How to Get to Lake Louise

Lake Louise Lakeshore Shuttle

Lake Louise is a bucket-list destination — but getting there in summer can be tricky without a plan. Here’s the easiest, most stress-free way to visit:

How to Get to Lake Louise Lakeshore the Easy Way

Step 1: Book Your Lake Shuttle & Gondola in Advance!

Before you travel, book your Lake Shuttle online to guarantee your spot. While you’re at it, don’t miss the chance to ride the Lake Louise Summer Gondola — it’s the best way to see the lake and surrounding peaks from above. Advance bookings are strongly recommended to secure your preferred times.

Step 2: Get to Lake Louise Village

Make your way to Lake Louise Village — the gateway to the lakeshore and your next connection.

Step 3: Free Shuttle to Lake Louise Summer Gondola

Once in Lake Louise Village, hop on our free connector shuttle that runs regularly between the village and Lake Louise Summer Gondola. No reservation needed — just hop on and head up to the resort.

Step 4: Shuttle to Lake Louise lakeshore, Moraine Lake, or Both!

From the resort, board your reserved Lake Shuttle for direct service to Lake Louise lakeshore, Moraine Lake, or visit both with a combo pass. Forget parking hassles — just sit back and enjoy the ride to some of the most iconic sights in the Rockies.

Pro Tip: Seeing Lake Louise from the gondola and from the lakeshore gives you the best of both worlds — mountain peaks above, turquoise waters below.

Where is Lake Louise?

Lake Louise sits right in the middle of the Canadian Rockies, along the TransCanada Highway. It's close to the border of Banff National Park and Yoho National Park.

If you're coming from Calgary, it's about a two-hour drive (around 184 km or 115 miles). And if you're starting in Banff, it's a quick 40-minute trip (about 60 km or 36 miles).

Lake Louise also holds the title of Canada's highest community, sitting at an elevation of 1,600 meters (5,200 feet).

See the map below or click here to view Lake Louise on Google Maps.

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Map

Lake Louise Landmarks and Spots

If you're heading to Lake Louise, keep in mind that "Lake Louise" can mean a few different things. First-time visitors often get tripped up by this. Locals know what's what, but for newcomers, it helps to know the main spots.

Lake Louise (The Lake)

This is the main attraction. Lake Louise sits at an elevation of 5,680 feet (1,731 meters). It's fed by the Victoria Glacier, which towers over the lake's western end.

The lake is deep, reaching more than 220 feet (70 meters). It's the picture-perfect spot everyone comes to see.

Moraine Lake

Famous for its dazzling turquoise waters and the iconic Valley of the Ten Peaks backdrop, Moraine Lake is a must-see landmark. Due to its soaring popularity and limited parking, personal vehicles are not allowed during the summer months. Instead, visitors can access Moraine Lake via our lakeshore shuttles, departing from our free parking lots. Be sure to plan ahead, as it’s one of the most photographed lakes in the world for a reason.

Lake Louise Village

Lake Louise Village is the go-to spot for all your basic needs. It's home to Samson Mall, where you'll find many shops and restaurants. There's also a grocery store, bakery, deli, sporting goods store, and visitor information center to help plan your adventure.

Lake Louise Ski Resort & Summer Gondola

Lake Louise Ski Resort & Summer Gondola is a must-visit for winter sports lovers. It's one of the largest ski resorts in North America, offering a wide range of runs for all skill levels.

In the warmer months, the resort becomes a hub for sightseeing, with the gondola giving amazing views of the surrounding mountains. The sightseeing gondola also opens the door to some of the area's best hiking trails, like Kicking Horse Valley and Pika Trail. The Lake Louise Ski Resort is accessible by car all year round. During the summer months, there is a Parks Canada parking connector shuttle that runs from the Samson Mall in the Lake Louise Village. During the winter, there are shuttles that run from Banff, Canmore or Clagary directly to the ski resort.

Do You Need a Banff National Park Pass for Lake Louise?

Yes, you'll need a Park Pass if you're visiting Lake Louise or anywhere in Banff National Park. This pass is required for entry into all the national parks in the area, including Banff, Kootenay, Yoho, and Jasper.

You can buy your Park Pass online, at the park gates, or the visitor center. Keep in mind passes are non-refundable.

Pass Types

There are two types of passes you can choose from:

Day Passes

  • These are for single-day visits to mountain national parks like Banff, Jasper, Yoho, and more.
  • The pass expires at 4:00 p.m. on the day of departure.
  • Available for adults, seniors, and families/groups.
  • Note: This pass does not cover entry to national historic sites.

Discovery Passes

  • These annual passes give you access to over 80 Parks Canada destinations.
  • The pass is valid for 12 months from the date of purchase.
  • Available for adults, seniors, and family/groups.
  • You'll get a physical pass in the mail, which could take up to 30 days to arrive.

Free Days

On Canada Day (July 1), Banff National Park is open free of charge. Even though the pass is free that day, you still need to get one to access the park.

Ways to Get to Lake Louise?

Driving yourself to Lake Louise is one of the most scenic ways to get there, but the experience changes a lot between summer and winter.

In summer, parking can be a real challenge, and for most people, the best option is to park at the Park & Ride and book a shuttle package that includes the gondola. This way, you avoid the hassle of searching for parking at the lake, which fills up early in the day.

Driving a Personal Vehicle

From Calgary to Lake Louise

The drive from Calgary to Lake Louise is about 200 km and takes around 2 hours. It's straightforward, with easy access to the TransCanada Highway. The views only get better once you enter the mountains, especially as you pass Kananaskis and Banff.

From Banff to Lake Louise

If you stick to the TransCanada Highway, this drive is only 60 km and takes about 35 minutes. It's the fastest option if you're already in Banff. But, if you're not in a hurry, consider taking the Bow Valley Parkway instead. This scenic route offers better wildlife viewing and leads you past Johnston Canyon, a great hiking spot. It'll add time to your trip, but the experience is worth it.

From Jasper to Lake Louise

This 230 km drive takes about 2.5 hours, but you'll want to take some extra time to stop along the way. The views are breathtaking—snow-capped peaks, glaciers, and crystal-clear rivers.

From Vancouver to Lake Louise

It's a beautiful but long route, though. Starting in Vancouver, you'll pass through lush forests and rolling mountains before transitioning into the jagged peaks of the Rockies. However, it's a long day in the car, so you might want to break it up by staying overnight somewhere along the way.

Buses to Lake Louise

Several shuttle services make getting to Lake Louise easy and stress-free. The Parks Canada Park & Ride Connector runs daily from May to October, linking key spots like the Lake Louise Campground and Samson Mall. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise guests can enjoy a complimentary shuttle to the Summer Gondola. Daily shuttles are available for those heading to Moraine Lake or the Lake Louise Lakeshore.

Private Transfer to Lake Louise

Private shuttle reservations are available if you're looking for a more comfortable and stress-free option. These transfers let you sit back and relax while enjoying the stunning mountain views between Calgary and Lake Louise.

By Air

The nearest airport to Lake Louise is Calgary International Airport, just a 2-hour drive away. If you're heading to Banff first, it's even closer—about 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Calgary International Airport is known for being one of the world's top five "hassle-free" airports, making it a smooth start to your trip to the Rockies. From there, you can easily rent a car, book a Lake Louise shuttle, or arrange a private transfer to get to Lake Louise.

Conclusion

In the summer months, the absolute best way to go to Lake Louise is by using the Park & Ride shuttle. It takes the stress out of finding parking, and you can even bundle it with the gondola for amazing views. Parking is more relaxed in winter but be prepared for icy roads.

Want more details on getting here? Check out all your options!

FAQs

Can you drive to Lake Louise by car or RV?

Yes, you can drive your car or RV to Lake Louise. There is plenty of free parking located at the Lake Louise Summer Gondola however, parking is limited in the village, especially in summer. Your best option may be to park at the Summer Gondola then utilize one of their Park & Ride shuttles.

Is there a shuttle between Banff and Lake Louise?

Yes, several shuttles run between Banff and Lake Louise, including Parks Canada's shuttle, which operates from May to October. Alternatively, you can also take the ROAM public transit system.

How to get to Lake Louise if the shuttle is full?

If shuttles are full, you can try private transfers or arrive early to secure a parking spot at the Park & Ride.

Where do you fly to to go to Lake Louise?

Fly into Calgary International Airport, about a 2-hour drive from Lake Louise.

Can you go to Lake Louise without a shuttle?

Yes, you can drive there, but using the shuttle during peak times is recommended due to limited parking.

Is Lake Louise Accessible in the Winter?

Yes, Lake Louise is accessible year-round, though roads can be icy, and parking is easier in the winter months.