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Lake Agnes Lake Louise

4.8
·204 reviews·, Canada

A charming historic tea house awaits at the end of a scenic hike to the stunning, high-elevation Lake Agnes.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
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Lake Agnes - Image 1

Lake Agnes Lake Louise

Best Time

Early morning

Fewer crowds, better light

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming historic tea house awaits at the end of a scenic hike to the stunning, high-elevation Lake Agnes.

4.8
(204 reviews)

"The hike to the tea house is a must-do for its incredible views and unique mountain experience."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Arrive Before 8:30 AM

Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful hike to the tea house. Parking fills up quickly!

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The trail can be uneven and muddy. Crampons might be needed in late spring/early fall.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Lake Agnes Tea House

Lake Agnes Tea House

Lake Agnes

Enjoy a warm drink and a treat at this historic tea house nestled beside a stunning alpine lake.

Lake Agnes

Lake Agnes

End of the Lake Agnes Trail

A breathtakingly beautiful, high-elevation lake surrounded by majestic Rocky Mountain peaks.

Big Beehive Viewpoint

Big Beehive Viewpoint

Above Lake Agnes

Hike further for panoramic views of Lake Louise and the surrounding valleys from this iconic viewpoint.

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Planning Your Visit

Beat the Crowds to the Tea House

The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is incredibly popular. Arrive before 8:30 AM to enjoy a quieter trail and the tea house experience with fewer people. Parking at Lake Louise can fill up fast, so an early start is key.

Trail Conditions & What to Expect

The hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House is moderately challenging, with some steep sections and stairs near the end. Depending on the season, you might need crampons for icy patches. The tea house has specific operating hours, so check them before you go.

Best Times

When
Early morning
Why
Fewer crowds, better light
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoon
Why
Golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

No, we don’t have coffee. #rockies #lakelouise #Hiking #lakeagnesteahouse
@cassiethesmith
28.1K likes • 272K views

🎯 Arrive Before 8:30 AM

Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful hike to the tea house. Parking fills up quickly! Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The trail can be uneven and muddy. Crampons might be needed in late spring/early fall. Reddit

Come hike the Lake Agnes Tea House with us! This is a must add to your bucket list on your trip to Banff this summer! #banff #alberta #lakelouise #lakeagnesteahouse #traveltiktok #nature
@rebeccams815
4.1K likes • 110.7K views
Add this hike to your summer visit in Banff. The tea house at lake Louise is one of my favourite experiences. Enjoy views above Lake Louise and visit lake Agnes over tea and food while at the top! 🇨🇦❤️ #canada #banff #lakelouise #lakeagnesteahouse
reellifewithscott
111 likes • 5.4K views

💰 Cash for Tea House

While some places accept cards, it's wise to have cash for the tea house for drinks and snacks. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

It's an uphill hike! Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Reddit

Lake Louise & Lake Agnes, Banff! #banff #alberta #hikeyourownhike #banffnationalpark #hike #canada🇨🇦 #mountain #lake #lakelouise
mahammadnahid_gandhi
75 likes • 1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Arrive Before 8:30 AM

Beat the crowds and enjoy a peaceful hike to the tea house. Parking fills up quickly! Reddit

👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes

The trail can be uneven and muddy. Crampons might be needed in late spring/early fall. Reddit

💰 Cash for Tea House

While some places accept cards, it's wise to have cash for the tea house for drinks and snacks. Reddit

💧 Stay Hydrated

It's an uphill hike! Bring plenty of water, especially on warmer days. Reddit

📸 Capture the Views

The scenery is incredible. Don't forget your camera for stunning mountain and lake shots. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(204 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the stunning beauty of Lake Agnes and the unique experience of visiting the historic tea house. The hike is considered moderately challenging but rewarding. Some find the parking and crowds to be significant drawbacks, especially during peak times.

"Beautiful lake.
It’s about 3 miles to reach, we started at 5:30 AM so it was perfectly empty.
We met some people at the lake.
Yea house is open 8:30am-4 pm.
I recommend walking around the lake .
A lot of people on way back. But I think this is one of the most popular short hikes."

Marta Stashevska

"Tea house is the most popular point. You can buy a drink and sit beside the lakeshore to consider hiking to Big or Little beehive."

Paul Lee

"Came in late April when the grounds still mostly frozen so crampons are a must. The hike was moderately challenging but made the view more worth it. The tea house is closed at this time of year, so we just admired the mountains and snowy lake."

Forest Bai

What People Like

Breathtaking lake views
Charming tea house experience
Rewarding hike

What People Dislike

Limited parking
Large crowds
Seasonal closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The most common way is to hike the Lake Agnes Trail, which starts near the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The hike is approximately 3.5 km (2.2 miles) one way and takes about 1-1.5 hours. You can also consider a horse ride tour that reaches the lake. Reddit

Yes, there is parking at Lake Louise, but it is very limited and expensive ($37 CAD). It's highly recommended to arrive by 6 AM to secure a spot, or consider using shuttle services or public transport. Reddit

No, you cannot drive directly to Lake Agnes Tea House. It is only accessible by hiking or by horse ride tour. The hike is a popular way to experience the stunning scenery. Reddit

You can drive and pay for parking, take a Parks Canada shuttle, or use Roam Public Transit. Booking shuttles in advance is often necessary during peak season. Reddit

The hike is considered moderately challenging. It's about 7 km (4.4 miles) round trip with an elevation gain of about 400 meters (1,300 feet). Some find it strenuous if they are out of shape. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

There is no entry fee for the hike itself, but you will need a Parks Canada Discovery Pass to access Banff National Park. The tea house operates on a cash-only basis for purchases. Reddit

The tea house typically opens around 8:30 AM and closes at 4:00 PM, but hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or recent visitor reports for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

No, the tea house is not open year-round. It typically operates from late May or early June through mid-October. It is closed during the winter months. Reddit

Reservations are generally not accepted at the Lake Agnes Tea House. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, which is why arriving early is recommended. Reddit

Prices for tea, coffee, and baked goods are generally reasonable for a remote mountain location. Expect to pay around $5-10 CAD for a drink and a treat. Reddit

🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience

You can enjoy the stunning views of Lake Agnes, walk around its shores, and continue hiking to the Big Beehive or Little Beehive for even more spectacular panoramic vistas. Instagram

Lake Agnes Tea House is situated at an elevation of approximately 2,135 meters (7,005 feet) above sea level. Reddit

Yes, there are outhouses available near the tea house. They are maintained by Parks Canada. Reddit

The tea house serves a selection of teas, coffee, hot chocolate, and freshly baked goods like scones and pies. It's a perfect spot for a mid-hike refreshment. Reddit

The hike is manageable for older children who are used to walking. Younger children might find it challenging, and a carrier might be necessary. The stairs near the tea house can also be tricky for very young ones. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The classic shot is of the tea house with Lake Agnes and the surrounding mountains. For wider vistas, hike up to the Big Beehive or Little Beehive. The reflections on the lake can be stunning in the early morning. Instagram

Early morning offers fewer crowds and softer light, ideal for capturing the serene beauty. Late afternoon can provide beautiful golden hour light. Instagram

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for details of the peaks. Don't forget a polarizing filter to enhance the blues of the sky and water. Instagram

Drone usage is restricted in national parks. Always check Parks Canada regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

Try framing the tea house with the lake and mountains behind it. You can also capture close-ups of the rustic architecture or people enjoying their tea. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The hike to Lake Agnes Tea House can be a rewarding experience for families with older children. The trail offers beautiful scenery and the novelty of reaching a mountain tea house. However, it's important to gauge your children's stamina, as the uphill climb and elevation can be tiring. Reddit

Consider bringing a child carrier for younger children, and be prepared for the stairs leading to the tea house. The tea house itself offers a fun break with hot drinks and snacks. For a less strenuous option, exploring the shores of Lake Louise itself or taking a shorter walk to Mirror Lake might be more suitable for very young families. Reddit

🚶 Budget Travelers

While Lake Louise itself can be pricey with parking fees, the hike to Lake Agnes Tea House is free to access (beyond your Parks Canada Discovery Pass). Packing your own snacks and water can save money, though experiencing a treat at the tea house is part of the charm. Reddit

Utilizing public transit or Parks Canada shuttles is a more budget-friendly option than paying for prime parking. The hike itself is a fantastic way to experience the Rockies without expensive tours. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) when crowds might be slightly smaller and accommodation prices potentially lower. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Lake Agnes Tea House Hike

The Lake Agnes Tea House hike is one of the most beloved trails in Banff National Park, drawing visitors with the promise of a charming, historic tea house at its summit. The trail itself is a steady uphill climb, approximately 3.5 km (2.2 miles) one way, with an elevation gain of around 400 meters (1,300 feet). It winds through a beautiful subalpine forest, offering glimpses of waterfalls and eventually opening up to the stunning Lake Agnes. The final approach to the tea house involves a set of stairs, adding a touch of adventure to the ascent. Reddit

Visitors often describe the hike as moderately challenging, especially if they are not accustomed to elevation or steep inclines. The tea house hike at Lake Louise is particularly popular, so starting early is crucial to avoid large crowds. The reward for your effort is not just the picturesque lake and the cozy tea house, but also the opportunity to enjoy a warm beverage and a baked treat amidst breathtaking Rocky Mountain scenery. Reddit

Beyond the tea house, the area offers further exploration. You can continue your hike to the Big Beehive or Little Beehive for even more expansive views of Lake Louise and the surrounding valleys. These extensions add to the overall experience and provide incredible photo opportunities. Remember to check the operating hours of the tea house, as it is seasonal and typically closes in mid-October. InstagramReddit

Navigating Lake Louise Parking and Access

Securing parking at Lake Louise is a significant challenge, especially during peak season. The main parking lot, located near the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, is expensive ($37 CAD) and fills up extremely early, often before 6 AM. Many visitors report arriving at dawn to guarantee a spot. Reddit

To mitigate parking issues, Parks Canada offers shuttle services from designated parking areas in the town of Lake Louise or from Banff. Booking these shuttles in advance is highly recommended, as they are often the most reliable way to reach the lake without the stress of finding parking. Roam Public Transit is another option, providing bus service to Lake Louise from various points in the Bow Valley. Reddit

For those who manage to secure parking, the trailhead for the Lake Agnes Tea House hike is conveniently located near the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The initial part of the walk follows the shoreline of the iconic Lake Louise before branching off onto the Lake Agnes Trail. Planning your transportation well in advance is key to a smooth and enjoyable visit to this popular destination. Reddit

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