Lake Agnes Teahouse
The hike to the Lake Agnes Teahouse is one of the most popular trails in Lake Louise. It is a moderate hike going up about 400 meters in elevation. The distance is 3.5 km’s one way. It starts to go uphill quickly, it’s not difficult but does get tiring. You may feel the effects of the altitude, just take your time. Most people make it to the teahouse in about an hour. It can get very busy during summer and especially on weekends.
The trail starts at the shoreline of Lake Louise, looking out from the hotel go to your right and instead of continuing alongside the lake you will see the trail that branches off and the sign that says Lake Agnes. There is not a lot to see on the first part of the hike, it is mostly in the trees. As you get higher in elevation there are some spots that allow views of the lake. Prior to getting to the teahouse you will come across an opening in the forest where you will see Mirror Lake. The final ascent to the teahouse is up two sets of steep wooden staircases. Before going up the stairs checkout the waterfall to the side.
The teahouse was originally built in the early 1900’s. The current structure was built in 1981. It is open from mid June to early October. It can be very busy, making it difficult to find a seat. They serve many types of tea, desserts and sandwiches. Be prepared, they only take cash, and everything is quite expensive. If you happen to come later in the day, they may be out of some menu items. We recommend the banana bread and tea, or cocoa if you prefer.
Little Beehive
Just beyond the Lake Agnes Teahouse there is a trail to the Little Beehive. From the Beehive you can get an excellent panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and Lake Louise. This trail is just under one kilometer.
Big Beehive
From the Lake Agnes Teahouse take the trail to the western end of Lake Agnes. From there a trail starts to switchback up a ridge. A fork to the left will take you along the spine of the ridge to a gazebo shelter at the top of the Big Beehive. There are views of the Bow Valley and Lake Louise. The distance from the teahouse to the Big Beehive is 1.6km’s.
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