After crawling into our warmest clothes, we walked into the weird quiet. The full moon pierces the darkness and illuminates our path. We thought we were alone in the crisp mountain air until we met a lonely photographer. He bent over the tripod, the camera pointed to the glittering glaciers of Mount Victoria.
As we approached the boathouse and began exploring Lake Louise, the aroma of coffee and hot chocolate welcomed us like a warm hug. A group squeezed on the dock, and even in my semi-conscious state, their excitement was electric.
After a quick briefing, we chose life jackets and paddles and then rolled out the canoe. The magnetic pull of the full moon hanging above the Victoria glacier, the hope of the sun shines on us Lake Louise.
Our paddles will cut through the glacier water as the sun begins to peek in the mountains. At the end of the lake, the closest to the retreating glacier, we stopped and waited. The warm light illuminated the top of Mount Victoria and began to spread to us. I probably kept my breath as the sun began to bathe in the ancient ice under the rose-colored light.
Full moon, clear skies and incredible sunrise make this morning paddle Lake Louise A once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Regardless of the size of the moon, exploring Lake Louise in the canoe during the warmer months is a great experience.
Lodge in Lake Louise
Fairmont Castle Lake Louise is in an unparalleled location. Although there are other hotels in the Lake Louise community, Fairmont is the only property on Lake Louise. Lake Louise Village is about a 10-minute drive from Lake Louise. Lake Fairmont Lake Louise guests can enter the lake shore before the crowd arrives!
Consider upgrading to a room Fairmont Gold Flooring for a more unique experience.
Travel Tips – Canoe Explore Lake Louise
- If you want to hike and canoe, late spring, summer and early autumn are a great time to visit Lake Louise.
- On our recent trip to Lake Louise (early October 2023), the boathouse opened at 10:00 and canoe rental is a first come first served. Canoe rental is preferred for guests of Lake Louise Lake. Sunrise paddles may be a summer event, so I recommend contacting Fairmont Concierge for the latest information.
- CalgaryAlberta is the nearest city center, about 200 km from Lake Louise. A private car is a great choice as there are many other incredible locations in the area including Banff and around Banff National Park.
- Plan to spend a few days exploring Lake Louise. Favorite family hikes are from Fairmont Castle Lake Louise arrive Lake Agnes Tea House.