Everything You Need to Know About Exploring Lake Louise

One of Canada’s most beloved ski resorts, Lake Louise is a destination that offers beauty and excitement all-year round. The lake that gives the town its name, in the heart of Banff National Park, has been a ski resort since the 1920s. In fact, it's the only resort in Canada to be a part of the Ski World Cup route. The lake’s stunning emerald colour is just as vibrant in real life as it is in the pictures, and this is largely down to rock flour that runs into it from glacial meltwater. Beyond making a pretty photograph, there are plenty of attractions around Lake Louise's shores and into the mountains – here are just a few of our favourites:

Even after the snow has melted, there is lots to do in Lake Louise. In particular there's a range of fantastic hiking trails through the mountains, as well as guided walks for those who want to learn more about the local sights and flora and fauna. One of the most popular is the Trail Of The Great Bear, which answers the all-important question of what you should do if you encounter a grizzly bear during your trip. Game of Thrones fans might be drawn to the spectacular Trail Of Ice And Fire, a two-hour hike which takes you back to the last Ice Age and showcases how the landscapes here have changed over the years. And for more of a challenge, the 3.5-hour Trail of 7 Wonders highlights the endangered species that live and grow here in Banff National Park.

Of course, as the biggest ski resort in the Canadian Rockies, the winter season is when Lake Louise is at its best thanks to 4,200 acres of skiable terrain and 145 marked runs. There’s a good range of trails for varying abilities, with just under half rated as intermediate, 30% for the more advanced and 25% for beginners. There are plenty of other winter activities to choose from too, try your hand at snowshoe tours, cross-country skiing and ice tubing at the family friendly Sunny Tube Park.

When the ice melts, there are plenty of activities designed for getting out on the water at Lake Louise, with canoeing being the most popular. The boats themselves are easy enough to hire, and you can choose between exploring the lake under your own steam or taking part in a guided canoe tour, where you can learn all about the history of the area, the indigenous people, early explorers and local wildlife. No motorised boats are allowed on the lake either, so you’re guaranteed a peaceful and relaxing chance to get back to nature.

There’s no better place to go mountain biking than in the actual mountains, and Lake Louise’s stunning peak-carved landscapes are perfect. One of the most famous biking trails in the area is the Moraine Lake Highline trail, which, while being challenging, offers an incredibly rewarding experience with unrivalled views across Banff National Park. For beginners and families, the shorter Bow River Loop offers wonderful views, flat pathways and fewer precarious moments.

Whether you prefer the idea of exploring the sights and sounds of Lake Louise on your own two feet, on two wheels or from the tranquillity of a canoe, its majestic natural beauty really is at your fingertips. For something a bit different, try horseback riding, snowboarding, tubing and tobogganing, all of which can be tailored to visitors of all ages. And however you choose to explore the area, you can do so at your own pace – just chat to a Flight Centre Travel Expert to find out more.