Discover Snowshoeing in Lake Louise
Walk into the stillness of snow-covered pine forests and the scale of frozen waterfalls.
Mountaineer Lodge serves as your warm basecamp for exploring the world-famous winter trails of Lake Louise.
Winter Adventure for Everyone
Snowshoeing is perfect for those who want to explore the mountains at a slower pace. It does not require the technical skills of skiing. This is an ideal activity for families with children or couples seeking a romantic walk through a real-life snow globe.
The best time for snowshoeing is from late November through April when the snowpack is deepest. Plan your hike for the mid-morning to enjoy the best light hitting the peaks. Guided tours for popular spots like Johnston Canyon should be booked at least two weeks in advance.
Your Guide to a Successful Winter Hike
Getting There
Most trailheads at the Lake Louise lakeshore are just four kilometers from the hotel. Hop in your vehicle for a quick five-minute drive and you’ll be exploring the forest in no time.
Duration
Plan for 1 to 4 hours depending on the trail loop you choose.
What to Bring
- Waterproof winter boots
- Thermal base layers
- Insulated outer shell and snow pants
- Warm gloves and a toque
- Ice cleats or crampons for packed icy trails
Local Trail Etiquette
Always walk on the outer edge of the path if the trail is shared with cross-country skiers. Stepping on the set ski tracks makes the glide difficult for skiers and is considered poor trail etiquette.
Where to Explore - Top Winter Hikes and Ice Walks Near Lake Louise
The Bow River Loop
Easy Snowshoe Trail
- Step out of our front door and into the woods.
- Distance: 0 km from the lodge.
- The Experience: This flat trail runs right behind the lodge along the Bow River. It is a quiet loop through the pines. It is the best place to test your snowshoes for the first time.
The Lake Louise Shoreline
Easy Ice Walk
- Walk across the most famous lake in the world.
- Distance: 4.2 km from Mountaineer Lodge.
- The Experience: Drive five minutes up the hill to the Upper Lake. You can walk the flat path along the water or walk directly on the frozen lake. Basecamp Tip: The wind on the lake is much colder than in the Village. Make sure to grab a hot coffee from our lobby before you drive up.
Fairview Lookout
Moderate Winter Hike
- See the valley from a birds-eye view.
- Distance: 4.2km drive from Mountaineer Lodge.
- The Experience: Park at the Upper Lake. The trail is a 2km round trip with a steady uphill climb. You will see the entire Fairmont Chateau and the frozen lake from the viewing platform.
- Basecamp Tip: This hike is short but steep. Your calf muscles will be sore. Use the MTL steam room for 15 minutes when you return to get the blood flowing again.
Mirror Lake
Intermediate Snowshoe Trail
- Find the quiet center of the subalpine forest.
- Distance: 4.2k m drive from Mountaineer Lodge.
- The Experience: This is a 5.4km return trip from the lake shore. You will climb high into the trees.
- Safety Note: Always stop at Mirror Lake. Do not continue to Lake Agnes in the winter because the trail enters an active avalanche slide path.
Johnston Canyon Icewalk
Iconic Destination
- Walk on steel catwalks over a frozen river.
- Distance: 34km from Mountaineer Lodge.
- The Experience: Take a 25-minute drive east on the Bow Valley Parkway. You will see massive blue ice pillars and frozen waterfalls.
- The Insider Tip: Park at Mountaineer Lodge for free and leave early. If you reach the canyon by 9:00 AM you will beat the crowds from Banff and Calgary.
Get the Official Parks Canada Winter Guide
Download this map to your phone to stay on the right path and avoid avalanche zones.
You can use this digital guide to see every groomed trail and snowshoe loop in the Lake Louise area. It includes details on trail distance and difficulty levels. You should save the PDF before you leave the lodge because cell service can be spot-on at the lakeshore.
Easy Equipment Rentals Nearby
You do not need to bring your own equipment to enjoy the snow. Visit Wilson Mountain Sports in Samson Mall. They are located in the Village right across the street (about a five minute walk) from our lodge.
Cost to rent snowshoes, poles, and ice cleats: $25/day
Hours: 8 am to 7 pm every day
Phone: 403.522.3636
Address: Samson Mall, A, 101 Lake Louise Dr
Questions
No experience is needed because if you can walk, you can snowshoe. It is one of the most accessible ways to see the backcountry.
Many trails around the lake are safe, but you must stay on marked paths. Always check the Parks Canada trail report or ask our front desk for current conditions before heading out.
The Johnston Canyon Icewalk is the most famous nearby trek. It features steel catwalks built into the canyon walls that lead to massive blue ice pillars.
Yes. We have an indoor hot tub and a steam room which are perfect for warming up after a day of exploring.
Head to the Current Conditions page on the Parks Canada website for the latest snow report or ask our Front Desk.
Stay at Mountaineer Lodge: The Ultimate Basecamp for Winter Explorers
The only thing left to decide is where to lay your head at night. Mountaineer Lodge provides the specific amenities you need to stay warm and prepared for the elements.
After a day in the cold, head to our Main Lodge to soak in the indoor hot tub or relax in the steam room to soothe your legs. Our rooms are designed for winter adventurers and include dedicated gear drying racks and secure storage.
You can even prep your equipment in our ventilated waxing room. Guests often slip into the hot tub for an apres-adventure soak after a day of exploring. Our location and facilities make it easy to transition from the snowy trails to total relaxation.
5 out of 5 stars
"Fantastic spot for skiing and ice skating! Clean, comfy, spacious, hot tub, laundry, great breakfast. definitely recommending to friends and family and coming back in the summer!"
