The view of Lake Agnes from the cache location:
Lake Agnes was named after Canada’s original First Lady, Agnes MacDonald (wife of Canada’s first Prime Minister, Sir John A. MacDonald). This scenic alpine lake is home to the infamous Lake Agnes Tea House, which has been serving hikers tea since 1905.
History of the Lake Agnes Tea House:
Like the majority of the original buildings in the Canadian Rocky Mountains, the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) was responsible for the creation of the Lake Agnes Tea House. After developing a railway system connecting the country from Pacific to Atlantic coasts, the railway company realized passengers were in need of places to stop and rest during their long journey. As a result of this revelation, the Chateau Lake Louise hotel was constructed in 1890. The Lake Agnes Tea House came 11 years later as a rest stop for guests and hikers around the area. While the building was replaced in 1981, a selection of tables, chairs and windows were kept in order to preserve the Tea House’s authenticity and rustic charm.
To reach Lake Agnes, park in one of the many parking lots located near the Chateau Lake Louise. Follow the trails along the shore of Lake Louise until you see a fork in the trail with a path following up into the forest. Follow the marked trail to the Lake Agnes Tea House then continue west along the north shore of Lake Agnes to the cache location.
Note: This geocache is only accessible in the summer and fall as there is a significant avalanche hazard in this area during other seasons. A valid park pass is required for any exploration of Banff National Park.
This cache was placed with permission from Parks Canada.