The frozen Lake Louise is even more beautiful than in summer
❄️Lake Louise is a key attraction in Banff, attracting many visitors in spring, summer, and fall. However, the cold winter deters many tourists. In fact, Lake Louise in winter is just as beautiful as in other seasons, and the frozen lake offers unique experiences.
🚌Getting to Lake Louise
🚗Self-driving: It takes about 40 minutes from Banff and about 2 hours from Calgary. In winter, you need to rent a four-wheel drive vehicle with snow tires.
🚌Public transportation:
From Banff, you can take the Banff to Lake Louise Shuttle bus (about CAD 10–15/one way).
⛄️Winter activities at Lake Louise:
1️⃣Ice skating: In winter, Lake Louise is completely frozen, becoming a natural ice rink. There is a designated skating area on the lake, and skate rental is about CAD 15–20/hour.
2️⃣Snowshoeing: The trails around Lake Louise are perfect for snowshoeing, allowing you to enjoy the tranquility of a snowy winter surrounded by mountains. There are many places around Lake Louise where you can rent snowshoes.
3️⃣Dog sledding: About CAD 150–250/person.
4️⃣Cross-country skiing: There are many cross-country ski trails around the lake suitable for beginners and intermediate skiers. Equipment rental is convenient, costing about CAD 30–40/day.
5️⃣Ice Magic Festival (January): If you visit in January, you can catch the ice sculpture competition and performances.
🏨Accommodation at Lake Louise
The most convenient option is the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, where you can enjoy views of Lake Louise and the snow-capped mountains from your room. However, it is quite expensive, with winter prices generally over CAD 700.
⚠️Notes:
Winter temperatures can drop to -20°C or even lower, so be sure to wear warm clothing: thick down jackets, hats, scarves, waterproof gloves, and winter boots.
Although the lake is frozen, you must stay in designated areas and avoid uninspected ice.
Winter is a peak tourist season, so book accommodation, skating, and sledding activities several weeks in advance.