We left the Bow River RV Park in Cochrane early hoping to get parking near Moraine Lake. The crowds were insane so we parked near Chateau Lake Louise and decided to explore the area around the Lake instead. When we arrived it was raining and the visibility was poor so we went into the historic Chateau to wait out the storm..
Chateau Lake Louise is a historic hotel located on the shores of Lake Louise. It was built in 1911 by the Canadian Pacific Railway as a luxury resort for wealthy travelers. Today, it is one of the most iconic hotels in the Canadian Rockies and is a popular destination for tourists visiting Banff National Park.
Finally, the weather was clearing up, and as the clouds lifted, the beautiful blue-green waters of the lake and the majestic mountains in the distance became visible. We were amazed by the sheer beauty of the place and decided to take a hike around the lake. The fresh mountain air and the breathtaking scenery made for a perfect hike and photo opportunity. Click on thumbnail to view image
Lake Louise
Agnes Lake
As we approached the end of the lake the crowds thinned out so we decided to hike the loop up to Agnes Lake and the Agnes Lake Tea House. As we climbed higher we were rewarded with stunning views of Lake Louise, the Chateau and the surrounding mountains. After a long hike up to the lake we stopped at the Agnes Lake Tea House for lunch and relaxed taking in the stunning beauty of the lake and massive surrounding peaks.
The Agnes Lake Tea House (7002 ft) is a historic cabin named after Lady Agnes MacDonald, the wife of Canada’s first Prime Minister, has been serving visitors to the area for over a century. Built in 1901, it is one of the oldest structures in Banff National Park and has been a staple of the Canadian Rockies for generations. After a long hike, we finally arrived at the Agnes Lake Tea House, where we stopped for lunch and took a break from the hike. The calm and serene surroundings of the lake, combined with the warm and cozy atmosphere of the Tea House, made for a perfect place to relax and recharge.
However, our peaceful lunch was cut little short as a mountain thunderstorm rolled in, chasing us all the way down the three miles of mountain trail back to the car. Despite the sudden change in weather, the thunderstorm only added to the excitement of our adventure, and it was a fitting end to an unforgettable day at Lake Louise in Banff National Park.
