Mountain Biking & Cycling
The biking season here usually starts in late May for valley paths like the Bow River Loop. High elevation routes like the Highline need a bit more time for the snow to melt, so aim for late June. Fall is a local favorite because pedaling through golden larch trees in September is something you have to see for yourself.
From scenic valley loops to rugged alpine singletrack, discover why Lake Louise is the ultimate Rocky Mountain destination to explore on two wheels.
Choose Your Terrain: Who Should Bike Lake Louise?
Whether you’re craving a technical single-track challenge or a scenic family cruise, Lake Louise is a premier cycling destination. Base your stay at Mountaineer Lodge to enjoy direct trail access and the perfect place to recover after these rides:
- Families & Casual Cyclists: Pedal the Bow River Loop for a flat, easy ride along the water. It’s perfect for children or a relaxed recovery spin through the valley.
- Sightseers & Commuters: Skip the shuttle and take the Tramline Trail. This steady gravel climb connects the village directly to the lakeshore on your own schedule.
- Experienced Mountain Bikers: Tackle the Moraine Lake Highline or Pipestone trails for technical single-track, roots, and rocks. These routes are built for riders seeking steep elevation and a physical challenge.
- Multi-Sport Adventurers: Try a "Bike and Hike." Cycle to the upper lake, lock up your gear, and continue on foot to iconic summits like Lake Agnes where bikes aren't permitted.
Tramline Trail
This wide trail is the former route of a tramway (1912 to 1930). It offers a quiet ride up and down from the valley floor to upper Lake Louise. The trail comes out at the upper Lake Louise parking lots, an alternative starting point for a downhill ride on this trail.
- 4.5 km one way (easy)
- Elevation gain: 195 m
- Trailhead: Opposite Lake Louise train station (Station Restaurant) beside Bow River bridge
- Distance to Mountaineer Lodge: 1.4 km / 0.8 miles (Approx. a 3-minute drive or a 5 minute bike ride)
Pipestone Trail
This well-defined gravel and dirt trail heads up along the Pipestone River into the Pipestone Valley north of Lake Louise. Watch for horse users and bears. Not far from the trailhead, an 800 m side trail offers a short, sometimes muddy, trip to Mud Lake. Cyclists are not permitted beyond the bike turnaround point at km 7.2
- 6.5 km one way (moderate)
- Elevation gain: 165 m
- Trailhead: Slate Road, turn off Trans-Canada Highway, 1.5 km west of Lake Louise
- Distance to Mountaineer Lodge: 1.4 km / 0.8 miles (Approx. a 3-minute drive or a 5 minute bike ride)
Bow River Loop
Ideal for families, this gentle riverside trail travels both sides of the Bow River and can be shortened by cutting across any of the bridges. Interpretive signs along the way highlight the Bow River ecosystem. This trail is popular with pedestrians who may not hear your approach above the river’s sound; ride respectfully and make your approach known. This route connects with the Tramline Trail.
- 7.1 km loop (easy)
- No elevation gain
- Trailhead: Lake Louise Campground or opposite the historic Lake Louise train station (Station Restaurant) beside Bow River bridge
- Distance to Mountaineer Lodge: 1.3 km / 0.7 miles (Approx. a 3-minute drive or a 5 minute bike ride)
Moraine Lake Highline Trail
Ready to test your lungs and your lines? The Highline is the most demanding mountain bike trail in Lake Louise, offering 9.3 km of pure mountain single-track. This technical route climbs onto the shoulder of Mount Temple, winding through roots and rocks that will challenge even experienced riders.
The effort is rewarded with breathtaking, exposed side-hill sections that offer some of the most dramatic views in the Canadian Rockies. The trail eventually descends to the world-famous Moraine Lake, making it a high-octane alternative to taking the shuttle. Just be prepared for a narrow, physical ride that requires full concentration... and a bear bell!
- 9.3 km one way (challenging)
- Elevation gain: 485 m
- Location: Trailhead: 2.5 km up Moraine Lake Road (No parking at trailhead).
- Distance to Mountaineer Lodge: 4.5 km / 2.8 miles to the trailhead (via a warm-up ride through the village and up the first section of Moraine Lake Road).
Note: The upper section of the trail is closed to all users in mid to late summer when buffalo berries (an important food source for bears) are ripe. Check in with the Lake Louise Information Centre for closure dates and important information.
Connect with the Experts
Randonnee Tours Self-Guided Biking-Hiking
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Randonnee Tours offers self-guided 6-day biking and hiking trips in the Canadian Rockies with accommodation at the Mountaineer Lodge. Experience the rugged wilderness of the Canadian Rocky Mountain parks by day and enjoy the warm, luxurious comfo...
Great Explorations - Biking Tours
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It's been described as a rite of passage for touring cyclists "a highway strung from the stars"... Cycling from Banff to Jasper following the spectacular Icefields Parkway will be a trip you always remember. Join the Canadian Rockies tour and sta...
Frequently Asked Questions
While there are some paved sections, the best trails in Lake Louise are gravel and dirt. A mountain bike or a gravel bike with wide tires is the best choice for the terrain here.
Yes. You can ride up the paved Moraine Lake Road or take the technical Highline trail. It is a steady 12-kilometer uphill climb, so make sure you are prepared for a workout.
Biking is safe as long as you stay alert. Always carry bear spray in a spot you can reach quickly, make noise to avoid surprising wildlife, and keep your headphones off so you can hear your surroundings.
Wilson Mountain Sports is just a two-minute walk from our lobby. They offer high-performance rentals, including mountain bikes and e-bikes, along with helmets and repair kits.
Mountaineer Lodge is Your Adventure Base Camp
A great day on the trails is only as good as the place you return to. At the Mountaineer Lodge, we built our amenities to support your ride from start to finish.
- Secure Bike Storage: You do not have to worry about leaving your expensive gear on a car rack. We offer secure indoor storage so your bike stays safe and dry overnight.
- The Post-Ride Recovery: After a day of climbing mountain passes, your muscles will thank you. Head straight to our indoor hot tub and steam room to soothe your legs and recharge for tomorrow.
- Fuel for the Climb: Enjoy hot breakfast in the breakfast room every morning. Load up on proteins and energy-packed carbs so you have the stamina to reach the top of the Highline.
- Proximity to the Pros: If you need a tune-up or a rental, we are located right across the street from Wilson Mountain Sports. They are the local experts for gear and last-minute trail advice.
- Park and Pedal: You can leave your car in our parking lot and ride directly to the best trails in the village. This is the easiest way to skip the traffic and parking headaches at the lakeshore.
Start Your Lake Louise Adventure
The best trails in the Canadian Rockies are waiting just outside our front door. Book your stay at the Mountaineer Lodge today and enjoy secure storage, a hot breakfast, and the best location in the village.
Questions? Call 403-522-3844 or text us at 1.825.602.5240
