Lake Louise in Banff National Park, Alberta is about 1.2 miles end-to-end and 230 feet deep. It is known for its searingly blue water caused by light reflecting off tiny particles of “rock flour” (glacial silt) carried down from the mountain glaciers. It is one of the park’s most famous and busiest sites.
Lake Louise is famous for its searingly blue color
$75 for a 30 minute canoe rental? Normally I would say skip it and take the free hike around the northern perimeter of the lake, but as it was our anniversary, we opted to splurge and go out in a canoe. The views from the center of the lake are awesome. There are 360 degrees of mountains and the water is a gorgeous turquoise shade. The beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise dominates the waterfront. The lake is fed from snow & glacier melt and is cold even in summer. The boat house staff were extremely helpful and friendly. They provide the canoe, 2 paddles and PFD’s aka personal flotation devices. We were also given a whistle in case we had “any problems or if [we saw] anyone else having any problems.” Luckily, we did not need to use the whistle.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise framed by Canadian Rockies
After our canoe trip we opted to walk the perimeter of the lake. This trail is very flat and wide, making for an easy stroll. We saw many hikers of all ages & abilities and even baby strollers. The hike offers views of Fairview Mountain and Victoria Glacier. Their are a couple of other trails that take off from the perimeter trail: Lake Agnes Teahouse and the Big Beehive & Plain of the Six Glaciers. Unfortunately, we will have to save those for our next trip, but we can’t wait to come back.
View from Lake Louise perimeter trail
Lake Louise and Victoria Glacier
