Moraine Lake is the jewel in the crown of Banff National Park — and one of Canada’s most photographed lakes.
If you’re planning a visit this year, you might have questions that are holding you back from booking your flight or accommodations. But don’t worry! You’ve come to the right spot. Here, we will answer some commonly heard queries from travellers heading to Moraine Lake.
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The Road To The Lake Is Closed, So How Do I Get There?
Yes, access to Moraine Lake is closed to private vehicles year-round. However, there are convenient shuttle buses that ferry visitors to and from Moraine Lake throughout the day between early June and mid-October — with some services starting as early as 4 a.m.!
It’s simple. Book a Moraine Lake shuttle online and board at convenient pick-up locations in and close to the nearby Lake Louise Village on the day of your trip. Then sit back and enjoy the ride!
What Can I Do At Moraine Lake?
First, enjoy the view. This is hands-down one of the most spectacularly beautiful locations in North America, if not the world. There’s an easy hike — just 20 minutes! — to a fantastic viewpoint where you can take photos and sit back and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. From there, the choice is yours.
- Take another more strenuous hike or another easy one — plenty of trails lead from the lake for hikers of all abilities.
- You can see the area from the water by either renting a canoe from the dock on the lake, or by bringing your own inflatable SUP or inflatable kayak.
- Bring a picnic, some cozy layers, and relax. There are some delicious bakeries, cafes, and delis in nearby Lake Louise Village, where you can get delicious, house-made fare before you board your shuttle bus.
Another commonly asked question: can you swim in Moraine Lake? Technically, you can, but it’s not advised. The lake is glacier-fed, so it’s incredibly cold, making it an unpleasant and potentially dangerous dip.
When Should I Go to Moraine Lake?
As mentioned above, commercial buses operate between early June and mid-October. Ultimately, the lake will make for a spectacular view any time you go. However, there’s something special about September.
That’s when fall colours are beginning to emerge, and the larch trees around the lake are changing to a gorgeous golden hue — they’re the only conifer to change colour! — and snow is settling on higher areas of the Valley of the Ten Peaks that surround the lake.
When it comes to choosing the time of day to visit, if you’re not one to shy away from an early morning alarm, booking a shuttle that gets you to Moraine Lake in time for sunrise is a must. The area is quieter, and the view of the sun inching across the peaks is genuinely spectacular.
Are There Facilities at Moraine Lake?
There are! There are washrooms by the car park, and by the lake itself, there’s the Moraine Lake Lodge. Here, you can spend the night — though reservations must be made well in advance. You can pick up coffee, teas, sandwiches, and soups at the lodge café, and if you like, you can visit the Lodge’s gift shop for those who like to collect souvenirs from memorable locations — which this surely is.
Why Is Moraine Lake So Blue?
There’s a bit of very simple science here. The lake gets its striking blue colour from rock dust created by the glaciers that surround the lake rubbing against the bedrock. This dust is suspended in the water, and when the sun refracts light, it reflects these bright blue colours. The sun’s angle and vibrancy can also impact the lake’s colour.
The Takeaway
If you book your bus in advance, simply getting to Moraine Lake is sure to wow and delight. Plus, you’ll be able to find the answers to your questions from a first-hand perspective.
Whether you plan your day’s activities in advance, or meander and stroll when you get there — it’s a lovely location that will absolutely leave its mark.
