How to get from
Calgary Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise
Adults
Age 13+Children
Age 0-12Shuttles & Buses (Shared Services)
Taxis, SUVs & Vans (Private Services)
Route details
Distance:
198 km / 123 miles
Driving Time:
2hrs 15mins
*Subject to weather and traffic conditions.
Shared Shuttles may take longer
Return Route:
People often ask
Yes. There is a shuttle serfvice that runs directly from Calgary Airport to Lake Louise a well as a bus. Shuttles run year-round, and the service is designed specifically for visitors heading to Lake Louise.
For larger groups, a private transfer can be almost as cost-effective as well as bringing the added benefit of door-to-door service and running to your schedule.
Calgary International Airport (YYC) is the closest and most convenient airport for Lake Louise. It has the widest range of flight options and sits right on the main highway into the mountains. From YYC, it’s a straightforward drive or shuttle ride to Lake Louise.
From October 1 to April 30, winter driving conditions are common, and winter tires (or all-weather tires with the mountain snowflake symbol) are strongly recommended. On some nearby mountain roads, they are legally required. Even on the Trans-Canada Highway, snow and ice can build quickly, so proper winter tires are the safest choice.
The drive generally takes about 2 hours in good conditions. Winter weather, heavy traffic, and mountain storms can extend the trip to 2.5 hours or more, especially on busy weekends. The route follows Highway 1 west through Banff National Park until you reach the Lake Louise turnoff.
Neither is objectively “better”. They are both world renowed and offer different experiences.
- Lake Louise is quieter, more scenic, and centred around the lake and ski resort.
- Banff has a lively town with more restaurants, shops, nightlife, and accommodations.
Many travellers visit both since they’re only 45 minutes apart and are well serviced by public transport year-round.
Whilst Uber and Lyft do operate from Calgary Airport, it is hard to guarantee availablility due to the length of the journey. Drivers are often reluctant to accept the trip and prices surge during busy times.
To guarantee price and availability it is best to pre-book a private transfer or shuttle from the airport.
No necessarily. Parking can often be challenging with Lake Louise being a busy year-round destination. There are shuttles operated by both Parks Canada and Roam that make getting from the town to Morraine Lake and Lake Louise easy as well as a free shuttle to the ski hill for lift ticket holders. THere is also a reliable public transit option to get between Lake Louise and Banff.
About travelling from Calgary International Airport (YYC) to Lake Louise, AB
Lake Louise is one of the most iconic places in the Canadian Rockies — known for its bright turquoise lake, hanging glaciers and dramatic peaks that feel almost unreal in person. In winter, the area is centered around Lake Louise Ski Resort, one of the largest ski areas in North America. The mountain offers wide-open alpine bowls, long groomers, tree skiing, and plenty of terrain for all abilities. The snow is known for being dry and light, and the views from the top of the Summit or Top of the World chairs are some of the best you’ll find anywhere. Mt. Norquay and Sunshine Village are also within reach if you’re interested in exploring the full Ski Big 3 terrain on a single lift ticket.
In summer, Lake Louise becomes a base for hiking and lakeside exploring. The Lake Agnes Tea House trail, Big and Little Beehive, the Plain of Six Glaciers, and Moraine Lake’s Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass area are among the most well-known hiking routes. These trails range from casual lakeside walks to full-day alpine hikes. The lakes themselves — Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and nearby Bow Lake — are some of the most photographed on the planet for good reason.
The village area in Lake Louise is small and quieter than Banff — more of a mountain base than a resort town — but it still has some great spots. Trailhead Café is a go-to for breakfast and coffee before hitting the trails, Alpine Social is reliable for dinner and drinks, and the Lake Louise Village Market handles groceries and essentials. For something more upscale or a bit of an occasion, The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has a range of restaurants and lounges with lake views. Shopping is limited, but outdoor gear, souvenirs, and essentials are all covered between the village and the Chateau.
If you’re flying into Calgary Airport (YYC), Ridebooker can take care of the transfer so you don’t have to worry about renting a car, driving mountain highways, or navigating seasonal road conditions. Whether you’re looking for a shared shuttle, private SUV, taxi, or a larger vehicle for a group, we work with local providers to keep the journey straightforward. The drive from Calgary into the Rockies is scenic from start to finish, and by the time you reach Lake Louise, you’ll be ready to ski, hike, paddle, or just take in one of the most photographed landscapes in Canada.