Lake Louise

Lake Louise is a beautiful mountain lake in the middle of Banff National Park in the Alberta Rockies region of Alberta, Canada. The lake is surrounded by snow-capped peaks, and at the far end is a large glacier. The lake is quite isolated, but provides a magnificent setting for a luxury resort and the Châteaux Lake Louise, and a conference wing on the 'inland' side of the hotel.

There is a very small town of the same name at the base of the mountain.

An introduction to Lake Louise

The lake, a major tourist attraction, can be crowded during the day as coach tour groups arrive. Before 8AM, you can see the lake with few people around; at dawn and the light shines onto the back wall of the glacier lake. Just before dusk is also reasonably quiet.

• Lake Louise Visitor Centre 201 Village Road 51.426146, -116.179144 near Sampson Mall Lake Louise ☎ +1 403-522-3833 +1 403-522-1212 Opening Hours:Jan 1-Apr 29: 9AM Monday - 4PM; April 30-Jun 21: 9AM Monday - 5PM; June 22-September 8: 9AM Monday - 8PM; September 9-15:very 9AM Monday - 7PM; September 16-22: 9AM Monday - 5PM; September 23-Apr 30: 9AM Monday - 4PM; closed Dec 25

Travel to Lake Louise

Rent a Car or Limousine at Lake Louise

Lake Louise is 186 kilometers (120 miles) west of Calgary, and 56 kilometers (36 miles) North-West of the town of Banff on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1, Alberta 93).

An alternative from Banff is the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A), this is a restricted speed narrower tree lined road, which although does not provide such clear views of the mountain does provide a better chance of seeing wildlife such as bears and deer.

If you are driving and would like to check out the Parks Canada road report

Fly to Lake Louise

• Calgary International Airport is a 2.5 hours drive to Lake Louise. There are several vehicle rental agencies at the airport or you can book one of the many shuttles which drop off at hotels in Banff and Lake Louise.

To book an airport shuttle ahead of time, contact Brewster Airporter & Resort Connector, Mountain Connector or Banff Airporter Inc

By bus

• Rider Express | +1-833-583-3636 Bus service along the Trans-Canada Highway from Winnipeg to Vancouver, twice daily. Service from Calgary, Strathmore, Canmore, and Banff (Alberta); Revelstoke, Salmon Arm, Kamloops, Hope, Abbotsford, and Vancouver (British Columbia); Medicine Hat, Swift Current, Moose Jaw, Regina, Whitewood, and Moosomin (Saskatchewan); and Brandon, and Winnipeg (Manitoba).

How to get around at Lake Louise

Once in Lake Louise, you have access to some of the most beautiful drives in North America.

• North: The Icefields Parkway, connects Lake Louise to Jasper. It is 230 kilometers (142 mi) taking you along the most beautiful drive in North America.Along the Icefields Parkway you can stop and take a tour on the Columbia Icefield which is a glacier that covers an amazing 325 square kilometers of land.An information centre there includes an interpretive section and a café.
• West The Great Divide denotes the highest ridge-line in the Canadian Rockies and creates a natural border with British Columbia and Yoho National Park 10 kilometers west of town.
• East Banff is 60 kilometers (36 miles) south-east of Lake Louise on either Highway 1 (Trans Canada Highway) or the 1A (Bow Valley Parkway). Highway 1 is quicker, but if you have some time to explore and enjoy the scenery the 1A is the way to go. There tends to be more animals sighted on the 1A and the scenery is breathtaking (not that you're going to get a bad view from any road in Banff National Park). Leave some time for a walk at Johnston Canyon, it's an easy walk anyone can do to the lower falls (1.1 kilometers) or you can continue on further to the Upper Falls and the Ink Pots.

National Car Rental is located in the village of Lake Louise and there is a Hertz location in the Fairmont Lake Louise hotel. Otherwise the tour buses are an option.

What to see at Lake Louise

The main attractions at Lake Louise are the vibrantly coloured glacial lakes and Victoria Glacier at the head of Lake Louise. Other lakes to stop and explore in the area (all within Banff National Park) are Moraine Lake, Bow Lake and Peyto Lake.

• Lake Louise - 51.415537, -116.222370 Spectacular example of a glacial lake. Best seen first thing in the morning before the hoards of other tourists arrive.

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Lake Louise

As a ski-resort and wilderness area, tourist activity varies according to the season. The primary form of spring and summer recreation in the area is walking around the lake on the lakeside path, hiking on mountain trails leading from the lake, and admiring the scenery. During the summer, canoes can be rented and fishing is a popular activity. The ski resort turns into an interpretive centre in the summer months and gives visitors a beautiful view of Lake Louise from the top of the Gondola.

Winter

• Lake Louise Ski Resort - 1 Whitehorn Road, Lake Louise 51.442356, -116.163481 45 minutes from Banff ☎ +1 403-522-3555 +1-877-956-8473 $85 for full day adult ticket Lake Louise hosts men's and women's World Cup ski events every November, making it the best-known ski area in Banff National Park. As such, it is also the busiest and most tourist. It is located close to the Lake Louise town site. The scenery is fantastic, as is the terrain when there is fresh snow. Snowshoe tours and Sunny Tube park (next to the magic carpet) for those who don't ski or board. Excellent all you can eat buffet breakfast served in the Whiskey Jack Lodge ($12). If you're on the Club Snowboard/Ski program get the early bus!

• Kingmic Dogsled Tours - ☎ +1-877-919-7779 is the oldest dog sled tour company in the west, and goes along the Continental Divide

• Ice skate on the lake, rental skates are available within The Fairmont Château Lake Louise and down in the village at Wilson Mountain Sports.

• Sleigh Rides - Brewster Lake Louise Stables - leave from in front of The Château Lake Louise

• Snowshoeing, cross country skiing and winter walking trails are abundant, rentals are available at the same places as the ice skates and Parks Canada will be more than happy to give you trail info, or guided tours do leave from The Fairmont Château Lake Louise.

Summer

• Gondola - 1 Whitehorn Road 51.442292, 116.160779 at the Lake Louise Ski Area - Lake Louise Mountain Resort runs one of the chairlifts with gondolas in the summer up to an interpretive centre giving you a great spot to take breathtaking photos and learn about the local wildlife.

• Canoe - rentals are available on Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

• Guided Hikes are available through The Fairmont Château Lake Louise or you can also check out Great Divide Nature Interpretation]
• There is some great rock climbing in the area. Wilson Mountain Sports in Lake Louise rents all the climbing gears except rope and harness.
• Horseback riding and there are two companies which offer trail rides and pack trips in Lake Louise. Brewster Adventures and Timberline Tours]

Muslim Friendly Shopping in Lake Louise

There isn't a lot of shopping in Lake Louise. There are some stores at The Fairmont Château Lake Louise as well as in the hamlet at Samson Mall.

There are two gas stations in the village providing fuel and basic supplies.

• Wilson Mountain Sports - You can rent sporting equipment here

Islam at Lake Louise

The Bow Valley Muslim Association (BVMA) in Banff and Canmore is more than just a masjid; it's a vibrant hub for the Muslim community in the Bow Valley region. Established with the goal of serving both the spiritual and social needs of Muslims in the area, BVMA has become a vital institution for fostering a sense of belonging and connection among community members.

The association provides a range of essential services, including daily prayers, Friday congregational prayers, and special observances during Ramadan and Eid. The mosque is open to locals and visitors alike, making it an accessible space for worship, reflection, and community engagement. For many Muslim travelers visiting the picturesque town of Banff, the BVMA serves as a spiritual sanctuary amidst the stunning natural landscape.

In addition to its religious functions, the Bow Valley Muslim Association is deeply committed to education and outreach. The mosque often hosts educational programs, including Quranic studies, lectures, and youth activities aimed at nurturing the next generation of the Muslim community. These programs are designed not only to enhance religious knowledge but also to instill values of compassion, respect, and community service.

Moreover, the BVMA actively engages with the broader community in Banff and Canmore, working to build bridges of understanding and cooperation. Through interfaith dialogues, community service projects, and cultural events, the association promotes a message of unity and inclusivity. By fostering positive relationships with other local organizations and residents, the BVMA plays a crucial role in enhancing the multicultural fabric of the region.

For Muslims living in or visiting Banff, the Bow Valley Muslim Association offers a welcoming environment where they can practice their faith and connect with others. Whether you’re attending a prayer service, participating in a community event, or seeking guidance, the BVMA is dedicated to supporting the spiritual and social well-being of its members. Its commitment to fostering harmony and understanding in the community makes it an integral part of life in Banff and Canmore.

Halal Restaurants & Food at Lake Louise

Lake Louise do not have Halal restaurants. Please eat in Banff.

Saffron Indian Bistro

Rating: 4.5 | Price: $20–30 | Location: 205 Wolf St
Saffron Indian Bistro offers a delightful array of Halal options with a menu that showcases the rich flavors of Indian cuisine. Guests rave about the delicious food and warm ambiance, making it a must-visit spot in Banff.

The Balkan Greek Restaurant

Rating: 4.3 | Price: $$$ | Location: 120 Banff Ave
This popular Greek restaurant offers Halal lamb dishes, including their renowned lamb shank. It's a great spot for those seeking a mix of Mediterranean flavors and Halal dining options.

Banff Shawarma

Rating: 4.0 | Price: $10–20 | Location: 317 Banff Avenue
Known for its delicious and authentic Shawarma, Banff Shawarma offers a fully Halal menu, making it a convenient and tasty choice for Halal-conscious travelers.

Zyka Elevated Indian Restaurant Banff

Rating: 4.7 | Price: $20–30 | Location: 211 Banff Ave (2nd floor)
Zyka is a top-rated restaurant offering elevated Indian cuisine with Halal options. The restaurant is praised for its flavorful dishes and excellent service.

Night Owl Shawarma Donair & Convenience

Rating: 2.9 | Price: $10–20 | Location: 211 Banff Ave
Night Owl provides a quick and satisfying Shawarma experience, with Halal options available. It's a convenient stop for those looking for a late-night bite in Banff.

Masala Authentic Indian Cuisine

Rating: 4.4 | Price: $20–30 | Location: WOLF & BEAR MALL, 229 Bear St
Masala is known for its authentic Indian dishes, including the highly recommended Zafrani Murgh Tikka. The restaurant offers a variety of Halal options in a cozy setting.

Indian Curry House-Banff

Rating: 4.4 | Price: $20–30 | Location: 225 Banff Ave #202
This popular spot offers a wide range of Halal Indian dishes with excellent service, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

Banff offers a diverse selection of Halal restaurants, allowing visitors to enjoy a variety of flavors and cuisines in this beautiful mountain town. Whether you're in the mood for Indian, Greek, or Middle Eastern, there's something for everyone.

Muslim Friendly hotels at Lake Louise

• Deer Lodge Lake Louise
• Lake Louise Inn
• Moraine Lake Lodge Lake Louise
• Paradise Lodge & Bungalows Lake Louise
• The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise Hotel

Ramadan Celebrations at Lake Louise

Ramadan 2025 in Lake Louise

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Stay safe as a Muslim at Lake Louise

• Lake Louise Medical Clinic 200 Hector Road 51.427096, -116.178597 ☎ +1 403-522-2184

Explore more Halal friendly Destinations from Lake Louise

Escape the crowds of tourists at Lake Louise and travel up the Icefields Parkway Highway 93 North - Banff to Jasper Highway, one of the most scenic drives in North America with sites such as: Bow Lake, Bow Glacier, Crowfoot Glacier, Mistaya Canyon, Waterfowl Lake, Parkers Ridge, Wilcox Pass, Into Jasper National Park, Columbia Icefields, Athabasca Falls, and eventually Jasper.

Along the Icefields Parkway there are numerous opportunities to camp or stay in a rustic wilderness hostel.

For the adventurous you can get to Banff from Lake Louise on foot via the Saddleback Trail. It is an easy to moderately difficult 4-5 day hike complete with empty camp-sites. The trail is passable from July through to October. Check with the Park Canada Information office in town for up to date trail conditions and the disposition of any local Grizzlies and advice.

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