Lake Louise Lakeshore hike
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Lake Louise Lakeshore hike
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If you are making a stop to see the world-famous Lake Louise, you should take a side trip along its lakeshore to see what the lake has to offer. You’ll walk along the shore where the turquoise waters become a milky texture from the glacial rock silt that is turned up from the bottom of the lake. Continue past rock climbers, mountaineers, paddlers, and horses until you reach the impressive alluvial flats where the moraine and glacial stream meets the lake.
Getting there
From the Trans-Canada Highway, take the exit to Lake Louise Village. If travelling westbound, turn left and continue straight through two sets of four-way stops. Continue up the hill on Lake Louise Drive passing many hotels and lodges until you meet the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Turn left into the parking lot and follow signs for Lake Louise. This is where the trail begins.
About
| When to do | May-October |
| Backcountry Campsites | No |
| Pets allowed | Yes - On Leash |
| Family friendly | Yes |
| Route Signage | Average |
| Crowd Levels | Extreme |
| Route Type | Out and back |
Lake Louise Lakeshore
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Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail Description
The trail begins from the stunning shores of Lake Louise and wraps around the back until you are staring at the Victoria Glacier up close and personal. Begin your journey by taking in the perfectly framed landscape of the lake itself. Mount Victoria and its glacier rise above, centered perfectly at the back of the lake. Try your luck at naming the surrounding peaks before glancing at the panoramic sign that names them for you!
You’ll see canoe docks and rentals to your left, but you’ll want to go right. Follow the trail along the lakeshore admiring the views as they change before you. You’ll pass by the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and its impressive gardens before continuing on.
This is a wide path that is accessible for strollers, wheelchairs, and walkers. Benches line the route intermittently so feel free to find a quiet spot to take in the views. There is almost no elevation gain on this route, so don’t feel like you need to pack tonnes of supplies in your bag. A casual walk around the lake is what you’re in for.
As you continue, you’ll notice the milky texture of the water. This is from rock silt created by the glacial moraine that has been deposited into the lake. Some large cliff bands will come into view when you reach a trail sign kiosk. You’ll be able to see the hiking map for other trails in the area, and this is where your first and only incline is. Make your way up the short hill and keep your eyes peeled for rock climbers as you are now at world-renowned climbing area “back-of-the-lake”.
The trail wraps around to the left where the glacial runoff comes into view. The flats here are a popular spot to take photos. You’ll have great views of the Fairmont hotel on the opposite end of the lake with the Lake Louise Ski Resort in focus behind. Continue on until you reach a wooden bridge where you will find your turnaround point. You’ll notice some hikers and climbers continuing on. There are many connected trails in this area, so don’t feel like you need to push on.
Want to find more amazing Lake Louise hikes? Check out the Plain of the 6 Glaciers, Sentinel Pass, Morraine Lake or the Skoki Lakes hike.
Insider Hints
Take the shuttle from the village of overflow parking
Aim for sunrise or sunset to avoid crowds
Stop at Trailhead Cafe or Laggan’s Bakery in the Village for coffee
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