The Amazing Lake Agnes Tea House Hike – Tips and Information
Lake Agnes Tea House Hike
The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is one of the best family-friendly hikes in Banff National Park. Gorgeous views, coupled with a relatively easy half-day hike, make it a must-do when visiting this area. So grab the kids, and your camera, and head out for an awesome adventure at Lake Louise!
What is Lake Louise?
Lake Louise is one of the world’s most photographed glacial lakes. It is fed by Victoria Glacier on Mount Victoria, which rises above the western end of the lake.
The incredible turquoise colour of Lake Louise is due to the light filtering through the rock flour which is deposited by the surrounding glaciers. The colour is usually at its most vibrant between late July and August.
The lake sits at an elevation of 1,731 meters above sea level. It is relatively small, stretching 1.5 miles (2.4 km) long and about 0.75 miles (1.2 km) wide at its broadest point. The lake reaches a surprising depth of more than 220 feet (70 meters).
Where is Lake Louise?
Lake Louise is located in Banff National Park. You will find it just a short distance away from Moraine Lake and the Lake Louise Village.
Banff National Park is not only Canada’s first National Park, but it is also part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Keep in mind, that you will need a parks pass from Parks Canada to visit.
Distances to Lake Louise
- Banff to Lake Louise Distance: 57 km or 37 minutes
- Canmore to Lake Louise Distance: 84 km or 1 hour 7 minutes
- Calgary to Lake Louise Distance: 185 km or 2 hours 9 minutes
- Jasper to Lake Louise Distance: 233 Km or 2 hours 48 minutes
How Do You Get to Lake Louise?
Driving
If you are thinking of driving to Lake Louise, you will need to plan ahead! Lake Louise is quite popular, and as a result, the parking lots fill up pretty quickly during the peak season.
Lake Louise is located just outside of the village of Lake Louise in Banff National Park. And the village of Lake Louise is conveniently located just off the Trans Canada Highway (Highway 1).
Once you have arrived in the village, the signs to Lake Louise are fairly easy to follow. Just continue along Lake Louise Drive, past Moraine Lake Road, until you see the signs for the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise.
New paid parking is in effect for the 2021 season, from June to mid-October. A valid parking permit is required between 7 am and 7 pm for all vehicles in the Lake Louise Lakeshore public parking lot.
Look for pay stations when you arrive at Lake Louise. The fee is $11.70 per vehicle per day. You will need to input your license plate number into the pay kiosk.
You cannot park overnight at Lake Louise lakeshore.
Shuttle Buses
The easiest way to get to Lake Louise would be to take the shuttle buses. For the 2021 Season, the shuttles run every 20 minutes between 8 am and 6:20 pm, from the Park & Ride (just off the TransCanada Highway) to Lake Louise Lakeshore.
The cost is $8 per adult and $2 per youth. You will need to pre-book your shuttle time online prior to arrival, as reservations are required. A $3 reservation fee will also be added to your order.
Once at Lake Louise Lakeshore, you can connect between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake on a first come first serve basis, via the Lake Connector shuttle.
Taking Public Transit
If you happen to be staying in Banff (or the Lake Louise area), another option to get around is to take public transportation. Roam Transit offers express buses from Banff to Lake Louise (with a quick stop in front of the Samson Mall).
The route will take approximately an hour, and will cost $10 per adult (one way). You can pay your fare on the bus, however, you will need exact change.
When is the Best Time for Hiking Lake Louise?
The best time to visit Lake Louise is between late June and early to mid-September, as the lake doesn’t usually thaw until early June.
The Lake sits at a relatively high altitude, so much of the snow at the peaks won’t melt until at least July. This makes hiking Lake Louise far more challenging before early summer.
The Lake Agnes Tea House opens in early June. But keep in mind, you can’t get any higher because of avalanche risk.
Lake Agnes doesn’t generally even thaw until early June either!
Arriving at Lake Louise
From the parking lot at the Fairmont, Lake Louise is a quick 5-minute walk away (fully accessible). If you have not been to Lake Louise before, make sure you factor in the extra time you are going to spend swooning over the incredible scenery!
Lake Louise takes my breath away every time we visit! The tranquil turquoise water and spectacular view of the mountains were absolutely amazing!
Once you can tear yourself away from the viewing platform, you can make your way to the trailheads located on the far side of the Fairmont.
What Fitness Level Is Required To Do The Lake Agnes Tea House Hike?
The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is very family-friendly, and not particularly difficult. With that being said, the trail is uphill the entire way.
The steady climbing can become tiring and you may actually feel more out of breath than usual. This is due to the fact that there is less oxygen in the air, the higher in altitude you get.
Sit and rest whenever you need to, or slow down your pace.
Wondering What to Pack?
Lake Agnes Tea House Hike Breakdown
This is one of the most iconic and family-friendly trails you will find when hiking Lake Louise. With gorgeous views of two stunning mountain lakes and a visit to the historic Lake Agnes Tea House, this hike really has everything you need to make your trek to Lake Louise memorable.
- Length: 7 km (4.5 miles) return or 3.5 km from Lake Louise
- Duration: half-day hike (1-2 hours one way)
- Elevation Gain: 400 m (1300 ft)
- Difficulty: Easy to Moderate
- Altitude: 2135 m (7005 ft)
- Best Time To Go: June – October
The Lake Agnes Tea House Hike
Once you pass the viewing platforms and the Fairmont hotel, you will see a bronze statue of a Swiss mountain guide and the trail signs. The main walking trail forks at this point; stay to the right.
The Lake Louise Lakeshore trail and the Plain of the Six Glaciers hike are to the left, while the Lake Agnes Tea House trail is to the right. Head up the hill towards the forest where you will see the Trailhead sign, before crossing the horse trail.
The trail becomes packed dirt at this point and ascends upwards through the forest. This part of the trail is the steepest, and least scenic.
At about the 1.9 km mark, the trail does a single switchback, taking hikers in the opposite direction. At this point, an opening in the trees allows for an amazing view of Lake Louise below.
This trail becomes a little more uneven with rocks and tree roots at this point. Keep heading upwards until you come to a horse gate and a junction in the trail at around the 2.8 km mark.
Mirror Lake
Heading left at the junction will bring you to Mirror Lake. And after almost 3 km of hiking, many people enjoy this area as a quick rest stop.
Mirror Lake not only offers a shady spot to sit on a hot day, but it also offers a great view of the Big Beehive. And from here, you are only 15-20 minutes away from Lake Agnes.
At this point, there are actually 2 different paths that will lead you to the Lake Agnes Tea House. The most direct route is to the right.
After you pass the horse stables, you will come up to a small waterfall. The Waterfall is quite a popular spot to take photos, so it does get quite crowded.
But the good news is, right next to the waterfall is the stairway that takes you up to the Tea House. All that stands between you and the iconic Lake Agnes, are 57 steps!
The Lake Agnes Tea House Hike Terrain
Most of the trail is flat with packed dirt and rock. There are some portions that are very uneven, slippery when wet or covered in tree roots. You should definitely be wearing good, supportive shoes, especially if you plan to hike beyond the Tea House.
The trails are well maintained and marked with visible signage. You will also find this particular trail to be well-traveled, making it perfect for solo hikers, and ensuring that there is little chance of becoming lost!
The Lake Agnes Tea House
The Lake Agnes Tea House is open from early June until the Canadian Thanksgiving weekend. Tea is served from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm daily.
The family-run Tea House has no electricity or running water but has two outhouses that are available for the public to use.
What we found to be quite fascinating, is that supplies (such as flour and sugar for the baking) are flown in by helicopter at the start of the season! The fresh food, however, is hiked in by the staff weekly.
Enjoy Some Tea!
Depending on when you visit, the Lake Agnes Tea House actually has an extensive menu! With over 100 flavors of loose-leaf tea to choose from, as well as hot and cold drinks, chips and salsa, tea biscuits, sandwiches made on homemade bread, soups, and a variety of desserts (cookies, squares, loaves) to choose from, you are sure to find something to tickle your tastebuds!
My tea of choice was Strawberry Green Tea, with a piece of rich chocolate brownie. We also enjoyed vegetable soup, and the kids had hot chocolate.
The tea house accepts Canadian and US cash. Debit is also accepted, however, a service fee will be added to your total.
The food was tasty and hit the spot. But just a heads up, it is quite pricey due to the effort it takes to bring in the supplies.
Tea House History
Built in 1901 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, the Lake Agnes Tea House once provided a comfortable place for wealthy tourists to enjoy nature. In 1905 it became the first tea house in the Lake Louise area, thus starting the local tradition of having tea on a mountain top.
And although the original log structure of the Lake Agnes Tea House was replaced in 1981, much of its history was preserved by re-using the original windows, tables, and chairs.
Lake Agnes, like the tea house bearing the same name, also has a place in local Canadian history. The lake was named after Lady Susan Agnes Macdonald, wife of Canada’s first prime minister after she visited the lake in 1886.
Hiking Options Beyond The Lake Agnes Tea House
The majority of people who complete the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike will turn around at the Tea House. But if you are feeling a little more adventurous, there are several ways to extend your hike.
- Lake Agnes Lookout: 500 m to back of lake
- Little Beehive: 1 km
- Big Beehive: 1.6 km
- High Line Trail: 5 km (Lake Agnes Tea House to Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House)
Lake Agnes Lookout
Family-friendly, this trail will take you around to the far end of Lake Agnes. You will have some great views of the Tea House, as well as the peaks of Mount Whyte and the Devils Thumb towering high overhead.
Trail To Little Beehive
The Little Beehive trail is just under 1 km (.6 miles) but is made up of pretty steep switchbacks. The trail begins behind the Lake Agnes Tea House.
From the Little Beehive Summit, you will have some pretty spectacular views of the surrounding glacier-capped mountains, Lake Agnes and Lake Louise. The summit is well marked with signage as well as some benches to rest on before heading back down.
The good news is, if you are not looking to head back to the Tea House, there is a shortcut from the Little Beehive that goes directly back to Mirror Lake.
Insiders Tip: Hiking to the summit of the Little Beehive towards the end of September will give you a spectacular view of the golden Larch trees below. And because this trail is not as popular as some of the other Larch-viewing hikes, you can avoid a large portion of the crowds that flock to Lake Louise every year at this time.
This trail may not be appropriate for younger children, and proper footwear is a must.
Trail To Big Beehive
The trail to the summit of the Big Beehive from Lake Agnes is 1.6 km. And although this distance sounds short, the trail is quite steep and will take you at least 40 minutes one way.
The trail begins at the far end of Lake Agnes and continues up a series of switchbacks to a junction on the Beehive Summit Ridge. It will take another 5 minutes to hike eastward along the ridge to the gazebo shelter.
The views down to Lake Louise below and over the Bow Valley are breathtaking. You need to return back along the ridge, the same way you came. Scrambling down the cliffs from the gazebo viewpoint is most definitely not a recommended shortcut!
This trail may not be appropriate for younger children, and proper footwear is a must.
Highline Trail From Lake Agnes To Plain Of Six Glaciers Tea House
If you are up for a full day of hiking, you can visit both of Lake Louise’s tea houses. The Highline Trail is about 5 km and will take you from the Lake Agnes Tea House to the Plain Of Six Glaciers Tea House.
From Lake Agnes, you have to cross the Big Beehive’s summit ridge at the viewpoint trail junction. You then descend down the steep 1 km (.6 mile) trail, which will take you past Mirror Lake.
Getting back to Lake Louise is much easier! You will head back from the tea house and follow the Plain of Six Glaciers trail that leads down to the far end of Lake Louise.
You will then follow the Lakeshore trail back towards the Chateau Hotel. The entire circuit, including both Lake Louise Tea House Trails, is 14.5 kilometers.
Return Hike to Lake Louise
When it’s time to head back down to Lake Louise, most people will just retrace their steps back the way they came. There is an alternate trail down to Mirror Lake that is pretty nice, but you need to have good hiking shoes on to attempt it.
The Lake Agnes loop trail begins near the Tea House. Cross over the little bridge and you will find a second much longer set of stairs leading down on the opposite side of the waterfall.
This alternate trail down from Lake Agnes has awesome views of the towering waterfall. This portion of the hiking trail is more rugged, with plenty of rocks and roots, but it should still be manageable for most people.
Shortly after the end of the stairs, you will be immediately below the summit of the Big Beehive. It’s a pretty amazing sight, and the best part is, it is also much less traveled than the main trail.
Mirror Lake
You will soon end up in a boulder field. Here, you can take in the gorgeous views of Mt Aberdeen, Fairview Mountain, and Hadoo Peak. Mirror Lake can be seen through the trees below as well as the Big Beehive cliff overhead.
This trail from Lake Agnes to Mirror Lake takes you through a beautiful forest. But once you pass the Big Beehive cliff, the views of the mountains really begin to open up.
At about the 5.1 km mark, you will arrive at Mirror Lake, where you will rejoin the main trail back down to the Chateau Lake Louise. The views coming down are awesome, especially since you are not working as hard, and now have the opportunity to really enjoy them.
Lake Agnes Tea House Hike – Important Tips
Just like with any other hike, there are a few things to consider when heading to Lake Louise. A little advance planning will help make your hike a positive experience for the whole family.
Safety
First and foremost, you should always let someone know that you are heading out for a hike. Let them know where you will be hiking and your expected return time.
Even though the trails are well marked and traveled, you just never know when you may get lost or injured – especially if you are attempting one of the longer trails. And cell service in the area is really spotty at best!
The trail is not maintained beyond the Lake Agnes Tea House, which means you have to be extra careful and watch your footing. Because you are walking along sections of raised berms on loose rocks with steep drop-offs, as well as rocks that get very slippery when wet, extra caution is required on this portion of the trail.
Banff National Park is bear country! With black bears and grizzly bears calling the Lake Louise area home, you really need to take the time to educate yourself on bear safety.
Therefore, carrying bear spray is a must. Canisters are available to buy or rent at many locations in Canmore and Banff.
You should always check the latest Lake Agnes Tea House trail report for trail conditions, wildlife warnings, avalanche warnings, and possible closures before you head out.
Footwear Recommendation
The Lake Agnes trail is groomed and really easy to walk. You could easily do the Lake Agnes Tea House hike with running shoes on.
However, if you decide to do any of the other hiking trails from Lake Agnes, or hike the optional route down the other side of Mirror Lake, then we would definitely recommend a good pair of hiking shoes or hiking boots. We would also recommend hiking poles for extra stability.
If you are planning to do the Lake Agnes Tea House hike in October, or later, we would also recommend wearing microspikes. Often times you will find snow and ice higher up on the trails at this point in the season.
Clothing
Make sure that you are wearing comfortable clothing when heading out on the Lake Agnes Tea House hike. Make sure to pack extra layers of clothing. The weather tends to be unpredictable in the mountains and can change very quickly.
Wear a comfortable backpack! If you plan on hiking for several hours, you will need a well-fitted backpack to carry all your gear. It will need to be big enough to carry all your essentials, while at the same time, not being so heavy that it gets to be too much.
Have plenty of snacks on hand that the kids enjoy. This is especially important for those times when they begin to get ‘hangry’ or need that extra treat to get them through the hike.
And of course, this should go without saying. Make sure you pack out everything you bring on your hike. There are garbage cans conveniently located near the trailhead.
Lastly, make sure you have sunscreen and bug spray with you, as well as a basic first-aid kit in case of small mishaps. When we hike with kids, we never leave home without!
Limited Facilities at Lake Louise
Food
If you are looking to purchase food or drinks at Lake Louise, your options will be limited. There are a few places in Lake Louise Village and Samson Mall that serve food, but they tend to be pricey.
The Trailhead Café is a small cafe located inside Samson Mall. They are open pretty early, so are an excellent option to grab a bite before heading out onto the hiking trails.
We all ordered breakfast wraps and coffee. They were delicious! The large wraps were customizable and pretty filling. They were the perfect start to our day!
You can also find a very small supermarket in Samson Mall. You will find all the basics there, but again, it will be pricey.
Once you are at the Lake, you can head inside the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel for some dining options, including a pretty amazing afternoon tea service.
And as we previously mentioned, you can also purchase food from the Lake Agnes Tea House. Of course, it requires a hike to reach it first!
Water
Packing enough water is really important while hiking. There are no drinking water facilities on the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail, so fill your hydration packs, or reusable water bottles before you leave.
Restrooms
A word of advice – there are public restrooms in the same strip mall as the Trailhead Café. Use them! They were clean and well kept, and were definitely better than the ones we found at the lake.
Lake Louise does have restrooms available. These can be found right next to the parking lot. Expect a wait as there are plenty of visitors during the day.
You will also find restrooms at the Tea House. These are outhouses, and chances are, there will be a line to use them.
Is the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike Appropriate for Kids?
And for parents who are interested in attempting the Lake Agnes Tea House hike with kids, please have another look at the breakdown of the hike, which can be found at the beginning of this post.
We found the entire hike to the Tea House to be very child-friendly. If you are planning to continue further to either Beehive, however, these trails are definitely on the difficult side. We would use caution if taking younger kids on either of these trails.
You will need to make sure your kids are capable of a high level of physical exertion, given that sections of this hike are a little challenging due to the consistent climb.
The good thing about this particular hike is that there are plenty of opportunities to stop for a break on the large rocks that line the trail. The trail itself is also wide enough for 2-3 people, making it a great hike for families or groups.
Where to Stay in Lake Louise
After a long day of hiking, you really don’t want to spend more time driving to get back to your hotel. Lake Louise has several hotels right in the village, that range in price to suit any budget.
There are several other hotel options available in Banff National Park. These hotels are also within easy walking distance of the Park and Ride Connector. This shuttle bus service leaves from Lake Louise Village and has stops at both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
- Mountaineer Lodge: This is the closest hotel to the Lake Louise Village, and is very family-friendly.
- Lake Louise Inn: This Lake Louise hotel is also budget- and family-friendly.
- Post Hotel and Spa: One of the higher-end hotels in Banff National Park, but very family-friendly.
- Chateau Lake Louise: A luxury hotel located right on the shore of Lake Louise.
Final Thoughts on the Lake Agnes Tea House Hike
Experiencing the Lake Agnes Tea House hike is a definite must when visiting the Lake Louise area with kids. The hike is scenic, popular, and easy enough for most people to tackle, even without any hiking experience. This hike should definitely be on your Lake Louise bucket list!
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