Banff 
Lake Louise Summer Sightseeing Gondola offers breathtaking alpine views, grizzly bear sightings, and an escape from the bustling tourist crowds in Banff National Park.
Lake Louise Ski Resort
The ski season is over, and that means the start of summer gondola rides. The Lake Louise Gondola operates as a ski hill gondola in the winter. And after a short spring break, the facility reopens as a summer sightseeing opportunity.
A visit to the Lake Louise Ski Resort in summer can offer more activities in addition to your ride up the mountain. The Gondola offers several thrilling and relaxing ways to enjoy your experience.
The Sightseeing Gondola
Lake Louise Ski Resort
The views you get from skiing or snowboarding can be awe-inspiring, especially when you ski Lake Louise.
Grab the opportunity to get those amazing views, including the view of the Lake from spring to fall, with the resort’s Summer Gondola operations.
The views from the gondola are seemingly endless, encompassing the Rockies, surrounding forests, the Bow River, fields of green, and the bustling activity of the wildlife below.
Wildlife Viewing & Education
The ride up and down the gondola will give you a safe glimpse into Rocky Mountain wildlife and alpine habitats. Grizzly bear sightings are a distinct possibility on your ride, along with big-horned sheep, moose, or mountain goats.
At the Wildlife Interpretive Centre (attached to the Whitehorn Bistro), you can learn more about the animals you see and others.
Guided Hikes
Top off your ride to the top of the Gondola with one of the Resort’s guided hikes. Each hike is tailored to each group’s preferences for difficulty level or length of hike. The guides offer a safe and educational way to explore the Lake Louise backcountry. These trails are also open to self-guided hiking. Keep in mind that the lower part of the mountain (under the gondola) is closed to hikers due to the wildlife activity. The hike starts from the top of the gondola.
Credit: Lake Louise Ski Resort
Dining
Lake Louise dining experiences can range from formal and gourmet to laid-back and casual. The best way to enjoy food or snacks while taking a Gondola ride is at the top! The resort’s Whitehorn Bistro is open to riders and has exceptional patio views.
Dining is available at the Gondola’s base as well, with the Banded Peak Base Camp and the Lodge of Ten Peaks Café.
You can also purchase a Ride and Dine Pass to save on both experiences with meals from Banded Peak or Lodge of Ten Peaks Café.
Find even more local dining opportunities on Village Road in Lake Louise. You’ll find delicious baked goods and cafes, and a variety of casual restaurants. For an elevated dining experience, book with the Chateau Lake Louise restaurants.
Around Lake Louise
There is a ton to discover while you’re here, including the views of the lake itself.
If you are planning a trip to the actual lake (Lake Louise Gondola is around 4.3 km from the turquoise-coloured lake), you can book canoes for a close-up view of the lake, too. There are dozens of hiking trails in the area, too, some of which will get you views over the lake and valley. There are several trailheads from the lake itself. Find more trailheads in the village off Sentinel Road or Fairview Drive.
Planning your Trip – Lake Louise Summer Gondola
Lake Louise Ski Resort
What:
The Lake Louise Summer Gondola is owned and operated by Lake Louise Ski Resort. The gondola transports skiers and snowboarders up the hill in the winter and sightseers or hikers in the summer.
The resort’s dining is available at the base and the top. The resort adds additional experiences to help enhance your day of sightseeing.
Plus, Lake Louise is in Banff National Park, where there are many other things to see and do. The ski resort is across the highway from the village of Lake Louise, where you can find accommodations, dining, shopping, and hiking. Beyond the village is the famous lake itself and the Chateau.
Location and how to get there: 1 Whitehorn Rd, Lake Louise, Banff National Park. Free parking at the site.
Use Highway 1 east from Golden, south from Jasper, or north from Banff to access the resort from Whitehorn Drive in Lake Louise.
The Parks Canada Shuttle to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise originates from the Lake Louise Park and Ride lot, situated at Lake Louise Summer Gondola (Ski Resort).
Lake Louise shuttle services operate between the Lake Louise Summer Gondola, Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and Samson Mall during the summer sightseeing season.
Best time to go: June 6 to September 1, 2025.
How much: Gondola Passes $13.50 – $63
Guided walks: Additional fees apply.
For more information:
Lake Louise Ski Resort & Summer Gondola
