1. My Trip
2. About Lake Louis
3. Best Time to Visit
4. Activities
5. How Long to Visit

My Trip

I cannot remember how many times I’ve visited Lake Louis, but one thing I remember is that every visit never failed to impress me. It was like seeing the place for the first time over and over again. Some things just never change.

Lake Louis is one of the top attractions in Alberta, Banff specifically. Most first time visitors have this as part of their itinerary when they visit Alberta, just like me 15 years ago. It is like a MUST see attraction and for a good reason. Lake Louis is stunning with its turquoise water showing the reelection of the mountains behind it. It was almost like the mountains were perfectly positioned for a picture perfect photo. No wonder visitors travel this far to see this majestic beauty, a place really worth the trip. You will definitely leave with not only good memories of this place but most especially a stunning photo that you will be proud to share with friends and family. Brah about it, post it in Instagram because it is really worth it.

I’ve been to Lake Louis both Summer and Winter and both season offers a different look and feel that will leave you breathless. Sounds too poetic but it is really true. When I first laid eyes on this lake, I was mesmerized and I simply cannot get over how stunning it was. I still felt the same the last time I saw it last year.

With so many beautiful places to visit, I usually have travel rule to not visit the same place more than once, for this place I broke the rule and I will break it again given the chance to go back here.

I love Winter and snow, but Summer for sure is my favorite time of the year to visit it this place. You get the vibrant color of the water and it changes depending on how the sun hits the water. Sometimes it looks very bright turquoise and sometimes a lighter pale one.

What is fun when visiting this during Winter is the fact that you can literally walk on the water, or should I say ice. The water that you see here in the photo, this turned into a thick icy ground enough for people to walk and kids to play.

This place is always busy, but if you come here early in the morning or late in the evening during sunset time, there are less crowd. We went here last year almost sunset time and you can see that it is not as busy, the crowd doubles in number during mid day to late afternoon. So if you can plan going early morning or late afternoon, that would be the best as you can have a photo with less crowd in the background.

About Lake Louis

Lake Louise, located in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, is a glacial lake of extraordinary beauty. The lake is named after Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll. It lies in Alberta’s Rockies on the Bow River, approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) northeast of the lake that shares its name.

Lake Louise is renowned for its turquoise-blue waters, which result from glacial rock flour suspended in the water. The surrounding Valley of the Ten Peaks provides a dramatic backdrop, making it one of the most photographed locations in Canada

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada depends on your preferences and the experiences you seek. Here are some insights for different seasons:

1. Summer (June to September):
   • Peak Season: During summer, Lake Louise is accessible, and the turquoise waters are incredibly vibrant.
   • Activities: Enjoy hiking, canoeing, and exploring the surrounding trails.
   • Weather: Expect temperatures between 60°F and 70°F.
   • Crowds: July and August are busier, but the full range of tourist activities and the vibrant summer atmosphere make it worthwhile.
2. Winter (December to April):
   • Snow Globe Experience: If you want to ice skate on Lake Louise and feel like you’ve stepped inside a snow globe, winter is the best time.
   • Lake Louise Weather in January: Cold with lots of snow. Optimal sunshine around 10 a.m. for ice skating or walking on the frozen lake.
   • Lake Louise Weather in February: Similar to January. Still very cold, but great for walking around the lake and enjoying hot chocolate.
   • Lake Louise Weather in March: Average temperature creeps above freezing (around 4°C). Sunny days, glistening snow, and great skiing at Lake Louise Ski Resort.
3. Fall (Late October/Early November):
   • Witness the lake thawing as winter approaches.
   • The stunning blue color remains even as the lake freezes over 

Activities

• Hiking: Explore nearby trails, including the famous Plain of Six Glaciers Trail and the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail.
• Canoeing: Rent a canoe and paddle across the serene waters, surrounded by towering peaks.
• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Visit the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which overlooks the lake and offers stunning views. This Chateau itself is an attraction on its own. They used to have this open to the public but the last time we visited, it was for guest only. Call ahead to inquire if you want to explore the inside or dine in their restaurants.
• Winter Wonderland: In winter, Lake Louise transforms into a snowy wonderland, perfect for activities like ice skating and snowshoeing

How Long to Visit

The ideal duration for visiting Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada depends on your interests and the experiences you wish to have. Here are some recommendations:

1. Scenic Views and Photography:
   • If you’re primarily interested in gazing at the stunning vistas and capturing the beauty of Lake Louise, a couple of hours should suffice. The turquoise-blue waters against the backdrop of the Valley of the Ten Peaks are truly mesmerizing. This was what we did in several times that I visited this with my friends. If you can get there earlier, that would be better as there will be less people. There is often a huge crowd starting noon and you have to be patient to get your chance to have a photo without too many people in the background.
2. Hiking:
   • For those who enjoy hiking, consider exploring nearby trails such as the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail or the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail. I’ve never done any hiking in this area but is something that I wouldn’t mind doing if I have more time in this area.
   • Allocate additional time based on the specific trail you choose.
3. Canoeing:
   • Renting a canoe and paddling across the serene waters of Lake Louise is a magical experience.
   • Allow 1 to 2 hours for canoeing, especially during early mornings or late afternoons when the reflections on the water are at their best. I imagine this will be a great experience. Being in the middle of this stunning lake away from the crowd will definitely give you a different kind of appreciation of the beauty of this place.
4. Exploring the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise:
   • Visit the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which overlooks the lake and offers stunning views.
   • Explore the hotel’s grounds and perhaps enjoy a meal or afternoon tea. If you want to have a sit-down dinner inside, double check first if they allow non guest to dine in the restaurant. The last time we visited, we were not allowed in 2 of their restaurant because we are not a guest in the hotel even though there are plenty of seating available.

Remember that Lake Louise is a popular destination, so arriving early in the day is advisable to avoid crowds and secure parking. Whether you spend a few hours or an entire day, the memories you create at Lake Louise will be unforgettable!

Whether you visit during the vibrant summer months or the serene winter season, Lake Louise promises an unforgettable experience in the heart of the Canadian Rockies!

• [VIDEO] Lake Louise
• [VIDEO] Lake Moraine
• [VIDEO] Peyto Lake
• [VIDEO] Grassi Lake
• [VIDEO] Consolation Lake Trail
• [VIDEO] Bow Lake
• [VIDEO] Bow River Loop Trail
• [VIDEO] Rock Pile
• [VIDEO] Cascade Garden

Thank You for visiting my website. Please don’t forget to click the “Like” button below if you like this post. Lastly, did you know that I have a YouTube Channel? Please support my channel by clicking on the “Subscribe” button in my video and the “Bell” icon to get notification of new videos.

FOLLOW SWEETNSPICYLIVING ON SOCIAL MEDIA

Facebook | Instagram | Pinterest | Twitter | YouTube