Route details
Distance:
183 km / 114 miles
Driving Time:
2hrs
*Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
Shared Shuttles may take longer
Return Route:
About travelling from Calgary, AB to Lake Louise, AB
Lake Louise is one of the most famous views in Canada. The lake’s vivid turquoise colourset against a backdrop of glaciers and peaks are what make it one of the most recognizable spots in the Canadian Rockies. In winter, it is home to one of the largest ski areas in North America: Lake Louise Ski Resort. The mountain has everything from wide alpine bowls and long cruisers to gladed terrain and steeps, so skiers and riders of every level are covered. The snow is typically light and dry, and the views from the Summit and Top of the World lifts will stop you mid-run. If you’re looking to expand your ski days, Sunshine Village and Mt. Norquay are also close by and included on the SkiBig3 pass.
When the snow melts, Lake Louise turns into a hub for hiking and exploring the surrounding valleys. Routes like the Lake Agnes Tea House, the Big and Little Beehive viewpoints, the Plain of Six Glaciers, and the Moraine Lake/Larch Valley/Sentinel Pass area are some of the most well-known in the Rockies. You’ll find everything from short lakeshore walks to longer full-day alpine adventures. The lakes — Lake Louise itself, Moraine Lake, and nearby Bow Lake — are among the most photographed landscapes in the world, and it makes sense once you see them in person.
The village at Lake Louise is small, quiet, and mostly geared toward outdoor adventures rather than nightlife — it’s more of a basecamp than a resort town. Trailhead Café is the local standby for breakfast and coffee before getting on the trail or heading to the hill. Alpine Social is a dependable sit-down option for dinner, and the Lake Louise Village Market covers groceries and daily essentials. For something higher-end, the dining rooms and lounges at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise come with unrivalled lake views. Shopping is limited, but you’ll find outdoor gear, souvenirs, and basics between the village and the Chateau.
If you're travelling from Downtown Calgary, Ridebooker makes getting to Lake Louise easy — no rental car, no navigating snowy highway conditions, and no stress over parking near the lake during peak times. Shared shuttles, private SUVs, taxis, and group-sized vehicles are all available through our network of local transportation partners. The drive west from Calgary climbs gradually into the Rockies, with breathtaking views the entire way. By the time you reach Lake Louise, you’ll be set to ski, hike, paddle, or just take in one of the most famous mountain views in Canada.