Attractions and Places To See around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake) - Top 20
Best attractions and places to see around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake) include a diverse range of natural landscapes and historical sites. This region, encompassing parts of Yoho National Park and the area around Golden, British Columbia, features significant geographic formations like the Kicking Horse Pass and the vast Kinbasket Lake. Visitors can explore glacier-fed lakes, powerful waterfalls, and the expansive Columbia River Wetlands. The area also holds cultural importance with sites related to the Canadian Pacific Railway.
Best attractions…
Last updated: April 24, 2026
Lake Louise
Highlight • Lake
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Lake Agnes Tea House
Highlight • Mountain Hut
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Wapta Falls
Highlight • Waterfall
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Athabasca Glacier
Highlight • Natural Monument
TIP: Put on the warm clothes here! ;-)
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Moraine Lake
Highlight • Lake
In this case: If you are in Banff National Park and you do not want to stop by, it's your own fault!
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Popular around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)
Run the Rockies – mountain range fastpack #5
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Hiking around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)
Running Trails around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)
MTB Trails around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)
Cycling around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)
Road Cycling Routes around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)
Mountain Hikes around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)
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Tips from the Community
It really feels like a fairy tale here.
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It really feels like a fairy tale here.
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One of Canada's most famous locations, Lake Louise (known in the Stoney Nakoda language as Ho-run-num-nay, meaning “Lake of the Little Fishes”) shines with its glacier-fed turquoise waters. The lake serves as a base for hiking, summer canoeing, and winter skiing. With limited parking and shuttle options required during peak season, planning ahead will turn a visit into a memorable encounter with one of the Rockies’ most iconic landscapes. As others have mentioned, it does get very busy, so arriving early is a great way to beat the crowds and enjoy a bit of solitude along the shoreline.
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Delicious tea, sandwiches, and soup. A wonderful place to recover from the climb.
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The Columbia Icefield is located on a plateau in the Canadian Rocky Mountains and is the remnant of the ice mass that once covered the high peaks. The Athabasca Glacier flows over three enormous rock steps from the Columbia Icefield in the Sunwapta Valley. It is one of the six principal 'toes' of the Columbia Icefield. The glacier has been receding more than 1.5 km in the past 125 years, leaving behind a vegetation-free moraine landscape. (Visit May 31, 2018) Information at: https://parks.canada.ca/pn-np/ab/jasper/activ/itineraires-itineraries/glacier-athabasca A photo of the Athabasca Glacier in around 1963 can be seen in the publication ‘Jasper National Park - Behind the mountains and glaciers’ at page 61: http://parkscanadahistory.com/geology/misc-report-6-1963.pdf
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On the way from Banff to Jasper at the end of May 2018, we stopped at Lake Louise. The wonderful location and proximity to the Trans-Canada Highway attracts numerous visitors. Mountain lakes with a connection to a road are often an attraction. Nevertheless, Lake Louise remains well remembered for the striking massif of Fairview Mountain.
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Lake Louise is the name of the lake, but also of the town, the ski area and the luxury hotel that is over 100 years old. At this highlight you are very close to the lake shore and have one of the best photo perspectives. The high peaks of the Rocky Mountains are often beautifully reflected in the light blue water.
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The path from the campsite along the stream to the lake was beautiful, as was the path to the lookout point. But the lake itself was far too crowded. The only thing to do was to get away as quickly as possible.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some family-friendly attractions in the Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake area?
The region offers several family-friendly options. You can visit Lake Louise or Moraine Lake for easy walks and scenic views. The Wapta Falls trail is also an accessible hike for families. For unique experiences, consider the Grizzly Bear Refuge on Kicking Horse Mountain, the Northern Lights Wolf Centre, or the Golden Skybridge, which features Canada's highest suspension bridge and other activities like ziplining.
What historical sites can I explore in the Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake region?
The area is rich in railway history. The Kicking Horse Pass is a National Historic Site, significant for its role in the Canadian Pacific Railway's construction. Nearby, you can witness the engineering marvel of the Spiral Tunnels, where trains navigate the steep terrain. The Golden & District Museum also provides insights into the local history.
Which lakes are a must-see in the Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake area?
You'll find stunning glacier-fed lakes here. Lake Louise is famous for its turquoise waters and offers canoeing and hiking. Moraine Lake boasts bright blue waters against a dramatic mountain backdrop. Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park is another gem, known for its vibrant color and surrounding trails. For a more remote experience, Kinbasket Lake offers vast wilderness paddling.
Are there any impressive waterfalls to visit?
Absolutely. Wapta Falls is an impressive waterfall accessible via a short hike, allowing you to feel its spray up close. Takakkaw Falls in Yoho National Park is another spectacular sight, with a drop of 302 meters (991 feet), offering easy trails and picnic areas.
What are some unique natural features besides lakes and waterfalls?
Beyond the lakes and waterfalls, you can explore the Natural Rock Bridge in Yoho National Park, carved by the Kicking Horse River. The Columbia River Wetlands, the largest intact wetlands in North America, are a haven for wildlife and offer unique paddling opportunities. Don't miss the Giant Cedars Interpretive Site for a tranquil walk among ancient trees.
Where can I find a unique dining or refreshment experience after a hike?
For a truly unique experience, hike to one of the historic tea houses. The Lake Agnes Tea House, the oldest in Canada, and the Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House both offer tea, homemade lunches, and baked goods in stunning backcountry settings. Supplies are hiked in daily, adding to their rustic charm.
What kind of outdoor activities and routes are available near these attractions?
The area is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous cycling routes, including challenging loops around Moraine Lake and Golden. For hikers, there are mountain hikes ranging from easy to difficult, such as the Lake Agnes Teahouse trail or the Emerald Lake loop. Running trails are also available, including scenic paths around Emerald Lake and Wapta Falls. You can find more details on these activities in the dedicated guides for Cycling, Mountain Hikes, and Running Trails.
What are some popular viewpoints for panoramic scenery?
Many attractions double as excellent viewpoints. The Rockpile at Moraine Lake offers a spectacular panorama. Kicking Horse Mountain Resort provides scenic gondola rides to 7,700 feet, giving you breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains and Columbia River Wetlands. The Golden Skybridge also offers incredible vistas from its high suspension bridge.
Can I see wildlife in the Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake area?
Yes, the region is rich in wildlife. The Columbia River Wetlands are a significant habitat for over 200 animal species, including herons. For guaranteed sightings and educational experiences, visit the Grizzly Bear Refuge on Kicking Horse Mountain to see Boo the bear, or the Northern Lights Wolf Centre near Golden to learn about and observe grey wolves.
What do visitors enjoy most about the attractions in this area?
Visitors consistently praise the stunning natural beauty, especially the vibrant turquoise lakes like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, often describing them as 'breathtaking' and 'a must-see.' The impressive power of Wapta Falls also leaves a lasting impression. Many appreciate the opportunity for outdoor activities like hiking and canoeing, and the unique experience of visiting the backcountry tea houses.
What is the best time to visit the Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake area?
The summer months (June to September) are ideal for hiking, canoeing, and enjoying the vibrant colors of the lakes. However, popular spots like Lake Louise and Moraine Lake can get very busy, so arriving early is recommended. Winter offers opportunities for skiing and snowshoeing, particularly at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort.
Are there any easy hiking trails suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are several easy trails. The short hike to Wapta Falls is considered easy and rewarding. Other accessible options include the Thompson Falls trail and the Sherbrooke Lake loop. Many trails around the major lakes also offer relatively flat sections perfect for a leisurely stroll.
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Most popular attractions around Area A (Kicking Horse/Kinbasket Lake)
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