Are you wondering how to get to Moraine Lake? This is a common question from travelers visiting Banff National Park and its iconic and Instagrammable Moraine Lake.
Moraine Lake, with its turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop, is one of the most sought-after destinations in Banff National Park. Due to its popularity, reaching the lake can be challenging, especially during peak seasons.
Moraine Lake is seasonally accessible, typically from June 1st to mid-October. The road will open on June 1st, 2024, and close approximately on October 14th (depending on weather conditions).
But since 2023, the access to Moraine Lake Road has been closed to personal vehicles, making it more difficult for visitors to reach the lake.
So, what does that mean for you?
In the article, I’ll give you various options to visit Moraine Lake and a few insider tips.
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How to Get to Moraine Lake
The Moraine Lake road is now closed to personal vehicles, but there are still a few options for you to consider in order to admire this breathtaking lake:
- Parks Canada shuttle
- ROAM Transit Reservable System-Wide Day Pas
- Overnight in Moraine Lake
- Private Shuttle Bus Company, like ViaVia Moraine Lake
- Guided tours
- Biking or hiking
💡 NOTE: There is an exception to the no-personal-vehicle rule for disabled parking (when you have a tag).
Let’s see all the details
1. Parks Canada Park & Ride Shuttle
One of the most efficient ways to get to Moraine Lake is by using the Moraine Lake/Lake Louise shuttle. Parks Canada offers a Park & Ride shuttle system that requires reservations.
The shuttle operates at specific times, from 6:30 AM to 6:00 PM (with the last return bus at 7:30 pm), with a new early morning shuttle to Moraine Lake between 4:00AM and 5:00AM)
It’s crucial to book in advance.
📍 Itinerary when using the Parks Canada shuttle
- Starting with Moraine Lake: Lake Louise ski resort parking lot > Lake Moraine > Lake Louise (using Lake Connector shuttle) > Lake Louise ski resort parking lot
- Starting with Lake Louise: Lake Louise ski resort parking lot > Lake Louise > Lake Moraine (using Lake Connector shuttle) > Lake Louise ski resort parking lot
💰 How much does the Moraine Lake shuttle cost?
The Parks’ Canada shuttle fee includes a round-trip fare with access to the Lake Connector bus to visit both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. It cost:
- $8.00 per adult and
- FREE for children (under 17 years old).
In addition, there is a transaction fee for the whole reservation ($3.00 if reserved online or $6.00 if reserved over the phone)
How to book your Moraine Lake shuttle?
Parks Canada releases about 40% of the total season shuttle tickets when reservations are made available (it was on April 18th, 2024, and most of the available spaces are now sold out!).
If you are not lucky or don’t know when you’ll visit Moraine Lake, there is still hope 🙂. For the entire season, the remaining 60% of the reservations are released on a rolling window at 8 a.m., 48 hours before the departure day.
This means that if you missed the initial reservation release in April, you still have a chance to book a shuttle 48 hours before your desired departure day. For example, if you wish to visit Moraine Lake on July 6th, make sure to log in Parks’ Canada reservation system at 8:00AM (local Alberta time) on July 4th.
💡 How to reserve your Moraine Lake shuttle passes online?
To reserve your shuttle passes online, access the Parks Canada reservation system (the same place where you would reserve your camping spots).
You’ll see a few different reservation options. It’s important to click on the “Day Use” tab. Then, under the tab, you’ll see “Shuttle to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake“.
From there, you can select:
- the day of your visit,
- the first lake you want to visit (Lake Louise or Moraine Lake) and
- the time slot in which you want to depart from the Lake Louise ski resort to your first lake. No need to pre-book a return time).
You can try to reserve a shuttle on the day of your visit or even purchase walk-up tickets if space is available. However, this is not guaranteed; booking in advance is always better to ensure your spot.
💡 Insider Tip:
Your shuttle reservation allows you to visit both lakes (Moraine Lake and Lake Louise) on the same day. But I recommend visiting both lakes on different days if you want to explore the area more or do a longer hike like Plain of Six Glaciers in Lake Louise or Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass in Moraine Lake. If you’re getting off the bus for a few pictures, you can do both lakes on the same day!
Lake Connector Shuttle
The Lake Connector shuttle goes between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake and is included in your Park’s Canada shuttle pass or ROAM Super Pass.
💡 Note: Staying near Lake Louise
If you stay at Deer Lodge, Paradise Bungalows, or Chateau Lake Louise, you can walk a short distance to Lake Louise. You can get on the Lake Connector bus without going to the Park & Ride lot. But you still need a ticket for the day and proof that you’re staying at one of these accommodations.
Some hotels also offer specific shuttle services for their guests, making it even more convenient to reach Moraine Lake.
2. ROAM Transit Reservable System Wide Day Pass
Public transit is another option to visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. The ROAM transit Route 8X goes from downtown Banff to Lake Louise.
But if you book a Roam Public Transit Reservable System Wide Day Pass, you can access the Lake Connector between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
Note that if you only get a General Reservation ticket (one-way or return), you won’t have access to the Lake Connect shuttle (or Moraine Lake).
📍 Itinerary when using ROAM Transit
Downtown Banff > Lake Louise > Moraine Lake (using Lake Connector shuttle) > Lake Louise (using Lake Connector shuttle) > Downtown Banff
💰 How much does the ROAM Transit shuttle cost?
The Roam Public Transit Reservable System-Wide Day Pass fee includes unlimited travel on all Roam routes, including reservation for the Lake Louise Exper Route 8X and access to the Lake Connector bus to visit both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. It cost:
- $25.00 per adult
- $12.50 for youth (13-17 years old)
- FREE for children (under 13 years old)
🍂 Visiting during Larch Season?
ROAM Transit offers Route 10 to Moraine Lake with clear timings and affordable pricing. This option is only available during the Larch Season, typically from mid-September to mid-October when the road closes for the season.
Reservations are recommended as this season gets very busy, with visitors searching for the golden glow in the Larch Valley trail.
3. Overnight Option: Moraine Lake Lodge
For those looking to immerse themselves in the area’s beauty, staying overnight at the Moraine Lake Lodge is a fantastic option. The lodge is right by the lake and offers unparalleled views and a unique experience.
By staying here, you’ll have easy access to the lake, especially during the early morning or late evening when the crowds are fewer. Plus, guests often have the privilege of priority parking, making the question of how to get to Moraine Lake much simpler.
If you’re an experienced hiker, this will help you get up early in the morning to scramble up the Tower of Babel for a spectacular sunrise view of the lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks, or Mount Temple, the sixth-highest mountain in Alberta.
However, this comes with a hefty price tag. On average, you can expect to pay over $1000.00 per night in the high season and just a little less in the low season.
4. Via Via Moraine Lake
ViaVia Moraine Lake is a new private shuttle bus company that offers service to Moraine Lake (and Lake Louise).
It offers a more “private” experience than the public transportation options, and they sell out less fast than the other shuttles.
But it’s a bit more pricy.
💰 How much does the ViaVia Moraine Lake shuttle cost?
The price varies depending on whether you want the sunrise option or to see both lakes on the day of the week. They use a dynamic pricing system.
Also, children under 6 years old paid almost half the price.
The round-trip shuttle will be between $89.00 and $175.00.
The Moraine Lake Bus Company also offers a shuttle service to Moraine Lake.
5. Guided Option: Organized Tours
For those who prefer a structured experience, organized tours are available and an excellent option. These tours often include knowledgeable guides who can share fascinating insights and facts about the lake and its surroundings.
It’s a hassle-free way to explore, as transportation and logistics are handled. Plus, many tours offer additional stops at other points of interest.
Some options to book a tour are available with the following companies/websites. Some have more perks than others, so make sure what fits best with your schedule and your budget.
6. Biking to Moraine Lake
For the active traveler, biking to Moraine Lake is an exhilarating experience. The route is scenic, and in certain months the roads are quieter, making for a safer ride. Remember to check the conditions and ensure you have the necessary gear.
You will ride 24 km out and back with 820 m of elevation gain. So, it’s not super hard, but it does involve some work. Unless you have or rent an e-bike.
You can bring your own or rent a bike to get to the lake.
The Lake Louise Ski Resort has several options of e-bikes for you to choose from, and the Resort’s team will explain how to use them.
Wilson Mountain Sports in Lake Louise is another great option to rent a bike or e-bike to get to the lake. If you’re traveling with kids, they offer chariots and kids trail-along bike rentals too.
BONUS. Winter Option: Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing
Moraine Lake winter visits offer a different kind of beauty. The area becomes a haven for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The snow-covered landscape is serene, but visitors should be aware that some areas are prone to avalanches and should prioritize safety.
You can safely cross-country ski or snowshoe up to the Consolation Lakes and Bow Valley viewpoint at around 9 km, where you can turn back if you do not have the knowledge, training, and gear (shovel, probe, and transceiver) for avalanches (there’s also a sign indicating the zone prone to avalanches). If you do, you can continue for a few more kilometers until you reach the frozen lake.
Other questions you might have about Moraine Lake
1. Can you bring your own paddleboard to Moraine Lake?
Since vehicles are no longer able to access and park at Moraine Lake, it’s more difficult to get your canoes, kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards out on the lake.
The Parks Canada shuttle allows inflatable kayaks and stand-up paddleboards (they need to be deflated to board the shuttle), but not canoes for obvious reasons.
You can also get creative and pull your watercraft devices with a bike or e-bike.
Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake canoe rental services offer canoe rentals on a first-come, first-served basis, and these services are available for those eager to paddle on these lakes’ turquoise waters.
Important – Self-Certification Permit
If you bring your own watercraft, remember to fill out a Self Certification Permit with Parks Canada for any personal watercraft you bring into the water. This is to prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species, such as invasive mussels and whirling disease.
Normally, these forms are available at any lake – you just need to take one, fill it out, and put it in a waterproof pocket while you’re enjoying the ride. You can also find these permits on the Parks Canada’s website.
I did a sunrise SUP ride in Moraine Lake before the road was closed to private vehicles back in August 2022, and let me tell you, the experience was wonderful and meaningful. I’ve heard of several people who, after the road closure, bike to the lake and pull their kayaks or canoes up and down. That’s a commitment!
2. Can you visit Lake Moraine with a dog?
I get it! Who doesn’t want to bring their pup to enjoy this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage site? While you can indeed bring your pup, restrictions are in place.
You can bring your dog without additional charge as long as your dog is placed inside a pet carrier that’s small enough to fit into your lap. So, if your pup is as big as a German Shepherd, you’re out of luck!
You can reach out to the other shuttle companies servicing Moraine Lake to check their pet transportation policies or hike the 24 km out-and-back road with your dog.
Finally, if your pet is a Service Dog, they will be able to ride with you in the shuttle regardless of their size. Make sure to bring proof of their certification and training.
3. Can you bring a stroller on the Lake Moraine shuttle?
Yes, strollers and large backpacks can be brought in the shuttle. Make sure your stroller can be folded!
4. Is the National Park pass included in the shuttle ticket?
No, these are two different things. If you’re entering Banff National Park with your private vehicle, you need a valid day or yearly pass that’s visible on your vehicle and your shuttle ticket purchased separately.
4. How long does it take to arrive at Moraine Lake using the shuttle service?
Leaving from the Park & Ride parking lot at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, it takes approximately 25 minutes.
Visiting both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in one day?
It’s possible to visit both iconic lakes in a single day. Start early to maximize your time. After enjoying a Moraine Lake sunrise, you can head to Lake Louise for the afternoon. Both lakes offer canoeing options.
PRO-TIP – While it’s possible to visit both lakes on the same day, I highly recommend visiting on two separate days if you want to enjoy the lakes and get a hike in.
What to do at Moraine Lake (other than taking picture!s)
Several trails can be done at Moraine Lake. Some involve more experience than others, but there’s something for everyone.
Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail
It’s probably the easiest trail to do with young kids. You get to see the lake from different viewpoints along the trail, and you’ll enjoy being submerged in nature and mountains. It’s short, with 3.9 km out-and-back and 119 m of elevation gain. Easy peasy!
Moraine Lake Rockpile
Another easy trail that will let you admire the lake from a higher viewpoint. It’s 0.8 km out-and-back, and it has only 10 m of elevation gain!
Consolation Lakes Trail
This is another beautiful trail surrounded by a lush forest. The lakes here are not turquoise like Moraine, but they’re still beautiful to explore! It’s 7.4 km out-and-back with 262 m of elevation gain.
Tower of Babel
This scramble is not for the faint of heart, as it involves a grueling ascend with a lot of loose rock. Helmets are highly recommended. It’s 2.9 km out-and-back with 516 m of elevation gain. This is a popular trail for sunrise adventures as you can see how the sun slowly hits the Valley of the Ten Peaks, and the reflection of this on the lake is out of this world.
Mount Temple
Not a hike but a scramble, this trail is recommended for experienced hikers as there are some technical sections with the possibility of getting lost, falling/sliding down, or taking the wrong way and ending up near cliffs, and there’s a risk of getting altitude sickness as this mountain stands over 3000 m above sea level, making it the sixth highest mountain in Alberta. This is not a stroll in the park if you do not have experience with scrambles and altitude. The trail is 15.1 out-and-back and has 1633 m of elevation gain.
Larch Valley
This is a favorite one during, you guessed right: LARCH SEASON! And, I can see why it’s a popular trail: You are surrounded by golden trees, nature, and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Families and kids can do this trail as it’s not very long. It’s rated as hard, but slow and steady are the keywords for this trail! It’s 8.9 km out and back, and there’s 564 m of elevation gain.
Sentinel Pass
You can get here by completing the Larch Valley trail and continuing a few more kilometers until you get to the pass and see the sentinels – it is such a beauty!. It’s 11.1 km out-and-back with 749 m of elevation gain.
🥾 Not feeling like hiking?
If you’re not up for hiking long, busy trails, you can always rent a canoe at the lake. Moraine Lake canoe rental services offers canoe rentals on a first-come, first-served basis. Paddle away and submerge yourself in the enchanting turquoise waters of Moraine Lake.
Safety Information
Always ensure your kids stay close, especially near the water. Even during summer, the glacier-fed lake is very cold. While you can swim in Moraine Lake, it’s generally not recommended due to the cold temperatures and the risk of hypothermia. But kids can certainly enjoy some open areas in the lake to dip their toes in the water.
Furthermore, always carry your bear spray. You may not believe that bear encounters are possible in this area due to how busy it is, but they’re there, and encounters are very much a possibility at any given time.
In the fall of 2023, a guided group encountered two grizzly bears on the trail to Consolation Lakes. Thankfully, everyone remained calm, and there were no incidents, and the bears just followed the trail, trying to get to wherever they were going.
Final Thoughts
While driving to Moraine Lake might seem like the most straightforward option, there are current restrictions on personal vehicles due to limited parking. However, there are exceptions for disabled parking. Planning ahead and considering alternative transportation methods is essential, especially during the busy summer months.
