10/07/2026
For anyone going to Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, I think Lake Louise is at the top of their sightseeing wish list. It certainly was on mine.
But after visiting, I found myself with a long list of places I enjoyed more.
Maybe my lack of enthusiasm was partly due to poor planning, but I also think it was more than that.
Our time at Lake Louise was limited, I didn’t get shuttle reservations far enough in advance and I wasn’t able to snag one of the reservations released two days prior either, they go like hot cakes! We ended up hiring private transportation to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, which gave us limited time at each location.
Would I have enjoyed Lake Louise more if I’d had time to do one of the hikes? I’d love some feedback from anyone who has spent more time there.
My overall impression? It was SO crowded. People lined the entire shoreline in front of the Fairmont Chateau, and quite frankly, there were just too many people for me.
The hotel property is restricted, with access limited to hotel guests, and with the price tag, I can certainly understand the exclusivity. 😂 That didn’t stop my friend from walking straight through the front door like she was a hotel guest in pursuit of coffee. She succeeded and then promptly let me in through the side door. 🤣
Anyhow, I have a long list of places I enjoyed far more than Lake Louise. It’s a beautiful lake, no question, but it wasn’t what I would consider the most beautiful place I saw in Banff.
Here’s where I need your help…
I’m going back to the area next year, so give me ALL your tips and tricks for having a more meaningful experience at Lake Louise.
Did I miss the mark in my assessment? Is there something I should have done differently? Or is my assessment pretty accurate and we just don’t talk about it? 😂
I’m genuinely curious, tell me what you think! 👇