Cute Cabin Rentals in Banff and Lake Louise area:
Looking for a cabin rental in the town of Banff or Lake Louise? There’s nothing better than staying in a cute and cozy cabin straight out of a fairy tale book nestled in the middle of the woods, complete with a toasty warm cozy fireplace and a big mug of coffee or hot chocolate.
Canada’s oldest national park is the perfect place for romantic getaways, friends’ trips, or a solo retreat. With easy access to all of the beauty and wonder of the Canadian Rockies and usually offering incredible mountain views, you couldn’t choose a more perfect home base or the perfect destination for a trip you’ll never forget.
There are many adorable cabins and vacation rentals you could choose to stay in during your visit to the Canadian Rocky Mountains, but these are the very best cabins in my humble local opinion.
From private cabins with a wood-burning fireplace, a full kitchen, private balconies, and private hot tubs, to larger cabins and lodges for large groups or a large family, these are my picks for the best of the best Banff cabins!
When these magical cabins are located in Banff or Lake Louise area and outdoor adventuring options are plentiful, you’ve stumbled on the perfect getaway vacation spot for families, friends, couples or even a solo trip.
Here are a handful of my absolute favorite cabin rental options around Banff and Lake Louise area!
Storm Mountain Lodge, Cabin Rentals in Banff & Lake Louise, Alberta
Storm Mountain Lodge is a magical and rustic little place tucked away off the main drag between Banff and Lake Louise, just down Highway 93. They hold a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence, and for good reason. The plentiful cabins are so cute and picturesque, like perfect little gingerbread houses.
The food at the main lodge is a comfort food enthusiast’s delight – you can find delicious creamy bisques, game meat charcuterie boards, fondue, gourmet grilled cheese and more. Even if you don’t stay here, I highly recommend stopping in for a hot drink and snack if you’re adventuring in the area.
Please note: there is no WiFi, telephones, kitchens, televisions, coffee pots and other modern amenities as the generator’s capacity has limits. Use this as your perfect excuse to disconnect and hide away for a weekend (or an entire week!) and just get lost in your beautiful surroundings.
Fireplaces: Yes, cabins have wood-burning fireplaces.
Pet-Friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome at Storm Mountain Lodge.
Other amenities: Cabins feature antique soaker tubs, sofas and adorable decks with chairs.
>>Â Explore Prices and Availability for Storm Mountain Lodge here
Paradise Lodge & Bungalows, Cabin Rentals in Lake Louise
Located just outside the shores of world-famous Lake Louise, Paradise Lodge & Bungalows is a family-run cabin and hotel property teeming with mountain history. The facility boasts newly-renovated luxury cabins and roomy hotel suites and contemporary lodge facilities. The place is charming, and natural materials are used as often as possible to complement the natural surroundings. Beautiful flower gardens adorn the property and Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are just a short drive away from your doorstep! You could not find a better place to stay to explore this area.
Please note: no phones are available in the units, and there is no restaurant on site, but you are just a 15-minute walk from amazing Fairmount Chateau Lake Louise’s dining options.
Note: This property is only open from May through October.
Fireplaces: Cabins feature cast iron gas fireplaces.
Pet-Friendly: Sorry, dogs are not allowed at Paradise Lodge & Bungalows.
Other amenities: Â Some cabins feature kitchens that are complete with pots, pans, dishes, etc. All units without kitchens contain mini-fridges, microwaves, and coffee makers. Cooper and Peyto cabins offer claw footed soaker tubs and corner showers.
>>Â Explore Prices and Availability for Paradise Lodge & Bungalows
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Castle Mountain Chalets, Cabin Rentals in Lake Louise
Castle Mountain Chalets is located midway between Banff and Lake Louise, on the corner of the Bow Valley Parkway 1A and Highway 93 South at Castle Junction. They are open year-round and accessible by car. They offer an authentic Rocky Mountain experience in a gorgeous location (Castle Mountain can be seen from the property) and plenty of outdoor activities located right at your doorstep, such as mountain biking and cross-country skiing. There is even a licensed general store on site for those of you who love a little Baileys with your coffee 😉
Fireplaces: Cabins feature wood-burning fireplaces.
Pet-Friendly: Yes, dogs are welcome at Castle Mountain Chalets.
Other amenities: Â Common-area guest BBQs, fire pit, licensed general store and gas bar on site, equipment rentals, designated outdoor pet area, fitness facility, fully-equipped kitchens. Some units have skylights.
>>Â Explore Prices and Availability for Castle Mountain Chalets
Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows – Cabin Rentals in Banff, Alberta
Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows is proudly family-owned and has been in operation since 1926. It has an ideal location – at the trailhead of the historic Johnston Canyon! (Read my blog post about Johnston Canyon here) This means that you are of course a few steps from this must-do Banff hike, as well as close to Banff itself for the rest of your mountain explorations!
It features 42 heritage bungalows and cabin accommodations in a variety of sizes offering a variety of amenities.
Within the lodge, you can find a market café and a restaurant bistro serving tasty and comforting meals. There is also a quick grab-n-go snack shack. Learn more about the meal offerings here.
Note: Though beautiful in the snow, this cozy boutique hotel is only open from May through October. You can still hike Johnston Canyon in the winter, but the only open amenities are a public bathroom.
Fireplaces:
Yes, the majority of accommodation at Johnston Canyon has wood-burning or gas fireplaces.
Pet-Friendly:
Yes, dogs are welcome at Johnston Canyon.
Other amenities: Each unit type offers a variety of complimentary amenities, from cozy bathrobes to bar fridges, private patios, soaker tubs and more.
>>Â Explore Prices and Availability for Johnston Canyon here
Baker Creek Mountain Resort, Cabin Rental in Banff & Lake Louise, Alberta
Read my full-length Baker Creek blog post, here
Baker Creek, named after a prospector searching for gold in the 1880’s, is located between Banff and Lake Louise along the incredibly scenic Bow Valley Parkway.
Baker Creek is an intimate but casual resort right in the mountains. Their log cabins are cozy, their lodge suites are beautiful, and they have the Heritage Executive Retreat Centre on site.
Their restaurant, the Bistro, serves creatively-made Canadian food and sees many adventurous travelers who stop through for a good meal during their mountain journeys.
Fireplaces:
The majority of Baker Creek’s cabins and lodge suites feature woodburning fireplaces or stoves, with fire sets provided and additional firewood provided at the front desk.
Pet-Friendly:
Yes, dogs are welcome at Baker Creek.
Other amenities: Baker Creek has potable water. They do not offer air-conditioning in their units. Their cabins and some lodge suites offer fully-equipped kitchens.
Explore Prices and Availability for Baker Creek Resort here
Read my full-length Baker Creek blog post, here
No matter which cabin you choose, and which season you decide to visit, you’re sure to have an amazing time exploring all that this beautiful area has to offer. Curious when is the best time to visit Banff National Park? Check out this blog post: The BEST Time to Visit Banff National Park
What are the best things to do in Banff and Lake Louise?
Banff and Lake Louise are two must-visit Canadian Rockies bucket list locations with so much beauty to take in and so many activities to choose from!
Here are some of the best things to do in the area:
Visit Banff’s Many Amazing Lakes
Banff and Lake Louise are teeming with so many incredible mountain lakes to visit! A few of my favorites are Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, Vermillion Lakes, Minnewanka Lake, Bow Lake and Peyto Lake. During the summer, these gorgeous lakes are popular destinations for boating, fishing, and picnics. Learn more about the Best Lakes in Banff here.
Take a gondola ride
Banff’s Gondola rides take you to the top of the mountain for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes in both Banff and Lake Louise.
Soak in the hot springs
The Banff Upper Hot Springs, located in Banff National Park, is a natural hot spring with an amazing view. The mineral-rich waters are reputed to offer therapeutic advantages, and it’s a nice way to unwind after touring downtown Canmore.
Ski or snowboard
Banff and Lake Louise are both known for their world-class skiing resorts. During the winter season, you can hit the slopes and enjoy the snow by going Nordic skiing or snowboarding, or even tubing!
Go Horseback Riding
Take a beautiful Banff horseback riding trail ride in Banff National Park! On horseback, you can explore the breathtaking landscapes and immerse yourself in the splendor of the Canadian Rockies.
Explore Downtown Canmore
Have you already explored Banff Town? Consider a day in Canmore! Downtown Canmore is a lovely location with one-of-a-kind boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. Take a walk and take in the incredible mountain vibe! Canmore is located just a short 15 minute drive from Banff.
See the Northern Lights
Witnessing the northern lights or aurora come alive in Banff and Lake Louise is a bucket list must. Learn about how to see the Northern Lights in Banff here.
Go wildlife watching
Wildlife such as elk, moose, and bears may be seen at Banff and Lake Louise. Take a guided tour to get a closer look at these magnificent creatures.
Indulge in local cuisine
The food scene in Banff and Lake Louise is growing, with several restaurants serving locally sourced ingredients and classic Canadian meals. After a day of skiing or touring, don’t forget to sample some poutine or maple syrup pie.
Climb the Exciting Norquay Via Ferrata
This is a MUST-DO activity for any adventure seeker! Learn more about the incredible Banff Via Ferrata on this blog: Banff Via Ferrata Tour at Norquay – Best Things to Do in Banff, Alberta
If you’re thinking of visiting during winter, check out this blog on the Best Things to Do in Winter and Banff and learn all about the Best Places to Go Skating in Banff!
When is the best time to visit Banff and Lake Louise?
Banff and Lake Louise are open all year, with each season providing a distinct visitor experience.
Summer
Summer (June to August) is the busiest and most popular time to come since the weather is typically sunny and warm and the days are long. Summer is ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and boating. However, keep in mind that the summer months bring in a lot of people (which means plenty of crowds), and expenses for hotels and activities might be higher. You can save on Banff hotels here.
Fall
The fall season (September to November) is a truly stunning time to visit Banff and Lake Louise. The temperature has cooled off, and the leaves have turned a stunning rainbow of reds, oranges, and yellows, making the mountain views even more spectacular. The fall season is particularly ideal for hiking or horseback riding because the trails are less busy and the colors are vibrant. Banff also enjoys an incredible larch season, when the larch trees turn a stunning shade of orange. Learn more about hiking Larch Valley Trail here.
Winter
Winter (December to February) in Banff and Lake Louise is a spectacular period, with snow-covered landscapes offering a stunning background for skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, and snowshoeing. If you want to travel during the Christmas season, make sure to reserve your accommodations and activities ahead of time, as it can get very busy during this magical season! Discover things to do in Banff in winter here.
Spring
Spring (March through May) may bring weather that is rather unpredictable, with snowstorms and milder temperatures. It is, nevertheless, an ideal time to enjoy calmer trails, fewer visitors, and to see wildlife emerge from hibernation. The spring season is particularly ideal for skiing since the snow conditions are still decent.
The best time to visit Banff and Lake Louise for you ultimately depends on your own interests and travel preferences. Summer is the ideal season to visit if you enjoy warmer weather and outdoor activities in the sunshine. If you want to avoid crowds and enjoy more peaceful hiking trails, visit in the fall or spring. Winter is a great time to enjoy winter sports and activities, but bear in mind that it might be hectic around the holidays. Winter is also a favorite time to rent a cozy cavin rental in Banff or Lake Louise!
Looking for even more ideas of what to do in winter in Banff? Check out my blog posts:
- Best Spas in Banff
- Banff Northern Lights: Your Complete Guide to Seeing Them!
- The Best Lakes in Banff National Park
- 12 Memorable Things to Do in Banff in Winter
- Where to Go Ice Skating in Banff National Park
- What is the Best Time to Visit Banff National Park?
- Johnston Canyon Winter Hike: Frozen Waterfalls in Banff National Park
Save HUGE on Cabin Rentals in Banff and Lake Louise with Expedia Hotels search:
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Products I Recommend for your Cabin Rental Getaway in Banff and Lake Louise:
If you are coming to Banff National Park and planning to spend a lot of time exploring outdoors (and of course you are!), a good pair of ice cleats, warm jacket and boots are so important so you can enjoy the outdoors comfortably.
Here are some products I highly recommend:
Korkers Apex Ice Cleat: $39.99 / backcountry.com
Don’t let winter conditions stop you from getting on the trail when you have the Korkers Apex Ice Cleat securely on your boot. The slip-over design makes them easy to throw on when you’re at the trailhead, while the pliable upper material stretches securely over most shoes and boots so you don’t have to worry about them coming off. Multi-direction saw-tooth cleats offer solid grip on firm snow and ice so you can efficiently power up steep trails and come back down without feeling like a human sled.
Women’s Cerium LT Hoody: arcteryx.com
Efficient and versatile, and providing exceptional warmth for its weight, the Cerium LT down hoody functions as a mid layer or standalone piece in cool, dry conditions. Premium 850 fill-power down is resilient and warm, the Aratoâ„¢ 10 shell provides lightweight durability, and Down Composite Mappingâ„¢ strategically places Coreloftâ„¢ synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas. Articulated construction moves with the body, and the insulated StormHoodâ„¢ provides coverage without compromising range of vision.
Cerium LT Men’s Jacket: arcteryx.com
Worn as a mid layer or standalone piece in cool, dry conditions, the Cerium LT Jacket delivers exceptional warmth for little weight. Premium 850 fill down is resilient, lofty and warm. The Aratoâ„¢ 10 shell provides lightweight durability, and Down Composite Mappingâ„¢ strategically places Coreloftâ„¢ synthetic insulation in moisture-prone areas. Articulated construction moves with the body, and sewn-through construction is used to further reduce weight and increase packability.
Disclaimer: There’s a chance that this blog post includes affiliate product links. At absolutely no extra cost to you, I may receive a small commission for any purchase made through these links. Any commissions received are very much appreciated, as they help me to be able to continue posting travel blog content free of charge to my lovely readers. Of course, all recommendations are unbiased, and I will always only recommend products and services that I truly believe in. Thank you for your support!
Did I miss any adorable cabins around Banff and Lake Louise? Do you have questions for me about Banff National Park, Lake Louise or other locations in Alberta or have feedback on this blog post? Please feel free to shoot me a comment below; I would love to hear from you!
4 thoughts on “The Cutest Cabin Rentals in Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta”
I like that you state that renting a cabin will complete your fantasy of staying in something straight from a fairy tale. My wife and I have been looking for a great idea like this for our annual getaway over our anniversary weekend. I will send this to her so we can add a log cabin rental to our list of options.
That’s so great! You guys will enjoy it greatly 🙂
I love your lodge tips. My wife and I want to stay in a lodge. I’ll have to consider getting a time share.