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Nestled within the breathtaking confines of Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, Lake Louise is a glacial lake that epitomizes the majesty of the Canadian Rockies. Situated near the hamlet of Lake Louise, which is Canada’s highest community at an elevation of 1,600 meters, the lake offers a serene and picturesque setting. The hamlet itself, named after Princess Louise, Duchess of Argyll, was initially settled in 1884 as an outpost for the Canadian Pacific Railway and lies just 3 kilometers northeast of the lake.
The lake, known to the Stoney Nakoda First Nations people as Ho-run-num-nay or Lake of the Little Fishes, is fed by the Lefroy Glacier and is renowned for its vibrant turquoise waters. It is home to a variety of trout species, making it a popular spot for fishing. During the summer, visitors can engage in various water sports activities such as canoeing and kayaking, with the iconic bright red canoes being a signature sight on the lake.
In the winter, Lake Louise transforms into a winter wonderland, offering activities like ice skating on the lake’s frozen surface, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The area is also a prime destination for skiing and snowboarding, with nearby facilities such as Lake Louise Ski Resort. The surrounding mountains, including Mount Temple, Mount Whyte, and Mount Niblock, provide a dramatic backdrop to this alpine paradise, making Lake Louise a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
- Surface area (km)
- 0.8
- Max depth (m)
- 70
- Elevation (m)
- 1750
- Shoreline length (km)
- 5
Ideal for
- Family friendly:
- Pet friendly:
- Romantic getaways:
Popular activities
- Kayaking
- Canoeing
- Hiking
- Ice Skating
- Cross-country Skiing
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Nearby lakes
Where to stay
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Lake Louise has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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No, swimming in Lake Louise is not recommended due to the water temperature. The water temperature rarely rises above 4°C, making it extremely cold and potentially leading to hypothermia even on warm days.
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Lake Louise is a popular destination because of its stunning natural beauty. The lake’s turquoise blue water and surrounding mountains, including Mount Victoria and the Victoria glacier, offer breathtaking views. It also offers various activities like hiking, canoeing, and gondola rides, making it a versatile and attractive spot for visitors.
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In Lake Louise, Alberta, there is a mandatory catch and release regulation for most fish species due to the presence of whirling disease. Anglers must release all fish in the same place they were caught, except for lake trout from Lake Minnewanka. Only barbless hooks are allowed.
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There is no public beach at Lake Louise. The area is known for its lakeshore and mountain scenery, but it does not have a beach. Visitors can access the lakeshore via shuttle services, but the primary attractions are the lake views and surrounding hiking trails.
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Towns near Lake Louise, Alberta, include Banff, Field, Golden, Canmore, Radium Hot Springs, and Invermere. Banff is the largest and most well-known, while Field is extremely small. These towns are all located within or near Banff National Park.
