Banff National Park: Fairview Lookout at Lake Louise

After finishing the Consolation Lakes hike we still had a few good hours of daylight so I suggested that we head over to Lake Louise and climb up to Fairview Lookout, a very short trail that gives you a nice view of the lake and the Chateau.

Upon arrival at Lake Louise you will find a large parking lot and a view of the Chateau off in the distance. 

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

 It was late afternoon but the area was still fairly busy. We lingered at the lakeshore for a few minutes taking in the view and then made our way to the left in the direction of the boathouse.

Lake Louise with Victoria Glacier in the background

The Fairview Lookout Trail is located near the boat house where you can rent canoes. It is a short trail that takes you to a nice view of the Lake and Chateau. It takes about 20 minutes to get to the lookout point. It is not a terribly exciting hike but it is quick and relatively easy and you get a nice view.

It is amazing to see how the colour of the lake changes with the sun. Absolutely beautiful.

After enjoying the view for a bit we returned to the Lake Louise campground for the night. We attended a Parks Canada lecture about bears. This particular lecture was about the differences between Black Bears and Grizzly Bears. One of my brothers was chosen from the audience to dress up as a Grizzly Bear. It was a fun lecture and very informative. The Lake Louise campground offers one hour education sessions like this on a nightly basis during high tourist season.