How to visit Lake Louise by shuttle in 2026 (Tips + Best Things to Do!)

Last updated on March 17th, 2026

Planning a trip to Lake Louise in 2026? We’ll guide you on how to use the Parks Canada Shuttle. Perfect for anyone staying in the Village of Lake Louise or parking at the free park-and-ride lot. And if you’re hanging out in the town of Banff, we’ve got transportation options for you too.

Having dreamt of visiting Banff National Park for ages, we made the drive from Seattle in the summer of 2018. We got to see Moraine Lake, hiked the Plain of Six Glaciers, and cruised the Icefields Parkway, with stops at Peyto and Bow Lakes. Spoiler alert—it totally lived up to the hype. (You can catch all the details of our adventure here).

But of all the places we visited in Banff, Lake Louise stands out as one of our favorite stops! And It’s easy to see why it’s such a crowd-pleaser. The lake is ridiculously turquoise in color, making every photo we took there absolutely stunning. Fed by glaciers from towering mountains like Victoria Glacier, Mount Temple, Mount Whyte, and Mount Niblock, Lake Louise gets its color from the rock flour these glaciers carry into it.

With great beauty comes great crowds, and the parking situation here can be a real headache. However, in 2023, Parks Canada implemented a shuttle system that regulates access during the peak summer and early fall months.

In this post, we’ll break down how to book the summer shuttle, offer alternative transportation options, share some essential packing tips, and highlight the best things to do once you’re there!

About Lake Louise

Lake Louise, located in Alberta’s Banff National Park, is about 57 kilometers (35 miles) from the town of Banff. The drive from Banff takes around 40 minutes, while it’s about a 60-minute drive from Golden, 20 minutes from Field, and 50 minutes from Canmore. Lake Louise is situated at an elevation of 1,600 meters (5,249 feet) above sea level.

This lake is known for its turquoise waters, a result of the fine rock flour from surrounding glaciers. It’s about 2 kilometers (1.24 miles) long and 0.5 kilometers (0.31 miles) wide, with a depth of roughly 70 meters (230 feet). And the opportunity to marvel at this vibrant color is fleeting, as the lake remains frozen for the majority of the year. 

Lake Louise is a popular spot for activities like hiking and canoeing in summer and visiting the super popular tea house. When winter rolls in, this place transforms into a winter wonderland. You can skate on the frozen lake, snowshoe on the trails around the lake, and the skiing? Absolutely amazing at the nearby resort!

Want to Learn More as you explore?

We highly suggest downloading the Guide Along – Canadian Rockies Bundle (totally worth the cost!!) audio tours to navigate you on the road. Even when you don’t have service it knows where you are and provides commentary and history about the area. As well as alerts you when to stop for specific sights. These guides are fun to listen to and the narrator feels like a fun friend in the car with you! There’s two other individual guides you could buy instead, Calgary To Banff or Lake Louise, Moraine & Yoho.

Parking at Lake Louise (Everything You Need to Know) 

Planning a trip to Lake Louise? This stunning spot in Banff National Park is a year-round paradise, open every single day—yep, even on Christmas. 

Unlike the nearby Moraine Lake, Lake Louise does not require a shuttle to visit, but it is a good idea to take one. During the peak season from mid-June to October, securing a parking spot at Lake Louise can be chaotic. The demand for parking dramatically increases, often requiring visitors to arrive before 8:00 AM, especially those traveling from Banff or Canmore. When the parking lot reaches capacity, attendants will turn away additional vehicles.

Cost of Parking

During the peak season, be aware that parking at Lake Louise comes with a fee. From mid-May to mid-October, between 7 AM and 7 PM, parking at Lake Louise costs $36.75 CAD (~$26.81 USD) per car. A Parks Canada Pass is also required for access to Lake Louise, which can be purchased online or at various entry points. It’s important to note that overnight parking is not allowed.

Winter and Shoulder Seasons

Parking at Lake Louise is generally smooth sailing during the shoulder seasons and winter months.  During winter, the most straightforward way to reach Lake Louise is by driving, as the Parks Canada shuttle service is only operational during the summer months. Additionally, many tour operators offer tours exclusively in the summer.

Ski Season? There’s a Shuttle for That!

For those aiming to visit the Lake Louise Ski Resort, there’s a convenient free shuttle service that operates throughout the ski season. This shuttle connects hotels in Lake Louise Village and Banff directly to the ski resort. 

NEW Lake Louise Summer Shuttle Service 

Lake Louise Shuttle by Parks Canada

When it comes to visiting Lake Louise, the Parks Canada Shuttle is recommended for both visitors staying in the Village of Lake Louise and those driving from other locations who park at the free park-and-ride lot. Reservations for the summer season opens on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, at 8 AM MDT.

Daily Shuttle Schedule

The Lake Louise Shuttle operates from mid-May to mid-October. It runs every 20 minutes, from 6:30 AM-6:00 PM, with the last shuttle for the return trip from Lake Louise to the Park and Ride Lot leaving at 7:30 PM.

Shuttle Fees

When planning to take the Lake Louise shuttle, here are the fees you need to know (all prices in CAD):

Adults: $8
Seniors (65+): $4
Youth (6-17): $2
Children (Under 6): Free

Keep in mind there’s also a $3 non-refundable transaction fee for each reservation made through the Parks Canada Reservation System.

Don’t forget, these shuttle fees are separate from the National Parks entry fee, so you’ll need to account for both when budgeting for your trip.

Should you arrive at the Park and Ride lot without a reservation, and if there’s room, Parks Canada staff can help book you into the next available shuttle slot for that day. But it’s a good idea to book ahead of time, as Lake Louise shuttles often sell out.

Departure Points

If you’re using the Lake Louise shuttle, you’ll need to park at the Park & Ride Shuttle lot, which is located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort (1 Whitehorn Road). Parking at this lot is free.

The Lake Louise Village Connector Shuttle 

You can hop aboard the free Park and Ride Village Connector shuttle, which will take you to the Park and Ride area at Lake Louise Ski Resort located off Whitehorn Rd. From there, you can transfer to the shuttle headed for Lake Louise.

The Village Connector service operates between mid-May and mid-October, and no reservations are needed. It runs every 30 minutes, making it super convenient, from 7 AM to 7:30 PM. 

Roam Public Transport to Lake Louise

The ROAM transit bus offers convenient transportation options for visitors traveling to Lake Louise from the town of Banff. 

Route 8X (Lake Louise Express)

The Route 8X, known as the Lake Louise Express, operates from Banff to Lake Louise year-round, daily from downtown Banff. In Banff, you can catch this bus at various stops, including the Banff High School, Banff Avenue, and the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel. Once at Lake Louise, the bus makes stops at Samson Mall, Lake Louise Village, and the iconic Fairmont Château Lake Louise.

Route 8S (Lake Louise Scenic) 

Departing in July and August, on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from downtown Banff, ROAM Transit also offers Route 8S, known as the Lake Louise Scenic Route. This service travels to the Lake Louise Lakeshore via the Bow Valley Parkway and includes stops at popular locations like Johnston Canyon and Protection Mountain Campground. From Banff, it departs from the Banff High School Transit Hub and Banff Train Station.

For detailed schedule information and specific departure times, you can refer to the ROAM Transit schedule.

Reservations and Costs

It costs $10 per adult to ride. While it’s recommended to reserve your spot, you can also pay at the bus. Roam buses accept both U.S. and Canadian currency, ranging from nickels to $20 bills. If you have kids 12 and under, they ride for free, but they still need a reservation.

ROAM Transit Super Pass

For those planning a full day of exploration, the Roam Transit Super Pass is a great deal. For $25, this pass allows unlimited travel on any Roam route for the day, which is perfect for trips from Canmore or Banff to Lake Louise. You can buy the Super Pass on the bus, at the Roam office in Banff, or via the Token Transit App.

Lake Connector Shuttle

The Lake Connector Shuttle, managed by Parks Canada, also provides a free shuttle service between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake for those with reservations on either shuttle and works for those with a Roam Transit Super Pass. 

The Lake Connector shuttle operates every 15 minutes starting at 8 AM, with the final shuttle departing at 6 PM from both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake on a first-come, first-serve service basis.

Moraine Lake Bus Company

Shuttle Fees

When planning to take the Moraine Lake Bus to Lake Louise, here are the fees (all prices in CAD):

Adults: $39-49 per person (including taxes and fees, depending on the day)
Children: $29-$39 per child (including taxes and fees, depending on the day)

Daily Shuttle Schedule

To reach Lake Louise via the Moraine Lake Bus Company, you have the option of departing from either Lake Louise Summer Gondola or Samson Mall. Departure times start at 6:45 AM and go as late as 4:00 PM.

If you also want to visit Moraine Lake, Moraine Lake Bus Company does offer a shuttle that can take you to both lakes. As well as a sunrise shuttle just to Moraine Lake. Make sure to check out our Moraine Lake Shuttle blog post for more details!

Hop On BanfF 

It’s as simple as it sounds— a bus where you can hop on and off whenever you feel like it. The route starts in Banff and makes stops at Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise Gondola, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake.

The service operates as a ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ style tour, perfect for those who love to explore at their own pace. The buses run seven days a week and depart from either the Moose Hotel and Suites on Banff Avenue at 7:45 AM and 9:30 AM and from the Banff Train Station at 7:50 AM and 9:35 AM. The last bus completes its route in Banff by 6 PM daily.

One thing to keep in mind, the earlier you start, the more you can see, so I’d recommend catching the earliest tour to make the most of your Banff day! You can book your bus ride right here. 

Staying the Night at Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise is a dream for many visiting Banff. It’s not only one of the most famous spots, but also one of the priciest. The major perk? You get to wake up right at Lake Louise, avoiding the hassle of parking, shuttles, or dealing with tours.

But this privilege comes with a hefty price tag. During the summer months, rates at the Fairmont can easily exceed $1000 per night, plus there’s an additional $30 parking fee for guests! Still, many find it worth the cost for the chance to stay at one of Canada’s most beautiful spots.

As for other Lake Louise hotels, some may offer shuttle services to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, but it’s best to contact them directly for specific details.

Three Sisters Taxi to Lake Louise

A taxi is the most expensive but convenient option for those on a tight schedule, costing around CAD $100 one-way. Three Sister’s Taxi provides round-trip transportation from Canmore or Banff to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. You get an hour at each lake before returning to your starting point. 

Need more time by the lakes? For an additional $100 CAD per hour, you can extend your stay. This tour is self-guided and can accommodate up to 6 people. Reservations are required.

Hike to Lake Louise from Lake Louise Village 

Hike to Lake Louise from the Village using the Louise Creek Trail. This trail covers a distance of 3.4 km (2.15 mi) one-way and follows the creek that flows out of Lake Louise and down to the Bow River. This hike is a bit on the steep side, though at nearly 266 meters (813 ft) of elevation gain. 

Bike To Lake Louise from Lake Louise Village

For those who prefer biking, you can also pedal your way up to Lake Louise from the Village using the Tramline Trail. This double-track biking trail begins at the old train station and covers a distance of 4.8 km (3 mi) with a gradual ascent of 190 meters (626 ft). Alternatively, you could bike along the main road to the lake, but it’s narrow with no shoulders, making the Tramline a much safer choice.

No bike? No problem! Renting bikes in the Lake Louise Village area is easy. Check out places like Wilson Mountain Sports, located at Samson Mall. They offer a variety of choices, including mountain bikes and e-bikes. 

Best Things to Do at Lake Louise 

This stunning lake in Banff National Park is loaded with fun activities, no matter the season. Here are our top picks for things to do that you just can’t miss!

Lake Louise Lakeshore

The Lake Louise Lakeshore trail wraps around the eastern part of Lake Louise and is flat, with no elevation gain. The trail is approximately 2 km one way and concludes where the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail begins.

Canoe at Lake Louise

Paddling here gives you an awesome view of Mount Victoria and the Victoria Glacier. If you’re looking to rent a canoe, you can rent one at the Fairmont Lake Louise boathouse, located on the western shore of the lake. Each canoe can fit either three adults, or two adults and two little kiddos under 55 pounds each. It’s first-come, first-served, so the early bird gets the canoe! For in-house guests at the Fairmont Lake Louise, a one-hour canoe rental is $95 CAD. And if you’re just visiting for the day, it’s $145 CAD for an hour.

Visit the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Even if you’re not staying there, it’s worth popping in to see this iconic hotel. The lobby and grounds are open to visitors. And if you’re up for a treat, pop into the Fairview Bar & Restaurant. They offer an amazing afternoon tea with delicious scones, sandwiches, and sweets. Plus, you get to pick your bubbly—Prosecco, Champagne, or a local Canadian sparkling wine!

Hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers

The Plain of Six Glaciers hike at Lake Louise is a 13.8 km (8.6 miles) round trip, with a 487 meters (1,598 feet) elevation gain. It takes you from the shores of the lake up to an amazing glacier plain, and you can even grab a treat at the historic teahouse. Expect to spend 3 to 5 hours on this stunning trail.

Lake Agnes Tea House

Operating since 1927, this quaint, family-operated tea house offers a unique slice of history to hikers. Its provisions are airlifted or hauled in by horse and dedicated staff who trek up to their 5-day shifts. The cost of snacks here mirrors the logistic efforts, but the memorable experience and the staff’s warmth justify every penny. Be sure to bring Canadian cash to avoid extra charges.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lake Louise

Can I bring my kayak or canoe to Lake Louise? 
Yes, bringing your kayak, canoe, or stand-up paddleboard to Lake Louise is totally doable. Since parking is still an option at Lake Louise, unlike at Moraine Lake, it’s easier to transport your personal watercraft there.

If you manage to grab a parking spot at the Lake Louise Lakeshore, it’s just a quick 5-minute walk to carry your watercraft from the parking area to the lake.

For those taking the Lake Louise shuttle, don’t worry – you can bring inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddleboards on board, provided there’s enough space. 

When does Lake Louise thaw?
Lake Louise usually stays frozen from November until late May. The thaw typically starts around late May, and by the first or second week of June, you can expect to see the lake in its full, vibrant blue glory.

Is the Lake Louise shuttle pet friendly?
Certified assistance animals are welcome on board, but owners should have proof of their training. Passengers can also bring their pets at no extra cost, as long as they are in a secure carrier that fits on the owner’s lap, designed for pet transportation.

Can you swim in Lake Louise?
Yes, you can technically swim in Lake Louise, but it’s generally not recommended. The lake’s frigid waters come from glacial runoff, and even during the summer months, the water remains extremely cold at 4°C (39°F).

Are dogs allowed at Lake Louise? 
Yes! Lake Louise, like many hiking trails in Banff National Park, allows dogs on a leash.

Know Before You Go to Lake Louise

Peak Season Rush: If you’re heading to Lake Louise in the summer season, be ready for it to be BUSY. Getting there early or using the shuttle can save you from the parking frenzy.

National Park Fees: Heading to Lake Louise also means you’re stepping into Banff National Park, and that comes with a fee. You can snag a pass online or at the park’s entrance.

Bear Country: Yup, you’re in bear territory. Carry bear spray, hike in groups, and make some noise on the trails. And absolutely no feeding the wildlife!

Leave No Trace: Pack out whatever you pack in, and leave nature just as you found it.

Visitor Centers: Drop by the visitor centers for the latest info, maps, and tips.

Packing List for Lake Louise

When you’re packing for the Rockies, it’s all about being prepared for every kind of adventure (and weather!). Here’s a detailed list to help you prepare for your trip to Lake Louise. To see even more items we take hiking, check out all of our hiking gear!

Down Jacket: A dependable down jacket like the Columbia Powder Lite Jacket or Arc’teryx Cerium LT Hoody is a must for staying warm.

Rain Jacket: Weather can change quickly in the mountains, so we recommend packing a rain jacket, even if the forecast seems clear.

Hiking Pants: Opt for comfortable, quick-drying pants suitable for changing weather conditions. We’re big fans of the comfy KUHL Freeflex pants.

Hiking Boots: You can’t go wrong with the Lowa Renegade GTX (a favorite of Kathryn’s) or the Altra Lone Peak 9 (Adam’s top choice).

Hiking Socks: Smartwool or Darn Tough socks are awesome—they wick moisture, keep your feet dry, and reduce the risk of blisters.

Sunscreen: Protect your skin from UV rays, even on cloudy days. We love Supergoop! Play Everyday Lotion SPF 50.

Sunglasses: Keep your eyes shielded, especially near reflective water surfaces. Adam prefers KALIYADI Sunglasses, while Kathryn opts for Ray Bans.

Hydration System: CamelBak hydration bladders are fantastic for hands-free sipping without stopping to dig out a water bottle.

Snacks & Energy Bars: Don’t forget to pack food, especially if you plan to hike. RXBARs are one of our go-to snacks—they’re so tasty and filling.

Map/GPS: Even if trails are well-marked, it’s wise to have a backup. Bring a physical map or a reliable GPS device, and consider an AllTrails+ Membership for detailed trail maps and offline navigation. 

Want to get 30% off an AllTrails Plus membership? Use our code aplusk30 (you must redeem this code on the website, not the app)!

We use AllTrails Plus on every single hike and it is the most helpful hiking tool out there! Some of the features we love are offline maps (so we can navigate even without cell service), wrong-turn alerts, and its 3D maps feature, so we can get a feel for trails before we hike.

Bear Spray: Bear spray is non-negotiable in the Canadian Rockies. Counter Assault Bear Spray is a popular choice. (You can’t fly with it, but you can buy or rent it locally).

First Aid Kit: Adventure Medical Kits have compact options that are perfect for hiking and include the basics like band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and blister treatments.

Backpack: To carry all your essentials comfortably. We love our REI Trail 40 pack and Osprey has a range of comfortable backpacks suitable for day hikes.

Bug Spray: If you’re not a fan of DEET (like me), try Nantucket Spider’s essential oil bug spray. Sawyer Products has some effective DEET-free options too.

About the Author

This blog post was written by our writer Nicoll. Learn a bit about her below!

After six years of full-time travel, Nicoll is now a mountain-loving mama living in Colorado with her husband Jake, their sweet baby girl Teagan, and their pup Gunner. She loves hiking, riding her dirt bike, and finding joy in the little things. 

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