Things to do in Lake Louise
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Top 10 attractions in Lake Louise
Banff National Park
Banff National Park is Canada's first and the world's third national park, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ranking only behind Yellowstone National Park in the U.S. and Australia's Royal National Park. As the saying goes, "One Banff equals twenty Switzerlands," which speaks volumes about its breathtaking beauty. Located in a small town west of Calgary, Alberta, the park nestles at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, enveloped and intersected by their towering peaks. It is a masterpiece of nature, floating among blue skies, majestic mountains, lush greenery, and winding rivers, earning its reputation as the soul of the Rockies. The national park encompasses two charming towns: Banff and Lake Louise. With its valleys, towering peaks, glacial rivers, and forested meadows, it is a world-renowned travel destination. Vast glaciers stretch across the mountain ranges, while emerald lakes glisten like jewels amidst the dark green coniferous forests. Must-see attractions within Banff National Park include the town of Banff, Lake Louise, the Bow Valley Parkway, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, the Icefields Parkway, and the Columbia Icefield. Additionally, the park is home to five iconic Rocky Mountain wildlife species, such as bighorn sheep, elk, moose, wolves, and grizzly bears. Visitors to Banff National Park can enjoy a wide array of outdoor adventures, including alpine skiing, ice skating, dog sledding, mountain golfing, hiking, fishing, boating, and cave exploration, as well as indoor entertainment like soaking in natural hot springs, shopping, savoring local cuisine, and museum cultural tours. The park also offers a diverse range of well-equipped accommodations, from the historic and elegant Fairmont Banff Springs to budget-friendly chain hotels, cozy family-run lodges, and rustic mountain cabins beloved by hikers. No matter where you stay, the view outside your window will be equally stunning. Falling asleep under the embrace of the mighty Rockies and waking up to crystal-clear mornings and crisp mountain air makes for an unforgettable travel experience. A must-try culinary delight in Banff is the renowned Alberta beef, prized for its tenderness, rich flavor, and natural purity. Other local delicacies include artisanal cheeses, fresh fish, and wild game like elk. For more information on lodging, dining, and entertainment options, visitors can contact the Banff and Lake Louise Visitor Information Centers: **Banff Visitor Information Centre** Address: 224 Banff Ave Phone: 403-762-8421 Email: Info@banfflakelouise.com **Lake Louise Visitor Information Centre** Address: Samson Mall, Village of Lake LouiseImprovement District No. 9 · 19 km from Lake Louise
Lake Louise
Located on the south side of Highway 1, Lake Louise is a famous attraction in Banff National Park. With Mount Victoria as its backdrop and surrounded by dense forests, the mountains and water complement each other to form a perfect landscape. It is like a pearl, ethereal and refined, which is why it is known as the Sapphire of the Rocky Mountains and has become a favorite lake among photographers.Improvement District No. 9 · 3.8 km from Lake Louise
Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is located in the Valley of the Ten Peaks in Canada's Banff National Park and is an alpine lake fed by glacial meltwater. Every year, from mid-to-late June, as the snowmelt gathers, the lake level gradually rises, and the water surface takes on a distinct, vibrant blue hue. This unique color is an optical effect caused by the refraction of sunlight through rock flour carried into the lake by glacial runoff. As light and weather conditions change, the lake's hue also exhibits subtle variations. Ten snow-capped peaks surround the lake, reflecting against the blue sky and white snow to create a highly recognizable mountain and lake view. The view of the lake and the peaks behind it from the top of the Rockpile Trail is known as the "Twenty Dollar View"—this perspective once appeared on the back of the Canadian twenty-dollar bill. There are several hiking trails around the lake with varying levels of difficulty: the Rockpile Trail is short and gentle, making it a great spot for capturing classic lake views; the Lakeshore Trail allows you to experience the color of the water up close; and the routes to Consolation Lakes or Larch Valley are suitable for hikers with some experience. You can also rent a canoe by the lake to enjoy the reflections of the peaks from different angles.Improvement District No. 9 · 11.5 km from Lake Louise
Icefields Parkway
Icefields Parkwayis a scenic highway in the Rocky Mountains of Alberta, Canada, also known as Highway 93. It runs from Lake Louise in the south to the town of Jasper in the north, traversing both Banff and Jasper national parks. The entire route spans over 200 km, with the road traveling primarily through mountainous terrain at an elevation of over 1,500 m. On one side of the road are snow-capped mountains and glaciers, while the other side connects to lakes, forests, and meadows. Along the way, you can see hundreds of glaciers and snow-capped peaks over 3,000 m high, making it one of the most famous scenic highways in North America. Icefields Parkwayhighlights are concentrated in the densely distributed glacial lakes and stops along the way. Peyto Lake displays a rich blue-green hue due to glacial rock flour suspended in the water, and when viewed from the observation deck, the lake shape resembles a wolf's head. Bow Lake is the source of the Bow River, and when the lake surface is calm in the early morning, the reflections of the snow-capped mountains are clear. Hector Lake, Herbert Lake, Mistaya Canyon, Crowfoot Glacier, Athabasca Falls, and Sunwapta Falls are also located right next to the highway. The Columbia Icefield area in the middle section is the highlight of the entire journey, where you can see the Athabasca Glacier cascading down from between the snow-capped peaks right from the roadside. Wildlife such as elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears are also frequently spotted along the way.Canada · Improvement District No. 9
Yoho National Park Of Canada
Yoho National Park Of Canadais located in eastern British Columbia, Canada, on the western slopes of the Rocky Mountains, adjacent to Banff National Park, and is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. Established in 1886, it covers an area of approximately 1,310 sq km. The name "Yoho" is derived from a Cree word meaning "awe," signifying that the beauty of this landscape is enough to make one exclaim in wonder. The park is rich in scenery, including Emerald Lake, Takakkaw Falls, Natural Bridge, the Kicking Horse River, glacial lakes, and alpine trails.Columbia-Shuswap · 24.7 km from Lake Louise
Lake Louise Ski Resort & Summer Gondola
The Lake Louise Ski Resort (TheLakeLouiseSkiResort), known as "the scenic ski resort", is only a few minutes away from the Lake Louise Resort. It is a Canadian ski resort with about 4,200 acres and 139 slides spread over four mountain peaks. The well-designed slide layout enables beginners, intermediate and even advanced skiers to find suitable slides in this ski resort and experience the unlimited fun of skiing in the Rocky Mountains.Improvement District No. 9 · 2.1 km from Lake Louise
Emerald Lake
Emerald Lakeis nestled in Yoho National Park Of Canada in the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, Canada. It is one of the larger lakes in the park, sitting at an elevation of approx. 1,300m, and is surrounded by peaks such as Mount Burgess and Mount Wapta. Every summer, glacial meltwater carries fine rock flour into the lake, and under the sunlight, the entire lake displays shifting shades of emerald green, living up to its name. The century-old Emerald Lake Lodge and a wooden bridge are preserved on the lakeshore, and the red canoes and reflections of snow-capped mountains are frequently photographed by visitors. There is also an approx. 5.2 km loop trail around the lake, which is relatively flat. In summer, it is suitable for hiking and boating, and in winter, after the lake freezes, it is perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.Columbia-Shuswap · 24.6 km from Lake Louise
Banff Gondola
The Banff Gondola features panoramic viewing windows to admire the stunning scenery of the Banff mountain range. From the cable car, you can see the Banff Mountain Observatory, Banff Hot Springs, and other attractions at the summit, as well as lakes, forests, and glaciers on the mountains. Upon reaching the top, enter the gondola's upper station, which offers multiple viewing platforms and exhibition areas. Here, you can enjoy even more breathtaking views of the Banff mountain range, including the town of Banff, Bow Lake, and other scenic spots. The upper station also houses several restaurants and cafes.Improvement District No. 9 · 53.1 km from Lake Louise
Johnston Canyon
Johnston Canyonis located along the Bow Valley Parkway between Banff and Lake Louise. It was formed by streams cutting through rock layers over many years. The canyon features steep cliffs and the constant sound of water, with waterfalls being the core highlight of the entire trail. The trail is built along the rock walls, with some sections consisting of catwalks suspended above the canyon, with rushing water right beneath your feet. The path hugs the cliff as it goes deep into the canyon floor, offering a highly distinctive cliff-side walking experience. The trail connects three highlights from near to far: walk approx. 1 km to reach the Lower Falls, where water plunges through a narrow crevice, and the cave viewing point next to the waterfall is a popular photo spot; continue forward to the Upper Falls, which has a larger drop, approx. 2.5 km one-way with a gentle incline, making it easy for most people to complete; if you have enough energy, you can go deeper into the forest meadows to visit the blue-green Ink Pots, approx. 5 km one-way, and you should allow half a day for the round trip. In summer, the canyon is lush and full of water, while in winter, the waterfalls freeze into ice falls and the cliffs are covered in frost. Ice climbers are often seen climbing the ice falls, making this a representative route for ice and snow hiking in the Banff area.Improvement District No. 9 · 30.8 km from Lake Louise
Spiral Tunnels
Great viewpoint where one can occationally see trains passing through the tunnels. The signs are informative explaining the history behind why the tunnel was built and 3D models depicting the tunnels.Field · 15.7 km from Lake Louise
Experiences you can't miss in Lake Louise
Featured Spa & wellness in Lake Louise
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Featured Day tours in Lake Louise
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Group Tours in Lake Louise
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![3D2N • [XP Planet] 3-Day Rockies Tour with Glacier View Lodge Stay](https://dimg04.c-ctrip.com/images/0300f12000tf24hzzB9F4_C_378_450.jpg)
Free things to do in Lake Louise
Icefields Parkway
Canada · Improvement District No. 9Johnston Canyon
Improvement District No. 9 · 30.8 km from Lake Louise
Bow Lake
Improvement District No. 9 · 33.6 km from Lake Louise
Castle Mountain
Improvement District No. 9 · 18.3 km from Lake Louise
Herbert Lake
Improvement District No. 9 · 5 km from Lake Louise
Columbia Icefield
Improvement District No. 9 · 82.2 km from Lake Louise
What travellers say about Lake Louise
Hossain Hoq ProhorOctober 7, 2026
5.0
Banff National Park is a breathtaking destination where turquoise lakes, towering mountains, peaceful forests, and dramatic landscapes create an unforgettable experience. The scenery feels almost unreal, especially around the crystal-clear lakes surrounded by snow-capped peaks. Scenic roads, hiking trails, waterfalls, and quiet viewpoints offer countless opportunities to enjoy nature and capture beautiful photographs. In autumn, golden larch trees and colorful foliage add an extra layer of magic to the landscape. Whether you love hiking, photography, wildlife, or simply peaceful mountain views, Banff has something special to offer. It’s truly a dream destination for anyone who wants to experience Canada’s spectacular natural beauty.
Banff National Park
M30***42September 8, 2025
5.0
The Fairmont Hotel faces the lake. The quiet lake is turquoise and clear, surrounded by mountains. The snow on the top of the mountain has not melted. The white snow, blue sky and blue lake form the most beautiful postcard.
Lake Louise
YoYo_1I8Q7O5OSeptember 1, 2026
5.0
The waters of Moran Lake were an unreal blue, as if a whole bucket of paint had been poured in. Ten mountain peaks stood close together, their snow-capped summits reflected clearly in the water. The pebble beach was crowded with people, taking photos horizontally and vertically with their phones. I squatted down and touched the water; it was so cold it made my fingertips go numb. A canoe sat in the middle of the lake, its occupants not paddling, just drifting along. When the sun was obscured by clouds, the water darkened, its color becoming heavy and somber. Sitting there for a while, it felt as if time had stood still. The wind rippled the lake's surface, the snow-capped mountains breaking apart and then coalescing again and again.
Moraine Lake
Kimi_jmJanuary 15, 2020
4.0
When I went to Banff in early October, it was snowing heavily. From Jasper to Banff, I truly appreciated the beauty of the Icefield Parkway. There were beautiful snow-capped mountains on both sides. It felt great to drive a Wrangler along the smooth road!
Icefields Parkway
cparisshJanuary 3, 2020
5.0
Although Yoho National Park is the smallest among these national parks, it has my favorite, Moraine Lake, which ranks number one. The road may be closed in early October in winter, so you can't go in.
Yoho National Park Of Canada
nj荇菜November 23, 2019
5.0
In winter, it is one of the largest ski resorts in North America.
Lake Louise Ski Resort & Summer Gondola
fz570628March 10, 2020
5.0
Emerald Lake in Banff National Park in the Canadian Rockies is truly a stunning sight. Its green water is like a natural gem left by heaven, shining with a strange brilliance. This is the result of the interaction between the surrounding glaciers and snow-capped peaks and the minerals at the bottom of the lake tens of thousands of years ago, leaving the world with a beauty beyond imagination.
Emerald Lake
Salvere4September 20, 2026
5.0
Worth it. Beautiful and amazing experience with my 76 yrs old mother.
Banff Gondola
Tajwixbaj183cmDecember 8, 2024
4.0
There are two waterfalls here, an upper and a lower. It took me all my energy just to walk to the lower falls, but once I arrived at the destination and saw such a beautiful waterfall, it was all worth it. In addition, the scenery along the way is very beautiful, and the streams are particularly beautiful and comfortable. Highly recommended.
Johnston Canyon
