A virtual version of this hike is what inspired our trip to Banff and I am so glad it did. While we had many great adventures in Banff, this adventure in itself was definitely worth the trip. Thanks to travel advisor extraordinaire Dash and Ramble, we were able to spend ample (though it’s never enough!) time near Lake Louise.
If you come to Banff and are able to get to Lake Louise, it is very much worth the extra drive. Even if you can’t stay long and do the hikes in the area, there are plenty of spots to take in a view or do a short walkabout near the lake. Able to spend some time in the Lake Louise area? Even better! You will not regret any portion you can manage of this shoreline (and beyond) trail.
Due to weather (and perhaps some poor wardrobe planning on my part), we did not do the complete the Plain of Six Glaciers hike, which is about 9 miles roundtrip, but instead hiked the first half a total of three times over the course of our visit. This worked out great for us and I would highly recommend the first half (or really any of the first portion you are up for) if you are traveling with young kiddos, its raining, if you or your companions are not in the best hiking shape or simply not in the mood for a half-full day excursion into the wilderness.
That said, I have heard the second half is pretty incredible. There is a tea house, up close views of glaciers (that you can also hear cracking), golden larch trees (in September) and highly rewarding views everywhere you look. If the full adventure is calling you, definitely go for it!
I would definitely recommend layers and water-resistant hiking shoes for this one. We hiked in August when there was no chance of snow on the trails, but a little research on what to expect weather-wise and being over prepared will go a long way. For us, the weather changed quickly and often and like some kind of rain rookie, I showed up with a warm jacket that was not, as I had thought, water-resistant. I was raised in a rainforest and have no excuse for this, but at least I was the only one in our group who had to suffer for the mistake.
The trail starts out at Chateau Lake Louise. There is ample parking, but the initial viewing areas for the lake get quite congested at all times of day – unless it pours rain, and then you can have the whole place to yourself! While the crowds can be a bit annoying, you really can’t blame anyone for gawking at this majestic turquoise lake. The best part really is the way the color of it changes depending on the on the clouds overhead, the rising or setting sun, and the wind. Even in the rain, it still maintains a surreal glow.
While you can get some great views and photographs right in front of the chateau, if you venture off to the right along the lakeshore path, the crowds disperse and the views continue, ever changing as you continue walking. The Plain of Six trail follows the same path as the Lake Louis Lakeshore, so you will go the same way no matter how far you plan to venture. Ignore signs for Lake Agnes Trail, saving that for another day, and continue right along the lake.
The trail is flat and well-maintained for the first mile and a half making it easy to pick up the pace, but also hard not to look back at the chateau looking grand even as it gets smaller and smaller.
When the Lake Louise Lakeshore trail ends, you will have the choice to turn back or continue on the rockier path with an abrupt but quick climb. The trail evens out as you approach a beautiful silt beach where you can get some nice photos facing the chateau across the lake. It’s also a perfect place to just roam around and explore a bit if you don’t mind getting your shoes a little dirty and possibly wet.
From here the trail becomes a boardwalk for a bit as you walk alongside (and over) a stream. As the trail returns to dirt, it continues a slow and comfortable incline which continues well into the halfway point where we turned back. There are a few spots to check out the rushing stream that feeds silty glacier water into the lake.
It’s hard to pick a favorite thing about this hike, but if I had to, I would say its the variety of everything. The view is ever-changing, as is the terrain you are hiking on, the surrounding mountains, the peeks of various glaciers and the vegetation. The lake itself changes from one view to the next and with any sort of weather, be it clouds overhead, rain or even a slight breeze. Sunrise and sunset both bring their own magic to the lake. I can only imagine (although pictures of course help) how different it is in the extended winter when the lake freezes over and becomes a skating paradise. One more thing to add to the bucket list!
All Cedars and Sunsets adventure posts are meant for inspiration only. Always consult a proper map, tell someone where you are going, and check up on current weather and trail conditions. Be aware of potential dangers or wildlife threats and always pack extra water.
Be safe, have fun and keep adventuring!
XOXO – Jennie B.