There is nothing more magical and fresh snow falling in the mountains to give you a winter wonderland wedding vibe you are looking for.. The smell of spiced tea – or mulled wine! -, the snow flakes falling outside the window, the wood fire in the cold… You could think you are in a Christmas movie.
If you are looking for that type of wedding – or elopement – Lake Louise would be one of the best place to go to.
Located in Banff National Park, Lake Louise is the highest settlement village of the Canadian Rockies.
Winter Weather at Lake Louise
Winter: October – May/June
Snow at Lake Louise can start very early in the season. It is not uncommon to see the first snow falls in October. That said, it can warm up again and only see snow that stays in November.
My favourite period to visit (and take photos for weddings at Lake Louise) is that period: when the snow is in the trees and around the lake but the lake is not frozen yet. A big plus for a snow fall for a real winter wonderland wedding vibes.
One thing to know about Lake Louise in Winter is that the lake freeze totally in the winter. It requires two weeks of very cold (-20C) for the lake to freeze. Usually it happens sometimes in December. During that frozen period, you can ice skate (the Fairmount creates an ice rink right in front of the Château), cross country ski, ice climb and snowshoe! There is also an ice sculpture decoration on the ice.
Last year (2024), the ice sculpture didn’t last long because the weather was warmer than usual.
Lake Louise will be ice turquoise right about when it freezes but as soon as the snow starts to fall after the freezing day, the lake gets totally white. Don’t be surprised if you visit Lake Louise in the winter and the lake is not turquoise!
The temperatures can go down A LOT. In 2022, for Christmas, I went to Lake Louise for sunrise and it was -46C. Yes, you read correctly! -46C is about -50.8F!!! Always bring hand and feet warmers when visiting in the winter!
Legal side of getting married at Lake Louise in the winter
To get married at Lake Louise in the winter requires the same process as in the summer.
You have to get a marriage license at the registry (Calgary or Canmore), get an officiant to perform the ceremony and ask for a marriage permit from the National Park. The pricing depends on the type of wedding you want (big or not). It is free for small ceremonies like for elopements. The process of asking for the permits might be quicker than in the summer due to a lower demand.
Thinking about getting married in Lake Louise in the winter?
Don’t wait to reach out! I can help you find out if Lake Louise is the right place for you. I know the area like the back of my hand and I can direct you to different location options for your day. As your elopement photographer (or wedding photographer) I will help you craft the timeline of your dreams.
I always keep short term availabilities as well so if you are not sure or want to get married in the next few months, reach out now 🙂
