Lake Louise (Alberta)

Lake Louise is a glacially fed lake in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, noted for its vivid turquoise colour and mountain backdrop. It is a focal point for sightseeing, hiking and alpine scenery in the Canadian Rockies.

The lake sits beneath the Victoria Glacier and is overlooked by the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise on the north shore. Popular on-lake activities include canoeing in summer and short scenic walks, while several well-known hiking trails start at the lakeshore and lead to adjacent alpine lakes and viewpoints.

The lake was renamed in the 19th century in honour of Princess Louise and has been a developed tourist destination since the arrival of the Canadian Pacific Railway and early mountain tourism infrastructure. It remains within Banff National Park, with visitor facilities concentrated at the lakeside and in the nearby village.

• Turquoise water: Known for its vivid turquoise colour produced by glacial rock flour suspended in the water and visible from lakeside viewpoints.
• Protected-area setting: Located within Banff National Park and commonly accessed from the nearby village named for the lake, with trailheads and boat rentals at the shore.

What to See #

• Victoria Glacier: Sits at the lake's headwall and feeds the lake with glacial melt; visible from the lakeshore and many viewpoint trails.
• Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: Historic hotel located on the north shore that serves as a hub for visitors and offers direct lake access and viewpoints.
• Lake Agnes and Plain of Six Glaciers trails: Popular hiking routes that start at the lake and lead to Lake Agnes teahouse and the Plain of Six Glaciers viewpoint, accessible on well-marked trails.