Lake Louise-Diamond in the Wilderness
The “Jewel of the Rockies” is a mountain oasis filled with magical charm. The turquoise glacier waters of Lake Louise are surrounded by mountain peaks, the famous Victoria Glacier at one end of the lake and the historic Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise at the other. It’s simply breathtaking. Located in the heart of Banff National Park and a world famous Rocky Mountain World Heritage Site, the “hiking capital of Canada” offers a tremendous diversity of recreational and sightseeing opportunities. Lake Louise is home to one of North America’s finest downhill skiing areas, and the region abounds with spectacular scenery, from glaciers to waterfalls.
Just over two hours from Calgary (and 40 minutes west of Banff), the scenic highway travels up 5,680 feet above sea level before you catch a peek of Lake Louise, the most photographed scene in the Canadian Rockies. Its picturesque village was one of many locations featured in the classic film “Dr. Zhivago”.
Rated the most scenic ski area in North America, Lake Louise spreads over four mountain faces. With over 50 ski runs some more than five miles long, the spectacular terrain is suited to all skill levels with everything from groomed runs to massive bowls of powder.
With some of the world’s best alpine hiking right on the doorstep of your first class mountain chateau, the activity choices are many. Start with a canoe trip on the lake, a hike to a turn-of-the-century Victorian teahouse, and then explore trails by horseback -whatever you decide, your well-appointed guestroom awaits you upon your return.
Only a short scenic drive from Lake Louise is the spectacular Moraine Lake, set against the jagged spine of the Great Divide in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Rent a canoe or walk the popular lake shore trail and marvel at the amazing blue green water of one of the most photographed lakes in the world. Driving west over the Kicking Horse Pass, you’ll encounter the Great Divide summit that forms the boundary between Alberta and British Columbia, with water flowing east to Hudson Bay or west to the Pacific Ocean.
The entire area will form a fascinating and memorable backdrop to your event from the shimmering emerald waters of its alpine lake to the jagged peaks that surround Lake Louise. It truly deserves its reputation as Canada’s ‘Diamond in the Wilderness.’
