Cathedral Mountain Lodge

I still think about how memorable this stay was. The Takakkaw Falls are right beside the property, which made everything feel extra magical. Our room was spacious, cozy, and beautifully designed, and the dinner and breakfast package we had for both nights was delicious. From check-in on, the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. I had such a great time here.

We’ve spent the last few years hopping between cabins in the fall, and stayed here for two nights at the end of September. The cabins are well equipped, and the lodge food was very good. But for me, the price just isn’t justified. If you mainly want trail access, staying in Lake Louise or Field could make for a more affordable trip. Moraine Lake Lodge costs the same and includes a lake-view cabin, breakfast, packed lunch, and afternoon tea and cookies, so it feels like much better value. Cathedral Mountain includes a hot breakfast, but that’s all. I still don’t think it’s worth it. A few nearby outings: Takakkaw Falls is a 15-minute drive up the road, and the path all the way to the falls is paved. Wapta Falls is impressive and an easy hike, about 20 minutes farther past Field. Sherbrooke Lake is 10 minutes down the road. Its trail is easy with a slight 160 m incline, and you can reach the stunning lake from the trailhead in about an hour. If you’re adventurous, continue along the left side of the lake and back into the alpine to get to Sherbrooke Falls, about 30 minutes beyond the lake’s end. Keep going another 20-30 minutes to Nial Meadow. You can carry on to Nial Mountain, though I’m not sure, probably another hour and a half to three hours. I’d suggest hiking boots for Wapta and Sherbrooke, and hiking poles are very helpful at Sherbrooke.

The meals were tasty and satisfying, and the staff were warm and welcoming, so we enjoyed the service and food. The rooms, though, weren’t as clean as I expected. The rustic look is part of the lodge’s character, but more attention to housekeeping would have made us more comfortable. The setting is beautiful, tucked in the forest beside a lovely lake. It feels peaceful and close to nature, a nice place to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. It’s a great property for anyone who likes a rustic stay, and with better room cleaning, it could have been a five-star experience.

The cabins were great for our family of four. The boys each had their own bed up in the loft, and being beside the river made it so peaceful. The staff were fantastic, and it was great to be able to order packed lunches for hiking. There’s also a shuttle to Moraine, a nice extra. We absolutely loved our time at Cathedral Lake Lodge. The restaurant was nice, but far too expensive for what it offered. The staff, again, were awesome.