Canoeing On The Turquoise Waters Of Lake Louise

It’s one of those iconic must do’s in the Canadian Rockies, experiencing breathtaking views as you paddle across Lake Louise towards the Victoria Glacier.

In the summer months the lake is buzzing with canoes and remains busy all day, there can be a wait to get a canoe. As with many attractions the quieter times are in the early evening after the majority of tourists have left. If the boathouse is offering earlier morning rentals that’s another good time to try.

Even though you won’t have the water to yourself in the summer, it’s is still a unique way to experience the lake. At the very least it will allow you to leave behind the hoards of tourists lining the lake front and shoreline trail.

Renting a canoe for one to one and a half hours is enough time to paddle near the end of the lake and back.

Canoe Rental Hours, Rates And Occupancy

Important Note: Canoe rentals are first come, first served. There are no advance reservations available.

Seasonal Boathouse Operation

The start up of the canoe rentals depends on when the lake thaws, it’s generally open by mid-June and weather permitting to the end of September or early October with reduced hours.

Hours Of Operation

The hours can vary but in the peak summer months the boathouse is generally open from 830 am to 8 pm, weather permitting. The last boat going out an hour before closing. It’s best to check with the boathouse or hotel concierge for the current operating hours.

Canoe Rental Rates

Per Hour
Hotel guests – $110 plus GST
Non-hotel guest $170 plus GST

For Half An Hour
Hotel guests $100 plus GST
Non-hotel guests: $160 plus GST

Canoe Occupancy

The maximum number of people in a canoe is 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 small children, each under (25kg) 55 lbs. One person in the boat must be at least 16 years of age.

For more information about the canoe rentals see: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Canoe Rental Information.

Tips For Renting A Canoe

• There is only one boat rental on the lake and it’s operated by the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise hotel. Standing at the hotel looking out at the lake it is located on the left hand side accessed by a pathway. Canoes are available on a first come, first serve basis. They can’t be reserved.
• The weather can fluctuate and change rapidly. The boathouse closes if the lake becomes too windy, rainy, fogged in or has snow falling.
• The temperatures tend to be cooler in June and September. In the morning and early evening during any month you need to be prepared by dressing in layers.
• On warm days wear a sun hat and bring sunglasses, the reflection from the water is strong. Even on a cloudy day you can sunburn easily, cover up or wear sunscreen. Don’t forget to bring drinking water with you.
• Use common sense when out on the water. Remain in your seat, don’t stand up or walk or sit on the sides of the canoe. Don’t make sudden or jerky movements or rock from side to side. Every summer the rescue boat has to go out to pull people out of the water. At a frigid 5.C you do not want to fall in the lake.
• Life jackets are provided.

Can I Bring My Own Canoe Or Kayak To Use At Lake Louise?

Check with Parks Canada for current information. There is a restriction in place for water activities in Banff National Park. It effects those wanting to use a canoe, kayak, stand-up paddle board or any type of inflatable vessel on any body of water in Banff National Park. More information can be found here: Banff Bulletin for water activity restriction.)

Yes, you can use your own canoe or kayak at Lake Louise or any of the lakes or rivers within Banff National Park. There’s no public boat launch at Lake Louise. You will have to carry your canoe from the government parking lot area and launch it from shore of the lake. Parks Canada offers more information on paddling in the parks.

For more information on canoeing opportunities in the Rocky Mountains see: Canoeing and other water activities.