Lake Louise & Moraine Lake During our 2019 trip we took several hikes at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and this time we took only two hikes, one at each of these iconic lakes. On our first day out, we hiked to the Plain of Six Glaciers. Six years previously, we had taken this hike in the rain and had not been able to see its famous views. This time we were able to go on a sunny day, allowing us to continue past the tea house to Abbots Viewpoint, which offered commanding views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. It was late in the afternoon when we returned to the tea house and the crowds had left, allowing us to sit and enjoy berry tea and hearty soup on the balcony overlooking the glaciers. A very special treat indeed!
At Moraine Lake, we first climbed the Rock Pile to get early morning views of the emerald waters and the peaks that line the lake, and then we hiked the Larch Valley trail, which took us to Minnestimma Lake and the bottom of Sentinel Pass. The morning started out with a low-hanging fog, which lifted in the morning and became sunny for a while. This is a hike I had taken during a steady downpour in 2019, so I was eager to go back on a sunny day, but alas, a cold rain developed in late morning and continued throughout the day, making the hike somewhat less enjoyable. Fortunately, we were able to reach the lake before the rain started, so on the way up we were able to enjoy lovely views of the ten famous peaks that stretch out from Moraine Lake. Perhaps on our next trip we will be able to see the larch trees turning color.
Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are considered two of the most stunning lakes in the world, and it would be difficult to argue against this assessment. For good reason, they are two of the most popular places in Canada. Photographers have long sought to capture the beauty of the lakes, and you can find (many) thousands of stunning photos online. I don’t have those iconic images of Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, but in this gallery, I try to share a personal and (hopefully) meaningful view of these classic lakes and the trails around them by presenting images that captured my attention as we walked these popular routes.
Our stay in Lake Louise was hosted by Paradise Lodge and Bungalows. I’d like to especially thank Kathi, the manager, and her wonderful front desk and cleaning/maintenance staff -- Madeline, Jackie, Courtney, Esther, and all the others who took such good care of us during our stay. We appreciate very much the human touch they maintain at the lodge.
