The Ultimate Ski Trip to Lake Louise

Lake Louise, Alberta, is a winter wonderland straight out of a dream! Snow-covered peaks, world-class skiing, a frozen lake, cozy lodges, and some of the most breathtaking scenery in Banff National Park. I took a ski trip to this amazing destination, and it was everything I hoped for—incredible runs, après-ski vibes, and nonstop adventure. I can’t wait to share all the details with you!

Located in the heart of Banff National Park, Lake Louise is one of Canada’s most iconic winter destinations. Whether you’re here to ski at Ski Louise, skate on the lake, snowshoe through the forest, or just take in the stunning views, this place has it all for outdoor lovers!

I spent three days skiing, exploring, and making the most of this snowy paradise. From fun ski days in fresh powder to cozying up by the fire with a hot drink, I packed in as much as possible.

In this guide, I’m sharing all my recommendations—where to stay, the best ski runs, must-see winter spots, and everything you need to know before planning your own Lake Louise winter adventure!

How to get to Lake Louise?

Lake Louise is located in the heart of Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. The closest major airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC), which is the best option for flying in. From there, it’s about a 2-hour drive west to Lake Louise—and the drive is absolutely stunning!

Here’s the best way to get there:

Fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC) – This is the closest airport, with plenty of direct flights from major cities.

Rent a Car (All-Wheel Drive Recommended!) – Once you land, the best way to get to Lake Louise is by renting a car. An all-wheel drive (AWD) or 4×4 vehicle is highly recommended, especially in winter, since the roads can be snowy and icy. I rented from Alamo at Calgary International Airport and they were great!

Drive the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) – The route from Calgary to Lake Louise is super straightforward. You’ll take Highway 1 west through Canmore and Banff before arriving in Lake Louise. The roads are well-maintained, but winter conditions can change quickly, so be prepared!

Other Options: Shuttle or Bus – If you don’t want to drive, there are shuttle services from Calgary to Lake Louise, including options with ski resorts and private operators. This is a great choice if you’re not comfortable driving in winter conditions.

Once you arrive, Lake Louise Village is small but has everything you need—hotels, restaurants, and access to the ski resort and lake. Now, let’s get into where you should stay in Lake Louise!

Where to stay in Lake Louise

For the ultimate ski trip to Lake Louise, Mountaineer Lodge is hands down the best place to stay! It has everything you need for an amazing winter getaway, from cozy renovated rooms to an unbeatable location in Lake Louise Village.

My favorite things about the Mountaineer Lodge:

Cozy, Newly Renovated Rooms – The rooms are warm, inviting, very clean, and designed with skiers in mind. Boot dryers in every room make all the difference after a full day on the slopes!
Prime Location – Situated in the heart of Lake Louise Village, the lodge is just minutes from the ski resort and within walking distance of restaurants, cafés, and shops.
Ski Shuttle Service – Getting to the mountain couldn’t be easier. The lodge offers a free shuttle to Lake Louise Ski Resort, so you don’t have to worry about parking or driving in snowy conditions.
Hot Tub & Steam Room – After a full day on the mountain, nothing beats relaxing in the hot tub and steam room!
Delicious Breakfast Included – Start the day right with a delicious complimentary breakfast, packed with everything you need to fuel up for skiing.
Friendly & Welcoming Staff – The team at Mountaineer Lodge goes above and beyond to make sure guests have the best experience, offering local tips and making you feel right at home.

With its perfect location, awesome amenities, and cozy vibe, Mountaineer Lodge is the ideal base for a Lake Louise ski trip!! Believe me, this is where you want to stay!

Check out my mini vlog from Mountaineer Lodge to Ski Louise!

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Sierra ᨒ↟ Travel & Outdoor Adventure Creator (@sierrabisson)

Things to do in Lake Louise in the Winter

Lake Louise is an absolute winter paradise for nature and outdoor lovers, with endless ways to enjoy the beautiful Canadian Rockies. Here’s everything you should do when you visit!

Ski or Snowboard at Lake Louise Ski Resort

If you’re coming to Lake Louise in the winter, you have got to ski at Ski Louise! This is one of the best ski resorts in North America, and for good reason. The views alone are unreal—stunning, snow-covered peaks in every direction, endless alpine bowls, and perfectly groomed runs! I was constantly in awe of the incredible views.

The mountain has terrain for everyone, from cruisy beginner runs to steep, challenging chutes. If you love tree skiing, there are some amazing gladed areas, and the back bowls are an absolute dream on a powder day.

One of my favorite things about Ski Louise? The après scene. Grab a drink and warm up on the mountain at the Temple Cantina at the Temple Lodge or at the base at The Powder Keg Lounge. Be sure to try a Shaft on Draft and have the bartender add the maple cream liquor to it! It’s an Alberta thing and so good!!

If you need to rent skis or a snowboard go to Wilson Mountain Sports located right in the village of Lake Louise.

Attend the Ice Magic Event at Lake Louise

If you’re in Lake Louise in late January, the Ice Magic Event is something you have to see! From January 29 to February 2, 2025, world-class ice carvers come together to create massive, intricate ice sculptures right on the shore of Lake Louise. With the frozen lake and the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise as the backdrop, the whole scene looks like a winter fairy tale!

At the Ice Magic Event you can watch talented artists from around the world transform huge blocks of ice into amazing masterpieces right before your eyes! Once the sculptures are complete, walk all around the outdoor gallery showcasing their stunning work, each piece telling a unique story. Access to the event is exclusive to guests staying at participating hotels, with complimentary tickets included in your booking and shuttle services available. This is truly one of the most magical winter experiences in Lake Louise—if you’re visiting during the festival, you won’t want to miss it! Be sure to bundle up when you go!

Ice Skate on Lake Louise

Skating on a frozen alpine lake surrounded by towering peaks is a must-do! The rink is beautifully maintained throughout the winter, with smooth ice and even a stunning ice castle sculpture to skate around. You can rent skates in the village at Wilson Mountain Sports.

Hike or Snowshoe to Winter Trails

For incredible winter views, head to the Fairview Lookout, a short but steep trail that rewards you with a amazing view of Lake Louise and the Fairmont Chateau covered in snow. It’s the perfect spot for a quick winter hike with a stunning payoff! Another nearby (25 minute drive) must-visit is Johnston Canyon, where you can hike or snowshoe along a scenic, winding path through the canyon to see massive frozen waterfalls. The icy blue falls and towering rock walls create a surreal winter wonderland, making this one of the most magical trails in Banff National Park!

Explore Banff National Park

Take a drive through the park to spot wildlife, visit scenic viewpoints, and experience the stunning winter landscapes! Be careful of weather conditions and make sure its safe to drive. Be ready to pull over often and take lots of photos. It’s pretty incredible!!

Visit Downtown Banff

Just a 45-minute drive away, Banff’s downtown is perfect for a day of shopping, great restaurants, and cozy cafés!

Where to eat in Lake Louise

After a day of skiing, hiking, or exploring, you’ll definitely want to warm up with some good food. While Lake Louise is a small village, there are lots of great spots to grab a meal, whether you’re looking for a cozy pub vibe, a quick bite, or a hearty après-ski dinner. Here are my top picks:

The Outpost – Located inside the Post Hotel, this cozy pub is the perfect place to unwind with comfort food and a drink. Think hearty burgers, sandwiches, and a warm, rustic atmosphere.
Bill Peyto’s Café – A local favorite! This casual spot offers big portions at great prices, serving everything from sandwiches to delicious Indian dishes in a laid-back setting.
Trailhead Café – The best spot for a quick coffee and breakfast before heading out on an adventure! They have delicious bagels, wraps, and espresso drinks.
Powder Keg – Located in the Lake Louise Ski Resort lodge, this spot is perfect for après-ski drinks and classic pub food. Expect a lively atmosphere with great views of the slopes.
Timberwolf Pizza & Pasta – If you’re craving pizza or pasta after a long day outside, this is the place to go. Cozy, casual, and delicious!
Laggan’s – A must-stop for baked goods, coffee, and snacks…everything is amazing! Their sandwiches and pastries are perfect for grabbing on the go before hitting the trails or the slopes!
Lake Louise Village Market – If you prefer to make your own meals or need snacks for the slopes, the grocery store in the village has everything you need. It’s small but well-stocked with essentials, including fresh produce, baked goods, and grab-and-go options.

If you stay right near the village at The Mountaineer Lodge, you’re just minutes away from all these great spots! Most are within walking distance, and if you prefer to drive, it’s only a quick 2-3 minute trip. Staying there makes it super easy to grab a bite to eat after a long day on the slopes or exploring the area!

Winter in Lake Louise

Winter in Lake Louise can be pretty cold, but it’s also insanely beautiful and the best time to visit if you love snow-covered mountains and endless adventures. The whole place feels like a real-life snow globe, with the frozen lake, powdery trails, and ski runs that seem to go on forever. The area is much less busy compared to summer, so you can really soak in the stunning scenery without the crowds. Whether you’re hitting the slopes, exploring frozen canyons, or just enjoying the crisp mountain air, winter here is something special!

Tips for visiting Lake Louise in the Winter

Bring Your Passport – If you’re coming from outside of Canada, don’t forget your passport! You’ll need it to cross the border.
Have Some Canadian Currency – Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some Canadian dollars on hand for smaller purchases.
English is Spoken Everywhere – No language barrier here! Everyone speaks English, so getting around and asking for recommendations is super easy.
Dress Very Warm – Winters in Lake Louise are no joke. Layers, a good winter coat, insulated boots, gloves, and a hat are a must—especially if you plan to be outside for long.
Be Careful Driving – The roads can be icy, and weather conditions change fast. If you’re renting a car, make sure it’s all-wheel drive and consider adding roadside assistance. We had a flat tire in the national park one year, and trust me, you don’t want to be stuck without help!
Bring Your Camera – Seriously, everything here is stunning. From the mountain views to the frozen lake, you’ll want to capture it all.
Expect Friendly Locals – Canadians are known for being nice, and that holds true in Lake Louise! The people here are welcoming and always happy to help if you need recommendations or directions.

Lake Louise

Lake Louise in the winter is something else—absolutely stunning, packed with adventure, and the kind of place that feels straight out of a postcard. Whether you’re skiing endless powder runs at Ski Louise, skating on the most beautiful frozen lake, or just soaking in the mountain views, this place is pure magic. It’s cold, sure, but totally worth bundling up for. Every time I visit, I find new reasons to fall in love with it all over again. If you’re thinking about a winter ski trip to the Rockies, Lake Louise should be at the top of your list!

If you have any questions about this trip, the skiing, or anything in the nearby areas please ask!

Next, check out my Winter Road Trip Guide from Lake Louise to Jasper and follow along with me on Instagram where I am most active with sharing all of my adventures! 🏔️🤎🚡