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Hike the quiet and scenic Lake Louise State Park
When you hear Lake Louise, you may immediately think of Banff, Canada. However, there is another Lake Louise that’s also charming. Lake Louise State Park is a smaller yet beautiful place to hike in southern Minnesota. If you’re looking for a quiet and scenic place to hike, fish, camp, or bike, then explore Lake Louise State Park.
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Top things to do at Lake Louise State Park in Le Roy, MN
Although only 188 acres, here are the top 10 things to do at Lake Louise State Park in Le Roy, Minnesota.
Hike the 12 miles of trails at Lake Louise State Park.
Bike the Shooting Star State Trail that runs through Lake Louise State Park.
Go horseback riding on 10 miles of equestrian trails.
Kayak, canoe, or paddle in Lake Louise.
Swim at the Lake Louise beach.
Check out the historic dam that powered a grist mill back in the day.
See the confluence of the Upper Iowa and Little Iowa rivers.
Fish for largemouth bass, crappies, and more on a kid-friendly shore.
Watch for the rare Henslow’s Sparrow, bobolinks, sedge wrens, and migrating warblers, flycatchers, thrushes, and vireos.
Camp in traditional tent and RV sites, group camp, or equestrian site.
Frequently asked questions about Lake Louise State Park in Le Roy, Minnesota
Where is Lake Louise State Park located? What is the address for Lake Louise State Park?
Lake Louise State Park is located in southern Minnesota in Le Roy, Minnesota. The address for Lake Louise State Park is 12385 766th Avenue, Le Roy, MN 55951.
When is Lake Louise State Park open?
Lake Louise State Park is open year-round, 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. every day.
Is Lake Louise State Park free? How much is the admission fee at Lake Louise State Park?
Admission to Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota only costs $7 per vehicle per day ($5 per motorcycle). That includes unlimited visits to all Minnesota state parks on the same day. I highly recommend an annual pass, which gives you entrance to all Minnesota state parks. See the Minnesota DNR website for more information. And it’s highly recommended to pay online ahead of time. Minnesota state parks are no longer accepting cash self-payment envelopes on site.
Admission to every Minnesota state park is free for all Minnesota state tribal members.
You can also visit Lake Louise State Park on any of the four free state park days in Minnesota. See my related post for this year’s free state park days. Note: admission is free; tours are extra – see previous question for details.
Does Lake Louise State Park have a lake, river, or waterfall?
Yes. Lake Louise State Park is named after the 25-acre historic grist mill pond. A historic dam that formed Lake Louise is on the Upper Iowa River. Take caution around the dam. Hazardous recirculating currents below the dam can trap and crown victims. Additionally, Little Upper River runs through Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota.
Can you fish at Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota?
Yes. Anglers fish for largemouth bass, crappies, and more at Lake Louise State Park.
Does Lake Louise State Park have a swimming beach?
Yes. Lake Louise State Park features a swimming beach.
Can you boat at Lake Louise State Park? Does Lake Louise State Park offer a boat ramp?
Yes. You can canoe, kayak, and paddle at Lake Louise State Park. This lake does not feature a boat ramp.
Does Lake Louise State Park have a campground? Can you camp at Lake Louise State Park?
Yes. You can reserve campsites at Lake Louise State Park Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day. offers camping sites several rustic, hike-in, and traditional tent and RV campsites seasonally.
11 electric campsites
9 non-electric campsites
6 horse rider campsites
2 rustic group camps (accommodates 50 campers and 30 campers)
RV length limit is 30 feet
How big is Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota?
Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota covers 1,168 acres.
Is Lake Louise State Park buggy? Mosquitos? Ticks?
I hiked Lake Louise State Park in the fall so it wasn’t buggy. However, picaridin is always a good idea keep the ticks and bugs away. And I always apply Aunt Fanny’s DEET-free mosquito wipes.
How long and how difficult are the hiking trails at Lake Louise State Park?
Lake Louise State Park features 12 miles of flat hiking trails alongside Lake Louise, Little Iowa River, Upper Iowa River, and through the woods, prairies, and meadows. .
The most popular hiking trail loops at Lake Louise State Park range from 1.2 miles to 2.4 miles.
Are hiking poles needed on the trails at Lake Louise State Park?
I didn’t require any hiking poles on the trails of Lake Louise State Park. Trails at Lake Louise State Park are flat and easy.
Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing trails at Lake Louise State Park?
You can snowshoe or cross-country ski on ungroomed trails at Lake Louise State Park in the winter.
Can you snowmobile at Lake Louise State Park?
When snow levels and conditions allow, you can snowmobile through Lake Louise State Park.
What are the best views at Lake Louise State Park?
One of the best views at Lake Louise State Park is the lake itself at golden hour. I hiked Lake Louise after fall foliage season and this state park is gorgeous even then.
Are there bike trails at Lake Louise State Park?
Yes. Part of the ~20-mile Shooting Star State Trail runs through Lake Louise State Park.
Does Lake Louise State Park feature equestrian trails?
Yes. Lake Louise State Park offers 10 miles of horse trails. The equestrian trails are open May 1 through Oct. 31, weather-permitting.
Does Lake Louise State Park have a visitor center? Modern restrooms?
No. Lake Louise State Park does not have a visitor center. However, the park office is open occasionally. Lake Louise State Park offers showers during the camping season. Vault toilets are available throughout the year.
Is Lake Louise State Park dog-friendly?
Yes. Leashed dogs and pets are welcome on Lake Louise State Park hiking trails. All Minnesota state parks welcome dogs except inside buildings. Leashes must be six feet or less.
Are there bears at Lake Louise State Park?
Bear sightings are not common at Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota. Other wildlife you may encounter are deer, red fox, raccoons, and beavers.
Is firewood available at Lake Louise State Park?
You can purchase certified safe-to-move firewood from a nearby gas station or other vendors.
Why can’t you bring in your own firewood or collect firewood in the park? To protect Minnesota trees, you can only burn certified wood on MN DNR land. Collection is not allowed in state parks and you may not bring firewood from home. This helps prevent spreading harmful insects and diseases.
How far is Lake Louise State Park from the Twin Cities – Minneapolis and St. Paul (MSP) airport?
Lake Louise State Park is located 113 miles from the Minneapolis – St. Paul (MSP) International Airport.
What’s near Lake Louise State Park? Top things to do near Lake Louise State Park?
Lake Louise State Park is located in Le Roy, Minnesota (right across from the Iowa border). Here are the top things to do near Lake Louise State Park and Le Roy, Minnesota.
Take a tour of the quirky and historic Spam Museum in Austin, MN. This slice of Americana is only 31 miles away and it’s free!
The charming and quaint Lanesboro, bed and breakfast capital of Minnesota, is only 39 miles from Lake Louise State Park.
Are you planning to hike all 66 Minnesota state parks? Then I recommend also exploring Forestville/Mystery Cave State Park, which is only 21 miles from Lake Louise State Park. This lovely state park features seasonal tours of the historic frontier town of Forestville and Minnesota’s longest underground cave (13 miles).
When was Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota established?
Lake Louise State Park was established in 1962.
How did Lake Louise State Park get its name?
Lake Louise State Park is named after its lake, which was named after a family member who owned the land. Site of Minnesota’s oldest, continuous recreation areas, this state park was originally named Wildwood Park.
Does Lake Louise State Park host deer hunts? Is Lake Louise State Park closed during deer season?
Yes. Lake Louise State Park does host deer hunts during deer hunting season. They typically limit some areas to non-hunters for a couple of days in mid-November.
Hiking safety tip during deer season: Wear bright orange when hiking during deer season. I typically avoid hiking at all even if the state park is partially open to non-hunters.
A list of the best Minnesota state parks
All Minnesota state parks are the best in my opinion. You can read reviews of each one to create your own list of top-ranked Minnesota state parks: Take the Minnesota state park challenge
Here is a list of all the best Minnesota state parks. Each one includes the location and the distance from the Twin Cities (Minneapolis, St. Paul).
Upper Sioux Agency State Park | Granite Falls, MN (122 miles) – Note: Minnesota returned this park’s land to the Native Americans in February 2024. It is no longer open to the public.
Pin it for later: A local’s guide to Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota
Please share and pin this guide for when you visit Lake Louise State Park in Le Roy, MN – one of the quietest and most charming state parks in Minnesota.
Twin Cities-based blogger sharing memorable emptynester, solo, family and girlfriend-getaway adventures, as well as my day hiking adventures (including all 66 Minnesota state parks), latest book reviews, and updates on my quest for the best adult mac and cheese.
Also two WIPs: historical fiction and psychological thriller
32 comments
I did indeed think about Banff when I read Lake Louise. But the Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota looks quite charming too. We love quieter spots for a scenic spot to hike. Especially if we can get out on the water for a paddle. Looks like a good spot for the winter too.
I always love visiting natural spots like parks on my travels! Thanks for sharing this picturesque state park! I’ll be sure to save this spot for a future trip!
This Lake Louise looks a lot calmer and quieter than the heaving Lake Louise near Banff! I feel like at this time of year, this is just what you need. Relaxing looks at reflections as the sun sets. 🙂
Lake Louise State Park looks like a beautiful place for a fall hike! Thanks for the tip regarding Aunt Fanny’s DEET-free mosquito wipes. I hadn’t heard of them before, and I hate bug spray!
You’re welcome and my pleasure! My friend introduced me to the Aunt Fannie’s mosquito wipes a few years ago and I’ve been their biggest cheerleader ever since.
I love Minnesota and we visit when we can. I hadn’t heard of Lake Louise State Park prior to stumbling across your article, but I’m definitely going to have to add it to my Minnesota bucket list. This state park sounds very scenic, quiet, and peaceful.
Lake Louise State Park looks like such a lovely place to explore. The Lake looks so beautiful and peaceful! I haven’t heard of the State Park before, but I hope I get an opportunity to visit. Thanks for the great guide!
Thanks for highlighting some lesser known Minnesota parks like Lake Louise. This one looks pretty, and I love how any different activities there are to do!
I did indeed think about Banff when I read Lake Louise. But the Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota looks quite charming too. We love quieter spots for a scenic spot to hike. Especially if we can get out on the water for a paddle. Looks like a good spot for the winter too.
Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota is so quiet and peaceful. Great destination to get away from it all.
I always love visiting natural spots like parks on my travels! Thanks for sharing this picturesque state park! I’ll be sure to save this spot for a future trip!
You’re welcome and my pleasure. I hope you get the opportunity to visit Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota.
This Lake Louise looks a lot calmer and quieter than the heaving Lake Louise near Banff! I feel like at this time of year, this is just what you need. Relaxing looks at reflections as the sun sets. 🙂
This Lake Louise in Minnesota is definitely calm and serene. It’s a perfect state park to relax and reflect.
Lake Louise State Park looks like a beautiful place for a fall hike! Thanks for the tip regarding Aunt Fanny’s DEET-free mosquito wipes. I hadn’t heard of them before, and I hate bug spray!
You’re welcome and my pleasure! My friend introduced me to the Aunt Fannie’s mosquito wipes a few years ago and I’ve been their biggest cheerleader ever since.
This looks like a great place to go camping! And, while northern MN looks beautiful, I’m probably more likely to visit southern MN first!
Lake Louise State Park is a perfect place to camp in southern Minnesota. Lots of beauty here also.
I think I would love to hike around Lake Louise State Park. It is a beautiful park, always ready to get out and enjoy fresh air and sunshine.
I think you would love Lake Louise State Park. Nature is so good for the soul.
I love Minnesota and we visit when we can. I hadn’t heard of Lake Louise State Park prior to stumbling across your article, but I’m definitely going to have to add it to my Minnesota bucket list. This state park sounds very scenic, quiet, and peaceful.
Great to hear you’ve been to Minnesota. I hope you get the opportunity to experience Lake Louise State Park in the future.
This Lake Louise looks just as beautiful as its name sake in Canada. I hope to get there one day.
I hope you get the opportunity. Our Lake Louise State Park in Minnesota is so pretty with lots to do.
Lake Louise State Park looks like such a lovely place to explore. The Lake looks so beautiful and peaceful! I haven’t heard of the State Park before, but I hope I get an opportunity to visit. Thanks for the great guide!
Thank you and my pleasure! Lake Louise State Park is so peaceful and beautiful!
Lake Louise State Park looks like a great place to spend a day! So beautiful!
Thank you! Lake Louise State Park is a perfect day trip!
Thanks for highlighting some lesser known Minnesota parks like Lake Louise. This one looks pretty, and I love how any different activities there are to do!
You’re welcome and my pleasure. Lake Louise offers lots of great hiking and other cool things to do.
Love the natural beauty of Minnesota.. so many outdoor spots to explore.. Lake Louise sounds and looks wonderful!
Thank you so much! Lake Louise State Park is a lovely area in Minnesota.
Lake Louise Park looks so tranquil! I love how beautiful it is.
Lake Louise is a beautiful state park. And so tranquil!
This looks so peaceful. I can practically hear the babbling of the water and the crunching of the gravel beneath my feet!
Lake Louise State Park is a beautiful state park to hike. Offers lot of serenity and beauty.
Lake Louise State Park looks fantastic! We love exploring state parks and will prioritize this park to the top when visiting Minnesota.
I hope you get the opportunity! Lake Louise State Park is a beautiful area in Minnesota.
Quiet and scenic are exactly what I need in my life! Hiking Lake Louise State Park looks beautiful and tranquil.
Then you would love Lake Louise State Park. Perfect place to hike without the crowds.