Top Things to Do in Lake Louise: Your Complete Guide to Alberta’s Jewel in Banff National Park

Tucked away in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada, is considered one of the most enchanting and iconic destinations in the world. Famed for its dazzling turquoise waters that reflect a jagged backdrop of snow-capped peaks and glaciers, Lake Louise is much more than just a picturesque postcard setting. Did you know the lake was originally called "Lake of the Little Fishes" by the indigenous Stoney Nakoda people and was later renamed after Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria? The lake itself sits at an elevation of 1,750 meters (5,740 feet), and its coloration is due to "rock flour"—finely ground sediment carried into the water by melting glaciers above.

Before you plan a trip, it’s interesting to know that Lake Louise is actually part of a small hamlet in the Bow River Valley, within the larger Banff National Park—a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1984. According to the 2016 Canadian census, this hamlet has a permanent population of around 700 residents, but it accommodates more than 10,000 visitors daily during peak summer months. The area sees a continual influx of adventurers year-round, from keen hikers in the summer to passionate skiers in the winter. The nearest larger community is Banff town, located about 57 kilometers (35 miles) southeast, but Lake Louise maintains its own charming, secluded atmosphere.

It’s this unique blend of natural wonder and warm mountain hospitality that makes Lake Louise an unmatched destination. Visitors from around the globe come for the views, but stay for the adventures. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit to Lake Louise:

1. Marvel at the Lake’s Azure Waters

• Whether it’s your first visit or your fiftieth, standing on the shore of Lake Louise, gazing out across vibrant blue-green water to the craggy heights of Mount Victoria, is a memory you’ll cherish for a lifetime. Sunrise and sunset are especially magical, as the light transforms the landscape with pink, gold, and purple hues.

2. Enjoy World-Renowned Hiking

• Hiking here is legendary. The Lake Agnes Tea House Trail, just 3.4 kilometers (2.1 miles) one way, takes you up through shaded forest to a charming tea house overlooking Lake Agnes. For a longer adventure, try the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, where you can sip hot chocolate on a rustic porch surrounded by swirling glaciers. If you're feeling energetic, climb further to the Big Beehive for panoramic views that sweep over the lake and surrounding mountains.

3. Paddle on the Lake

• Canoeing on Lake Louise is perhaps the most iconic activity. Canoe rentals are available right next to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel. Early mornings are especially calm, and you’ll feel like you have the water— and the silence—all to yourself.

4. Spot Wildlife

• Keep an eye out for local residents: you might spot mule deer nibbling wildflowers, a shy fox crossing the road, or even a black bear foraging in the meadows (always keep a respectful distance). The lake is also home to ospreys, bald eagles, and the occasional mountain goat on the higher cliffs.

5. Visit the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

• This historic hotel has welcomed royalty, celebrities, and explorers since 1890. Stroll the grounds, sip afternoon tea overlooking the water, or treat yourself to a spa day in luxurious mountain surroundings.

6. Hiking and Mountain Biking in Summer

• When the snow melts, mountain bike trails through lush forest and wildflower meadows open up. Join a guided tour or rent bikes in the village for an exhilarating way to experience the landscape.

7. Lake Louise Gondola: A Ride to Remember

• The Lake Louise Gondola whisks you over alpine meadows to a mountaintop viewing platform where you can peer across the Bow Valley and even spot grizzly bears from above (safe and thrilling!). Guided hikes, interpretive exhibits, and dining with a view round out this unforgettable mountain experience.

8. Winter Wonderland: Skiing and Snowshoeing

• Come winter, Lake Louise transforms into a snowy playground. The Lake Louise Ski Resort is one of the largest in North America and offers runs for every level—and truly breathtaking views. There’s also a magical set of cross-country ski and snowshoe trails, perfect for exploring frozen lakes and silent forests.

9. Ice Skating on the Lake

• From December to April, the frozen lake is cleared for skating. Glide over ice beneath towering peaks—there’s nothing else like it. On weekends, ice sculptors create whimsical works for the Ice Magic Festival, adding extra sparkle to the scene.

10. Dining and Shopping in the Village

• The Lake Louise village offers cozy restaurants, unique mountain shops, and bakeries with world-class pastries and espresso. Warm up with elk stew, bison burgers, or Alberta beef after a day on the trails.

11. Moraine Lake: A Nearby Gem

• Just 14 kilometers (9 miles) from Lake Louise, Moraine Lake rivals its sister with an especially dramatic setting—the "Valley of the Ten Peaks." The lake’s color is even more intense (if possible!) than Lake Louise’s. Sunrise here is a photographer’s dream.

12. Adventure Tours and Guided Experiences

• For visitors who want to deepen their connection to the land, local guides offer geology tours, indigenous cultural walks, photography workshops, and even heli-hiking excursions to hard-to-reach peaks.

Part of what makes Lake Louise so special is how the area’s small community blends with the natural world—many locals work in hospitality, conservation, or as guides, and there’s a distinct sense of pride in welcoming guests to this unique environment. Almost every experience—whether it’s viewing wildflowers, sipping tea by a glacial lake, or sharing trails with wildlife—brings you closer to the spirit of the Canadian Rockies.

From tranquil paddling at dawn to thrilling mountain descents, Lake Louise is a destination where adventure and peace exist side by side—and where every visitor can find their own unforgettable Alpine story. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a world-class wilderness challenge, Lake Louise delivers it all in one dazzling package.

If you’re ready to experience the majesty of Lake Louise for yourself, Henry Nicholson can expertly guide you in planning the perfect trip tailored just for you.