Are you looking for a spectacular hike and easy scramble near Lake Louise? Devil’s Thumb is an awe-inspiring and challenging hike in Banff National Park. After making your way to the top, you’ll be rewarded with iconic views of both Lake Agnes and Lake Louise — be prepared for a steep climb. As one of the adventurous options starting at Lake Louise, the Devil’s Thumb hike and scramble can be a great choice if you’re up for the challenge! Keep reading to see what I mean.
Last Updated: March 28, 2024
If you’ve had a chance to visit Lake Louise, you already know how incredibly scenic this popular place is in Banff National Park. A few years ago, back in July 2021, I woke early and drove out to Lake Louise from my home in Calgary. I wasn’t planning to complete the Devil’s Thumb hike but was happy to tag it on after visiting Big Beehive for the first time. As a steep hike and easy scramble, Devil’s Thumb is a lot of fun for Rocky Mountain day trippers. But be warned, Lake Louise tends to be packed with visitors during peak season (hence why I arrived at 6:00am). Finding parking can be harder than reaching the summit!
This post includes affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of the links, I may receive a percentage of the sale at no extra cost to you.
Table of Contents
About Devil’s Thumb Hike — Best Hikes Near Lake Louise
Location: Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta
Distance: 12 km out and back
Difficulty: Difficult
Elevation: 883 metre gain
Time: 3 – 5 hours
Dog-friendly: Yes, but must be kept on a leash.
Features: The Devil’s Thumb hike features spectacular views of Mirror Lake, Lake Agnes, and the world-famous Lake Louise from the summit. You will pass by the Lake Agnes Tea House (with over 100 flavours of loose-leaf tea!) and can plan a nice lunch stop. As a side trip, you can head over to Big Beehive, Little Beehive, or Plain of Six Glaciers for a longer trek.
Note: Devil’s Thumb involves steep hiking and scrambling (using hands to climb) to reach the summit. If you’re not comfortable with scrambles, you may want to pass on Devil’s Thumb and enjoy the Big Beehive hike instead.
Devil’s Thumb Trail Map
Finding the Trailhead
The Devil’s Thumb hike begins along Lake Agnes Trail from Lake Louise. During peak season (May to October), it’s not uncommon for the Lake Louise parking lots to fill up, requiring visitors to use this Park and Ride service about 10 km away. If you want to avoid parking hassles, the Parks Canada shuttle brings visitors straight to the Lake Louise entrance.
On Canada Day, I chose to leave Calgary early in the morning and arrived at Lake Louise by 6:00am. Surprisingly (or not so much), the main parking lot was nearly half full. I’ve heard that both parking lots can reach capacity as early as 7:00am. You can find directions to Lake Louise on Google Maps here. It’s not difficult to find the Devil’s Thumb Trailhead via Lake Agnes Trail from the parking area. Head toward Lake Louise and follow signs for Lake Agnes Tea House, on the west side of the lake. This is where the fun begins.
Devil’s Thumb Hike — Lake Louise to Lake Agnes Tea House
After starting the Lake Agnes Trail, hike through the forest for 3.4 km to the Lake Agnes Tea House. You hike along a gentle grade passing by Mirror Lake, dubbed “Goat’s Looking Glass” by the Stoney Nakoda First Nation. Legend has it that mountain goats used this reflective lake to comb their beards. Take a look! At this point, you can see Big Beehive towering above the lake.
This section is much easier than what’s ahead. Continue toward Lake Agnes and check out the waterfall before heading up the wooden stairs to the tea house. It’s important to note that, even if you’re only hiking to Lake Agnes, it’s important to bring essential hiking gear. On this very hot day, I drank most of my two-litre water reservoir by the end.
Side Trail to Big Beehive
In my humble opinion, you might as well check out Big Beehive if you’re heading to Devil’s Thumb. After all, it’s only around 2 additional kilometres from the junction, and the remarkable views of Lake Louise are worth it. Plus, Big Beehive is a nice spot for a short break. If you don’t have enough time, Devil’s Thumb will give you similar panoramic views.
After reaching the Lake Agnes Tea House, continue along the north shore of Lake Agnes and follow the defined trail to the switchbacks. These switchbacks lead to the junction where you can either go left for Big Beehive or right toward Devil’s Thumb. When I visited, there was a fallen log over the Devil’s Thumb route. Before heading up to Devil’s Thumb, I detoured with my new friends, Lucas and Margaux, to the Big Beehive. We were all surprised to witness a marriage proposal (she said yes!). You never know what will happen on the trails, eh?
Read next: Big Beehive Hike in Banff National Park
Devil’s Thumb Hike and Scramble To The Summit
I met Lucas and Margaux visiting from Ontario (originally from France) and they had never visited the Canadian Rockies before. We decided to spend the day together and extended the hiking day with Devil’s Thumb. After admiring the views from Big Beehive, we retraced our steps back to the junction and continued straight over the fallen tree trunk. You won’t find signs for Devil’s Thumb and be prepared for some route finding with far fewer people.
If the path to Big Beehive is considered moderate, the Devil’s Thumb hike and scramble is much more difficult. For starters, hiking and scrambling (using hands to climb rocks) may be difficult for some visitors. Further, the route up to the summit is very steep and small pebbles underfoot. The Devil’s Thumb hike and scramble is a challenging route. Hiking boots and trekking poles are highly recommended (no need for a helmet). While the Devil’s Thumb hike and scramble isn’t easy, it’s an incredible day trip if you’re up for the challenge. Be prepared to hike around 15 km and between 4 to 6 hours (including Big Beehive).
Note: Make sure you’re comfortable with the steep and rugged terrain before heading out. We came across one first-timer who couldn’t descend without using my poles (he didn’t bring any). I guided him slowly down the mountain, showing him the best route to maintain his footing.
What To Bring — Hiking in Banff National Park
I spend as much time as I can hiking and backpacking. And sometimes I come across miserable people who didn’t bring the right gear. Before heading out on any hike, it’s important to do your research, understand the terrain, and be prepared for anything. My day pack is always stocked with hiking essentials like my 2-litre water bladder, snacks, a first aid kit, often a water filter, waterproof rain shell, down jacket, shelter, knife, headlamp, navigation, and a few other things. When you’re hiking in Banff, carrying bear spray in a holster is a good idea (but forget the bells — they don’t work).
When I was hiking up Devil’s Thumb, I was happy to have my trekking poles and sun protection. Nearing the summit, I could feel the heat getting to me (I’m fairly prone to dehydration and heat exhaustion… and it was 30+ degrees). Bring water enhancer (with electrolytes) for those hot hiking days. Lucas and Margaux continued on while I took a short break and, after a few minutes, I continued up to the summit.
Know Before You Go
Park Pass: You’ll need to bring a Parks Canada Discovery Pass or pay the daily rate. The pass can be purchased at the Parks Canada Visitor Centre or online.
Parking: Visitors must also pay a parking fee in the parking lot.
Shuttles: You can book a shuttle through Parks Canada from the Lake Louise Ski Resort or through Roam Transit from Banff. This is a great way to avoid parking hassles.
Toilet: Washrooms with flush toilets are accessible next to the Lake Louise parking lot.
Pets: Dogs are allowed but must stay on a leash. Bring a smell-proof bag to pack out those full poo bags. Consider whether or not you’re four-legged friend will have as much fun as you climbing to the summit.
Navigation: Pick up a copy of Gem Trek Lake Louise and Yoho map to learn about the many hikes near Lake Louise. You can download Devil’s Thumb via Lake Agnes Trail on AllTrails for offline use.
Wildlife: Banff National Park is home to a variety of wild animals, including elk, deer, moose, cougars, wolves, and of course, bears. Never feed or approach wildlife, as they can become habituated and a danger to others. Carry bear spray (in a holster) and know how and when to use it (even though it’s unlikely that you will see a bear on this popular path)
Safety: When you head into the backcountry, you’re responsible for your safety. Exercise caution on the scrambles and cliffs on the summit. Bring everything you need to stay safe on the trails, including enough food and water. Pack a lightweight first aid kit to deal with minor injuries. If you’re heading out alone, leave your trip plan with someone you trust.
More Banff Hikes For Your List
Are you looking for more hikes in Banff National Park? Here are a few to consider:
- Healy Pass Trail in Banff National Park (Perfect Larch Hike!)
- 2-Day Glacier Lake Hike in Banff National Park
- Johnston Canyon Hike in Beautiful Banff National Park
- Lake Minnewanka Hike in Banff National Park
- Tunnel Mountain Hike in Banff National Park
Have you experienced the Devil’s Thumb hike and scramble? What other hikes near Lake Louise have you enjoyed? Leave a comment below!
Save this for later? Hover over the image to add to Pinterest!
Thomas Coldwell has always been fond of the outdoors. He loves hiking, paddling, and camping, and thoroughly enjoys creating outdoor adventure resources for people like you. Originally from Nova Scotia, Thomas has lived in four Canadian provinces (NS, NB, ON, AB) and has travelled in 20 countries and counting.
Fantastic!!!
Very fun to hike with you and Margaux!!
Memorable hike !! Thanks for the great article Thomas 🥰
Thanks, Margaux! Glad to meet you and Lucas on the trail 🙂