Planning this year’s vacation activities in Lake Louise? Everyone hopes for brilliant sunshine and clear skies when visiting the Rocky Mountains. We all want a picture-perfect holiday. The reality, however, is that mountain weather is highly temperamental and highly unpredictable. All four seasons can be experienced in one day, even in the middle of July! But, things to do in Lake Louise on rainy days are not as hum-drum as one might think.
What can one do when Mother Nature throws a curveball? What activities in Lake Louise can possibly produce a smile during a torrential downpour? Whitewater rafting on the Kicking Horse River, that’s what!
Whitewater Rafting On The Kicking Horse River
Think about it: Most people raft because of the big whitewater. Big whitewater means big waves; big waves mean splashing. Everyone wants to get soaked on a rafting trip! How can a few raindrops possibly dampen spirits when the river will get you wet anyway? Rafting in the rain simply makes an outdoor adventure that much more adventurous.
As for staying warm, we have that covered. In the rain, shine, or even snow, we provide an entire wardrobe of clean, dry and cozy gear to keep all our guests smiling and laughing. Along with wetsuit, booties, gloves and spray jackets, rafters are welcome to layer up with as many polar fleece sweaters as desired (one, two, three or even four). Take as many as needed, we don’t mind! At the RiverBase, afterward, heated change-rooms greet everyone. Peel out of your soggy rafting gear in comfort and coziness. A steaming cup of cocoa, along with a fresh-baked cookie, serve as final flourishes to a morning, or afternoon, of rainy-weather rafting. If joining us for a morning trip, opt to refuel with a delicious BBQ lunch before carrying on with your Rocky Mountain day.
Indoor Activities In Lake Louise & Tours
After an exhilarating whitewater run down the Kicking Horse River, take the opportunity to head indoors for a spot of tea. At both Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Lodge, good old-fashioned afternoon tea is served complete with magnificent mountain views. Sit back, sip and watch the weather pass by from the comfort of your cozy chair.
Continue wandering the corridors of Chateau Lake Louise, and head towards the Temple Wing to gaze upon the brilliantly-coloured, handmade stained glass windows. Five species of wildlife are depicted in each of the five panels: eagle, bear, fish, mountain goat, and wolf.
Rainy days also go hand in hand with reading (or, hand in book!). Well-stocked book stores are found both at Chateau Lake Louise and Samson Mall in the village.
Visitor Centres or Educational Places of Interest
Learning about the region, its history, culture, and inhabitants, enhances any holiday. A rainy day is a perfect time to check out sources of such fascinating information. In the village, the Parks Canada Visitor Centre provides both tourist information and insight into the local area’s history.
A ride in an enclosed gondola at the Lake Louise Ski hill brings rain-jacket clad visitors to the amazing Wildlife Interpretative Centre. Extensive examples of regional wildlife offer great opportunity to better understand and appreciate bears, wolves, cougars and more, and why the protected parklands are so very important for their continued survival. This is their home after all, and we are merely visitors. Afterward, wander over to the Whitehorn Bistro for a bite to eat and panorama views encompassing Lake Louise. You can even see Victoria Glacier and the beginnings of the Kicking Horse River way off in the distance.
Restaurants, Bars, Lodges
Wrapping up a Rocky Mountain day (even a rainy Rocky Mountain day), requires a spectacular and stunning view. While some prefer to hike and climb to the top of a mountain to achieve this goal, others prefer a less-strenuous option that includes a full-ranging menu and carefully selected wine list!
The Lakeview Lounge and Fairview Bar & Restaurant, located next to each other at Chateau Lake Louise, pair delectability with stupendous mountain and lakeside scenery. The Walliser Strube features European alpine cuisine, authentic Swiss fondue and a library of over 500 bottles of wine. Bon Appetit!
Don’t Let The Rain Dampen Your Plans
Even on rainy days, there is still so much to enjoy and experience in the Rocky Mountains. Start your less-than-sunny day off with a Kicking Horse River rafting trip with Wild Water Adventures … and then, go from there!
For rafting reservations, please call 1-888-647-6444, or click the yellow ‘Book Now’ button on any website page.
See You On The River!
Author: Deborah Wade
