Are you planning a trip to the powdery blue waters of Moraine Lake in Banff National Park? In this short guide we will show you how to visit Moraine Lake and avoid any potential pitfalls when planning a trip to this beautiful piece of country. Here’s your traveler’s handbook on how to visit Moraine Lake.
Why Visit Moraine Lake?
Before diving into logistics, let’s talk about why Moraine Lake is a must-visit. Located about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) from Lake Louise, Moraine Lake is famous for its striking blue-green color in the lake, its surrounding mountains, the valley of the ten peaks and their glaciers. The area offers numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, canoeing, rock-climbing, and simply soaking in the majestic scenery. It’s one of the most photographed locations in Canada, and for good reason!
How to Get to Banff National Park & Moraine Lake
Getting to Moraine Lake is an endeavor for some travelers, so we’ll run through getting to the area from major travel hubs and then jump into direct access to the lakes afterwards.
If you’re traveling to Banff National Park and Moraine Lake from aboard, you’ll most likely arrive in Canada at the Calgary International Airport, or the Vancouver International Airport. Travel times to Moraine Lake from each hub are:
Calgary
- 2 hours and 23 minutes (212.4kms / 132 miles)
Vancouver
- 9 hours and 4 minutes (813.9kms / 505.7 miles)
Renting a car from either airport is a great option if you want to maintain some flexibility and spontaneity in your schedule, otherwise there are plenty of shuttle options from the Calgary airport to Canmore or Banff which do a great job.
For those of you wanting an epic 9 hour road trip, renting a car in Vancouver will give you a fantastic appreciation for the beauty and scale of Canada’s mountain scenery.
Where to Stay?
The Bow Valley offers a ton of accommodation for its 4-5 million guests per year. These places to stay vary, from high-end chateaux and iconic mountain hotels, to small bed & breakfasts and campgrounds offering guests a more rustic experience.
Regardless of your accommodation preference, have a look at staying in Lake Louise, Banff, or Canmore. These Bow Valley hot-spots are great places to establish your accommodation before heading to Moraine Lake or Lake Louise.
Let’s Go To Moraine Lake!
The Moraine Lake Vehicle Ban: You Can’t Drive There
In 2023 Park’s Canada changed how visitors access Moraine Lake via Moraine Lake Road. Previously, the road was accessible for visitors by their personal vehicles. While this was convenient for parties trying to visit the lake, it made for an incredibly challenging traffic situation which caused massive delays, and increased emergency response times significantly. So, now what?
Since the change, the road is now closed to access with personal vehicles and is strictly monitored to admit only tour operators, bus companies, cyclists, or commercial vehicles. Exceptions are made for those with accessibility challenges and visitors to Moraine Lake lodge.
Seasonal Closures
It’s important to note that Moraine Lake Road is typically closed to vehicles from mid-October to late May due to snow. During this period, the road and subsequently the lakes are inaccessible for the majority of visitors due to avalanche risk.
Why a Shuttle Is the Best Way to See Moraine Lake
Convenience
There is a suite of shuttle options to Moraine Lake offering various experiences and schedules to visitors, some experiences include tours, cycling rentals, or the Parks Canada shuttle.
One of the most unique offerings at Moraine Lake is the sunrise shuttle from the Moraine Lake Bus Company. The sunrise shuttle offers Moraine Lake visitors an early morning arrival at the lake to see the beauty of the warm morning sun across the Valley of the Ten Peaks. For those of us who are allergic to times prior to 8:00 am, the Moraine Lake Bus Company offers departure times all the way to 4:50 pm.
Environmental Impact
Taking the bus helps reduce traffic congestion and minimizes our carbon footprint when accessing Moraine Lake. It’s a great way to enjoy nature responsibly, and upholds Banff National Park’s objective of creating an environment of sustainable tourism throughout the Bow Valley.
Booking Your Shuttle
Reservations
Reservations are essential, especially during the busy summer months (early July through Mid- August). Book your tickets online through the Moraine Lake Bus Company website. Tickets sell out quickly, so book your shuttle early and plan ahead!
Ticket Options
There are a few options to choose from:
- Moraine Lake Sunrise Tickets: An early morning trip up to Moraine Lake for sunrise. Certainly, a fulfilling experience and one to talk about for years to come. Bring coffee and warm layers!
- Round-Trip Tickets: Includes transport to and from Moraine Lake.
- Combo Tickets: Combine your trip to Moraine Lake with a visit to Lake Louise for a 1 hour experience at each lake, and a day full of adventure.
Getting to the Pick-Up Point
Park & Ride
The Moraine Lake Bus Company operates from the Park & Ride lot at Lake Louise Ski Resort. The Park & Ride lot is conveniently located off the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1). Follow this pin for directions to the lot.
Shuttle Schedule
Shuttles run regularly throughout the day, with the first bus departing in the early morning to arrive at the lake for sunrise (around 4:50-5:05AM), and the last bus to Moraine Lake in the late afternoon at 4:50PM. Check the schedule online to plan your trip accordingly.
The Ride to Moraine Lake
Onboard Experience
The bus ride to Moraine Lake takes about 20 minutes. The buses are comfortable and equipped with large windows, allowing you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. Friendly drivers often share interesting facts about the area, making the journey informative and enjoyable. Keep your eyes out for wildlife!
Scenic Views
As you approach Moraine Lake, you’ll be treated to glimpses of the towering peaks and lush forests that make this area so special. Have your camera ready!
Arriving at Moraine Lake
What to Expect
Stepping off the bus, you’ll be greeted by the breathtaking sight of Moraine Lake’s turquoise waters surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks. It’s one of the most photographed spots in Canada, and for good reason!
What to Do at Moraine Lake
- Rockpile Trail: This short, easy hike takes you up a rockpile that offers the best views of the lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. It’s the perfect spot for photos. For a more in-depth understanding of the Rockpile Trail, read our article.
- Canoeing: Rent a canoe and paddle on the lake to experience the vibrant colors up close. Canoe rentals are available on-site.
- Hiking: Moraine Lake is the starting point for several popular hikes, including Consolation Lakes, the Larch Valley, Sentinel Pass, and Eiffel Lake trails.
- Cycling: The 14-kilometer (8.7 miles) ride from Lake Louise offers beautiful views and a good workout. However, keep in mind that the road is steep and narrow, and you’ll need to share it with vehicles.
- Photography: Don’t forget your camera! The views from Moraine Lake are some of the most photographed in the world.
Tips for Visiting Moraine Lake
- Plan Ahead: Due to the lake’s popularity, it’s crucial to plan your visit in advance. This includes booking shuttles or tours early and arriving at the parking lot or shuttle pick-up point well before your intended start time.
- Check Conditions: Weather and road conditions can change rapidly in the mountains. Check the Parks Canada website for up-to-date information on road closures and trail conditions.
- Pack Accordingly: Bring water, snacks, and layers of clothing. Even in summer, temperatures can be cool in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Respect Nature: Stay on designated trails, pack out all trash, and respect wildlife. Let’s keep Moraine Lake beautiful for future visitors.
Return Times from Moraine Lake
Make sure to check the bus schedule for return times. Buses run regularly, but you’ll want to plan your return trip to ensure you don’t miss the last shuttle. Most guests spend at least 1.5 hours at Moraine Lake, when booking your return keep this in mind.
If you want to return early the Moraine Lake Bus Company staff do their best to accommodate your needs.
Final Thoughts
Admiring the beauty of Moraine Lake has become more challenging in recent years, but thanks to dedicated tour operators, rental companies, and bus companies like Moraine Lake Bus Company visitors can still enjoy the remarkable sights at Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Whether you’re traveling from afar, or making a day of it, there are plenty of transportation options available to guests of Moraine Lake.
Now, book your tickets, pack your essentials, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure to one of Canada’s most iconic destinations. Enjoy the outdoors responsibly!
