Perched at 2,135 metres beside the emerald waters of Lake Agnes, the Lake Agnes Tea House is one of the most iconic hiking destinations in the Canadian Rockies. This historic backcountry teahouse, accessible only on foot, serves fresh tea and homemade baked goods in a setting that feels like a scene from a mountain fairy tale. Here's everything you need to know to hike there.
Trail Overview
The trail to Lake Agnes Tea House starts at the Lake Louise lakeshore, near the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. It climbs steadily through subalpine forest, passing Mirror Lake along the way, before arriving at Lake Agnes and the teahouse.
- Distance: 3.4 km one way (6.8 km round trip)
- Elevation gain: 400 metres
- Difficulty: Moderate
- Time: 1.5-2 hours up, 1-1.5 hours down, plus time at the teahouse
- Total trip: Budget 3-5 hours including a tea stop
The Hike in Detail
Lake Louise to Mirror Lake (2.5 km)
The trail begins at the far (western) end of the Lake Louise lakeshore path. A well-signed junction points you uphill toward Lake Agnes. The first section climbs through dense spruce and fir forest on a well-maintained trail with switchbacks. The grade is steady but never extreme. At 2.5 km, you reach Mirror Lake — a small, perfectly still pond that reflects the Big Beehive cliff above it. It's a nice rest stop and a hint of the beauty ahead.
Mirror Lake to Lake Agnes (0.9 km)
From Mirror Lake, the trail steepens and climbs through a series of switchbacks. Just before arriving at Lake Agnes, you'll pass a dramatic seasonal waterfall cascading over the rocky cliff face — especially impressive in early summer from snowmelt. The final steps bring you to the shore of Lake Agnes, a stunning alpine lake backed by towering cliffs and the Big Beehive. The teahouse sits on the far shore.
The Tea House
The Lake Agnes Tea House was originally built by the Canadian Pacific Railway in 1901 as a rest stop for hikers. Today it's operated as a rustic backcountry teahouse serving over 100 varieties of loose-leaf tea, plus homemade baked goods including scones, cookies, sandwiches, and soups.
Everything served here is packed in by staff on foot — there's no road access, no electricity, and no running water. The menu changes based on what can be carried up the trail. Cash is preferred, though some card payment may be available.
The teahouse is typically open from early June to mid-October, weather permitting. Operating hours are approximately 8am to 5pm. Expect a line during peak summer hours (11am-2pm), but it moves quickly and the wait is part of the experience.
Beyond the Tea House: Big Beehive
If you still have energy after tea, the Big Beehive trail continues from Lake Agnes, climbing another 135 metres (1.1 km) to a cliff-top viewpoint with aerial views of Lake Louise far below. The perspective from the Big Beehive — looking down at the turquoise lake, the Chateau, and the valley stretching into the distance — is one of the finest viewpoints in all of Banff. The round trip from Lake Agnes to Big Beehive and back adds about 1-1.5 hours.
Tips for a Great Hike
- Start early: Arrive at Lake Louise before 8am to beat crowds on the trail and at the teahouse. Parking at Lake Louise fills by 8-9am in summer
- Bring cash: The teahouse prefers cash. Bring $15-25 per person for tea and a baked item
- Bring water: There's no potable water on the trail. Carry at least 1 litre per person
- Dress in layers: The teahouse elevation (2,135m) is noticeably cooler than the lake. Bring a warm layer and rain jacket
- Bear spray: Always carry bear spray on trails in Banff. Bears are active in this area, especially in berry season
- Poles: Trekking poles are helpful for the descent, which can be hard on the knees
- Combine trails: An excellent loop option is to hike up to Lake Agnes, continue over the Big Beehive, and descend via the Plain of Six Glaciers trail, returning along the Lake Louise lakeshore (about 14 km total)
Getting There
Drive to Lake Louise (57 km from Banff town) or take Roam Transit Route 8X (seasonal). The trailhead is at the far end of the lakeshore path, past the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. A Parks Canada pass is required.