Lake Louise... No Filter Needed
You'll Find Us by the Lake!
RACHEL -
This month Ashley and I took a little trip to Calgary to visit our friend, while we were there we were able to take in a couple of the classic “touristy” activities, the Calgary Stampede, Sulphur Mountain, Banff, The Rockies and Lake Louise.
This was the second time I was able to see the marvel that is Lake Louise but, this was Ash’s first time. As soon as we narrowed down our trip details I knew we’d have to take her. Lake Louise is one of those places that it’s hard to believe
Here are some quick facts about Lake Louise:
1) Lake Louise is 2.4 KM long and is located in Banff National Park (you will have to purchase a park pass for the day)
2) The Stoney originally called the lake Ho-run-num-nay meaning “Lake of Little Fishes”
3) There are some small fish that can live and survive in Lake Louise year round. This includes Bull Trout and Mountain Whitefish
4) Lake Louise has more than 4000 acres of terrain that can be used for skiers of all skill levels
5) The unreal turquoise color of the water is caused by the “rock flour” in the glacial runoff.
6) The water is at it’s brightest in July and August
7) While the lake isn’t very long, it can be as deep as 230 ft
8) Lake Louise is one of the most photographed glacial lakes across the world
9) Chateau Lake Louise is the hotel that sits right on the lake, this is owned by Fairmont, there are many other hotel, motel and lodging options in the area though
10) You are able to canoe and kayak on Lake Louise and there is hiking trails in the surrounding areas.
While this is a huge tourist attraction and can get rather busy I highly, highly recommend visiting this natural wonder. It’s hard not fall into clichés when describing such a magical place. The view can’t be measured, and you’ll feel like this is the first time you’ve actually breathed true fresh air.
Make sure if you’re going to be hiking that you bring everything you will need but keep it light because it’s totally up hill. Remember to hydrate!
If this is your kind of thing when travelling I also recommend visiting Peyto Lake and Moraine Lake. They will take your breath away.
I’m genuinely not trying to oversell this for you babes, it can be pricey once you’re there because well… they can. So, that’s important to know before you go but honestly, it’ll be worth it.
ASHLEY -
Alright, so as a newby traveler, I wasn’t sure what to expect when my friends said “We’re going to Lake Louise, you’re gonna love it”. Not that I don’t trust my friend’s ideas of “fun”, but I wasn’t sure how Lake Louise would be better than spending an extra day at the Calgary Stampede with cute animals, awesome attractions and very attractive cowboys. I can honestly say, I was blown away by this place.
I have one disclaimer about this place. When you’re driving to the lake, there was a sign that said the parking lot was full. THEY LIED! Okay well they probably didn’t lie per say… but there was definitely spots by the time we got there, so don’t let them fool you!
So, although we had a super short walk (because of the fab parking spot we got), the view was absolutely amazing… literally everywhere we walked. I was so blown away by the beautiful view and calming atmosphere that I’m pretty sure I was silent for at least 5 minutes. For those of you who know me or who know of me, I’m not considered to be quiet…ever. I put my hands in the water, and it was literally one of the cleanest waters that
I’ve ever felt. I wanted to swim in the water… but it may have not been socially acceptable.
The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel was also a sight to see. It was absolutely stunning inside and out. It felt like I was in a princess castle, and I was in love with it. Rachel and I shared a small croissant while we were there, and it was so yummy! It definitely tasted fresh, that’s for sure.
All in all, Lake Louise may be one of my favorite views of the whole trip! If you haven't been out that way, you really need to try it! I’ll give you fair warning, the hotel itself is pretty expensive (I checked, obviously because I wanted to go back there), but the view is definitely worth it. Trust me on this one!
SCORING -