Milk, honey, and a view! If you like a little something extra with your tea, start the car and lace up your hiking boots because the Lake Agnes Tea House in Banff is calling, and you might want to answer.
Located in the country’s first national park, this enchanting eatery has over 100 different teas, sandwiches, soups, and decadent desserts, but getting there is no walk in the park.
Lake Agnes Tea House
Unlike so many other family-owned restaurants and cafes in the area, the Lake Agnes Tea House is only accessible on foot.
Nestled in the great Canadian Rockies, approximately 7 kilometres from Lake Louise, this waterfront establishment requires a “moderate” hike through the wilderness, but don’t let that deter you from visiting.
Built in 1901 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, this scenic destination was originally a refuge for hikers, then in 1905, it became a place where people could also stop and grab a drink.
While the log cabin was restructured in 1981, it still features original windows, tables, chairs, and most importantly, the incredible view.
According to the tea house’s website, the trek to get there could take between one and two hours, so pack light and dress for the weather.
When it opens on June 4, there might still be snow along the trail, but it will continue to offer an incredible view of the mountains, towering trees, and the crystal clear lagoon.
How to get there
If you’d like to check it out for yourself, you’ll have to begin your journey at the Chateau Lake Louise.
“From the public parking lot, find the lakeshore trail near the Chateau, and walk along the paved promenade for approximately 200m,” it says on their website.
“Keep an eye out for the Lake Agnes trail, which will branch off just as the Chateau grounds are ending, just past the bronze statue of a Swiss mountain guide. At this point, leave the lakeshore trail and ascend the right hand ‘fork’ in the trail. There should be a sign that says, ‘Lake Agnes 3.6km.’”
Once you see the sign, follow the short paved pathway that heads up the hill toward the forest, then cross the horse trail. This is where the trail gets a little more difficult.
After the pavement ends, you’ll have to continue upwards, where eventually, there will be a switchback in the trail.
Stop, take a few photos of the lake below, then continue on until you get to the horse gate, where you’ll turn left towards Mirror Lake.
Your last challenge? A few stairs to the right of the trail will lead you straight to the tea house.
Know before you go
Getting to the tea house is no easy task, so you’ll want to be prepared.
Please note that they only accept Canadian and US cash or travellers’ cheques.
You certainly won’t want to miss out on what might be the best cup of tea you’ve ever had. After all, how many other tea houses can say they pump their water directly from a beautiful lake in the mountains?
Interested? All water is boiled before service, and it tastes amazing, so don’t miss out.
Sure, you might break a sweat, but it’ll be worth it.
There’s really no place like it.
When: June 4, 2025, until Thanksgiving from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Directions here
