Though small, this hamlet contains some of the biggest sites in the Rocky Mountains. It was named for Queen Victoria's fourth daughter, Louise and came into being because of the building of the Canadian Pacific Railroad back in the late 1800's.
It is a hiker's paradise, a skier's dream and a wealth of natural beauty. You can stay in the
Chateau Lake Louise or some of the surrounding accommodations.
Some of the best skiing can be had at
Lake Louise ski hill depending on the amount of snow that falls. The view is unparalleled and you can see across to the lake and the glacier. You can also take the gondola up in the warmer months of the year and picnic up top.
Ski season in the mountains usually goes from November or December and can last as long as May or June, again, depending on the amount of snowfall.
The moraine filled lake is an unusual blue because of the minerals deposited on the bottom and left behind by the ice age that swept the glaciers throught the valleys. It created quite a stunning effect. Moraine Lake is roughly 13 kilometres from Lake Louise, has the same colour and appeared on the back of the Canadian twenty dollar bill for years.
There is a path that runs along the lake and you can walk a little or you can hike up to the tea house and
Lake Agnes. You can canoe Lake Louise, cycle, rock climb or hang out in the spa that is located inside the chateau.
Winter activites like skating and cross country skiing can keep you active. A sleigh pulled by big Clydesdale horses, jingling with their bells on while you are nestled under warm blankets enjoying the ride and the scenery is like a fairy tale.
Lake Louise and area is a photographer's dream, a naturalist's idea of a good time and a place where memories can be made. It is also protected in the boundaries of
Banff National Park. Many animals live here, and yes, there are more bears.
Wildlife must remain wild so it is appreciated that you don't feed the chipmunks and marmots: don't get out of your car if you are lucky enough to see a bear on the highway. Stay inside and take its picture. Watch wildlife from afar and enjoy the vastness of our living world.
It is a good idea to know what you are doing if you plan to hike in the mountains. Arm yourself with knowledge before you go traipsing off into the woods. There are many tour operators that offer all things wilderness,including horseback riding tours. Get yourself a guide and enjoy.
For more information go to the
Discover Lake Lousie website, and for all other things Alberta go to the
Travel Alberta website.
Canada has a lot to offer so look into your next Canadian holiday and see the Rockies and Lake Louise.
