Riding the Summer Sightseeing Gondola at Lake Louise Gondola

I went to the Lake Louise Gondola (or known as Lake Louise Ski Resort in winter) right after I finished my hike in Johnston Canyon. I was excited to be back as I wanted to see how different summer looks like than winter from up there. In case you missed it, I have been to the Lake Louise Ski Resort once for snowshoeing.

Lake Louise Gondola proudly promotes the place as one of the best places on earth to see wild grizzly bears in their natural environment. And what a stroke of luck! I actually saw a grizzly bear when I was riding the chairlift up to the viewing deck and down to the base. It was my first grizzly bear of the season. Too bad I didn't have a picture of the bear as I was recording a video of the view at that time T^T

The gondola ride was a 14-minute ride one way. It can feel quite long but trust me, it was not that long if you compare it with the gondola ride at the Sunshine Village. I thoroughly enjoyed my ride up to the viewing deck and down to the base. I opted for the open chairlift ride instead of the gondola ride because I figured that I would enjoy the open chairlift ride more than the gondola ride. Glad to say that I was right! :)

Tip: Go for the open chairlift instead of the gondola for a better and lively experience. It also does not hurt because the air up there is fresh!

My snack time view.

The viewing deck was not as crowded as I expected. I mean, I can freely move around without bumping into anyone's shoulder though I couldn't take pictures without anyone accidentally photobombing. The view was kinda limited on that day due to overcast. You can barely see the humongous mountain ranges but I was content with what I saw.

Tip: The ride down to the base offers a better and more stunning view than the ride up. So, get your camera and heart ready to see the view of your lifetime? :)

I spent about 15-20 minutes at the deck before walking down one trail. It was one of the easiest trails that I took about 30 minutes to complete it? There was another trail that I wanted to try but it was super steep and high. I wasn't ready for that kind of hiking trail that day, so I gave it a pass. Though, I wish I went for the hike now that I have no idea when will I be back T^T

I wanted to stay longer up there but it was so hot and my skin felt like it was burning. So, I decided to go down to the base. At the base, they have these gigantic chess and checkers. Wanted to play checkers because it's been a while but I had no friends to play with. Hence, I just watched the people playing chess and checkers.

I ended my time at the Lake Louise Gondola by enjoying my lunch at the cafeteria. My lunch was fulfilling despite it leaving me a hole in my wallet. Lesson learned. Bring your own food next time! 

Tip: Don't forget to pack your own food and snacks as the price can be steep at all the F&B outlets at the base. To give you an idea, a sandwich and a pop will cost you about CAD 14.

Things that I'm thankful for about my lunch.

I didn't plan to have lunch here but somehow I was hungry and eating snacks would not be enough. Thank god for the unplanned lunch as I only realized that I lost my wallet when I wanted to pay for my lunch. I was in a panic state and almost cried. Thankfully, I got my wallet back with everything untouched as someone handed in my wallet to the Lost & Found counter. Truly grateful to that person because s/he saved me a lot of hassle. I know I had only cards and no cash at all in my wallet but thinking about having to live without all those cards really makes me feel sick. So, thank you! :)