Looking for a summer adventure in the heart of the Canadian Rockies without the crowds? The Lake Louise Summer Gondola is the perfect way to experience breathtaking, high-alpine mountain views, abundant wildlife, and excellent hiking—without the crowds! This guide will help you plan your visit to help you make the most of your time at Lake Louise.
Why Visit the Lake Louise Summer Gondola?
Spectacular Views
The Lake Louise Summer Gondola offers some of the most stunning views in the Canadian Rockies. As you ride to an elevation of 2,101 meters (6,893 feet), you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of Lake Louise, the Victoria Glacier, Mount Victoria, and Mount Lefroy.
Wildlife Spotting
Lake Louise is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, cougars, lynx, elk, moose and more. Grizzly bears in particular are attracted to the open slopes of the ski runs in summer, and are often seen lounging and eating directly under the lift. The gondola ride provides a totally safe and unique opportunity to spot these majestic animals, completely undisturbed as you glide overhead. This is one of the best places in the park for wildlife viewing.
Family-Friendly Adventure
Whether you’re traveling with young children or older adults, this is a great way to get everybody up into the alpine together, even those who normally couldn’t hike themselves. The gondola offers two options:
- You can ride in an open chair.
- You can ride in an enclosed gondola cabin.
The area at the top of the gondola offers lots of easy and medium-length accessible trails and facilities.
Rewarding Hikes
The Lake Louise Summer Gondola rewards travelers with a sprawling network of alpine trails and paths. Short trails bring you quiet, high-alpine viewpoints to enjoy the picturesque view of Lake Louise down in the valley below, while longer trails bring you around the backside of the mountain, offering sweeping views down to Ptarmigan Valley.
Getting to the Lake Louise Summer Gondola
Location
The Lake Louise Summer Gondola is located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, just a short drive from the village of Lake Louise and about 45 minutes from Banff. It’s easily accessible from the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1), and parking is guaranteed.
When is the Lake Louise Summer Gondola Open?
In 2025, the gondola is operating from June 6th to September 1st. Their daily hours vary depending on the time of year, but the first run usually starts around 9:00 am, with the last ride down around 6:00 pm.
Ticket Prices: Prices vary by age, but you are always guaranteed the cheapest rate if you book your gondola ticket as an add-on to your shuttle ticket to Moraine Lake and/or Lake Louise.
Hiking at the Top of the Gondola
What Are the Best Hikes at the Top of the Lake Louise Summer Gondola?
Once you’ve reached the top of the gondola, you’ll find several hiking trails that cater to different fitness levels and interests. Here are some of the popular trails:
- Kicking Horse Viewpoint: This easy trail is about 1.7 kilometers (1 mile) round-trip and offers stunning views of Kicking Horse Pass and the surrounding mountains. It’s a great choice for families or those looking for a short, scenic walk.
- Ptarmigan Valley Viewpoint: For those seeking a bit more of a challenge, this moderate trail is approximately 3.4 kilometers (1.9 miles) round-trip and takes you to a viewpoint overlooking Ptarmigan Valley. The trail winds through wildflower-filled alpine meadows, making it especially beautiful in mid summer.
Guided Hikes
If you’re interested in learning more about the local flora, fauna, and geology, consider joining one of the guided hikes from the top of the gondola. Knowledgeable guides lead these hikes, providing insights into the natural environment and pointing out things you might otherwise miss. You can learn more and book on the Lake Louise Summer Gondola website, or by speaking to staff at the lodge.
Bear Safety
While hiking, it’s important to be bear aware. The area around Lake Louise is prime grizzly bear habitat, and encounters, while rare, can happen. Here are a few tips:
- Hike in Groups: Bears are less likely to approach groups of people, so it’s safer to hike with others.
- Make Noise: Talk, sing, or clap your hands as you hike to alert bears to your presence.
- Carry Bear Spray: Make sure you know how to use it, and keep it easily accessible.
Read more about bear safety from Parks Canada.
Dining and Facilities
Whitehorn Bistro
After your hike, treat yourself to a meal (or a beer) at Whitehorn Bistro, located at the top of the gondola. The restaurant offers a variety of food, all served with incredible mountain views. It’s a perfect way to refuel after a morning of exploring.
Wildlife Interpretive Centre
Before or after your hike, be sure to visit the Wildlife Interpretive Centre at the top of the gondola. The center offers interactive exhibits on local wildlife, ecosystems, and conservation efforts. It’s a great place to learn more about the natural environment of Banff National Park.
Additional Amenities
The gondola area also offers restrooms, picnic areas, and a gift shop where you can pick up souvenirs or outdoor gear. These amenities make it easy to spend an entire day enjoying the area.
Final Thoughts
The Lake Louise Summer Gondola offers an incredible experience for visitors of all ages and is the least busy of the four sightseeing gondolas in Banff. Whether you’re here for the views, hiking through the alpine, spotting wildlife, or simply to get away from the crowds, there’s something for everyone.
So, pack your hiking boots, bear spray, and grab your camera, and get ready for an adventure you won’t forget! The Lake Louise Summer Gondola awaits!
