
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Visitors have converged on Lake Louise since the late 1800s, when the Canadian Pacific Railway first built the grand Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Though originally built as a modest wooden hut, the Chateau is now one of the most grandiose hotels in North America.
The 539 room luxury resort offers an ‘elegant and polished, yet relaxed and inviting’ stay in Lake Louise. Starting from CAD$679 per night for a bed and breakfast package in June-August, the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is certainly not considered a budget-friendly destination.
The hotel does however, boast a full state of the art spa facility (specialising in over 20 different treatments and services); a health club (furbished with a gym, steam room and pool); a shopping arcade; and 4 luxury dining options.
Embrace a quick grab-and-go lunch at the Guide’s Pantry, the hotel’s newest Deli outlet, or sample a delicious meal on Lakeview Lounge’s outdoor patio. The Walliser Stube offers a luxurious alpine-inspired menu, while the Fairview Bar & Restaurant provides a comfortable space to decompress with a signature cocktail.
Banff International Hostel
Banff International Hostel provides a budget-friendly accommodation option right in the heart of downtown Banff. Located directly on Banff Avenue, the hostel is situated within walking distance of the major shopping area, and centre, of the Banff township.
With private double rooms starting from CAD$189 per night, or a single bed in a 6-person dorm room starting from CAD$44 per night, both including breakfast, the international hostel caters to those on a stricter budget.
A liquor store on-site provides ample opportunity to sample some of Alberta’s locally crafted beers, while the hostel maintains a fully-equipped, shared kitchen - perfect for travellers that prefer to be self-catered on their adventures.
Banff International Hostel is only 200m away from the Banff High School Transport Hub, making it easy to hop on the hourly 8X bus service to Lake Louise.
Best things to do in Lake Louise
Canoeing
The most quintessential thing to do in Lake Louise, canoeing is the activity that makes the cover of all the guidebooks, and for good reason. The lake, with its glacial backdrop, is one of the most scenic spots for a paddle in North America and arguably, the world.
Canoes are easily rented from Lake Louise Boathouse, located on the left-hand shore as you arrive at Lake Louise. With rentals starting at CAD$125 per hour, canoeing is by no means cheap, but is certainly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity in Lake Louise that cannot be missed.
Navigate your way up the southern side of the lake, paddling directly in the shadow of the imposing Fairview Mountain. From the safety of your canoe, view relics of the past with old climbing ropes and mountain gear abandoned in situ on the face of the mountain.
On your way back to the boathouse, meander along the opposite bank of the lake, mirroring the lakeshore hiking trail, before spotting the lush, grassy meadows of Lake Louise Ski Resort in the distance across the valley.
Canoeing on Lake Louise
Lake Louise Gondola Ride
The Lake Louise Ski Hill may not be inhabited by adrenaline-seeking skiers and snowboarders in the summer, but it still offers refuge to those searching for a place to escape and appreciate the beauty of Banff National Park.
A short 2-minute drive from Lake Louise Village, the ski hill welcomes visitors throughout the summer to take a ride in the sightseeing gondola - up to 2100m, high above Lake Louise Valley.
With the chance of spotting wild grizzly bears going about their day amongst the wildflowers below, the gondola is a tremendous way to slow down and savour the incredible scenery that Lake Louise has been blessed with.
Indulge in the finest, high-altitude dining at the Whitehorn Bistro, by combining an artisanal cheese board with the areas most-revered craft beer - all while gazing out across the valley toward Victoria Glacier on the horizon.
Although the ski hill is renowned for its unrivalled, accessible skiing terrain in the winter, there is still a wealth of activities and nature to keep you both occupied and inspired throughout the summer months.
Lake Louise Gondola Ride
Johnston’s Canyon and Ink Pots
Carved deep into the limestone following thousands of years of water erosion, the dramatic Johnston’s Canyon is yet another example of the numerous breathtaking, natural attractions to be explored in Banff National Park.
The canyon is 35km away from Lake Louise, along the scenic Bow Valley Parkway (1A), and is accessible by car or bike.
Venture along the hiking trails to discover crashing waterfalls, lush forest and high, overhanging canyon walls. The Lower Falls hiking trail is relatively flat and at a manageable 1.1km in length, can easily be navigated at any pace.
The trail to the Upper Falls, at 2.6km, is slightly longer and can become quite steep in sections. Rising through the forest, away from the lower canyon, you reach the Upper Falls where the water plummets 40m into the deep pool below.
A further 3km from the Upper Falls, you will find the spectacular Ink Pots. A collection of 7 immensely coloured mineral springs, located in an open meadow, that make for fantastic viewing.
With washrooms, a gift shop and a restaurant along the way, Johnston’s Canyon is a fabulous day-trip to make from Lake Louise.
Johnston’s Canyon - Lower Falls
Where to eat in Lake Louise
Lakeview Lounge
In the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise’s most celebrated restaurant, the Lakeview Lounge, enjoy sumptuous food while marvelling at the view of Lake Louise and the stunning Victoria Glacier. Soak up the fresh mountain air from the scenic patio overlooking the lake, while sampling the hotel’s most venerated dishes.
The Sockeye Salmon is a rich special, with the Steak & Frites (Fairmont Striploin) proving equally delectable. For vegetarians, the Grilled Mushrooms over fresh Bucatini Pasta served in an alfredo cream sauce, is simply divine.
From the comfort of one of the most iconic lounges in the Canadian Rockies, you are sure to be in for a world-class culinary experience, regardless of which meal you select.
The Station Restaurant
The former train station, built in the early 1900s, is now home to a fantastic restaurant serving Canadian cuisine inside the turn of the century styled cabin.
The unique Station Restaurant nurtures a casual dining experience with specialities such as the exquisite Walnut Lentil Loaf, served in a delicious tomato sauce. The Alberta Flank Steak offers a taste of the area’s famous meat produce, while the hearty Bison Burger provides a great option to those looking for a particularly substantial meal.
Enjoy a refreshment on the outdoor patio overlooking the station garden, or choose to feast inside of an old dining car, now parked proudly alongside the restaurant.
Banff Avenue - Banff
Banff Park Distillery
If you find yourself in the town of Banff during your Lake Louise vacation, then a trip to the Banff Park Distillery is highly recommended.
The distillery, selling 100% local, handmade spirits, also houses a modern, sophisticated restaurant. On summer evenings, the front wall of the restaurant is retracted, using a large pulley system, to create a wonderful, open-air, patio dining experience.
The menu, a contemporary take on campfire cooking, is headlined by the Rotisserie Chicken ‘n’ Ribs combination. Served with fresh slaw, crushed potatoes and signature campfire drippin’s gravy, the ‘Park Classic’ is not to be passed on.
The Park Veggie Bowl, a fusion of rice, falafel, veggies, beets, avocado and cashews, is a vegetarian option that will please even the most dedicated of meat-eaters.
Wash the meal down with a glass of Park Distillery Maple Rye, before heading out for a late-evening stroll along Banff Avenue.
Best hikes in the Lake Louise area in Summer
There are a number of amazing walks and hikes in Lake Louise, and narrowing down the choices has proved to be an unenviable task. Hiking is a staple activity in Banff National Park and proves to be the most popular enterprise for visitors to Lake Louise.
Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail
The easiest walk in the area and the only truly wheelchair-friendly trail in Lake Louise. The lakeshore trail takes you to the very back of the lake, along the Northern shore. It’s a simple 45-minute walk (return) and is a perfect way to spend the last hour of daylight in Lake Louise.
Many choose to go for an evening stroll before dinner on the Lakeshore trail, taking a coffee from the Guide’s Pantry along with them. The trail is a perfect introduction to Lake Louise, particularly for those that want to soak up the surroundings without breaking into a sweat.
Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse
Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse Trail
The longer (14.5km return) of the two teahouse trails available in Lake Louise. The well-maintained trail takes you deep into the heart of the Lake Louise landscape, with remarkable views of Mount Lefroy and Fairview Mountain throughout.
Once you make it to the teahouse, relax for a few moments with a hot mug of tea and a delicious slice of freshly-baked carrot cake, before continuing on for a further kilometre to reach the Victoria Glacier Lookout.
From the lookout, it is possible to appreciate the sheer size of the glacier - at its thickest, it could easily engulf the entire Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, from top to bottom, with plenty of room to spare.
A wonderful highlight for many hikers on the trail is the prospect of witnessing an avalanche on nearby Mount Lefroy. Though the trail itself is perfectly safe, the thunderous noise the avalanches generate can be deafening. It is an incredible experience to be able to get so close to such a powerful spectacle.
Waterfall on the trail up to Lake Agnes
Devil’s Thumb
Arguably the most impressive hike in the Lake Louise area that does not require any mountain training. You begin the hike by walking up the moderate 3km switchback trail that leads you to Lake Agnes.
From the Lake Agnes Teahouse, you’re able to join the trail that guides you around the back of the lake before ascending a series of steep, tight switchbacks to reach the top of Big Beehive.
A large tree-trunk over the path to the right signals the beginning of the actual Devil’s Thumb trail. Follow the ridge-line through the flowery meadow before reaching the most difficult part of the hike, a challenging hands and knees scramble. On wet days, this part can be very tricky, so just take your time and you’ll reach the top nice and safely.
Your reward for the nervy scramble is a breathtaking birds eye view of Lake Agnes and Lake Louise - the view is honestly staggering.
Devil’s Thumb Viewpoint
Best places to visit close to Lake Louise in Summer
Moraine Lake
When you’re visiting Lake Louise in the summer, it is impossible to miss out on a trip to the nearby Moraine Lake.
Found only 14km away from Lake Louise, along the Moraine Lake Road, the equally famous Canadian Rockies lake was once featured on an issue of the Canadian 20 dollar bill.
Only accessible by road in the summer, Moraine Lake has a stunning backdrop of mountain peaks and that irresistible turquoise colour synonymous with glacial lakes in Banff National Park.
Ben looking out across Moraine Lake
Takakkaw Falls
One of the more unique places to visit during your summer trip to Lake Louise, Takakkaw Falls can be found just across the border in neighbouring Yoho National Park.
Takakkaw Falls can be found just outside of the quaint little town of Field, around 30 minutes from Lake Louise.
The falls themselves are an impressive 373m tall, making them the second highest falls in Canada.
Ticket 4 Two Please in front of the impressive Takakkaw Falls
Peyto Lake
After a few years of being closed for major renovation works, Peyto Lake is back and back with a bang.
Found around 40km North of Lake Louise, Peyto Lake has been one of the poster boys for the Canadian Rockies and has featured on postcards and Banff National Park memorabilia for centuries.
Seeing the lake in person however, is an experience that cannot be missed when you visit Lake Louise in the summer.
Remember to head up the Peyto Lake viewing platform to get the more quintessential shot of the stunning lake.
The views from Peyto Lake Viewing Platform
Tips for First-timer’s to Lake Louise
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.
Lake Louise is a lake, village and ski resort
Be sure to familiarise yourself with the 3 variants of ‘Lake Louise’. You have the actual lake that you will be planning to visit, the village itself, and the local ski hill - all are known simply by ‘Lake Louise’ so be sure to double-check where your directions are taking you.
Stock up on supplies at the IGA in Banff
As the local Samson Mall in Lake Louise Village is not conducive to large food shops. There is a small supermarket for essentials like bread and milk, but everything else is best to be picked up in Banff.
Trailhead Cafe is a brilliant place to go for a Chai Latte
As one of the few places in Lake Louise where you can actually get a take-out drink, Trailhead Cafe (located in Samson Mall) is a brilliant place to refuel before your next adventure.
Sunrise from Lake Louise Boathouse
The road up to Lake Louise can close in the summer due to heavy traffic
On peak summer days (weekends in June-August; bank holidays), the queues up to Lake Louise can cause the road to be closed off to the public.
In this scenario you would have to walk from Lake Louise Village (3.5km; 1.5 hours), so it is best to arrive at the Lake Louise parking lot early on in the day, preferably before 8.30am, to avoid being stuck in the village.
There are no garbage bins on any of the trails in Lake Louise
Do your part for 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!
There we have it, your complete summer destination guide for Lake Louise, Alberta.
As one of the best places to visit in the Canadian Rockies, we hope this guide has inspired you to plan your next trip to Lake Louise.
