Lake Louise is often considered the heart and soul of the Alberta terrain, and we are not denying the facts — it's unbelievably, unmistakably beautiful all year round. But if you're getting sick of people telling you to head down to Lake Louise, we have just the remedy for you. As long as you're still hoping to stick close to the mountains, we have made a list of things to do in the Rockies that don't involve Lake Louise.
From river rafting to brewery adventures, these activities will help you develop a totally new level of appreciation for the Rockies.
There are so many other delights out there in the Rockies just waiting for you. Whether you're an outdoorsy person seeking your next big challenge or you're just fond of soaking in the views from inside, we've got you covered on all fronts.
Spring is here, which means all the scenery will be looking extra lush. All the big crowds are heading to Lake Louise, so this is your chance to hit the hidden gems.
We've rounded up some unbeatable experiences for you to enjoy in the Rockies and you might just want to go through the whole list.
Lake Louise is stunning, but so are its surroundings so it's absolutely worth expanding your horizons.
Do The Short But Sweet Grassi Lakes Hike
Address: Grassi Lakes, Canmore, AB
Why You Need To Go: The stunning emerald-coloured lakes waiting for you at the top of this brief hike are even more breathtaking in person.
Raft Down The Kananaskis River
Price: $79+
When: From May to September
Address: Chinook Rafting, Riverbase, Stoney 142, 143, 144, AB
Why You Need To Go: Experience the thrill of river rafting by zipping down the rapid waters of one of Canada's most powerful waterways.
Take A Magical Cruise On Maligne Lake
Price: $79+
When: From May to October
Address: Maligne Lake Rd., Improvement District No. 12, AB
Why You Need To Go: This epic interpretive cruise will take you across the lake to see the lovely Spirit Island and even some wild animals hanging out around the shoreline.
Explore Mystical Caves In Canmore
Price: $138+
Address: Until 202 129 Bow Meadows Cres, Canmore, AB
Why You Need To Go: There is nothing quite like maneuvering through the quiet darkness of a cave that makes you all the more aware of your senses and surroundings. You've been to the Rockies, why not go in the Rockies?
Eat Bennies By The Mountains At Juniper Bistro
Price: $17+
Address: Juniper Cafe & Bistro, 1 Juniper Way, Banff, AB
Why You Need To Go: Feast on delicious Albertan cuisine and cocktails as you gaze at the awe-inspiring mountainous landscape.
Go Skiing Or Biking At The Nordic Centre
Price: Free
Address: 1988 Olympic Way, Canmore, AB
Why You Need To Go: The Canmore Nordic Centre is home to tons of global events and even held the nordic portions of the Calgary Olympics. Whether you're skiing in the winter or mountain biking in the summer, it's absolutely worth a visit.
Visit The Sparkling Troll Falls
Address: Kananaskis Improvement, Alberta
Why You Need To Go: A short trail through the forest will bring you out into a surprisingly big waterfall and it's the perfect opportunity to cool off.
Ride A Gondola Up To Sulphur Mountain
Price: $53+
Address: Banff Sightseeing Gondola, Banff, AB
Why You Need To Go: What's not to love about gaining a bird's eye view of the entire town of Banff as you're rising into the air. The views at the top aren't too shabby either.
Get Boozy On A Brewery Tour Bus
Price: $100
When: Thursdays and Sundays
Address: 702 8 St., Canmore, AB
Why You Need To Go: This bus will take you through all the nearby breweries and taphouses. Don't even worry about a designated driver, they've got it all sorted out for you.
Take The SkyTram Over Jasper
Price: $54.60+
Address: Whistlers Rd., Jasper, AB
Why You Need To Go: This SkyTram is the highest and longest in all of Canada, so you know you're going to get treated to some awesome views of the valleys and mountains below.
Spot Wild Animals On An Albertan Safari Tour
Price: $58+
When: From April to September
Address: Mount Royal Hotel, 138 Banff Ave., Banff, AB
Why You Need To Go: Check out what wild animals in the area get up to right before it gets dark — the bears, elk, and deer are all waiting for you.
Reach The Summit Of Ha Ling Peak
Address: Ha Ling Trail, Canmore, AB
Why You Need To Go: If you can brake the short-but-steep hike to the glorious Ha Ling Peak, you will feel like you're on top of the world.
Courtesy of THE TEN SPOT
Camyl Buenaventura