Curator’s statement
Lake Louise, framed by mountains and glaciers, is one of the most famous mountain vistas in the world, located within Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. It has everything you need for an amazing trip. From gorgeous glacier lakes, hikes to tea houses, wildlife watching, scenic drives and high tea or fine dining by a cozy fire. There are relaxing spa services and one of North America's best wine cellars. My husband and I have visited numerous times over the past three decades. Most recently, we went for our "2022 Beat the Arkansas Heat & Escape the Empty Nest" trip after dropping off our last child at college.
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Where to stay in Canada
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Things to do in Canada
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Views
Note: If you are not staying at the Chateau Lake Louise or Moraine Lake Lodge, you will need to book the shuttle through parks.canada.ca. Parking is very limited at the Chateau Lake Louise and personal vehicles are not allowed at Moraine Lake. Reserve as far out as possible to ensure you have a ride!
Fabulous Hiking
(A few of my favorites. There are so many more!)
Hike to Tea House for lunch, either Lake Agnes teahouse or the Plain of Six Glaciers and the Beehive.
Moraine Lake to Sentinal Pass: This hike has it all, stunningly blue glacier lake, lush pine and larch forests, rushing rivers, wildflowers, stark steep switchbacks to Sentinel Pass with unapparelled views of the Valley of Ten Peaks. Truly stunning!
Parker's Ridge Trail: Stunning 360-degree views and overlook of the Saskatchewan glacier.
Scenic Drives and Wildlife Spotting
Bow Valley Parkway Scenic Drive
Icefields Parkway Scenic Drive
Spa Day
The Post Hotel and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise both have indulgent spa services available.
Day Trip
Take a Day trip to Banff to see the town and Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel.
Visit the Columbia Icefield, Athabasca Glacier and Skywalk.
Places to eat & drink in Canada
Dinner at the Post Hotel Main Dining Room: Start with a predinner drink in the cozy bar, next to the roaring wood-burning fireplace. The dining room is its own destination, awarded the "Best Food in the Americas" by Conde Nast Traveler's Gold list. Boasting excellent ingredients, impeccable service, fresh cut flowers and the glow of a roaring fire. With a wine cellar of more than 20,000 bottles, they have earned the Wine Spectator "The Grand Award" winner since 2002. Our wonderful server, Yves, remembered us from our previous visits and has waited on us in each of the last three decades! We were given a tour of the amazing wine cellar by Yves and our sommelier.
For a more casual delight, try the Truffled Pigs Bistro and Lounge, in Field, near Yoho National Park. You can wear your hiking boots and cozy up with excellent appetizers, salads and burgers. It's not just pub food, but truly delicious, creative and worth the visit. We went back twice on our last visit (and we can be fussy diners).
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Travel Advisor
Audra Thomas
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Looking for more outdoor adventures? Check out other Fora guides: Checking Banff off the Bucket List.
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Canada.