Lake Louise Ski Resort Gondola
Soar above iconic Lake Louise for breathtaking Rockies views, wildlife spotting, and easy summit trails.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden larches and fewer crowds
Lake Louise Ski Resort Gondola
Best Time
Golden larches and fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soar above iconic Lake Louise for breathtaking Rockies views, wildlife spotting, and easy summit trails.
"The views from the top are amazing! The mountains and all those glaciers are stunning!"
📸 Best Photo Spots
Cross the bridge and go in front of the hotel for better photos. The further right you go on the shoreline, the less crowded it will be.
🧥 Open vs. Closed Gondola
Choose open-air seats in summer for an immersive experience, but bring layers as it can be cool.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Mountain Vistas
Top of the Gondola
Soar above the iconic Lake Louise and surrounding peaks for breathtaking, unobstructed views of the Canadian Rockies.

Wildlife Spotting Opportunities
Gondola Ride & Summit
Keep an eye out for local wildlife like grizzly bears and deer from the safety of the gondola or during short hikes at the summit.

Easy Summit Trails
Summit Area
Enjoy gentle, accessible trails at the top, offering stunning perspectives without the need for strenuous hiking. Perfect for all fitness levels.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Gondola Ride in Advance
Parking and Shuttle Logistics
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Best Photo Spots
Cross the bridge and go in front of the hotel for better photos. The further right you go on the shoreline, the less crowded it will be.
🧥 Open vs. Closed Gondola
Choose open-air seats in summer for an immersive experience, but bring layers as it can be cool.
🦌 Wildlife Viewing
The ski resort is a prime spot for safely viewing local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled!
💰 Pricey but Worth It
While the ski pass can be pricey, many find the views and experience memorable.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Best Photo Spots
Cross the bridge and go in front of the hotel for better photos. The further right you go on the shoreline, the less crowded it will be.
🧥 Open vs. Closed Gondola
Choose open-air seats in summer for an immersive experience, but bring layers as it can be cool.
🦌 Wildlife Viewing
The ski resort is a prime spot for safely viewing local wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled!
💰 Pricey but Worth It
While the ski pass can be pricey, many find the views and experience memorable.
🚗 Parking Challenges
Parking is free but fills up fast. Arrive early or consider shuttle options.
👟 Summit Trail Ease
The trails at the summit are easy and offer amazing views, suitable for beginners.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Lake Louise Summer Gondola for its breathtaking panoramic views of the Rockies and the opportunity for wildlife spotting. The easy summit trails are a hit for accessibility. However, some find the experience 'normal' and note that it can be very busy and outrageously expensive, with parking being a significant challenge.
"The Lake Louise Summer Gondola is a fantastic way to enjoy panoramic views of the Rockies without a strenuous hike. I recommend riding in the open seats during summer to fully experience the fresh air and scenic vistas.
While I didn’t spot any wildlife during my ride up or down, the view from the top is still incredible. Once you reach the summit, there’s an easy trail that winds down, offering more amazing perspectives of the mountains and valley below. It’s a relaxing and visually rewarding experience, perfect for photographers and anyone who wants to enjoy the Rockies with minimal effort.
Tip for visitors: Try to ride in the open-air seats during summer for the most immersive experience and bring a camera to capture the stunning scenery."
Ian Carlo Medina
"I liked the view when I went to the top but to be honest, this whole gondola thing was very normal. View was great but could be a possibility that I went in July and it looks better when snow is around. There is a photo booth where you can take a picture."
Mohit Gupta
"Its a beautiful place for sure but very busy and outrageously expensive. There were so many people that it was hard to get a picture without strangers in it.lol But the staff members in the hotel and coffee shop were wonderful. They truly cater to people with class and kindness. Adding 2 stars to my review."
GSR
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The easiest way is often by using the Parks Canada Shuttle, especially during peak season when parking is limited.
If driving, arrive very early, as parking fills up quickly. Some visitors have found success by booking a dining experience at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to secure parking.Yes, parking is available and free at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. However, it is very limited and fills up extremely fast, particularly on weekends and during summer. Arriving before 10 am is highly recommended.
Yes, the Parks Canada Shuttle is a popular and recommended option for accessing Lake Louise and the ski resort area, helping to avoid parking hassles.
The Banff Gondola is located in the town of Banff and offers views of the town and surrounding valleys. The Lake Louise Ski Resort Gondola is located near the iconic Lake Louise and provides panoramic views of the lake, glaciers, and surrounding peaks.
While it's a scenic area, walking directly from the main Lake Louise shoreline to the ski resort gondola is a significant distance and not typically recommended for most visitors. Using the shuttle or driving is more practical.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary by age. As of recent information, adults are around $60, seniors $49, youth $25, and children $13. Kids 5 and under are free.
It's advisable to check the official website for the most current pricing.Booking tickets online in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot and potentially get better rates.
Online booking also helps avoid potential sell-outs during busy periods.Yes, you can often choose between a closed gondola for warmth and an open-air gondola for a more immersive experience, especially in summer.
Yes, the gondola operates seasonally. It is typically open during the summer months and into early fall, often closing around mid-September or early October.
Keep an eye out for special events like 'Kid Fest' which may offer discounted family passes.
Seniors also typically receive a discounted rate.🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
At the summit, you can enjoy panoramic views, embark on easy interpretive trails, and potentially spot wildlife.
There's also a wildlife interpretive center.Absolutely! The gondola ride itself is a gentle experience, and the trails at the summit are easy and well-maintained, making it perfect for beginners and families.
Visitors have reported seeing deer and grizzly bears from the gondola or at the summit.
Always maintain a safe distance and never feed wildlife.The ride up to the summit typically takes about 10-15 minutes, offering ample time to soak in the incredible scenery.
Yes, there are facilities available at the summit, including restrooms and often a cafe or interpretive center.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography. The golden hour before sunset can be particularly stunning, especially during the fall larch season.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain landscapes. A telephoto lens can be useful for wildlife spotting. Don't forget extra batteries and memory cards!
For iconic shots of Lake Louise itself, cross the bridge and head in front of the Fairmont hotel. The further right you walk along the shoreline, the fewer crowds you'll encounter for photos.
Yes, you can take photos from the gondola. If you opt for the open-air gondola, you'll have unobstructed views, but be mindful of securing your equipment.
Some reviews mention a photo booth at the top, which can be a fun souvenir, though the natural scenery is the main photographic draw.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🚶♀️ Visitors Seeking Easy Access
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Lake Louise Sightseeing Gondola Experience
Upon reaching the summit, you're greeted with panoramic views of Lake Louise, the Victoria Glacier, and the surrounding peaks. This area is also known for its potential for wildlife spotting, with sightings of deer and even grizzly bears reported. Several easy interpretive trails are available at the top, allowing you to explore the alpine environment without significant physical exertion. These trails are perfect for families and those seeking a relaxed way to enjoy the mountain landscape.
Practical tips for your visit include booking tickets in advance to avoid disappointment and potential sell-outs. Be prepared for variable weather, even in summer, and consider layers. While parking is available, it's extremely limited and fills up quickly, making the Parks Canada Shuttle a highly recommended alternative.
Navigating Lake Louise Access
For those who prefer to drive, arriving very early in the morning is crucial for securing a parking spot. Some creative solutions have emerged, such as booking a high tea reservation at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, which can grant access to their parking facilities. This highlights the need to research and plan your transportation strategy in advance to ensure a smooth visit to this iconic Canadian destination.
Photography Opportunities at Lake Louise
When riding the gondola, consider the open-air option during summer for unobstructed views, perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes. Remember to bring a camera with ample battery life and storage, as you'll want to document the stunning scenery. The summit area also offers easy trails with spectacular photo opportunities, allowing you to capture the grandeur of the Rockies from different perspectives. The golden larch season in late September and early October is particularly magical for photographers, painting the mountainsides in vibrant hues.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit