An unforgettable winter's day in Lake Louise, Canada

last updated: October 2023

The turquoise waters of Lake Louise serenely embraced by the treelined slopes and rocky peaks of the Canadian Rockies make for a bucket list worthy sight. However, what most people don’t know is that the lake’s beauty is jaw-dropping in winter as well, as it transforms into a fairy tale wonderland of ice and snow. With its surface completely frozen, the lake becomes a playground for adults and kids alike wishing to experience the magic of winter in Canada.

We visited Lake Louise on a sunny day in March, a truly unique travel experience indeed. This is how we spent our day and my recommendations for yours.

WHAT TO EXPECT IN WINTER IN LAKE LOUISE?

If you don’t come from or travel to northern countries often, then you probably have only seen people walking, skating or passing with sleds over frozen lakes in films. But this happens for real! In the Canadian Rockies, during winter, because of the temperatures being continuously below freezing, many of the lakes freeze. Furthermore, the thickness of the ice is such that it allows for large bodies of water to transform into solid surfaces safe enough for various leisure activities. The ice was still rock solid during our trip in late March.

It is a majestic sight to see the juxtaposition of the flat ice against the vertical drops of the mountains. It was even more of a unique experience to see so many people having fun ON the ice. Interestingly, the frozen surface of the lake was organised into different sections separated by piles of snow. A few areas were sectioned off as ice hockey fields complete with goal posts while others as ice skating rings. In between, snow barricades formed paths so that everyone can enjoy watching the games or simply stroll towards the far ends of the lake and admire the view.

WINTER FUN IN LAKE LOUISE WITH ICE HOCKEY & SKATING

We started our day by dropping by the Fairmont Chateaux Lake Louise, the 5* hotel that overlooks the lake. My friends rented their skates there (you don’t need to stay at the hotel) and we also booked afternoon tea for later.

Then, it was time for some fun! I don’t skate but I was happy taking photos of the striking scenery while my friends played one-to-one ice hockey. If you dare to challenge the semi-professional locals, you can also join an impromptu game! Having said that, here’s a word of warning. Make sure you don’t stand close to the ice hockey rings with your back turned to the game. There are no tall fences so there is a chance that a stray puck flies out of the ice ring!

Afterwards we moved on to the next ice ring to practice some figure skating. Compared to indoor ice rings or the temporary ones set out in city squares, what a difference it makes to be surrounded by this stunning natural setting!

When we were done with all the fun and games, it was time for some food and warmth.

TEA AT THE FAIRMONT CHATEAUX

Tea at the Fairmont Chateaux is not just food and warmth. It is an elegant affair that rivals high tea served at the most luxurious hotels and restaurants in London. Even though the dining room’s decor and eclectic selection of mini desserts and scones reminded us of the old country, the glorious views of the frozen lake and mountains were certainly incomparable!

Afternoon tea at the Chateaux is definitely not an experience one would call typical Canadian, yet we thoroughly enjoyed it. It added a bit of pomp and glamour to an already unique day. Nevertheless, if a morning’s worth of skating has left you craving for a more substantial meal than cucumber sandwiches, the hotel offers a selection of different restaurants and dining options.

Alternatively, the small town of Lake Louise is about a 10min drive so you could head over there for a meal once you are done frolicking on the lake.

We chose to spend our afternoon break at the Fairmont so that we can go back out on the lake. With sunset approaching, we now had Lake Louise pretty much all to ourselves.

A ROMANTIC WINTER STROLL ON THE ICY SURFACE OF LAKE LOUISE

A stroll on the frozen surface of Lake Louise is magical at any time of day but as sunset approaches and most visitors go home, it becomes a far more romantic and calmer experience.

While the snow on the paths is well compacted and you can walk easily (snow / sturdy boots are necessary) there are tons of thick fresh snow on the edges to play with… If you are still feeling playful. This is also the perfect opportunity to take scenic photos in low light without people in the background.

We found it to be the perfect time for a more mindful experience. Taking deep breaths of the clear mountain air. Trying to listen to the wind making its way amongst the tall Canadian snow-lined spruces. Admiring the backdrop of the majestic mountains even though we spent all of our free time gazing at them throughout the entirety of our trip to Banff. It’s just never enough!

PRACTICAL INFORMATION FOR YOUR VISIT TO LAKE LOUISE

Visiting Lake Louise is a must. No matter the season. During our visit on a sunny day in late March, there were indeed many visitors, but we were still able to enjoy it all without feeling overwhelmed. However, winter is low season in the Rockies.

If you are visiting Banff in winter it will also be the easiest lake to access. It is a 40min drive from Banff on a not difficult road. While we were visiting, the roads to lakes Peyto and Moraine were shut for fear of avalanches.

Furthermore, unlike other natural sights in Banff, one doesn’t need to hike to get there. There is a parking lot near the Fairmont Chateaux and the hotel overlooks the lake. However, if you do crave for adventure, hiking trails are available all around the lake even in the winter. I regret not allowing time to go snowshoeing… Have a look at Banff & Lake Louise Alive if you need more information on organising an activity such as this.

Last but certainly not least, if a day trip to Lake Louise doesn’t seem enough, you can stay overnight! Splurging for Fairmont Chateau is not the only option. There are plenty of the scenic lodges near the lake. Staying near Lake Louise also provides you with the perfect base to go skiing in Lake Louise ski resort.

FINAL THOUGHTS

My intent with my Canada blog posts is to highlight that if the country is not on your bucket list, it should be. Naturally since it is such a vast country, one would not know where to begin. I started with the Canadian Rockies and I am so glad I did! Whether winter or summer, Lake Louise is one of the big hitters in the area and, trust me when I say, it is absolutely justifiable and totally worth your time.

This is not a sponsored post & I am not affiliated with any of the hotels, restaurants or organisations mentioned.

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An unforgettable winter’s day in Lake Louise, Canada