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The Plain of Six Glaciers hike which ends near a tea house above Lake Louise is a beauty. But the crowds are there unless you pick your times – early mornings, late afternoons or in the fall when the crowds have dispersed. It’s an interesting hike because of the views it affords of Lake Louise from a different angle and the glorious glaciers near the end point.
The hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse starts on the path by the turquoise-coloured waters of Lake Louise. Initially you have to cut and duck through the tourists to get anywhere. If you can get over that then you’ll be treated to the sights of Mt. Lefroy and Mt. Victoria along with six glaciers – some of which look like they could break off into pieces at any time. There are wildflowers around too – not in copious quantities but enough to add some colour to the hike.
And for you non-hikers, it seems you can get up to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse on horseback. So do it. This is one spectacular part of Banff National Park that is well worth a visit.
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The hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse
The trail to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House is well signed. Start by heading on the paved path to the right of Lake Louise – if you’re facing the lake. The trail hugs Lake Louise for the first 2 km.
When you reach the cliffs at the end of the lake you’re likely to see some climbers. It’s fun to stop and watch them for a while.
There are a few intersections on the trail – all signed – so as long as you can read you’re fine. Basically you climb straight up the valley. For much of the hike you continue to see Lake Louise.
There is one section with a slight drop-off – hence the reason for the metal ropes, but really it’s wide enough that all hikers should be able to handle it.
Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse
The Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse doesn’t come into view until you round a bend by a largish stream – 5.5 km from the start of the trail. If you don’t have your heart set on eating at the Teahouse then bring a picnic lunch and park yourself on one of the nearby benches and admire the sights.
From the Teahouse it’s reportedly another 1.6 km to the high viewpoint. The last half kilometre or so was closed when I did it with a sign saying that the slope was unstable. I’ll respect that.
How long is the Plain of Six Glaciers hike?
All told the Plain of Six Glaciers hike along with the Lake Louise Teahouse is 13.8 km return (8.6 miles) with a vertical gain of about 400 m (1,300 feet). It will take you about four hours to do the return hike and I’d rate it as easy.
You can add in a loop that allows you to visit the Lake Agnes Teahouse too.
You can bring your dog but keep it on a leash. I brought ours but saw only a few others – mainly I think because the locals avoid this trail in the summer.
Transportation to Lake Louise (and the start of the hike)
The Lake Louise – Moraine Lake area gets busier with every passing year. It’s almost impossible now to get a parking spot. Going forward, Parks Canada will be offering a shuttle service from the Trans-Canada Highway, but you’ll have to reserve in advance. For detailed information and the ability to reserve a seat ($8/adult) visit the Parks Canada website here.
Location map of the teahouse hike
Where to stay in the Lake Louise area
If you want to avoid shuttle altogether there are a couple of options – the upscale Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and walking distance away, Deer Lodge. If you want to stay on Moraine Lake, then the Moraine Lake Lodge is your only option.
If you don’t mind taking the shuttle or you have horseshoes and manage to snag a parking spot then there are many more options. Paradise Lodge & Bungalows would be a great choice and not far from the lake. Or try the Baker Creek Mountain Resort near Johnston Canyon.
More Lake Louise area hikes you’re sure to love
- The Lake Agnes – Big Beehive Hike
- 10 Breathtaking Lake Louise Hikes, Banff National Park
- Lake Annette – Paradise Valley Hike & Camp
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