13 Reasons Canada's Lake Louise Needs to Be at the Top of Your Bucket List

Around Lake Louise, there are a few different hiking trails, but for beginners or those who might want an easier hike for a day, the Lake Agnes Trail is the way to go. It starts just at the base of Lake Louise and heads through the forest for a while until a break in the trees reveals mountains and Mirror Lake, which is exactly what it sounds like. The trail continues for a while longer until you come across a natural waterfall and the tea house, where you can stop for warm drinks and snacks before exploring Lake Agnes and heading back down the trail.

All around Lake Louise and Banff, you'll find plenty of classic and skate skiing trails for skiers of all levels. Lake Louise offers a large number of scenic trails that lead you to Moraine Lake Road, which allows you the opportunity to ski across frozen Lake Louise or explore old log cabins from the pioneer days.

If you're willing to do a little night exploring, it can be a great time to see the northern lights. A great spot to see them is at the base of Castle Mountain, which is just between the town of Banff and Lake Louise. The northern lights are brightest and strongest from February through April but can be seen anytime between September and April.

If you're looking for a bit of a challenge when hiking, you might want to consider the Plain of Six Glaciers Hiking Trail. This trail lets hikers see Mount Lefroy, Mount Victoria, and the Victoria Glacier! The hike will start at the shore of Lake Louise and go through the mountains to a tea house that has warm drinks and snacks waiting for hungry hikers before they head back down the trail.

For those looking for a more relaxing way to take in the views around Lake Louise and Banff, the sightseeing gondolas and chairlifts are a great alternative. Once at the top of the lift, you can see all of Lake Louise and the Victoria glacier, along with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

For the ultimate adventure around Lake Louise, you might want to consider a heli-hike. This part helicopter ride, part hike gives you the chance to see some of the untouched terrain of Canada. The helicopter ride will take you past glaciers and mountains, and the hike can be as easy or challenging as you wish. For a different experience, try doing this in July or August to see all of the wildflowers along the mountains blooming.

For those willing to travel a bit outside of Lake Louise and Banff, the Columbia Icefield is one of the largest ice fields in the world made from the Athabasca glacier. The trip is less than two hours and can be a fun day trip while exploring Lake Louise and the surrounding areas. While visiting the ice field, you can walk on and drink from the Athabasca glacier anytime from mid-April to mid-October.

About 45 minutes from the glittering shores of Lake Louise are the Banff Hot Springs. This late-afternoon adventure is perfect for a day that's been spent hiking the chilly mountains. The Upper Hot Springs are the only springs that remain open to the public, and even though they look like traditional swimming pools, soaking in the hot water offers a unique experience.

There are quite a few options for dog sledding, which is a unique activity that's only enhanced by Lake Louise's beauty. The tours take you through the forest led by furry friends as you take in the scenery and pristine beauty all around you.

Take in some of the local flavors and brewing at Banff Ave Brewing Co. What makes this brewery unique is all of its beer is made with pure glacial water. Grab a bite to eat here, and take a brewery tour before exploring the surrounding shops.

For the ultimate in dining with a view, you're going to want to go to Sky Bistro. Guests dine at 7,510-feet elevation with sweeping views of the mountains and forests.

This beautiful resort is located right on the shore of Lake Louise and offers stunning views of the lake and mountains. The resort is over 125 years old and offers a wide variety of activities and tours in and around the resort.

Lake Louise is famous for being one of the most beautiful ice-skating rinks in the world during the colder months. The lake even has a warm shelter for defrosting fingers and toes after enjoying a skate around the lake.