If you’ve ever researched hikes in Alberta, or just been on the internet for that matter, you’ve probably found yourself looking at the glistening, bright-blue waters of Lake Louise. The area is featured everywhere you can imagine, it’s got global appeal, and it tends to be pretty bustling during the high seasons. While crowds aren’t everyone’s cup of tea, this place has unmatched allure, and for good reason. It’s truly jaw-dropping. A sight you need to see and experience with your own eyes.
If this is the summer that you plan to follow through with your hiking goals and plans, Lake Louise in Banff National Park is a hiker’s dream come true with glacier-fed turquoise waters, towering peaks, and iconic trails. Whether craving peaceful forested strolls, high alpine adventures, or sweeping summit views, this area delivers it all.
The trails around Lake Louise are as varied as they are stunning, each offering its blend of challenge, scenery, and unforgettable moments. The hikes we’re listing today are absolute bucket-list material, from golden larch valleys to hidden tea houses tucked beneath glaciers. So grab your boots, load up your pack, and get ready to explore some of the most iconic and awe-inspiring routes in the Canadian Rockies.
Pika Trail
If you're looking to escape the crowds and experience Lake Louise from a whole new angle, Pika Trail is calling your name. Tucked away at the top of the Lake Louise summer gondola, this lesser-known trail leads you through alpine meadows and up toward the Ptarmigan Valley Viewpoint, offering a quieter, more peaceful adventure than the bustling lakeside paths below.
What makes this trail worth your time? It’s moderately challenging, making it a solid choice for those looking to stretch their legs without committing to a full-day trek. Along the way, you’ll be treated to sweeping views of the surrounding Rocky Mountain peaks and deep-cut valleys. It’s a refreshing change of pace, and a perfect spot to soak in the grandeur of Banff from above. Also, this place is named after the adorable little animal, the Pika, so you’re sure to see (or at least hear) a few of the little cuties along your journey.
The Details:
Location: Begins near the Lake Louise gondola.
Distance: ~4.1 km round-trip (2.5 km per way). Approximately 290 m elevation gain.
Lake Agnes & The Beehive Circuit
Sip tea at the historic Lake Agnes Tea House, soak in the valley views, then climb to the Beehives for panoramic scenes over Lake Louise. It’s the perfect mix of cozy charm and panoramic payoff.
This beloved trail is a Lake Louise classic. It winds through shaded forest trails, past the reflective waters of Mirror Lake, and up to the charming Lake Agnes Tea House, perched beside a crystal-clear alpine lake. At 6.8 km round trip and around 385–400 m of elevation gain, it’s an approachable hike with plenty of reward.
Why do so many people return to this trail again and again? It’s a perfect mix of scenic beauty and mountain culture. After the steady climb, hikers are greeted by the historic tea house where they can sip hot tea and enjoy fresh-baked snacks with a front-row view of Lake Agnes, Mount Niblock, and Mount Whyte. It’s an experience that feels both remote and delightfully cozy.
Big Beehive
The Big Beehive trail is a natural next step if you’re up for a little more adventure after reaching Lake Agnes. This extension adds a moderate climb, totalling about 10 km out and back (including the Lake Agnes segment), with approximately 520–640 m of elevation gain.
The payoff? Unreal views. From the summit of Big Beehive, you’ll look down on the vivid turquoise of Lake Louise far below and out across the sprawling Bow Valley. Come autumn, the surrounding larch trees set the landscape ablaze with gold, making this one of the most rewarding panoramic spots in the park.
Little Beehive
Looking for a slightly shorter extension from Lake Agnes without sacrificing the views? The Little Beehive trail offers a fantastic alternative. A bit less demanding than its bigger sibling, it still delivers jaw-dropping perspectives.
From the Little Beehive viewpoint, you’ll catch sweeping vistas over the Bow Valley and surrounding peaks, perfect for soaking in the landscape or snapping that envy-worthy Instagram shot. It’s a worthwhile detour that adds a touch of elevation and a hefty dose of beauty.
The Details:
Location: Starts at the Lake Louise Lakeshore (walk past the Fairmont onto the trail).
Public Transit is highly recommended, as the Lake Louise parking lot fills up quickly. Reserve your shuttle ticket online today!
Paradise Valley Trail Lake Annette
Tucked away from the busier Lake Louise hotspots, the trail to Lake Annette offers a quieter, more secluded hiking experience. While it may not be as well-known as its famous neighbours, this hidden gem is cherished for its peaceful paths and untouched alpine scenery.
The trail winds through forest and meadows before arriving at a tranquil lake framed by rugged mountain peaks. It’s the perfect escape for hikers enjoying classic Rocky Mountain views without the crowds. If serenity and solitude are high on your hiking wishlist, Lake Annette delivers.
The Details:
Location: Off Moraine Lake Road, near Paradise Valley (just past the parking lot).
Distance: ~5.7 km round-trip, approximately 345 m elevation gain.
Eiffel Lake
Eiffel Lake is accessed from the Moraine Lake area, just a short drive from Lake Louise, and it’s often counted among the area’s top hikes, and for good reason. This scenic trail peels away from the crowds and climbs gently through open alpine terrain, offering uninterrupted views of the stunning Valley of the Ten Peaks.
As you approach the lake, the views only get better. The final destination is a peaceful, glacier-fed lake tucked beneath towering peaks. During larch season, the trail transforms into a golden wonderland, making it a dream for photographers and nature lovers. This trail is celebrated for its stunning scenery and moderate challenge.
The Details:
Location: Trailhead at Moraine Lake parking lot.
Distance: ~11.2 km round-trip with approximately 400 m elevation, with most of the climbing in the first 2.5 km.
Larch Valley & Minnestimma Lakes
Starting from the shores of Moraine Lake, the Larch Valley trail ascends through a shaded forest before bursting into a wide-open alpine valley blanketed with larch trees and wildflowers. The journey ends at the serene Minnestimma Lakes, nestled beneath towering peaks, a perfect spot to pause and take it all in.
This hike is legendary for good reason. The hike is renowned for its breathtaking scenery, moderate challenge, and the opportunity to experience the iconic Valley of the Ten Peaks from a unique vantage point. In late September, the valley glows with golden larches, making it one of the most iconic fall hikes in the Canadian Rockies. Larch Valley is an absolute must for anyone hiking near Lake Louise.
The Details:
Location: Begins at the Moraine Lake parking lot.
Distance: ~9 km round trip with approximately 550 m elevation gain.
Lake Louise’s hiking is like a choose-your-own-adventure: quick jaunts to larch-lined ridges, full-day glacier spectacles, and tea-house treats, all within easy reach. Whether chasing golden larches, Himalayan-level views of glaciers, or the comfort of a rustic tea house, this lineup packs your summer or fall with epic moments.
Britanny Burr is a freelance writer and a contributor to Great West Media. This story was written for Great West Media's Hot Summer Guide advertising feature. The Hot Summer Guide is a special feature about summer activities, bucket list adventures, staycation options, road trips, attractions, events, and road trip-worthy food & beverage destinations across Alberta. It is not written by and does not necessarily reflect the views of the editorial staff.
