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An international ice carving competition in late January.
Spectacular example of a glacial lake. Best seen first thing in the morning before the hordes of other tourists arrive, or in the early evening, after they've gone. Parking at the site costs $36.75 (2025), and fills up before sunrise, and remains full until sunset. The Parks Canada shuttle fills up quickly in the summer, so make sure you reserve your spot in advance.
Scenic mountain location with the lake an incredible blue colour due to the glacial rock flour. A short paved trail from the car park (The Rock Pile, 0.8 km return, 30 meter elevation gain) provides a spectacular view of the lake, known as the "Twenty Dollar View", as it was featured on the reverse side of the Canadian $20 banknote (1969 and 1979 issue). By 8:30AM the coach groups start to arrive. Private vehicles are forbidden from driving up to the lake, so you must reserve a shuttle in advance.
Lake Louise hosts men's and women's World Cup ski events every November, making it the best-known ski area in Banff National Park. As such, it is also the busiest and most touristy. It is located close to the Lake Louise town site. The scenery is fantastic, as is the terrain when there is fresh snow. Snowshoe tours and Sunny Tube park (next to the magic carpet) for those who don't ski or board. Excellent all you can eat buffet breakfast served in the Whiskey Jack Lodge ($12). If you're on the Club Snowboard/Ski program get the early bus!