Lake Louise is an iconic symbolic of the Canadian Rockies. This alpine lake, known for its sparkling blue waters, is situated at the base of impressive glacier-clad peaks that have long been at the heart of Canadian mountaineering. At about 2.5 kilometres long and 90 metres deep, the lake offers a surreal paddling experience in the warm summer months and one of the most scenic skating rinks in the world in winter.
The hamlet of Lake Louise, located just minutes from the lake itself, has been developed over the last century to serve the needs of people visiting this astonishingly accessible and picturesque area of Banff National Park. Located nearby, Moraine Lake, with its indigo blue waters surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, is another one of Canada’s most iconic lakes.
Things To Do
Many visitors to Lake Louise only stay for just a night or even just a few hours, but there is plenty to do here during your visit.
Hiking: There is a trail along the lakeside which is a must, but for more adventurous hikers there are trails leading up into the surrounding mountains.
Canoeing: Taking a canoe out on Lake Louise is a great way to enjoy some relaxing time on the still waters, away from any crowds. Arrange your trip with the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Lake Louise Gondola: Situated on the other side of the Valley from Lake Louise, back across the main highway is the Lake Louise Gondola (a shuttle service is available from the Village). In winter it takes skiers and snowboarders to the slopes, but in summer you can take in the amazing views across to the lake and take a gentle stroll (or more strenuous hike if you prefer) in the mountains. If you are lucky, you might catch site of one of the mountain's resident grizzly bears on your 14 minute gondola ride up the mountain!
VIsit Moraine Lake: The deep turquoise waters of Moraine Lake must be seen to be believed. Many people think photographs of the lake must have been enhanced to make it look the way it does, however visitors to the Lake, just a 20 minute drive from Lake Louise, soon realise that all the pictures are genuine! For a night away for it all you we highly recommend a stay at the timber Moraine Lake Lodge.
Due to its high altitude, Lake Louise can experience snow at anytime of year, though summer days do tend to be sunny with frosty mornings and crisp days. The lake usually freezes in mid to late November and can remain frozen until June, though this means that it becomes one of the world's most spectacular skating rinks. For summer visitors, the advice, as for many mountain areas, is to dress in layers.
Average Daily Low / High Temperatures (Degrees Celcius):
Jan: -14 / -7
Feb: - 10 / -2
Mar: -5 / 3
Apr: 0 / 7
May: 6 / 13
Jun: 9 / 17
Jul: 12 / 20
Aug: 11 / 20
Sep: 7 / 15
Oct: 1 / 8
Nov: -8 / -2
Dec: -14 / -7
