Perfect Day Hike: Lake Louise, Six Glaciers, Big Beehive, Lake Agnes

Plan a perfect day hiking Lake Louise! Explore Plains of Six Glaciers, Big Beehive, and Lake Agnes. Stunning views, teahouse, and tips await. Read now!

If you’re up for a rewarding day with some of the most spectacular views around the Lake Louise area, then this hike is for you. At approximately 18.5 km with just over 1,000 meters of elevation gain, it’s a worthwhile challenge that combines natural beauty, historical charm, and a sense of adventure.

There are two old teahouses along the way—one at the Plain of the Six Glaciers and another at Lake Agnes. Lunch at the Plain of the Six Glaciers is lovely, just note that both teahouses are often cash only.

Parking at Lake Louise is tough and expensive—around $36/day. We arrived shortly after 6 a.m. and found only a few spots left, so plan accordingly. Alternatively, there’s a shuttle bus system which is well worth booking in advance: Lake Louise Shuttle Info.

Trail Summary:

Start by traversing the western lake shore, then gradually ascend to the 1927 Plain of the Six Glaciers Teahouse, about 5.5 km in.
Continue for another ~1 km beyond the teahouse for stunning views of the glaciers.
This section is out and back, so if the teahouse is full, you can always try again on your return.

Optional Extension:

On the way back, take the Highline Trail and the connector (steepest ascent) to the Big Beehive for the best views of Lake Louise.
From there, descend to Lake Agnes, check out the second teahouse, and continue your descent back to the Chateau.

Note: The Plain of the Six Glaciers trail is usually much quieter than the Lake Agnes area, which is packed in summer. If you’d prefer to avoid the crowds, simply return via the same route for a quieter hike.

Fireside Comfort & Wild Flavors: Our Favorite Mountain Stay

We often stay at this little gem, Storm Mountain Lodge (book here)—a rustic cabin complex that oozes pioneer charm. The individual cabins, each with their own wood-burning stove, offer a cozy retreat that feels both timeless and welcoming. One of our favorite touches is the common cabin, which serves as a social hub where guests can gather, relax, and swap trail stories.

Dinner at the lodge is always a highlight. The menu is thoughtfully curated with local Canadian fare, often featuring Buffalo and Elk, and every dish is presented with care and attention to detail. It’s the kind of place where you feel both grounded and indulged—an authentic slice of the Rockies.

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