It is one of the 'must-see' places to include on your motorhome vacation in the Canadian Rockies. Louise was not the lake's first name. The Stoney Natives, who were the original settlers in the area, called it Ho-Run-Num-Nay (lake of little fishes). The first white man to see the lake, mesmorized by its shimmering turquoise waters, called it Emerald Lake. It was finally named after the fourth daughter of Queen Victoria, Princess Louise Caroline Alberta, as Lake Louise.

On a busy summer day, more than 15,000 visitors come to admire the lake or hike the trails in the area. Parking can be a challenge and it might be worth considering leaving your RV at your campsite and taking the free shuttle up to the lake.

Lake Louise is the name for both the village and the lake, the village being 4km downhill of the lake itself. The village has the distinction of being the highest permanent settlement in Canada while the lake is arguably the most photographed site in the world. The imposing Chateau Lake Louise anchors the picture-postcard scene at one end while the Victoria Glacier tumbles into a forested valley at the other. In winter, the lake freezes over and ice hockey and skating take centre stage. February brings the annual Ice Magic Festival to the Lake, where professional ice carving teams come from around the world to compete. Their carvings are spectacular and remain there until the spring thaw turns them back into water.

Winter also brings powder snow to the ski hills at nearby Lake Louise Ski Resort. As one of the largest ski resorts in North America, Lake Louise has something to offer everyone. Why not try a winter RV ski vacation and include Lake Louise on your itinerary?

Whatever time of year you choose to travel, Lake Louise will leave you with memories you won't soon forget.