Our favorite hike in the Lake Louise area combines two popular teahouses into one big loop which can be done in a day! This incredible Lake Louise Hike involves a hike up to Lake Agnes from Lake Louise, enjoy a break at the lake before climbing over the Big Beehive for an incredible view of Lake Louise from above. Then descend through the forest to meet up with the Plain Of Six Glaciers trail, head up across the Moraine to the tea house and take in the incredible views of the glaciers nearby before looping back to Lake Louise. Days don’t get more scenic and varied than this Lake Louise hike!
Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links, so I may earn a small commission on any purchase made, at no additional cost to you. This helps me keep the blog running, so thank you for your support!
Table of Contents
Key Stats For The Teahouse Loop
Distance: 10.3km
Elevation: 651m
Best time: Trails to both teahouse cross complex avalanche terrain. The best time to complete this Lake Louise hike is during the summer months, July to September.
Getting To The Trailhead
Lake Louise is a busy place in summer! You’ll need to arrive very early if you want to get a parking space in order to do the Lake Agnes Tea House hike. If you successfully get a spot you’ll then need to pay to park, which is $36.75 for the day.
If this doesn’t sound appealing to you, my favorite option is to book the Parks Canada shuttle which leaves from the Lake Louise ski resort. While some seats are available to book when reservations open in April, a certain number of seats are released three days prior at 8am for those who want to plan more at the last minute.
If you are travelling from Banff you can also book the Roam public bus which will take you direct from the Town of Banff to Lake Louise. These spots sell out, especially the morning buses so book as far in advance as you can.
There are also a number of private shuttles which you can book to take you to Lake Louise, although typically this is a more expensive option than the others I suggested.
The Teahouse Loop Hike In Lake Louise
We did this Lake Louise hike including two teahouses in a counterclockwise direction. Starting from Lake Louise, take the first right off the lakeshore trail, following signs for Lake Agnes. The climb begins immediately, but the trail is wide and well maintained. Mostly in the forest you won’t have the Lake Agnes hike to yourself. Before long you’ll find yourself at Mirror Lake, continue of following signs for Lake Agnes. The trail gets steeper and towards the lake there are some steps to navigate before the trails appears at the Lake Agnes lakeshore, stop for a drink and a piece of cake at the Lake Agnes teahouse if you wish.
Follow the trail which goes right, along the Lake Agnes lakeshore before it climbs up beside the lake via a series of switchbacks. You’ll want some good shoes for this section since it can be quite loose when dry.
As the trail levels out, follow the trail to the left which will take you out to the end of the Big Beehive. From this vantage point, the view over the gorgeous Lake Louise is unbeatable! It is the perfect place for a snack stop.
Retrace the trail back to the main hike and head left, descending down into the valley through the forest. It is easy going for the most part and not too steep.
Eventually the trail joins the Plain Of Six Glaciers trail, follow it through the meadow, across the rock band and then up beside the Moraine. It’s a fairly steady climb but never too steep! Marvel at the stunning glacial Valley you are hiking up before getting to the Plain Of Six Glaciers teahouse. Grab a sandwich and a drink before heading further up the valley to the Plain Of Six Glaciers viewpoint. The end of the trail and the turnaround point of this Lake Louise hike.
The viewpoint for the Plain Of Six Glaciers is the turnaround point. Head back down the trail past the teahouse. Keep right at the junction where you came down from the Big Beehive. The trail continues to descend at a gentle grade. Enjoy views of the blue Lake Louise shining up ahead. The trail follows the inflow to Lake Louise before joining the Lake Louise Lakeshore trail to get back to the hotel and the parking lot and bus stops.
Things You’ll Need
Hiking Boots – it’s a long day, you’ll want comfortable and grippy hiking boots for this Lake Louise hike. Particularly for the climb up to the Big Beehive and the rocky sections near the Plain Of Six Glaciers.
Rain Jacket – the weather can change fast in the mountains. Pack a rain jacket and layers just in case! When we completed this Lake Louise hike it started sunny, then rained for a few hours before the wind picked up.
Backpack – I took a 20l backpack. It’s a big day, so I needed water, snacks and extra layers for when the weather changed, this was the perfect size for me.
Places To Stay Nearby
Deer Lodge – This beautiful old hotel is located a short walk from Lake Louise. Ideally located and with rooms with an old world vibe, it’s a great base for a Lake Louise hike.
HI Lake Louise – Located down near the townsite of Lake Louise, this great hostel has rooms for everyone! The Cafe on-site makes excellent food to fuel your adventure.
