Things To Do In Lake Louise: Experience Banff National Park’s Best

Even right in the town of Lake Louise, visitors feel surrounded by nature.

Nestled amid the mountains, and perched on the edge of a spectacular turquoise lake, Lake Louise has some of Banff National Park’s best hiking right on its doorstep. Whether you want to head out into the wilderness unguided or indulge in a sightseeing tour, Lake Louise has a wealth of things to do.

A person sits atop a rock pile overlooking a blue lake surrounded by high mountains.

1. Hiking

The west end of Banff National Park contains many of the area’s best hikes, and Lake Louise is well known for being close to some of the best trails around. For the serious hiker, Lake Louise is Banff’s premier destination. Moraine Lake and Johnston Canyon are two of the area's most popular and spectacular hikes.

A skiier gets ready for a steep run.

2. Skiing

With Lake Louise ski hill just outside the door, visitors to this beautiful resort town have easy access to one of the park’s three world-class ski hills. Between Lake Louise, Sunshine and Mount Norquay there are 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, and one of the longest ski seasons in North America. Tri-area lift tickets make it easy and affordable to experience all three resorts in one trip.

3. Columbia Icefield Adventure

As the southernmost point on the Icefields Parkway, Lake Louise is a great place to start your tour of the Athabasca Glacier. The Columbia Icefield Skywalk is a stunning glass-floored observatory, 918 feet above the floor of the Sunwapta Valley; a must-see attraction!

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A person takes a photo from a dock with red canoes.

4. Canoeing

The beautiful lake is one of this resort’s most captivating features, and canoeing is a great way to explore this iconic destination.

A horseback rider gets ready for a ride.

5. Trail Riding

The lake and surrounding areas are filled with beautiful trails for both riders and hikers alike. Take a trail ride around the lake to fully appreciate its beauty.

6. Sightseeing

There are so many options when it comes to exploring Lake Louise and the surrounding areas, including many different guided tours, and helicopter tours. The popular Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls tour takes in many beautiful sights, including Takakkaw Falls—a great local's secret!

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A group of mountain bikers on a trail overlooking a wide valley.