I agree, Netflix and Tumblr are amazing. But… deep down we know that staying cooped up inside might not be the best way to live. So, I journeyed off to the mountains to have myself an adventure!
Magical, memorable, awe-inspiring Lake Louise is beautiful even just standing outside the Fairmont Chateau, looking out at the lake (or at the hotel). However, if you’re willing to work those leg muscles and get your body moving, a whole new level of wonder can be experienced at the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House.
5.5 km of scenic terrain brings you back behind the lake 
and up, up, up. Nestled amidst rock, trees, and glaciers is a quaint tea house. Although they have no electricity at this backcountry restaurant, lunchtime on the weekend (or any day of the summer) brings an overwhelming amount of hungry hikers. 
Other than one day at the start of the season where a helicopter hauls in supplies, everything must be carried by the staff to and from the tea house. 5.5 km each way, plus the elevation gain. It’s a miracle that they are still able to serve amazing food. Hummus and chips, quinoa salad, daily soups, sandwiches with the best homemade bread ever (thick, dense, doughy goodness), chocolate cake, pies… Oh, and of course… tea!!! In fact they have quite a diverse selection of unique, local (Banff), loose-leaf teas.
The food is great, but what makes it greatER is the location. High atop a mountain, the view is stunning, the air is crisp, and chances are you’ll get to see some creatures! I was lucky enough to see mountain goats, a porcupine, a pika, an abundance of birds, squirrels, and some VERY friendly chipmunks.
As Autumn falls upon us, the tea house season draws to a close, but if you can’t make it there this year, there’s always next season!
For those wanting a shorter hike with an equally rewarding endpoint, the Lake Agnes Tea House is also accessible from Lake Louise.
Get out there. Enjoy nature. Enjoy food. Enjoy life.
