Lake Louise's Tea Houses
Cozy alpine refuges tucked among spectacular peaks
Banff's most rewarding rest stops
Nestled among the spectacular peaks surrounding Lake Louise are two historic tea houses, both with their own unique charm. Accessible by hiking and perfectly positioned for a well-earned rest, cozy up with a warm beverage and enjoy breathtaking views of glacial valleys. Hikers feeling up to the challenge can tackle both the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse and the Lake Agnes Tea House in one extended scenic loop.
Nestled among the spectacular peaks surrounding Lake Louise are two historic tea houses, both with their own unique charm. Accessible by hiking and perfectly positioned for a well-earned rest, cozy up with a warm beverage and enjoy breathtaking views of glacial valleys. Hikers feeling up to the challenge can tackle both the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse and the Lake Agnes Tea House in one extended scenic loop.
The Original Tea House Hike
Lake Agnes Teahouse
Tucked away on a forested path 400 meters above Lake Louise lies a refuge of food and drink on the shores of Lake Agnes, the Lake Agnes Tea House. Enjoy handmade cakes and a variety of loose-leaf tea while seated at the original rustic tables and chairs used by adventurers since the earliest days of the tea house in 1905.
The 3.5 km forested trail that connects the shores of Lake Louise to the tucked-away Lake Agnes has drawn eager hikers up to this hanging valley for over a hundred years. The lakeside vista is the cherry on top of your reward of food and drink for the hike.
Things to Know
- If you are hoping for a sweet treat or a cup of tea, make sure you bring cash (Lake Agnes Tea House does not accept any card or digital payments).
- Be sure to check out the Loose-Leaf Tea Gift Bags available in the kitchen.
A Cabin in the Heart of the Glaciers
Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse
With every step along the Plain of Six Glaciers trail, the feeling of remoteness intensifies. The lakefront fades away as the path moves over a silty delta, across a rocky traverse and up the spine of a glacial moraine.
The iconic log cabin – that’s home to the tea house – is nestled in the woods below the namesake Plain of Six Glaciers. Settle in for tea and a chat with the family members who’ve run the tea house since 1959 and are walking, talking encyclopedias of the area.
Things to Know
- If you are hoping for a sweet treat or a cup of tea, make sure you bring cash (Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse does not accept any card or digital payments).
- Save room for the homemade chocolate cake.