Lake Louise
Lake Louise
4.5
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Top ways to experience Lake Louise
The area
Best nearby
Restaurants
29 within 5 kms
Attractions
21 within 10 kms
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- dforstateCarnegie, Pennsylvania35 contributionsOne of the top places to visit.This is one of the most beautiful destinations to visit in Western Canada. The lake is surrounded by snow capped mountains in late June and the water is clear blue. The only problem is that everything is very expensive from the hotel to food to the boat rentals. If you are staying at the hotel, the lake and walking trail is very easy.Visited June 2022Written December 8, 2022
- johnnnitaNapa, California2,470 contributionsLAKE LOUISE HAS EVERYTHING!There are many beautiful lakes in the Jasper/Banff national park area. During our visit, we were lucky to see a number of them. While each lake has its own unique beauty and sense of place, Lake Louise seems to have the ideal combination of beauty, majesty, accessibility, and variety. That makes it unique and special we think. A visitor has so many options unlike other lakes where there is more or only nature around and less access or little options for other activities. Lake Louise of course has its grand hotel, the Fairmont Chateau with all its amenities. Behind this hotel is this majestic view of the lake. You can walk side to side on very wide paths. You can also walk up the lake sides and continue further if you so desire. Everything just seems so much more accessible. Yes, it's more civilized and user friendly. Some visitors may prefer the more natural and rugged scenery that other lake areas have. Those are great too, but this lake is special. We've had this place on our "bucket list" and so glad we spent time here taking it all in. It's exactly as we imagined and viewed online and in pictures.Visited October 2022Written December 31, 2022
- PBPGYorkshire, United Kingdom6,007 contributionsAmazingAnother fabulous setting for a lake with stupendous snow topped mountains around. The lake was still frozen so we went for a walk on it, a new experience for us! A little scary as it had melted on some parts near the shoreVisited May 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten May 13, 2023
- gsgman777Columbia, Illinois706 contributionsGreat on it's own - average in comparisonWe traveled from Banff on Icefields Parkway towards Jasper. There were so many great things to see and areas to stop along the way. Although Lake Louise was beautiful and a must-see stop for what seems like everyone it wasn't our favorite. Don't get me wrong, if this was the only thing it would have rated 5 but with everything else that we saw along the way this was a 3.Visited May 2023Written June 6, 2023
- John SAltoona, Pennsylvania275 contributionsBeautiful areaWe came to visit the park and this was a bucket list site. The lake is beautiful, especially with the surrounding mountains. The weather wasn’t great for us, cloudy, but can’t control that. The bad part was the overwhelming crowds. So many people everywhere.Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten June 16, 2023
- MPP2703Caythorpe, United Kingdom1,763 contributionsBrilliant, but very busy.Yep, beautiful, spoilt only by the humungous Hotel next to it! It is a stunning area, and well worth a visit. We did it by a commercial tour and got 30/40 minutes on site, which was enough for us. The issue to note if you are driving, car parking is a lottery, gets really busy. And that means the lake gets very busy and you may have to wait to get the personal photo you want. But if you are in Banff, definite place to visit.Visited June 2023Written June 18, 2023
- KelvinDunedin, New Zealand574 contributionsNice.This is very picturesque and scenic but very crowded and not at all serene. If you were inclined and had the t8me to hit the trails, I am sure it would be different. We saw plenty of places before and after that were equally as good or better, and felt those places had not been spoilt. But each to their own and many will not be put off by the negatives but concentrate on what are amazing views.Visited May 2023Written June 25, 2023
- Jonique LifeAustralia2,521 contributionsLake LouiseThis place is stunning WOW! It’s a must if visiting Alberta. Just be aware you need to pay a park fee PLUS there is a parking fee which is around $21. You also need to get here early, we arrived at 7.30am and the first carpark was already full. The lake is beautiful though, and make sure you try to make it up to Lake Agnes at least, we completed our trip all the way to the Big Beehive then Devils Thumb. These hikes are hard and very steep with even some cliff faces but if confident please go, the views are worth it. These hikes were around 13 km return. “Jonique Life” If you find value in our reviews please consider following our social media outlets on Facebook and Instagram as we highlight magical places you can add to your ever growing bucket list.Visited June 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten June 28, 2023
- coolmammaa677 contributionsBeyond amazingYou need a bus reservation to go!! You don’t need to spend a lot of money, make sure you use the government website! Only $11CAD If you dont get the bus, there is a way to walk ( 10km) I parked my car behind the gas station near the visitor center >>> don’t forget to leave your printed ticket on the dashboard. It’s going to be tough to beat lake Moraine and Lake Louise. What an amazing place! Surreal I have no words to describe this experience! The trails were amazing. Be aware that Louise is way crowded than Moraine. You gonna need patience but it’s so worthy! The trail to the Tea house is amazing and full of surprises! Tough but amazingVisited July 2023Travelled soloWritten July 6, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
7,597 reviews
Excellent
5,219
Very good
1,617
Average
524
Poor
150
Terrible
87
Martin C
Thornhill, Canada17 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Family
Ok - don't get me wrong - the scenery is world-class, year-round. That's not the problem. People are the problem. Lake Louise is being loved to death. So many people, influencers, selfie takers and entitled sightseers - it's impossible to take a picture without getting others in your shot and/or getting bumped. In the summer, apparently you have to take a shuttle just to get to the lake. Not worth it. Reminds me of the Yogi Berra quote: "Nobody goes there anymore. It’s too crowded." Go find another mountain lake - skip this one.
Written November 29, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
connie071
Calgary, Canada49 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Solo
The national park bus service to the lake was well organized and convenient. Walk up the rock pile for stunning views!
Written November 23, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Marsha W
2 contributions
Nov. 2023 • Couples
Amazing views! Such a peaceful sunrise to experience.I highly recommend this to all ages. Pictures do not do it justice! Just a majestic place.
Written November 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stewarts Vacation
996 contributions
Aug. 2023 • Couples
The lake itself was stunning - a turquoise blue against a beautiful mountain background. Five stars for the breath-taking scenery!
However, for us, the visit was spoilt by the Chateau's signs in almost every direction, stating "Only for registered hotel guests". It seemed that non-staying tourists were not welcome. It was difficult to find a place to purchase a drink or snack. There were toilets available at the car park. It was a most disappointing visit. Hence the 2 star rating. If we had been aware of the restrictions, it might have been a more pleasant experience.
However, for us, the visit was spoilt by the Chateau's signs in almost every direction, stating "Only for registered hotel guests". It seemed that non-staying tourists were not welcome. It was difficult to find a place to purchase a drink or snack. There were toilets available at the car park. It was a most disappointing visit. Hence the 2 star rating. If we had been aware of the restrictions, it might have been a more pleasant experience.
Written November 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pam Fox
15 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Friends
We had a view of the lake directly in front of our hotel room window. The lake is an amazing teal color, and the photos of the lake are unique. The hotel has several dining rooms, and the food is excellent. We had an outstanding breakfast buffet with dozens of choices. There are a number of shops in the hotel with merchandise ranging from cheap souvenirs to expensive jewelry. The staff are friendly and helpful. The lobby is spacious and has ample areas for sitting and thinking about the next activity.
Written November 19, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
SeniorTravelerTF
Fort Atkinson1,199 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Couples
One of the few places I can say has not been over-hyped. It is immensely popular because it deserves to be. The best recommendation I can give is to carefully plan your transport and parking. We used the shuttle from the lot at the ski hill in Lake Louise, and those reservations were full for the days we chose in September. Very comfortable and convenient. You can also take a shuttle from Banff, part of the excellent Roam system. A lucky few, if you arrive very early in the day, or very late when you have little time to see anything, may find parking at the lake. Trails all across the spectrum. We took one along the rim in front of the famous hotel, then the rock pile at the end with its spectacular photo opps, and then back into surrounding country.
Written November 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Cloud
Frankfurt, Germany573 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Solo
Wonderful area. Great for nature lovers, great for photographers. A must see when in Canada. Best nature spot I experienced here.
Written November 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
JayT
London, UK4 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Couples
Very beautiful!
We were advised there is no where to park and must take a shuttle bus. (Apparently there is a tiny car park and to not try to drive there because it is full up from at least 7am). Tourist office was very helpful on advice about going there and gave us a list of shuttle services and we booked one on-line, which went from a hotel not far from the lake and it was very good.
We did not know what to expect. We had not looked at many photos before going so it had more of a surprise element to it.
We were not expecting to hike, but saw a sign for a path up to Mirror Lake and impulsively, thought we might manage to get there and back in time before our shuttle pick up time. It was 2.5- 3km (so about 5km or so there and back) through the trees. There was not much view back down to lake Louise because of the trees, but it was lovely to go and see another lake (it did not have much water in it when we went, but still pretty). We walked very fast up to it ie overtaking most people all the way up and it took 40 mins. We virtually ran back down and it took 25 mins. It was a rush and a bit stressful to get back to the shuttle in time! We underestimated the time it would take to get up to Mirror Lake and back, so did not appreciate the walk as much as we could have. I would suggest allowing a good 2 hours to go up to Mirror Lake and back to be able to enjoy the walk if you decide to do that. Whether it is an easy or difficult walk and how long it takes each person, is a bit subjective though. There was a steady stream of people walking up and down to Mirror Lake, ie there were people always about 10m in front or behind us. The path was well-trodden and had large stones and tree-roots etc in places. It was a steep-ish incline all the way up, but no climbing or scrambling was involved. We went at 11am on a weekday in Sept. and the weather was very sunny and quite warm the day we went. The path does go on further from Mirror Lake to a tea room at Lake Agnes but we did not have time to do that.
There was a sign for a path, alongside Lake Louise that you can walk along instead, which I assume would be fairly level and could make a nice stroll.
It was busy with tourists at the lake and our time was taken up by doing the hike so we did not go in search of refreshments etc so I do not know what else was there. There did not appear to be much to do, apart from admire and take in the scenery, if you were not going to go for a walk. If I went again, I would probably plan to stay for several hours and allow time to walk all the way up to the tea room at Lake Agnes.
We were advised there is no where to park and must take a shuttle bus. (Apparently there is a tiny car park and to not try to drive there because it is full up from at least 7am). Tourist office was very helpful on advice about going there and gave us a list of shuttle services and we booked one on-line, which went from a hotel not far from the lake and it was very good.
We did not know what to expect. We had not looked at many photos before going so it had more of a surprise element to it.
We were not expecting to hike, but saw a sign for a path up to Mirror Lake and impulsively, thought we might manage to get there and back in time before our shuttle pick up time. It was 2.5- 3km (so about 5km or so there and back) through the trees. There was not much view back down to lake Louise because of the trees, but it was lovely to go and see another lake (it did not have much water in it when we went, but still pretty). We walked very fast up to it ie overtaking most people all the way up and it took 40 mins. We virtually ran back down and it took 25 mins. It was a rush and a bit stressful to get back to the shuttle in time! We underestimated the time it would take to get up to Mirror Lake and back, so did not appreciate the walk as much as we could have. I would suggest allowing a good 2 hours to go up to Mirror Lake and back to be able to enjoy the walk if you decide to do that. Whether it is an easy or difficult walk and how long it takes each person, is a bit subjective though. There was a steady stream of people walking up and down to Mirror Lake, ie there were people always about 10m in front or behind us. The path was well-trodden and had large stones and tree-roots etc in places. It was a steep-ish incline all the way up, but no climbing or scrambling was involved. We went at 11am on a weekday in Sept. and the weather was very sunny and quite warm the day we went. The path does go on further from Mirror Lake to a tea room at Lake Agnes but we did not have time to do that.
There was a sign for a path, alongside Lake Louise that you can walk along instead, which I assume would be fairly level and could make a nice stroll.
It was busy with tourists at the lake and our time was taken up by doing the hike so we did not go in search of refreshments etc so I do not know what else was there. There did not appear to be much to do, apart from admire and take in the scenery, if you were not going to go for a walk. If I went again, I would probably plan to stay for several hours and allow time to walk all the way up to the tea room at Lake Agnes.
Written October 21, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Debbie S
Erin, Canada19 contributions
Oct. 2023 • Couples
OMG the most beautiful place on earth! We got there at 7:30 am To watch the sunrise but it was quite overcast that day so unfortunately we didn’t see it. But it did not disappoint- wow, wow, wow! So many place to walk/hike. Definitely do the walk to the end of the lake to the “beach” and see the view with the fairmont in the background. Thank goodness we were there in October so the crowds weren’t bad. I can’t imagine what that place would be like in the high season! Highly recommend (we went twice!). Not really many places To eat in lake Louise so pack a lunch if you can or if you want to break then eat at the fairmont hotel.
Written October 20, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Robert W
Corvallis, OR306 contributions
Sep. 2023 • Friends
There are many beautiful hikes around the iconic Lake Louise. However the simple trail to the end of the lake will provide one with an nice walk with fantastic sights. The is an attractive option for those more physically challenged. If you are staying in Banff you can take the Roam Transit express. This can busy so be sure to reserve you seats well ahead of time
Written October 17, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
William N
6 contributions
I have booked a trip to Lake Louise for my wife and myself. We depart from the Atlanta airport in two weeks, flying into Calgary then renting a car to drive to Lake Louise. I thought I did all my homework regarding winter conditions and a couples months ago when asking about driving I found information that said a front wheel drive car with all season tires should be fine as long as I am on major highways like the trans-Canada highway. I would love to update my rental and book a 4WD with snow/winter tires, but online there doesn’t seem to be a way. I will call when business hours begin, but does anyone have any feedback on driving from Calgary to Lake Louise in winter?
Alex C
Guelph, Canada48 contributions
I would not drive without 4 wheel drive there. Even in June when we went there was snow..I can’t imagine it now.
ilseee94
5 contributions
Is het begin september mogelijk om vroeg in de ochtend te parkeren bij lake louise? Daar willen we een grote hike doen van 8 uur en vervolgen nog kijken bij moraine lake. Kunnen we dan in de middag rond 15.00 vanaf lake louise doorrijden naar moraine lake?
Sharon R
Tucson, Arizona273 contributions
I was there at the beginning of summer so it was less busy. July and August are very busy but by September it is much quieter. The weather is probably pleasant.
JulieGoodall
Coventry, UK98 contributions
Looking to go tomorrow, I understand the lake is frozen but can you still walk there
Confamished
Ontario, Canada83 contributions
Yup! Theres a gorgeous walk around the lake!
palmtree34
Burlington, Canada4,122 contributions
where to stop to eat before Lake Louise??
casual lunch spot
Lori T
Niagara-on-the-Lake, Canada137 contributions
sorry we were on a bus tour and it was included. Private place
Victoria Y
Toronto1 contribution
Does anyone know if there's any kayak rental by Lake Louise? I found a place at Fairmont but I only see canoe rental. I'll be doing this activity alone, so I can only do kayak. Any tips or advise will be greatly appreciated.
Anne M
Toronto, Canada146 contributions
What time has parking filled up at Lake Louise recently? Looking to go tomorrow (Wednesday Sept 9) and hoping to arrive around 8am but wondering if that’s too late.
Darlene A
Ballston Spa, NY124 contributions
We got to Moraine Lake at 6 an and the parking lot was about 98% filled. My husband dropped us off and found one a few last spots left. Lake Louise parking lot is larger so you might have better luck and also because some of the sunrise people may be leaving by 8. The sunrise at either is beautiful if you are able to fit in your schedule.
travelmama52
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea, FL4 contributions
We are going to be arriving in Banff on Jun 23 and have accommodations at the Tunnel Mountain Resort until Jun 26th. We will have a rental car and would like to be able to make the most of our time and see as many attractions as possible. Wondering if you can advise me on the best way to go about booking things so that we optimize our time wisely.
Some of the things we would are thinking about are; the Columbia Ice Fields (Ride on the Ice Explorer and Sky Walk), Lake Louise, Jasper National Park, Banff gondola, Hot springs. Also would love to have any suggestions that you maybe able to offer.
Wondering if we should book guided tours (ie-Columbia Ice Field and Glacier Skywalk from Banff) or would we be better off to drive ourselves and book attraction tickets at various sights. If we book individual sight tickets does that guarantee us entry on the day and save waiting in line ups.
I appreciate hearing any advice
Thanks
Carol
kshah2
Pompano Beach, FL9 contributions
Did you do the trip on your own last yr? We are going this year in June, Any tips you could give us will help.
pingu2
Mississauga, Canada53 contributions
Is there a bathroom once at the top of the Lake Louise gondola ride?
Agassi_explorer
Nashville, TN10 contributions
Yes, beautiful facility on top. Pack a snack bag and save yourself some $$
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Claim your listingLAKE LOUISE - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Louise
- According to Tripadvisor travellers, these are the best ways to experience Lake Louise:
- Lake Louise and the Icefields Parkway - Full-Day Tour (From C$184.14)
- Banff National Park Tour with Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (From C$115.66)
- Day Hike in Lake Louise (From C$179.01)
- [4-Day Tour] Winter Rockies in Banff, Lake Louise,Johnston Canyon (From C$1,003.19)
- Discover Lake Louise (Spring & Fall Sightseeing) (From C$115.66)
- Hotels near Lake Louise:
- (0.13 km) Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- (0.49 km) Deer Lodge
- (1.42 km) Paradise Lodge & Bungalows
- (2.68 km) Post Hotel & Spa
- (2.86 km) Mountaineer Lodge
- Restaurants near Lake Louise:
- (0.09 km) The Walliser Stube
- (0.14 km) Lakeview Lounge
- (0.11 km) Fairview Bar & Restaurant
- (0.11 km) Poppy Brasserie
- (0.14 km) Alpine Social
- Attractions near Lake Louise:
- (0.13 km) Wild Water Adventures
- (0.15 km) Brewster Adventures
- (0.15 km) Saddleback Pass
- (0.17 km) Lake Louise Canoeing
- (1.32 km) Banff Photography at Lake Louise