Plain of Six Glaciers
Hike to a remote teahouse amidst Banff's stunning glaciers and peaks. A challenging but rewarding journey.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
Beat the crowds
Plain of Six Glaciers
Best Time
Beat the crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Hike to a remote teahouse amidst Banff's stunning glaciers and peaks. A challenging but rewarding journey.
"Majestic views and a unique teahouse make this hike unforgettable, despite the challenging terrain."
Bring Cash for Teahouse 💰
The Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse is cash only! Make sure to have enough Canadian dollars for your visit.
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
The trail has elevation gains and can be rocky. Comfortable hiking boots are recommended for a better experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse
End of the trail
A charming, remote teahouse offering refreshments with breathtaking glacier views. Cash only!
+1
Glacier Views
Along the trail and at the end
Witness the majestic power of glaciers, with opportunities to hear them groan and even see ice fall.
Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail
Starts at Lake Louise
The initial part of the hike offers stunning, flat views of the iconic Lake Louise and surrounding peaks.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Teahouse Essentials
Bring enough Canadian currency for your treats. The teahouse is seasonal, so check operating dates before your visit. Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Bring Cash for Teahouse 💰
The Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse is cash only! Make sure to have enough Canadian dollars for your visit.
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
The trail has elevation gains and can be rocky. Comfortable hiking boots are recommended for a better experience.
Go Early for Parking :car:
Parking at Lake Louise fills up extremely fast, often before 7 am. Consider shuttle buses or arriving very early.
Hear the Glaciers :sound:
If you're patient at the end of the trail, you might hear the glaciers groaning or even see ice break off.
Tips
from all over the internet
Bring Cash for Teahouse 💰
The Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse is cash only! Make sure to have enough Canadian dollars for your visit.
Wear Sturdy Footwear :athletic_shoe:
The trail has elevation gains and can be rocky. Comfortable hiking boots are recommended for a better experience.
Go Early for Parking :car:
Parking at Lake Louise fills up extremely fast, often before 7 am. Consider shuttle buses or arriving very early.
Hear the Glaciers :sound:
If you're patient at the end of the trail, you might hear the glaciers groaning or even see ice break off.
Check Trail Conditions :clipboard:
Conditions can vary, especially in shoulder seasons. Check recent trail reports before you go.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Plain of Six Glaciers trail for its absolutely gorgeous, majestic views and the unique experience of reaching the remote teahouse. Many highlight the opportunity to witness glaciers up close and even hear them. While challenging for some, the trail is often described as rewarding and worth the effort, with stunning vistas throughout. The only significant drawback mentioned is the unavoidable view of the hotel at Lake Louise, which some feel detracts from the natural atmosphere.
"Gorgeous views, avalanches happening as we hiked, great tea, and flags from the base camp of Everest. Highly recommended but not for amateurs."
Lane Campbell
"Hiked this trail Saturday June 28,2025. Moderate difficulty. Saw hikers of all ages and abilities giving it a try. It’s a classic out and back trail with beautiful vistas and views all along, so just get started and go as far as you like. That being said it’s worth it to go the final 2k past the tea house to the ridge gazing up at the glaciers above you. Majestic!"
Jason James
"Late May 2025. Lucky day on the trail. Turned around about 2 km from the end, but the views all around were incredible. There’s practically no elevation until you get more than halfway through. My non-hiking family loved it."
Caroline McKinney
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The trailhead for the Plain of Six Glaciers trail is located at the Lake Louise Lakeshore. You can walk along the lakeshore path to reach it. Parking at Lake Louise is limited and expensive (around 21 CAD), often filling before 7 am, so booking a shuttle bus in advance is highly recommended.
Yes, there are shuttle bus services available from Calgary and Banff to Lake Louise. Flixbus is one option, though schedules might be limited. It's crucial to book these in advance, especially during peak season.
While technically possible, hiking directly from Banff town to the Plain of Six Glaciers is an extremely long and strenuous undertaking. Most visitors drive or take a shuttle to Lake Louise and start the hike from there.
Parking at Lake Louise is available but very limited and comes with a fee (around 21 CAD). It fills up extremely early, often by 7 am. For a guaranteed spot and less stress, consider using the Parks Canada shuttle or a private shuttle service.
You can drive to the Lake Louise area, but parking directly at the trailhead is scarce and expensive. The best approach is to park in designated areas and utilize shuttle services or walk from the Lake Louise Lakeshore.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry into Banff National Park, which includes access to the Plain of Six Glaciers trail. You can purchase passes online or at park gates.
There is no separate entrance fee for the trail itself, but you will need a valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass to enter Banff National Park. Parking fees at Lake Louise also apply if you drive.
The teahouse is seasonal, typically open from early June to mid-October. It's always best to check their official operating dates before your visit.
No, you do not need to book tickets to hike the Plain of Six Glaciers trail. However, booking shuttle services to Lake Louise in advance is highly recommended due to limited parking.
The teahouse generally operates during daylight hours within its seasonal window. Specific hours can vary, so checking their website or local information boards is advised.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The Plain of Six Glaciers trail is generally considered moderate to challenging. It's an out-and-back hike of about 11-13 km (6.8-8 miles) with significant elevation gain, around 600 meters (2000 feet).
The hike typically takes 4-5 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the teahouse or enjoying the views. Some sources suggest up to 5.5 hours if hiking from further away.
Wear comfortable, sturdy hiking boots or shoes with good grip. Layers are essential as mountain weather can change quickly. Bring a waterproof jacket, hat, and gloves, even in summer.
Yes, it's possible to hear avalanches, especially during certain times of the year. Some hikers have reported hearing loud cracks and thunderous sounds from the glaciers.
There are restrooms available at the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse. It's advisable to use facilities at the start of the hike or carry a portable toilet if needed for longer excursions.
🍽️ ☕ Food & Dining
The teahouse offers simple refreshments like tea, coffee, baked goods (scones are popular), and sometimes light snacks. It's a great place to rest and refuel after your hike.
Prices at the teahouse are typical for remote mountain locations. While not cheap, many find the experience and the views well worth the cost. Remember to bring cash!
Absolutely! Many hikers bring their own snacks and water to enjoy along the trail or at scenic viewpoints. There are picnic spots available.
The Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse operates on a cash-only basis. Ensure you have enough Canadian dollars with you before you start your hike.
The most iconic dining experience is at the teahouse itself. Near the Lake Louise Lakeshore, you'll find options at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, but these are separate from the hike.
📸 📸 Photography
Every turn offers a stunning vista! The initial views of Lake Louise, the rugged mountain passes, and the glaciers themselves are all incredibly photogenic. The teahouse area provides a unique foreground.
Yes, early mornings or calm days at Lake Louise can offer beautiful reflections of the surrounding mountains and the Fairmont Chateau. This is before you start the main Plain of Six Glaciers trail.
Morning light can be beautiful for the initial views of Lake Louise. Later in the day, the sun can illuminate the glaciers and peaks, creating dramatic lighting. Golden hour before sunset can also be spectacular.
While the Glacier Express is a different experience, the tip about opening windows for photos without reflection is relevant for any scenic journey. For the Plain of Six Glaciers hike, focus on capturing the natural landscape.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for zooming in on glaciers or wildlife. A sturdy tripod can help with low-light conditions or capturing ice fall.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
However, the trail becomes more challenging with significant elevation gain and rocky terrain further along. +1 It's recommended to assess your children's stamina and hiking ability. Consider hiking only to the teahouse and back, or turning around when the trail becomes too strenuous. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own lunch and snacks will save money compared to purchasing food at the teahouse or nearby hotels. 🚶♀️ Solo Adventurers
The teahouse offers a chance to interact with other travelers and the staff. Solo hikers can set their own pace, stopping whenever they wish to admire the views or take photos. It's a great opportunity for personal reflection amidst stunning natural beauty. Remember to inform someone of your hiking plans and carry a communication device. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Plain of Six Glaciers vs. Lake Agnes Teahouse Hike
+1 It's a popular choice for those seeking a quicker, more accessible teahouse experience. In contrast, the Plain of Six Glaciers trail is longer, more exposed, and offers a more remote feel.
It leads you through open valleys with increasingly dramatic views of glaciers and surrounding peaks. +1 The teahouse at Plain of Six Glaciers is more secluded, providing a sense of true escape into the wilderness. Many hikers combine both trails, or choose one based on their fitness level, time constraints, and desired atmosphere. +1Key Differences:
* Distance: Plain of Six Glaciers is longer (~11-13 km round trip) than Lake Agnes (~7 km round trip).
* Elevation Gain: Plain of Six Glaciers has more elevation gain (~600m) than Lake Agnes (~400m).
* Scenery: Lake Agnes offers forest, waterfalls, and a serene lake; Plain of Six Glaciers provides vast glacial landscapes and rugged peaks.
* Crowds: Lake Agnes is generally more crowded than Plain of Six Glaciers.
+1Navigating the Trail and Teahouse Experience
As you progress, the trail gradually ascends, becoming more rugged and exposed. You'll traverse moraines and rocky terrain, with the imposing glaciers of the Victoria Glacier and Mount Victoria looming ahead. The journey is as much about the panoramic vistas as it is about reaching the destination. The Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse is a rustic, charming stop that feels like a hidden gem.
It's a place to rest your legs, enjoy a warm drink, and soak in the incredible surroundings. Remember, it's cash only, so be prepared with Canadian currency. +1 From the teahouse, you can continue a short distance further to a ridge for even more spectacular views of the glaciers. Some visitors even report hearing the glaciers groaning or witnessing ice fall, a truly awe-inspiring natural phenomenon. Practicalities: What to Bring and Know
Dressing in layers is crucial, as mountain weather can be unpredictable, with temperatures fluctuating significantly. Pack a waterproof jacket, a hat, and gloves, even during summer months. Beyond clothing, bring plenty of water and snacks. While the teahouse offers refreshments, having your own supplies ensures you stay energized throughout the hike.
+1 Finally, cash is a must for the teahouse. +1 Consider checking trail conditions before you go, especially if visiting in the shoulder seasons, as snow or ice can impact accessibility. 
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