Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House - Image 1
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Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House

4.6
·648 reviews·Lake Louise, Canada

A charming teahouse at the end of a scenic hike, offering homemade treats with breathtaking glacier and mountain views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning (at opening)

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
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Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House - Image 1

Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House

Best Time

Morning (at opening)

Beat the crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A charming teahouse at the end of a scenic hike, offering homemade treats with breathtaking glacier and mountain views.

4.6
(648 reviews)

"Worth every step of the hike for the delicious food and unparalleled mountain vistas!"

Vertical photo
TIP

Bring Cash! 💰

Card machines can be unreliable. Cash ensures a smooth purchase for your treats.

Arrive Early ⏰

Beat the crowds and snag a good seat, especially on the balcony.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Scenic Balcony Views

Scenic Balcony Views

Second Floor Balcony

Sip tea and savor treats with breathtaking mountain vistas. A truly unforgettable experience.

Reddit
Homemade Delights

Homemade Delights

Teahouse Kitchen

Enjoy freshly baked cinnamon cake, hearty lentil soup, and delicious tea biscuits.

Reddit+1
The Quaint Teahouse

The Quaint Teahouse

End of Plain of Six Glaciers Trail

A charming, rustic spot that feels like home after a rewarding hike.

Reddit
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Planning Your Visit

Timing is Everything

Arrive early to beat the crowds and secure a spot, especially if you want to sit on the balcony. The teahouse is popular, and seating can be limited. Consider visiting right at opening or later in the afternoon.

Cash is King

While they may have card machines, they can be unreliable due to the remote location. Bringing cash ensures a smooth transaction for your delicious treats and avoids potential issues. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning (at opening)
Why
Beat the crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Fewer people, golden hour
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Come with us on our 20km hike to the Lake Louise teahouses! #banff #canada #Hiking #lakelouise #travel #camping #Outdoors #mountains #views #fyp
@atb.travels
23.6K likes • 207.4K views

Bring Cash! 💰

Card machines can be unreliable. Cash ensures a smooth purchase for your treats. Reddit

Arrive Early ⏰

Beat the crowds and snag a good seat, especially on the balcony. Reddit

You need to visit this tea house in Lake Louise #banff #lakelouise #lakeagnesteahouse #canada
@scottbakken
7K likes • 121.3K views
The Plain of the Six Glaciers Tea House is a must do hike when visiting the Banff area in the Canadian Rockies. 🥾🗻☕️🥧 #plainofsixglaciers #plainofsixglaciersteahouse #banff #banffnationalpark #banffcanada #banffalberta #alberta #albertacanada #visitbanff #banfftourism #canadianrockies #canada🇨🇦 #canadianrockies🇨🇦 #visitcanada #canadatravel #hikecanada #getoutside #banfflife #hikersofinstagram #t...
tom_degnan_travel
29 likes • 676 views

Worth the Hike! 🏞️

The journey is as rewarding as the destination. Enjoy the stunning trail. Reddit

Try the Cinnamon Cake 🍰

A highly recommended sweet treat that's worth the climb. Reddit

We chose to head to the tea house that was farther away and wow the view was worth it! Drinking tea from a historic and iconic tea house is one of our favorite highlights from our time visiting Banff National Park! The Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House trail is 9.1 miles out & back with an elevation gain of around 1,929 ft. The tea house was built in 1927 and has been privately owned and operated by...
essentiallystreaming
314 likes • 8.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

Bring Cash! 💰

Card machines can be unreliable. Cash ensures a smooth purchase for your treats. Reddit

Arrive Early ⏰

Beat the crowds and snag a good seat, especially on the balcony. Reddit

Worth the Hike! 🏞️

The journey is as rewarding as the destination. Enjoy the stunning trail. Reddit

Try the Cinnamon Cake 🍰

A highly recommended sweet treat that's worth the climb. Reddit

Friendly Staff & Pup 🐶

Enjoy the warm service and the resident dog's affection. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(648 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House for its stunning location, delicious homemade food, and charming atmosphere. The hike itself is considered a highlight, offering breathtaking scenery. While it can get busy and prices are higher due to its remote location, the overall experience is highly recommended as a rewarding stop after a beautiful trek.

"Very fun mountain hut with tea and goodies. Outdoor seating on the porch or patio only. There was a tent with very few items, like one color of mug, XXL shirts and sweatshirts only. We were there early September and apparently they just didn't reorder stock."

Katya Maiser

"Hiking to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse was an unforgettable experience! The trail offers stunning views of Lake Louise and the surrounding glaciers, making the hike well worth the effort.
The teahouse itself is charming and welcoming. The staff were incredibly friendly, and we even enjoyed meeting the staff dog who was there that day. We enjoyed a sweet baked good and lemonade, which were both delicious.
We had brought cash based on prior reviews and recommendations, but when we were there they had a card reader working, though I’d still suggest bringing cash just in case of connectivity issues.
This is a must-visit for anyone in the area, combining beautiful scenery, a cozy teahouse, and wonderful staff."

Ali

"Bring Canadian cash/currency! They do not take credit card saw some people make the mistake of not bringing any. This tea house was amazing. The tea selection was okay, but the atmosphere was great. Also the food was delicious - make sure to get the chocolate cake!"

Ujesh Vora

What People Like

Incredible mountain views
Delicious homemade food
Charming, rustic atmosphere

What People Dislike

Can get very busy
Higher prices
Card machine issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The teahouse is accessible via a hike from Lake Louise. The most common route is the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, which is approximately 13.8 km (8.6 miles) round trip. You can also combine it with the Lake Agnes Tea House trail for a longer day. Reddit

The hike is considered moderate to strenuous, with significant elevation gain. It's a rewarding trek, but requires a good level of fitness. Reddit

No, the teahouse is only accessible by hiking. You'll need to park at Lake Louise and begin your trek from there. Reddit

The trail to the teahouse is approximately 6.9 km (4.3 miles) one way from the Lake Louise lakeshore, making it a 13.8 km (8.6 miles) round trip. Reddit

The hike typically takes 4-6 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the teahouse. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there are no tickets required to enter the teahouse. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis for seating. Reddit

The teahouse is seasonal, typically open from late May/early June to mid-October. Hours can vary, so it's best to check the official Parks Canada website for the most up-to-date information. Reddit

Yes, you will need a Parks Canada Discovery Pass or a daily park pass to access Lake Louise and its surrounding trails. Reddit

Reservations are not accepted. Seating is on a first-come, first-served basis. Arriving early is recommended. Reddit

It is highly recommended to bring cash, as credit/debit machines can be unreliable due to the remote location. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

They serve light lunch fare, including sandwiches, soups (like lentil soup), baked goods (cinnamon cake, tea biscuits), and a variety of teas. Everything is made in-house without electricity. Reddit+1

Prices are understandable higher given the remote location and the effort to transport all supplies. However, many visitors find the food quality and experience to be a fair deal. Reddit

Popular choices include the cinnamon cake, lentil soup, and tea biscuits with strawberry jam. The vegetarian chili and cinnamon coffee cake are also highly praised. Reddit+1

While options may vary, vegetarian chili and other vegetarian dishes are often available. It's best to inquire upon arrival. Reddit

Yes, they offer other beverages like lemonade, though some reviews mention it's made from powder mix. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The balcony offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains. The quaint teahouse itself also makes for charming photos. Reddit

Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing the photographic opportunities. The golden hour light can be magical. Reddit

While the focus is on the views, you can capture the rustic interior and the food. Be mindful of other guests. Reddit

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating glacier details. Reddit

Drone usage is generally restricted in national parks. Always check Parks Canada regulations before flying a drone. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The hike to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House can be a fantastic adventure for families, but it's important to gauge your children's stamina. The trail is long and has elevation, so it's best suited for families with older children or those who are experienced hikers. Pack plenty of snacks and water, and consider breaking up the hike with stops. Reddit

Once at the teahouse, kids often enjoy the novelty of the rustic setting and the delicious treats. The friendly atmosphere and the chance to see the resident dog can be a big hit. Remember to bring cash for easy ordering, and be prepared for it to be busy, so patience is key. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

While the teahouse itself involves purchasing food, the hike to get there is free (with park entry). To make it more budget-friendly, consider packing your own lunch and snacks to enjoy at the teahouse or along the trail. You can still purchase a drink to complete the experience without breaking the bank. Reddit

Bringing your own water bottle and refilling it at designated spots (if available) can also save money. The primary cost will be park entry, so factor that into your budget. The stunning scenery is free and offers incredible value. Reddit

💑 Couples

The Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House offers a wonderfully romantic setting for couples. The scenic hike provides an opportunity for quality time together, and reaching the charming teahouse is a shared accomplishment. Enjoying a warm drink and a treat on the balcony with panoramic mountain views is an unforgettable experience. Reddit+1

Consider timing your visit for a late afternoon to catch the golden hour light, which can add an extra touch of magic to your photos and your time together. The peaceful atmosphere, away from the main crowds of Lake Louise, makes it an ideal spot for a memorable outing. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Hike to the Teahouse

The journey to the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House is an integral part of the experience. The trail begins at the Lake Louise lakeshore and winds its way along the north shore of the lake before heading into the valley. You'll pass by the impressive Victoria Glacier and witness stunning alpine scenery. The path is well-maintained but involves some elevation gain, making it a moderate to strenuous hike. Reddit

Many visitors choose to combine this hike with the Lake Agnes Tea House trail for a full day of exploration. This offers a chance to visit two unique teahouses and experience different facets of the Lake Louise area. Remember to wear sturdy hiking boots, bring plenty of water, and dress in layers as mountain weather can change rapidly. Reddit

Key Takeaways for the Hike:
* Distance: Approximately 6.9 km (4.3 miles) one way.
* Elevation Gain: Significant, making it a moderate to strenuous hike.
* Scenery: Glaciers, mountains, and alpine meadows.
* Preparation: Sturdy footwear, water, layers, and snacks are essential. Reddit

A Taste of the Mountains

The Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House offers a unique culinary experience, serving simple yet delicious fare prepared without electricity. Everything is hauled up the mountain by staff, making the food even more appreciated. Popular items include hearty lentil soup, freshly baked cinnamon cake, and tea biscuits with jam. Reddit+1

Visitors often rave about the quality and taste of the homemade goods. The vegetarian chili and cinnamon coffee cake are frequently highlighted as must-tries. While prices are higher than at lower elevations, most guests feel it's a fair price for the quality and the incredible setting. Reddit

Menu Highlights:
* Soups: Lentil soup is a classic.
* Baked Goods: Cinnamon cake and tea biscuits are fan favorites.
* Beverages: A variety of teas are available, along with other options. Reddit+1

The Teahouse Experience

Arriving at the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House feels like stepping back in time. The rustic charm and cozy atmosphere are a welcome reward after the hike. The teahouse is small, and seating can be limited, especially on the popular second-floor balcony which offers unparalleled views. Reddit

Staff are known for being friendly and accommodating, adding to the welcoming ambiance. The experience is enhanced by the knowledge that all food and supplies are carried up the mountain. It's a place to relax, refuel, and soak in the breathtaking natural beauty surrounding you. Reddit+1

Tips for Enjoying the Teahouse:
* Arrive early: To secure a good seat, especially on the balcony. Reddit
* Bring cash: For a smoother transaction. Reddit
* Savor the view: Take your time to appreciate the stunning surroundings. Reddit

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