The Tramline Trail follows the route of the original CPR tramway (1912–1930), a non-motorized link between the village and the lakeshore. One of the most historically significant and physically accessible trails in Lake Louise.

History. The tramway was commissioned by the Canadian Pacific Railway and opened in 1912. A 3-foot-6-inch narrow-gauge line with gasoline-powered trams (open-air in summer, enclosed in cooler weather), it linked the Laggan station in the valley floor with the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Horse-drawn carriages were slow, dusty, and inefficient; the tramway offered a modern link for wealthy guests and their steamer trunks. The line ceased in September 1930, driven by the Great Depression and improved road access (Highway 1A), which made the rail line redundant.

Specs. 4.5 km one way. Elevation gain roughly 195 m. Average grade a steady 3%; one of the few trails where you gain significant elevation without a steep grunt. Easy; wide, gravel-packed surface. 2 to 2.5 hours.

Route. Lower trailhead: where Lake Louise Drive crosses the Bow River on the south side. Upper terminus: near the Lake Louise parking lots, a short walk from the Chateau lakeshore. The trail passes over Louise Creek and traverses subalpine forest (Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir) with occasional window views of the peaks.

Seasonal use. Summer: popular with hikers and mountain bikers seeking an easy climb and an alternative to Lake Louise Drive. Winter: a classic cross-country ski route; regularly track-set by Parks Canada (double tracks for classic, skate lane). The 3% grade provides a gentle glide on the descent; favoured by beginners. Links with Upper Tramline for longer ski loops.

Wildlife and gems. The Tramline and parallel Louise Creek form a grizzly bear corridor; “Bear in Area” signs are common; berries along the clearing attract bears. Bear spray mandatory. Sharp-eyed hikers can find old wooden railway ties (sleepers) or iron spikes in the lower, wetter sections; weathered telegraph poles and ceramic insulators persist in denser forest off the trail. About halfway up, a clearing offers a profile view of the Chateau and Victoria Glacier that few visitors see.

See the summer trail page and winter XC ski page for stats and access.