How do you visit Lake Louise by train?

Rocky Mountaineer’s First Passage to the West is the only rail route that travels directly to Lake Louise. The two-day journey from Vancouver follows the Fraser Valley and Fraser Canyon, then crosses the Monashee and Selkirk Mountains into the Rockies. It passes through the Spiral Tunnels at Mount Ogden, Kicking Horse Pass and the Continental Divide. The route ends in either Banff or Lake Louise, so guests can choose their preferred destination. Guests travelling to Lake Louise step off at the Lake Louise train station, a historic log station beside the village, where transfers to their hotel are arranged.

Rail travel takes place during daylight hours, with an overnight stay in Kamloops between Vancouver and Lake Louise or Banff. Along the way, GoldLeaf passengers enjoy bi-level glass-dome coaches that provide wide views of the mountain scenery, and gourmet meals in a separate lower-level dining area. SilverLeaf passengers travel in single-level coaches with oversized windows and enjoy delicious meals served at their seats.

The best time to visit Lake Louise for its vibrant turquoise waters is late June through August, when the lakes are typically fully thawed and glacial rock flour gives the water its distinctive colour.

Lake Louise and the town of Banff are two of Banff National Park's most iconic destinations, but they offer different experiences. Lake Louise is about 58 km (36 miles) from the town of Banff, or roughly a 40-minute drive, so it’s easy to visit both in one trip.

Many visitors choose to spend a night or two in both Lake Louise and Banff. When booking with us, our Vacation Advisors can personalize your itinerary to include both destinations and take care of the hotels, bookings, transfers, tours, and other details.

From skating on the frozen lake surface in Winter to strolling by the turquoise water in Summer, Lake Louise offers a wealth of unforgettable experiences for a wide variety of travellers.

1. Bask in the beauty of the turquoise lake

Lake Louise is one of Canada’s most photographed destinations, known for the striking turquoise colour of its water. As glacial water flows into the lake, it carries fine particles of rock flour from the surrounding glaciers. These particles remain suspended in the water and reflect light, creating the lake’s distinctive blue-green colour. Take time to admire the view, with the surrounding mountain peaks reflected in the still waters.

2. Take a walk on the Lake Louise Lakefront Trail

For an easy, level walk with beautiful views, the Lakefront Trail follows Lake Louise’s shoreline toward the far end of the lake. The 4 km (2.5 mi) round-trip trail takes about an hour at a leisurely pace, with benches along the way for relaxing and taking in the scenery. 

3. Canoe on turquoise water

Canoes are available to rent on Lake Louise during the Summer months, starting at around $170 CAD per hour. Paddling on the lake offers views of the surrounding peaks and Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise from the water. The lake is typically calm, and canoe rentals are suitable for beginners. Staff provide instructions before departure, so no previous canoeing experience is required. 

4. Enjoy a bird's eye view from Lake Louise Gondola

The Lake Louise Gondola typically operates from May to September, providing access to views of Lake Louise, the surrounding mountains and Lake Louise Village without requiring a hike uphill. The sightseeing experience typically takes 1–3 hours, with the gondola operating from June to September. The area is also known for seasonal grizzly bear activity, and wildlife sightings are possible from the gondola and viewing areas. 

5. Visit Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Set on the shores of Lake Louise with views of the surrounding mountains and Victoria Glacier, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has been part of the destination’s history since the original log cabin was built in 1890. Visitors can dine at the resort, enjoy afternoon tea or stop at the Lakeview Lounge for views through its large windows. The Concierge desk also offers art kits for painting the surrounding scenery.