Discover the Scenic Tea Houses of Banff

Exploring the Tea Houses

Sometimes the journey really is about the destination. This is particularly true if you’re hiking to the tea houses nestled in Banff and Lake Louise. Established in the early 1900s, the tea houses at Lake Agnes and the Plain of Six Glaciers were built as peaceful retreats for explorers traversing on foot or along the nearby Canadian Pacific Railway. Today, these tea houses continue to offer a tranquil and welcoming atmosphere for hikers enjoying the breathtaking Canadian landscapes.

Hiking to Lake Louise Tea House

The hike to the Lake Louise tea house begins near the Fairmont Château Lake Louise. From the hotel, hikers embark on a series of switchbacks for 2.2 miles, gaining an elevation of 1,312 feet along the way. This hike is considered moderate and typically takes between one to two hours. The tea house is operational from early June through October, allowing visitors to relish the experience in the warmer months.

To reach the second tea house at the Plain of Six Glaciers, hikers should again start from the Fairmont Château Lake Louise. The route consists of a wide path extending 3.4 miles, with an elevation gain of 1,215 feet, leading to the secluded tea house.

The Tea House Challenge

For those seeking an extra challenge, consider the “Tea House Challenge,” which invites hikers to visit both tea houses in a single day. The two tea houses are connected via the Highline trail, forming a scenic nine-mile loop. Plan for approximately five hours to complete the challenge and ensure you pack plenty of water and snacks for the journey in between. For more detailed information on the tea houses, including their opening times, you can visit this link.