A historic stone tea house at 2,100 m on the Plain of Six Glaciers, commissioned by the Canadian Pacific Railway and Edward Feuz Jr. as a way-station for mountaineers bound for Abbot Pass Hut. Built in 1924 (completed 1927), the two-story stone structure has been privately owned and operated by the same family for over 60 years.

The hike. Trailhead at Chateau Lake Louise lakeshore. ~5.5 km one way (11 km round-trip), 360–370 m elevation gain, 4–6 hours. See the Plain of Six Glaciers Trail for a full guide including 2026 logistics, avalanche safety, and the End of Plain viewpoint. For stats and nearby trails, see the summer trail page. Unlike Lake Agnes, the route begins with a flat stroll around the entire Lake Louise shoreline; at the back of the lake, steady ascent through glacial delta and lateral moraines. The trail is exposed; views of avalanches and icefalls off Mount Victoria and Mount Lefroy. A horse trail offers a less exposed alternative.

The “Plain.” A vast amphitheatre of rock and ice; six glaciers visible: Victoria, Lefroy, Fuhrmann, Popes, Aberdeen, and Lower Victoria. Alpine meadows bloom in July and August.

Operational philosophy. Season: typically June 1 through mid-October; 9:00 AM–5:00 PM daily. Cash only; all food handmade on-site. Staff work 5 days on, 2 off; live in the backcountry; hike supplies in and trash out. No electricity or running water.

Compared to Lake Agnes. Lake Agnes is shorter, steeper, forested, “fairytale” (turquoise tarn, log cabin); the more “instagrammable” of the two but heavily crowded. Plain of Six Glaciers is longer, exposed, “raw” and “rugged”; grey moraine, massive glaciers, a refuge among colossal peaks. Generally quieter with more outdoor seating. Both moderate; P6’s lateral moraine section may be unnerving for those with a fear of heights. See Lake Louise Tea House System for the Highline/Tea House Challenge loop.

Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House