Hikes Around Lake Louise
Lake Louise Hikes
Lake Louise hikes are the best way to take in the beautiful blue waters of Lake Louise and are a highlight of any trip to Banff National Park. Although this stunning region is perhaps best known as a ski resort, it’s also a wonderful place for summer hiking trips, with forested trails, glittering alpine lakes, and the imposing peaks of the Rocky Mountains. If you’re looking for your next outdoor adventure, put hiking in Lake Louise on your travel bucket list!
The region around Lake Louise is teeming with hidden treasures for you to discover on your hike. Whether you’re looking for high-altitude glaciers, craggy ridge walks, alpine meadows or peaceful lakes, there are Lake Louise hikes for everyone in this beautiful part of Banff National Park. One of the most distinctive features of a hiking trip in the Lake Louise region is the abundance of tearooms, quaint and pretty establishments perched in picturesque spots on the trail, where you can stop for a drink and a snack, and enjoy the view.
Most Lake Louise hikes pass through lush forests or past serene lakes, home to many different species of mammals and birds. Look out for bighorn sheep or elk close to the trail, in addition to black and grizzly bears in some parts of the Banff National Park. You’re also likely to see plenty of deer and caribou, as well as red squirrels and beavers.
If this is enough to whet your appetite, start planning your trip to Lake Louise today! We’ve put together all the information you’ll need, together with our guide to the best Lake Louise hikes, including those from the surrounding area!.
Types Of Hikes In Lake Louise
Thinking of going hiking in Lake Louise? There’s a trail here to suit all hikers, whatever your fitness level or ability. For beginner hikers and those travelling with young families, Lake Louise is an excellent destination. Not only are there plenty of easy trails at low elevation, there are also lots of family-friendly activities throughout the park. Take advantage of nature walks where kids can learn a little more about the magnificent ecosystems of this precious wilderness.
Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more strenuous hike, Lake Louise offers some wonderful routes over high passes and rocky ridges. You’ll have the chance to really stretch your legs in some of Canada’s most beautiful terrain, overlooking alpine lakes and glaciers far out in the backcountry.
Easy Hikes In Lake Louise
Moraine Lake Rockpile and Lakeshore Hike: This short walk along the shores of Moraine Lake is one of our favorite easy hikes in Lake Louise. The route is flat and easily accessible for all hikers, whatever their level, and the view from the rockpile provides a classic Rocky Mountain vista of craggy peaks reflected in the serene lake. This is an excellent option for a summer evening hike, when the crowds have dissipated and you can enjoy the beautiful light at the end of the day.
Lake Agnes Tea House Hike: This easy walk up to Lake Agnes Tea House offers plenty of rewards, even if you’re not an experienced hiker. The climb to the teahouse is steep in places, but is mercifully short, and the glittering waters of Lake Agnes make an excellent place for a rest to catch your breath. Hikers looking for a bit more of a challenge also have plenty of options to continue or lengthen the walk if they wish.
Family Hikes In Lake Louise
Consolation Lakes Hike: Looking for an easy, family-friendly hike near Lake Louise? This short trail is perfect for kids, who will enjoy walking alongside Babel Creek all the way to Consolation Lakes, which look magnificent against a backdrop of gray mountains. If you’ve got the energy, it’s also possible to pair this hike with the Moraine Lake Rockpile and Lakeshire route.
Lake Louise Ski Hill Hike: If you’re looking for a fun activity to do with the kids, why not try the Lake Louise Ski Hill hike? The route begins with a gondola ride up the Lake Louise Ski Hill, where you’ll enjoy wonderful views over the valley. Then head for the Trail of the Great Bear – a wonderful short hike where kids can learn all about the grizzly bears in Banff National Park.
Day Hikes In Lake Louise
Redoubt Lake via Boulder Pass Hike: For a satisfying day hike through some of the most spectacular scenery around Lake Louise, don’t miss this oft-overlooked hike to Redoubt Lake. You’ll summit Boulder Pass and take in Ptarmigan Lake along the way, all whilst enjoying some of the finest larch forests in the region. Come in early autumn to enjoy the colors.
Hidden Lake Hike: Deep in the heart of the Skoki region, Hidden Lake occupies a wonderful location in the shadow of Mount Richardson. The trail is relatively easy, with spectacular views along the way, and you may even have the chance to spot some mountain goats! For those looking for a longer adventure, it’s also possible to camp near Hidden Lake and convert your hike into a backpacking trip.
Challenging Hikes In Lake Louise
Paradise Valley Circuit Hike: This challenging trek is, quite simply, one of the best Lake Louise hikes. You’ll experience picture-perfect lakes with crystal waters, tumbling waterfalls crowned with rainbows, and stunning views over Paradise Valley and the neighboring mountains. At a distance of 20km, with some challenging scree scrambles, this is not a hike for the faint of heart, and you’ll need to be fit and well prepared to complete it in a day. However, we think the effort is well worth it – there’s no better way to experience the splendor of the Rocky Mountains.
Skoki Lakes Hike: This epic route is one of the best challenging hikes in Lake Louise, taking in a number of lakes and passes along the way. If you’re fit, attempt the trail in autumn, when the larch trees show off their dazzling colors at their best. With plenty of variation and some of the best views in the region, this is a fabulous day out for experienced hikers.
Best Hikes In Lake Louise
Plain of the Six Glaciers Hike: This classic Banff hike takes in the shores of Lake Louise and then climbs to the Plain of the Six Glaciers teahouse, where you can stop for a break and a hearty lunch. The trail culminates at Abbots Pass for some staggering mountain views. This is a manageable hike for most walkers, and is an excellent way to experience some of the most beautiful scenery around Lake Louise.
Mount St. Piran Hike: Want to escape the crowds and experience some real Rocky Mountain tranquility? Try this Mount St. Piran hike, which circles around to the further side of the mountain and will give you a real sense of remoteness. The trail rises steeply through the trees from Lake Louise, before emerging onto a ridge where you’ll enjoy a remarkable view over Mount Niblock.
Eiffel Lake and Wenkchemna Pass Hike: Beginning at Moraine Lake, this beautiful trek takes you up a steep, forested trail to the incredible Valley of the 10 Peaks. Passing by Eiffel Lake, the path then rises to Wenkchemna Pass, where you can enjoy a stunning view over the valleys and peaks of this untouched part of the Rocky Mountains.
Mount Fairview Summit Hike: Although this hike is fairly short, you’ll need plenty of energy to reach the summit! The trail ascends steeply through the forest all the way to the top of Mount Fairview, where you’ll enjoy a magnificent panorama over Lake Louise, Mount St Piran and Mount Niblock. Arrive early to secure a parking space and enjoy the trail all to yourself.
Sentinel Pass Hike: The epic hike to Sentinel Pass is one of the best hikes in Lake Louise, with breathtaking views. The trail passes alongside Moraine Lake and rises steeply through the thick forests before emerging at a magnificent alpine meadow with three pristine lakes. The view from the top of the pass offers stellar views of the valley below, and is a welcome reward after the steep climb.
Lake Annette Hike: Want to get off the beaten track? Head for Lake Annette, in one of the lesser-visited spots in Banff National Park. This relatively easy trail passes through fragrant forests and past pleasant creeks before reaching a viewing point for the fabulous azure waters of Lake Annette. Continue a little further to see the Giant Steps Waterfalls, where you’ll have a fantastic view and a good spot to stop for lunch.
When Is The Best Time To Hike In Lake Louise?
Want to know when is the best time to hike in Lake Louise? In short, Lake Louise operates on a similar timetable to other Rocky Mountain destinations, restricting the hiking season to a few short months in the summer. Lake Louise itself is usually completely frozen by mid-November, and doesn’t usually thaw until early June, and the higher-elevation trails around the lake are only accessible for hiking between June and September. Although you may run the risk of early snows, our favorite time to visit Lake Louise is mid-September to mid-October, when you’ll have the chance to see the forests in a final blaze of autumnal glory before they shed their leaves, and the waters of the lake glow with an intense turquoise color. This is also a good time to avoid the crowds and enjoy many Lake Louise hikes all by yourself.
Other Outdoor Activities In Lake Louise
While summer hiking often tops the list, there are plenty of other outdoor activities in Lake Louise. Outdoor adventurers will love the chance to do some road or mountain biking, and there are also plenty of opportunities for horseback riding. Backcountry backpacking is an ever-popular choice, and you’ll find lots of multi-day treks in some of the most spectacular scenery in the Rocky Mountains. Watersports fans can get out on the water for some canoeing or rafting, and fishing aficionados also have plenty of options on the rivers and lakes. However, perhaps the most popular sports in Lake Louise are found in the winter season – downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding and snowshoeing are all popular activities when the snows hit.
How To Plan A Trip To Lake Louise
Want to know how to plan a trip to Lake Louise? This beautiful part of the Banff National Park is perfect for a hiking adventure, and there’s an excellent infrastructure to welcome visitors in both summer and winter. Check out our comprehensive guide to planning a trip to Lake Louise, complete with tips on how to get there, where to stay, and some of our favorite hikes in the region. Happy hiking!
Lake Louise Adventure Trips
Some of the best adventures you can experience in Lake Louise and Banff National Park are easier with a professional guide. For that, check out the best adventure tours in Banff National Park and Lake Louise.
Frequently-Asked-Questions About Lake Louise
Where does the name ‘Lake Louise’ come from?
Lake Louise was originally named ‘Lake of Little Fishes’ (Ho-Run-Num-Nay) by the Stoney Nakoda nation, but in 1884 it was renamed after the daughter of Queen Victoria, Princess Louise Caroline, wife of the Governor General of Canada, John Campbell.
Why is Lake Louise so blue?
The lakes in Banff National Park are famous for their striking blue-turquoise color, which comes from glacial sediments in the water.
Do I need a permit to hike around Lake Louise?
Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park, and all visitors are required to purchase National Park Pass, available online or at the visitor centers. You’ll also need a permit if you wish to go camping in the backcountry. Find out more about the National Park Pass on Parks Canada.
Are there bears in Lake Louise?
Lake Louise is home to a wide range of wildlife, including black bears and grizzly bears. Although incidents involving bears are very rare, it’s important to take precautions (such as carrying bear spray) and to follow advice from local park authorities.
Best Hikes in Around Lake Louise
Little Beehive Hike
Although the Little Beehive hike has its own destination, it begins at the world-famous Lake Louise. You’ll start the trail at the shores of the lake before winding through the forest towards Lake Agnes. After a few kilometres with elevation gain, Mirror Lake will appear before you with the Big Beehive looming above, creating the namesake mirror reflection on the lake. You have the option to stop at Lake Agnes and its historic teahouse before embarking on the final 0.8 km to the Little Beehive lookout.
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Rockbound Lake Trail
Rockbound Lake trail is a less frequented trail along the Bow Valley Parkway in Banff National Park. It is the perfect route for hikers looking for something a little more demanding without any technical scrambling. Avoid the crowds from Johnston Canyon by heading to Rockbound Lake—you won’t be disappointed. Watch out for Marmots!
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Castle Mountain Lookout
The Castle Lookout hike takes hikers up the frontside of the mountain, normally reserved for experienced climbers and scramblers. The clear trail winds through the forest, coming to an open viewpoint. You’ll be able to see into Kootenay National Park, B.C., from here, and all the way to Banff and Lake Louise. It is an excellent option for a half-day hike with minimal crowds.
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Arnica Lake Hike
Do yourself a favour and save this hike for wildflower season—as its name suggests—you won’t be disappointed. Pass by Vista Lake before ascending the steep climb towards Arnica Lake. As you gain elevation quickly, you’ll be gifted with views all around from castle junction. Babbling creeks and various trees make up this elevated trail to Arnica Lake, backed by a soaring, jacked rock wall.
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Silverton Falls Trail
The Silverton Falls hike is more of a short walk than a hike, however, it is worth it. If you are looking for something along the Bow Valley Parkway to explore but you are short on time, this is an excellent choice. You won’t need much on this hike as it will take you less than an hour to complete.
Looking to get outside, but not in the mood for a long, intense hike? The Silverton Falls Hike along the Bow Valley Parkway is where to go! It takes less than an hour to complete, so you won't have to worry about packing a lot of snacks and water.
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Taylor Lake
The trail to Taylor Lake is a straightforward fire road type trail that ascends straight to the lake with no junctions or diversions. It gains elevation steadily through the forest and ends with a meadow before reaching the lake. You’ll be able to admire the astonishing Mount Bell from the shores. A backcountry campground equipped with a pit toilet and picnic tables makes stopping at Taylor Lake extra comfortable.
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Saddleback Pass
Saddleback Pass hike is an excellent family-friendly trail that leaves the crowds behind. Starting at world-renowned Lake Louise, you’ll be able to visit the famous landmark before taking off on your own path. You will catch breathtaking views of the Bow Valley below and Mount Temple rising above the Sheol Valley when you reach the pass.
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Saddle Mountain
Saddle Mountain Hike is a simple and quick add-on to Saddleback Pass trail. You’ll be able to see the peak from the pass, and is an accessible way to get some great views across the Bow Valley and into Sheol Valley. This is an excellent moderate hike in the Lake Louise area on the less-populated side of the lake.
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Giant Steps
This hike is often forgotten as it begins at a lesser-known trailhead on Moraine Lake Road. The Giant Steps Hike is a great way to leave the crowds behind and feel like you have the park to yourself. A backcountry campground is located just beyond the Giant Steps and is a great place to spend the night.
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Louise Creek Trail
The Louise Creek Trail is the best way to get to Lake Louise without worrying about parking, traffic, and the busy road. You will be able to hike up to the lake through the forest next to the rushing waters of Louise Creek. This is a great option for those looking to hike right from the village of Lake Louise.
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Heather Ridge
The Heather Ridge Hike in Lake Louise is a great way to get a taste of the stunning Skoki area. Many hikers take a backpacking trip into Skoki Valley to capture all the area has to offer. Hiking Heather Ridge will give you an excellent mixture of what lies on the other side of the Bow Valley from Lake Louise. This hike is excellent for wildflowers and great in larch season.
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Smith Lake Trail
Smith Lake is an often-forgotten lake that is nestled in the forest at Castle Junction. It is a stunning green-blue colour and a great place for fishing. Nearby Copper Lake is only a 0.6 km side trail that is a must-see on this route. If you are looking for a quick walk in the woods, this is a wonderful option.
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Tower Lake
The hike to Tower Lake is great for those who don’t have the time or energy to trek all the way to Rockbound Lake. It is also a wonderful turn around point for folks who change their minds. It is a beautiful alpine lake that sits below the impressive Eisenhower Tower—a popular climbing objective.
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Riverside Loop
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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Fairview Lookout
Hiking to Fairview Lookout is a great way to see Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau hotel from a new perspective. This is a wonderful trail if you are looking to explore Lake Louise without committing to a full or half day hike. Enjoy an easy path with rewarding views.