Built in 1931 and overlooking a glorious high mountain valley, Skoki was one of the Canadian Rockies' earliest backcountry lodges and remains one of the most magical places to stay in the whole national park. The rustic but delightfully cozy lodge is only accessible on foot, horseback or skis via an 11km climb over two high mountain passes from Lake Louise.
As you’d expect, the decor is rough and ready – log walls, rustic bunks, kerosene lamps, and water jugs for washing – but that’s all part of Skoki’s special charm. Rates include two glorious home-cooked meals and a sumptuous afternoon tea prepared by the lodge chef, along with a self-packed box lunch to fuel your daytime exploration of the surrounding mountains, meadows and glacial lakes.
Most people hike in during the summer months, but if you really want an adventure – along with significantly reduced room rates – you can snowshoe or ski to the lodge in midwinter. Regardless of when you visit, there's a two-night minimum stay.
Skoki was briefly managed by Peter and Catharine Whyte (who founded Banff’s Whyte Museum).