Lake Louise

A Winter Fairytale at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, AB, Canada

Lake Louise is a small, Canadian mountain town named after its glacier-fed, turquoise blue lake. It is surrounded by the Canadian Rockies, majestic pine trees, and the stately Fairmont Chateau. During the cold-weather months, the lake freezes over, creating a winter playground for hiking, ice skating, and a slew of other snowy activities.

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In any season, Lake Louise is a coveted travel destination and it isn’t hard to understand why. Once upon a time, the Fairmont Chateau was only open during the summer. Alas, the growth of downhill skiing in the 1970s and Calgary hosting the 1988 Winter Olympics, created enough demand for the hotel to winterize the property and start welcoming guests year-round.

Lake Louise is a popular day trip from Banff Springs. Adventure-seekers and those wanting to take in the incredible scenic beauty of the area have no trouble filling up their day with outdoor activities. Depending on just how much you want to do, a stay at the Fairmont Chateau provides a home base with luxury amenities, restaurants, and endless views.

Above photo: The drive from Banff Spring to Lake Louise

We came to Lake Louise for a 2-night stay at the Fairmont Chateau following a few days in Banff. We did consider just a day trip, but could not possibly fit everything in without staying a couple nights. (Read my complete post on our Christmas Get-Away to Banff here.)

Above photos: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

When we arrived, the first thing we did was try to change our return fights so we could stay an extra night. We were instantaneously in love with the mountains, the snowy scene, and everything that came with our stay on the Gold Level of the hotel. Unfortunately, we weren’t able to change our flights — but it would have totally been worth it!

Check rates & availability for Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise below:

Top winter activities at Lake Louise

In this post I will share all the highlights from our Lake Louise stay and some additional ideas that we didn’t have time for. Our stay was in mid-December while everything was completely decorated for Christmas. However, the hotel has less of a Christmas draw than its sister property in Banff, as Lake Louise caters to outdoor winter activities that go well-past the holidays.

• Hike to Fairview Lookout
• Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride
• Skiing at Lake Louise Mountain Resort
• Ice Skating on Lake Louise
• Hike Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail

Above photos: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Hike to Fairview Lookout

Despite the snow on the ground, some hiking is still possible around Lake Louise during the winter. Early in the season, some trails might be closed for avalanche safety. Later, after the snow is settled and packed, some of the boundaries are lifted. I recommend checking with the hotel concierge staff before heading outside just in case conditions are not good. Likewise for the snowshoe trails.

Above photos: Fairview Lookout Trailhead

We arrived in the middle of a major snowfall. The snow globe effect was amazing for all the winter fairytale vibes, but not so great for catching sweeping views of the landscape. I decided to hike up to Fairview Lookout anyways. This hike is around 1.2 km (0.7 miles) has a bit of an incline, which is even harder work in deep snow. My crampons helped a ton (click here to see the ones I purchased).

Above photos: Fairview Lookout Trail

The lookout platform is located at a small opening in the thick forrest and the views are wonderful! There are all kinds of other trails that join up with this trail in case you have it in you. After I took some photos, I headed back the way I came — downhill the whole way:)

Above photos: Fairview Lookout

Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

The reliable snowfall at Lake Louise means that horse-drawn sleigh rides are a regular occurrence during the winter monts and a favorite activity for visitors. If you’ve ever wanted to live out a Currier & Ives scene, this is the perfect opportunity. Book your sleigh ride with Brewster Adventures here.

The sleigh picks-up guests directly outside the hotel in front of the lake and follows the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail. Each pairing of horses only does a couple rides per day, and then they are switched out with another pair. Brewster Stables, who operates the sleigh rides, is known for their deep historical ties to the land and for outfitting some pretty high profile clients, including Marilyn Monroe.

Above photos: Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

The sleigh does not make any stops during the ride, meaning this isn’t a photo opportunity for scenery, but you can certainly capture some great video of your experience. At the turn-around point, the sleigh pauses briefly to admire the frozen Lower Falls waterfall at the end of the trail before following the same trail back to the hotel.

Above photos: Horse-Drawn Sleigh Ride

Skiing at Lake Louise Mountain Resort

There are several noteworthy ski resorts in Banff National Park, and Lake Louise Mountain Resort is one of them. The Fairmont Chateau offers free shuttle service to/from the resort. Or, there is also regular bus service from town. Book your lift tickets and shuttle ride here.

Above photos: Lake Louise Mountain Resort

There is some debate over which resort amongst the Big 3 is the best — but I think it just comes down to personal preference for the type of terrain, views, and cost. Lake Louise is known for the best views, and also has a lot of terrain for all levels of skiers. Sunshine Village is known for its ski-in/ski-out accommodations and long season. Mt. Norquay is the most cost-friendly option and is great for beginners.

Above photos: Lake Louise Mountain Resort

This was my first time skiing in the Canadian Rockies, and it was spectacular! If you ski, I highly recommend setting aside a day to hit the slopes. I got a little unlucky with the views because it was snowing hard while we were there. On the other hand, the fresh powder created perfect conditions for my tree-lined runs.

Above photo: Lake Louise Mountain Resort

Ice Skating on Lake Louise

Ice skating on a frozen lake is one of the huge draws to Lake Louise visitors during the winter. I grew up skating at an indoor skating rink. So, I was really looking forward to the outdoor experience.

The equipment rental staff warned us that the ice wasn’t as perfectly smooth as my Zamboni’d rink ice, but I don’t think that sunk in until we were actually out there. It was really rough! The guys playing a pick-up game of hockey made it look so much easier, but I suppose you just learn if you live in a cold climate.

Not to squash any romantic ideas you might have about ice skating on Lake Louise though. I would just say, be prepared. This might not be the opportunity to show off your sit spin or edge jumps.

Above photos: Ice Skating on Lake Louise

Hike Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail

One of our last activities at Lake Louise was a hike along the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail, which is the same trail used by the horse-drawn sleighs. As the name suggests, the trail follows the northwest side of the lake. It is a very flat trail with zero elevation change — just beautiful views and evergreen trees outlined in snow.

From the hotel to the Lower Falls is about 1.1 km (0.7 miles) one way. You can also continue to the Upper Falls, which is another 1.6 km (1 mile) walk beyond the Lower Falls.

Above photo: Lower Falls

We took our time and went out onto the ice a couple times. The snow was already shin-deep in mid-December. With an average snowfall close to 200″ per year, there probably comes a point where walking out requires snowshoes, which can be rented from the hotel.

Above photos: Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail

Other Ideas & Essential Links

Other Ideas

Whatever your level of adventure and enthusiasm for outdoor winter fun, chances are good it can be satisfied at Lake Louise or within Banff National Park. Some other activities that we didn’t have time (or energy) for included:

• Cross-country skiing
• Tubing
• Fat biking
• Snowmobiling
• Ice climbing & canyoning
• Snowshoeing

Essential Links

You MUST purchase a Parks Canada Pass in order to drive within Banff National Park boundaries. Since Lake Louise is located within the park, you will need this pass. Click here for online advance purchase.

The Banff & Lake Louise Tourism website is chok-full of visitor information, seasonal activity recommendations, trip ideas, history, and more. Click here to visit and bookmark this site while planning your trip.

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