7 Best Things to Do in Lake Louise Canada Summer 2025
Photo: Pexels
Lake Louise, with its brilliant turquoise waters framed by snow-capped peaks, is a gem in Banff National Park, Alberta. This year-round paradise offers everything from hiking and paddling to wellness retreats and alpine views.
In this guide, we spotlight 7 things to do in Lake Louise Canada - many centered around its world-famous waters.
Top 7 Things to Do in Lake Louise Canada for an Adventurous Summer Experience
Looking to make the most of your summer in Lake Louise? These 7 things to do in Lake Louise Canada blend adrenaline, tranquility, and breathtaking scenery, giving you a taste of the Canadian Rockies at their finest.
1. Canoeing on Lake Louise
Canoeing allows you to fully absorb the scenery - Victoria Glacier in the distance, lush forested slopes, and the surrounding peaks mirrored in the water.
Photo: Pixabay
Details:
- Launch point: The Boathouse, western shore of the lake
- Water type: Cold glacial lake; clear, brilliant turquoise, usually calm
- Skill level: Beginner to intermediate paddlers
- Address: Right next to Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- Hours: Typically from 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM, depending on weather; walk-up only
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Fees & rentals:
- Hotel guests: ~$110 + GST/hr or $100 for half-hour
- Non-guests: ~$170/hr or $160 for half-hour
- Banff Canoe Club: $65 for the first hour, $30 for each additional hour
- Amenities: Paddles, life jackets, safety briefing, and card payment only
- Tips: Get there early (before 10 AM) for the shortest waits. If you have your own canoe, bring a Parks Canada self-certification permit.
2. Stand-Up Paddle Boarding (SUP)
For a more exclusive water experience, SUP provides serenity with a full exercise session. Paddle boarding allows you to glide on glassy lakes with ease while watching nature or soaking in alpine reflections.
Photo: Pexels
Details:
- Launch point: Bow River near Banff, about 40 minutes from Lake Louise
- Water type: Still ponds and slow river, ideal for recreational paddling
- Skill level: Recreational and beginner paddlers
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Fees:
- Banff Canoe Club: ~$20/hour for members; $30/hour for non-members
Though not rented directly from Lake Louise, SUPs are available for rent on the lake. When paddling with your own inflatable board, launch off the shore and bring a Parks Canada self-certification permit.
With an iROCKER SUP, even remote glacial lakes near Banff and Canmore are easily accessed, offering extra paddling possibilities.
3. Kayaking at Lake Louise and Nearby Lakes
Kayaking on Lake Louise is ideal for paddlers who desire more water contact, more speed, and more agility. Many of the lakes in the area provide spectacular views for a lake day.
Photo: Pexels
Details:
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Rental options:
- Banff Canoe Club: $65 for the first hour, $30 for each additional hour
- Banff Adventures: Located at Wolf Street & Bow Avenue, same pricing
- Lake Minnewanka Boat Rentals: Single kayak: $49/hr then $24.50/hr; Double kayak: $91/hr then $45.50/hr
- Launch points: Authorized lake piers and access points on Lake Louise and glacial lakes
- Water type: Glacial-water lakes with frigid water, open ground, and breathtaking views
- Skill level: Beginner-intermediate; be cautious near icy water and sudden winds
- Amenities: Restrooms, safety gear, and simple paddling equipment
4. Hiking to Lake Agnes Tea House & Big Beehive
This popular hike is one of the favourites to get away from the crowds while enjoying breathtaking views and Canadian history The trail follows gently along Lake Louise shores, climbing into forested switchbacks to the open at Lake Agnes - a small lake with an idyllic tea house.
Photo: Pexels
Details:
- Trailhead: Lakeshore Trail at east end of Lake Louise
- Duration: Approximately 3 hours to Lake Agnes, side trip to Big Beehive for additional 1–1.5 hours
- Elevation gain: Moderate, but manageable for most hikers
- Amenities: Indoor and outdoor seating areas limited at Lake Agnes Tea House, some teas, sandwiches, and pastries
- Fees: Your Parks Canada pass will include trail fee; refreshments pay-as-you-go
5. Horseback Riding Adventures on Scenic Trails
Discover Lake Louise's untamed history on horseback over valleys and along picturesque alpine trails.
Details:
- Trail options: Lake Agnes route, the Plain of Six Glaciers, and Paradise Valley
- Outfitter: Brewster Adventures, a seasoned local guide
- Ride durations: Short 2-hour rides or all-day it with 4–7 hour tours
- Location: Stables located close to the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
- Cost: Rides start at approximately $200 per person; varies by duration and route
- Tips: Reserve in advance - especially in peak months (June through September)
6. Sightseeing Gondola to Mt. Whitehorn & Lake Louise Gondola Ride
This scenic lift gives you a bird’s-eye view of Banff’s grandeur. A must-do even for non-hikers.
Photo: Pixabay
Details:
- Where: Lake Louise Ski Resort, located about 57 km west of Banff
- Operating season: Typically runs from June through mid-October, weather permitting
- Activities: Gondola ride to the summit, short scenic hikes, photography, and wildlife viewing (grizzlies, marmots, mountain goats)
- Amenities: Mountain top restaurant, public washroom, interpretive centers, and gift centre
7. Afternoon Tea at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Relax and indulge in one of Canada's top lake view high-teas at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
Details:
- Location: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, 111 Lake Louise Drive
- Hours: 11:30 AM to 2:30 PM daily
- Cost: Approximately CA$115/pax
- What’s included: Premium teas, gourmet finger sandwiches, hand-crafted desserts, and impeccable service
Choose iROCKER SUP for Your Lake Louise Adventure
Whether paddling across the crystal waters of Lake Louise or other peaceful alpine lakes in the region, a travel-sized, inflatable stand-up paddle board from iROCKER is your ultimate travel buddy.
Why ride your own iROCKER board?
- Portability: They pack into a backpack and meet most shuttle and airline regulations
- Durability: Built strong enough to endure tough coastlines, glacial ice water, and mountain gusts
- Ease of use: Fast deflation and inflation for spontaneous lake trips
- Convenience: Avoid rental lines and launch wherever access is permitted
iROCKER boards are made for every skill level:
- CRUISER: Ultra-stable for beginners, yoga, and relaxed paddling
- BLACKFIN: Constructed for distance, touring, and improved tracking
- ULTRA™ Series: Folding, ultralight, and best adapted to backpacking to remote lakes
With iROCKER, you're not buying a paddle board, you're unlocking access to irreplaceable destinations and experiences.
Ready to Paddle? Get Your iROCKER SUP Today!
Not limited to these 7 things to do in Lake Louise Canada, Lake Louise is a haven for canoeing across turquoise lakes, hiking to mountain tea houses, or kayaking through. With an iROCKER SUP, you're free to paddle whenever, wherever, on your terms.
Make the most of your Canadian Rockies adventure and purchase your iROCKER SUP today to drift across the waters of crystal clarity on Lake Louise!
