Lake Agnes Tea House & Big Beehive Hike: A Complete Guide from Lake Louise, Banff

Who doesn't dream of seeing Lake Louise? It is one of the most photographed views in Canada. There is a milky turquoise lake, the Victoria Glacier at the far end and the grand Fairmont Chateau on the shore. Most visitors never leave the lakeside path. However, if you climb for an hour or so through the forest, you will find a quieter, wilder world above it. There is a small tarn called Mirror Lake, a hidden lake below rocky peaks and a really cute teahouse.

We haven't hiked this one ourselves yet, but it's high on our bucket list, so I've researched every detail for you. The Lake Agnes Teahouse has been serving hikers since 1905. It sits beside a waterfall at around 2,135 m. Supplies are packed in and the staff hike up every day. The menu has more than a hundred loose-leaf teas, plus soups, sandwiches and cakes. No wonder it keeps families going up the switchbacks!

If you still have energy, you can carry on beyond the teahouse to the Big Beehive. This rounded rocky dome got its name from its layered, hive-like shape. From the ledges near the top, Lake Louise is almost straight below you, and the Chateau looks like a toy. In 2026 you also need to plan around Parks Canada's shuttle and parking system. So in this guide I cover the route, the Big Beehive extension, shuttles, parking and bear safety.

At a glance

• Distance: Lake Agnes Teahouse about 7–7.8 km return. Big Beehive about 10.5 km return
• Elevation gain: about 400–495 m to Lake Agnes, and roughly 535–550 m in total to the Big Beehive
• Allow 2.5–4 hours to the teahouse and back, or 3.5–5 hours with the Big Beehive (plus your tea break)
• Difficulty: Moderate. A steady climb at altitude, with steep stairs. On the Big Beehive there are narrow, exposed switchbacks
• Route type: Out-and-back (loop options via the Highline trail)
• Start point: Lake Louise Lakeshore, in front of the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
• Best season: late June to early October. Outside summer there is snow and avalanche risk on the upper sections
• Prices: you need a Parks Canada park pass, plus a shuttle reservation or paid parking (see below)
• Toilets: toilets and services at the lakeshore. At Lake Agnes there are outhouse-style toilets and the teahouse with seasonal food and drink. Nothing at the Big Beehive
• Suitable for children: yes, but not pushchair-friendly. A carrier is best for little ones
• Dogs: allowed on a lead

Route description

1. Lakeshore to Mirror Lake (about 2.7 km)

From the lakeshore in front of the Chateau, walk along the path to the right (north shore). Look for the sign for Lake Agnes and Mirror Lake on the right. The wide trail climbs steadily through spruce and fir forest on long switchbacks. At first there aren't many views, just glimpses of turquoise through the trees.

After about an hour you reach Mirror Lake (around 2,024 m). It is a small, still tarn below the cliffs of the Big Beehive, and a natural rest stop. At the junction here, follow the signs right towards Lake Agnes. The left-hand trail heads towards the Highline and Plain of Six Glaciers.

2. Mirror Lake to Lake Agnes (about 1 km)

Now the trail gets steeper, and the switchbacks open up views over Lake Louise and the valley. You pass the junction for the Little Beehive, a short, quieter side trip to a viewpoint. Shortly after, the final approach climbs two steep wooden staircases beside a waterfall coming out of Lake Agnes.

At the top, Lake Agnes opens up. It is a calm alpine lake framed by Mount Niblock and Mount Whyte, with the little log teahouse on its shore. Fun fact: the lake was named after Lady Agnes Macdonald, wife of Canada's first prime minister. It is a gorgeous spot for a rest, but expect company in summer.

3. Lake Agnes to the Big Beehive (about 1.5–1.7 km)

From the teahouse, follow the trail along the right-hand (north) shore of Lake Agnes. It is rocky in places, and there are a lot fewer people. At the far end of the lake, the trail climbs tight switchbacks up a scree slope to a saddle. A few corners are narrow and exposed. They can feel scarier on the way down, especially when wet or icy.

At the saddle (a four-way junction), turn left and follow the ridge east to the top of the Big Beehive. There is a small wooden shelter near the summit. However, the best views are from the ledges just beyond it, looking almost straight down on Lake Louise. These are real cliff edges, so keep children close and stay well back!

4. Return options

Most people go back the same way past the teahouse. For a longer, quieter day, you can descend from the saddle on the other side to the Highline trail. Then either head back to Mirror Lake, or continue west to join the Plain of Six Glaciers trail and return along the Lake Louise shoreline. This is around 13 km in total, or more with a detour to the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse. Check the current trail report before you try the longer loop.

How to get there

By public transport (recommended)

Getting to Lake Louise without a car is easier and a lot less stressful than trying to park.

• Parks Canada shuttle: In 2026 the shuttle season runs from 15 May to mid-October. Park for free (or arrive by bus) at the Lake Louise Park and Ride at the Lake Louise ski resort (1 Whitehorn Road). The ride to the lakeshore takes about 15 minutes. Shuttles run roughly every 30 minutes from early morning until early evening, and the last return bus is around 7:30 pm. 2026 return fares were $12.75 for adults, $6 for seniors and $4 for youth, plus a booking fee. About 40% of seats are released in mid-April, and the rest at 8 am two days before each date. Book through the Parks Canada Reservation Service (reservation.pc.gc.ca).
• Roam Transit Route 8X runs daily between Banff and Lake Louise (around $12–12.50 adult). A Roam Reservable Super Pass ($30 for one day in 2026) gives you unlimited Roam travel plus the Lake Connector shuttle to Moraine Lake.
• From Calgary: There is no passenger train. However, several coach operators run daily from Calgary and Calgary International Airport to Lake Louise, including Brewster Express, Rider Express and FlixBus.

By car and parking

Parking: The Lake Louise Lakeshore car park is paid during the shuttle season. In 2026 it cost $42 per vehicle per day (3 am to 7 pm, mid-May to mid-October), on top of your park pass. In summer it fills before sunrise and stays full all day, and there is nowhere to wait for a space. So unless you arrive very early, I recommend parking at the Park and Ride and taking the shuttle.

Permits, fees & opening times

• Park pass: You need a valid Parks Canada pass (daily admission or a Parks Canada Discovery Pass) to stop in Banff National Park. Check current prices on parks.canada.ca.
• Shuttle or parking: see above. Fees go up most years, so always check Parks Canada for the current rates.
• Teahouse: Usually open from early June until Canadian Thanksgiving (early October), roughly 8 am to 4 pm, weather permitting. It is first come, first served, with no reservations. Cards are now accepted, but the connection can be unreliable, so carry some Canadian cash. There are separate queues for takeaway and table service. You are also asked to carry out your own paper rubbish.
• Trail status: Parks Canada can close trails or restrict access because of bear activity, snow or avalanche risk. Check the Banff trail report before you go.

When to go

• Late June to September: The main hiking season. The teahouse is open, the trail is clear of snow and the wildflowers are out. July and August are extremely busy, so start before 7:30 am or come later in the afternoon.
• September to early October: Smaller crowds, golden larches on nearby slopes and crisp mornings. Early snow is possible.
• May and early June: Snow often stays on the upper trail and the Big Beehive switchbacks, so microspikes are useful. The teahouse may not be open yet.
• Winter (November to June): Parks Canada notes avalanche exposure on this route. It is not recommended without avalanche knowledge and equipment.

Mountain weather changes quickly. Thunderstorms are common on summer afternoons, and it can be cold at the lake even in July.

Hiking with kids

Lake Agnes is a much-loved family hike. Let's face it, hot chocolate and cake at the teahouse is a great motivator!

• Pushchairs: Not suitable. The trail is wide but steep, rocky and rooty higher up, and the final staircases are impossible with wheels. Use a back carrier.
• Suitable for children: Most children from around 5 who are used to walking can manage the teahouse with breaks. It is about 400 m of climbing, so take it slowly. The Big Beehive is better for older, steady kids. The switchbacks are narrow and exposed, and the summit ledges are sheer drops.
• Make it fun: Spot the reflection in Mirror Lake, count the switchbacks and look out for chipmunks and ground squirrels (but don't feed them). Then let them choose a tea from the huge menu.
• Timing: Go early so you get a table, and allow plenty of time for snack stops.

What to pack

• Bear spray in a holster you can reach easily (you can rent it in Lake Louise village)
• Sturdy walking shoes or boots with good grip
• A warm layer and waterproof jacket, as it is cooler at Lake Agnes than at the lakeshore
• Water (at least 1–1.5 litres each) and snacks
• Some Canadian cash for the teahouse
• Sun hat, sunglasses and sun cream, as the sun is stronger at altitude
• Microspikes in May, early June or autumn
• Your park pass and shuttle boarding pass

Safety tips

• Bears: Black bears and grizzlies live around Lake Louise and are sometimes seen near the Chateau. Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Make noise on quieter sections and keep children close. If you see a bear, stay calm, give it space and back away slowly. Report sightings to Parks Canada.
• Never feed wildlife, including the ground squirrels and birds at the teahouse.
• Exposure: Take care on the Big Beehive switchbacks and stay back from the summit cliffs.
• Altitude: You start at around 1,750 m. Pace yourself and drink plenty.
• Weather: Turn back if storms are coming, and avoid exposed ridges in lightning.
• In an emergency, call 911. Mobile coverage is patchy on the trail.

Leave no trace & sustainable tips

• Take the shuttle or bus. It cuts congestion at one of Canada's busiest trailheads.
• Stay on the trail and don't cut switchbacks. Erosion is a real problem on this busy path.
• Pack out everything, including paper from the teahouse and fruit peel.
• Keep wildlife wild. No feeding, and keep your food packed away.
• Support the teahouse. It is a small independent business that has to get its supplies up the mountain without a road.
• Go early or late to spread out visitor numbers.

Where to stay & eat nearby

Stay:

• The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise sits right at the trailhead. It is expensive, but the setting is iconic.
• Lake Louise village has lodges and hotels, plus the HI Lake Louise Alpine Centre hostel, which is popular with budget travellers and families.
• Lake Louise Campground (Parks Canada) is a short drive or bike ride from the village. Book well ahead.
• Banff town has a lot more options and is linked by Roam Route 8X.

Eat:

• The Lake Agnes Teahouse on the trail, of course!
• The Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse, if you extend your hike.
• Cafés, bakeries and restaurants in Lake Louise village and at the Chateau.

More to explore nearby

• Plain of Six Glaciers: another historic teahouse hike at the far end of Lake Louise, with close-up glacier views.
• Little Beehive: a quieter short spur from the Lake Agnes trail.
• Moraine Lake: you can reach it on the Lake Connector shuttle. Try the short Rockpile walk or the Consolation Lakes trail.
• Lake Louise Summer Gondola: a scenic ride up the ski hill, often with grizzly bear sightings on the slopes.
• Canoeing on Lake Louise: rent a canoe from the boathouse.

FAQ

How long is the hike to the Lake Agnes Teahouse? It is about 3.5–3.9 km each way (7–7.8 km return) from the Lake Louise shoreline, with roughly 400–495 m of climbing. Most people take 2.5–4 hours return, plus time at the teahouse.

Is the Big Beehive harder than Lake Agnes? Yes, a little. It adds about 3–3.5 km return and around 135–150 m of extra climbing on steep, narrow switchbacks, with cliff-edge views at the top.

Does the Lake Agnes Teahouse take cards? Cards are now accepted, but the connection can fail, so bring some Canadian cash just in case. It is open roughly early June to early October.

Do I need a shuttle reservation for Lake Louise? It is not compulsory. However, the lakeshore car park fills before sunrise in summer. So from mid-May to mid-October the Parks Canada shuttle from the Park and Ride is by far the easiest option.

Do I need bear spray for the Lake Agnes hike? Yes, it is strongly recommended. The trail is busy, but black bears and grizzlies live in the area. Carry bear spray where you can reach it quickly and know how to use it.

Would you go for the tea, or for the Big Beehive views? Let me know in the comments!