Riverside Loop

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1-1.5h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
4.3 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
82 m
User Ratings
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Directions to Trailhead

The Riverside Loop is easily accessible from town and the many accommodations in Lake Louise. It is a quiet trail that creates a serene loop along the Bow River. This is part of a wildlife corridor, so watch out for Grizzlies!

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Route Description for Riverside Loop

From the entrance at Lake Louise Drive, turn left onto the trail and begin walking along the river. The trail is in the forest but maintains excellent proximity to the river. You’ll be able to admire the incredible Mount Temple and its glacier from this part of the trail.

Pass the Lake Louise campground kiosk and entry gate and continue on past a large bridge that crosses the Bow River. The trail continues straight, joining one of the campground access roads. Follow the signs and turn right when you come to the end of the campground loop. You’ll cross a wooden bridge and end up on the other side of the river.

Make your way along the other side of the river, crossing the bridge to return to your starting point. Make sure you use the pedestrian crossing gate as the bridge has an electric cattle guard. If you’d like to make a full circuit, don’t cross the bridge and hike along the electric bear fence in the campground until you come to an exit gate that leads to an interpretive trail. You will finish just further up Lake Louise Drive this way.

Want to find more amazing Lake Louise hikes? Check out the Plain of the 6 Glaciers, Sentinel Pass, Morraine Lake or the Skoki Lakes hike.

Getting to the Riverside Loop Trailhead

From the Lake Louise Village, walk up Lake Louise Drive and just beyond Fairview Drive, find the trail entrance beside the river on the left.

Route Information

  • When to do

    May-October

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Family friendly

    Yes

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Lollipop

Riverside Loop Elevation Graph

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Riverside Loop Reviews

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