Most hikers in Banff head to the Lake Agnes Tea House and then retrace their steps. We wanted more—a longer loop with fresh scenery the whole way and the chance to take in both legendary Tea Houses in a single hike.
In just over eight miles, this route delivers it all: mirroring alpine lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, the Lake Agnes Tea House in its iconic setting, the quieter Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House, and a shoreline stroll along picture-perfect Lake Louise.
We pieced the loop together after exploring the area’s day hikes, looking for variety and payoff. It’s ambitious but rewarding—and if you do one big hike in Banff, make it this one.
Section 1: The Classic Start — Lake Louise to Lake Agnes Tea House (2.2 miles)
The trail begins at Lake Louise near the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, its turquoise waters glowing beneath surrounding peaks. From the first steps, you’re climbing—switchbacks weaving through fragrant spruce forest until Mirror Lake appears, a jewel tucked under the Beehive.
Push higher past a sparkling waterfall and up a wooden stairway, and suddenly Lake Agnes bursts into view. Its aquamarine waters reflect jagged peaks, with the historic Lake Agnes Tea House tucked against the shore in an exquisitely beautiful alpine setting.
It’s lively and often crowded, but making it here is an accomplishment in itself. For most hikers, this is the turnaround point. For us, it was just the beginning.
Skip the lines – take a breather by the lake, maybe enjoy a snack you packed, and then keep moving—because the real prize lies ahead.
Section 2: Beyond the Crowds — To the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House (2.5 miles)
Leaving Lake Agnes behind, the trail dips, then swings wide with stunning views of Lake Louise glittering far below. The crowds thin, the setting is like an alpine storybook, and glaciers begin to dominate the horizon.
Soon you arrive at the less-visited—but even more scenic—Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House. Unlike Lake Agnes, this is the spot to linger. The lines are shorter, the setting is quieter, and the views of the surrounding peaks and icefields are unforgettable. Order tea and a scone, settle onto the deck or at a picnic table, and give yourself time to take it all in—this is the true reward of the loop.
Section 3: Higher Still — Glacier Viewpoint Spur (optional 1.2 miles roundtrip)
If the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House is the reward, the short spur above it is the victory lap. In less than a mile, the trail climbs to a dramatic overlook where massive icefields spill down the mountainsides and the entire valley stretches out below.
It’s steep, it’s quick, and it takes you even closer to the glaciers that give this valley its name. After a rest and a cup of tea, this little push feels like the perfect finale before turning back toward Lake Louise.
Section 4: The Long Way Home — Back to Lake Louise (3.3 miles)
The trail down from the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House drops steadily with Lake Louise glowing below, each step giving you a new angle. Instead of retracing your steps, the loop leads to the far end of the lake, where glacial melt fans out into pale silt beaches and marshes. It’s a surreal, peaceful place to pause and take photos.
From there, the trail follows the shoreline all the way back, the water shifting colors as you walk. Peaks rise steeply above the lake, and every curve of the path reveals another postcard view. At last, the white Chateau comes into sight, marking the finish of a hike that feels every bit as grand as its reputation.
Why This Loop Stands Out
Most visitors hone in on the more well-known Lake Agnes. But linking both into a single loop transforms a good hike into Banff’s ultimate day out. Stunning Rocky Mountain vistas, alpine lakes, waterfalls, glaciers, wildflowers, and two Tea Houses—it’s all here in one exquisite adventure.
✨ Forget out-and-backs. This loop keeps the views changing and the challenge real. One day, two Tea Houses—Banff doesn’t get better than this.
Want the step-by-step details? Check out our full guide to the Two Tea House Hike – Banff National Park.