Moraine Lake tops most visitors’ must-see lists when planning a trip to Banff National Park, and for good reason. The colour of the lake, the Valley of the Ten Peaks, and the view from the Rockpile Trail make it one of the most iconic places in the Canadian Rockies. But figuring out how to get to Moraine Lake isn’t always easy, especially now that personal vehicles are no longer allowed on Moraine Lake Road and most visitors need to book one of the Moraine Lake shuttles or tours.
As locals, we’ve been to Moraine Lake countless times over the years, and even we don’t tire of seeing it. We’ve visited during the busy summer months, made the early start to see Moraine Lake at sunrise, taken shuttle buses, and helped countless travellers sort through the different options for getting to Moraine Lake from Banff, Lake Louise, Canmore, and Calgary.
The good news is that getting to Moraine Lake is quite easy once you understand your options. The not-so-good news is that you do need to plan ahead. Parks Canada shuttles, Roam Transit, private shuttle companies, guided tours, sunrise shuttles, and Lake Louise connections all work a little differently, and the best choice depends on where you’re staying, your budget, whether you want to visit Lake Louise on the same day, and how early you’re willing to start.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best ways to get to Moraine Lake in 2026, including the Parks Canada shuttle, commercial shuttle options, guided Moraine Lake tours, sunrise options, and what to do if you’re visiting Banff without a car. Our goal is to help you choose the right option before everything books up, so you can spend less time stressing over logistics and more time enjoying one of Banff National Park’s most beautiful places.
Local Tip
I highly recommend planning ahead. The peak summer months in Banff will be busy and you don’t want to miss out on visiting this iconic Banff lake.
This post contains compensated links.
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Quick Answer: Best Ways to Get to Moraine Lake
As you are doing your research on how to get to Moraine Lake, you’ll find no shortage of shuttle options. Some have been operating since the beginning, while new shuttle operators pop up every year. Our recommendations are all shuttle operators we know and trust to give you the best experience possible!
Cheapest Option: Parks Canada Moraine Lake Shuttle
The Parks Canada Moraine Lake shuttle operates every 30 minutes throughout the day and costs only $12.75 for an adult. You can visit both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise by using the included Lake Connector shuttle and stay as long as you want at each one.
Best Sunrise Shuttle from Lake Louise
The Moraine Lake Bus Company offers shuttle rides from Lake Louise that will get you to Moraine Lake 45 minutes before sunrise. The cost of this is starting at $115 per adult for sunrise and starting at $70 per adult for other times of the day.
Best Shuttle from Banff or Canmore
To visit Moraine Lake from Banff without a car, Via Via Moraine, Canmore Travel, and Explore Banff Tours & Transfers are the three best shuttle options. Roam Transit is the best public transportation option.
Best Way to Get to Moraine Lake from the Bow Valley Parkway
If you are staying along the Bow Valley Parkway, Ten Peaks Shuttle is the only Moraine Lake shuttle that picks up at Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows, Castle Mountain Chalets and Baker Creek by Basecamp.
Best Guided Moraine Lake Tour
Radventures offers a tour with stops at both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. Visits to Moraine Lake will be at sunrise and you’ll still see Lake Louise before the crowds. It’s a 7 hour tour that also includes time for breakfast.
Visit our Banff Discounts page to get 5% off your Radventures tour!
Best Option for Staying Near Moraine Lake
While expensive, staying at the Moraine Lake Lodge will give you all the time you want at this spectacular Banff lake.
Can I Drive to Moraine Lake in 2026?
There is only one way you can drive to Moraine Lake, and that is by being a registered guest of the Moraine Lake Lodge, which is the only hotel near the lake. Non-guests need to book a shuttle, private transportation or a tour to visit Moraine Lake. There are no other ways.
Below I’ll go through the different ways of getting to Moraine Lake. These include a mix of shuttles, tours and riding a bike. I don’t recommend walking up Moraine Lake Road. While it is an option, it will not be the best use of your time in Banff.
14 Ways to Get to Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake Shuttle Options
1. Parks Canada Moraine Lake Shuttle
Parks Canada operates a shuttle to Moraine Lake from the Lake Louise Park and Ride. The Park and Ride is found at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. This is the cheapest way to visit Moraine Lake.
The Parks Canada Moraine Lake shuttle operates from June to mid-October (June 1 to October 12 for 2026). This is the least costly of all the ways to get to Moraine Lake and great for anyone visiting Banff on a budget.
You need a reservation to take the Parks Canada Moraine Lake shuttle. Book through the Parks Canada Reservation System. Reservations for the Moraine Lake shuttle for the 2026 season start Wednesday, April 15, 2026 at 8:00 am MT.
Parks Canada releases 40% of shuttle seats on launch day. The remaining 60% of Moraine Lake shuttle tickets are released at 8 am MDT, two days prior to the departure day/time.
Understanding the Parks Canada shuttle is so important, we recommend you read our Complete Guide to the Moraine Lake Shuttle.
Departs from: Lake Louise Park and Ride
Duration: 25 minutes
Cost: $12.75 for adults, $6 for seniors, and $4 for 17 years old and under. There is also a non-refundable $3.50 reservation fee online, or $5.50 by phone.
Accessible: Yes.
Pets allowed: Small dogs in carrier on lap.
Time at Moraine Lake: No return time required, just be sure to catch the last return shuttle at 7:30 pm.
Includes other stops: No, but Lake Connector Shuttle operates between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: The Parks Canada Moraine Lake shuttle runs every 30 minutes from 6:30 am to 5 pm, with the last return shuttle at 7:30 pm. (*Alpine Start Shuttle has two departures 4 am & 5 am from the Lake Louise lakeshore parking lot)
Local Tip
Make sure you print your confirmation or take a screenshot of your Parks Canada Moraine Lake shuttle reservation. There’s no guarantee to have cell service around Banff National Park.
Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle
The Parks Canada Lake Connector (included in your shuttle reservations to either Lake Louise or Moraine Lake) is the best way to visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in the same day. You don’t need to book a specific time to take the Lake Connector shuttle bus from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake. It runs every 30 minutes between 7 am and 7 pm.
You can only take the Lake Connector shuttle if you had already checked in at the Park and Ride. There are two exceptions to this:
1. If you’re staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise or Paradise Lodge & Bungalows, you can use the Lake Connector from Lake Louise. You’ll still need a shuttle reservation and proof of lodging.
2. Roam Reservable Super Pass holders (discussed below) may also use the Lake Connector with proof of purchase.
Do not plan on driving to Lake Louise and just hopping on this shuttle.
Local Tip
If the Moraine Lake shuttles aren’t available for the day you want to visit, you can make a reservation for the Lake Louise shuttle then take the Lake Connector shuttle to Moraine Lake.
Parks Canada Alpine Start Shuttle
Parks Canada is offering an “Alpine Start Shuttle” with two departures at 4 am and 5 am. This sunrise shuttle to Moraine Lake is intended for climbers, scramblers and hikers who require more time before the last return shuttle.
This shuttle leaves from the Lake Louise lakeshore parking lot, which will require paid parking of $42 for the day in addition to the cost of the shuttle.
2. Moraine Lake Bus Company
The Moraine Lake Bus Company is operated by a local Banff couple who saw a need to offer a sunrise option to Moraine Lake. Not only do they offer a sunrise shuttle to Moraine Lake, but they also offer shuttle service to Moraine Lake throughout the day. In addition, you can book shuttles which visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
We took the Moraine Lake Bus Company in early June to see Moraine Lake at sunrise. It was a fantastic, stress-free experience. The shuttles left right on time, and the drivers were knowledgeable and happy to answer questions.
If you are looking for a sunrise shuttle to Moraine Lake from Lake Louise, we highly recommend the Moraine Lake Bus Company!
Departs from: Lake Louise Village for sunrise shuttles only / Lake Louise Park and Ride for all other departures.
Duration: 55 minutes to Moraine Lake / 25 minutes return
Cost: starting at $115 for sunrise / remaining daytimes starting at $70 for adults, $60 for children
Accessible: No
Pets allowed: Small dogs in carrier on lap.
Time at Moraine Lake: Select your return time when booking.
Includes other stops: Select shuttle times include a 1 hr stop at Lake Louise.
Other: Sunrise options available. Climbing equipment can be accommodated.
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: 4:00 am / 6:20 pm
3. Via Via Moraine Lake Shuttle
Operated by Bow Valley locals, Via Via Moraine Lake Shuttle offers different shuttle options that include options to see Moraine Lake for sunrise, during the daytime or as a combo with Lake Louise. This shuttle has multiple pickup locations including Canmore, Banff and Lake Louise.
Travel Banff Canada readers can get a 15% discount on the Via Via Moraine Lake Shuttle. To get this deal, and many others, visit our Banff discounts page.
Departs from: Canmore or Banff
Duration: 1 hr + depending on departure location.
Cost: Tickets start at $85 for sunrise, daytime shuttles start at $59 per person and the combo shuttle that includes Lake Louise starts at $85 per person.
Accessible: No
Pets allowed: No
Time at Moraine Lake: Book a return shuttle.
Includes other stops: Lake Louise is an included stop in the combo tour, which includes a 1 hour stop at Lake Louise.
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: First shuttle leaves in time for sunrise and will vary throughout the season. Last return shuttle is at 6:15 pm.
4. Canmore Travel
Canmore Travel is a shuttle service that leaves from Canmore to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. If you want to see Moraine Lake at a quieter time, their Moraine Lake Sunset Glow experience is worth considering. They also offer a dual lakes tour that includes Lake Louise or a stargazing experience at Moraine Lake.
Departing from several hotels in Canmore and Banff, you won’t have to go far before relaxing on your drive to the lakes.
Departs from: Coast Canmore Hotel & Conference Centre, The Malcolm Hotel, Northwinds Hotel Canmore, Falcon Crest Lodge by CLIQUE
Duration: 1 hour + to Moraine Lake
Cost: from $155 per person
Accessible: No.
Pets allowed: No.
Time at Moraine Lake: 1 hour at Moraine Lake
Includes other stops: A dual lake stop can be booked.
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: Choose between a sunrise or sunset at Moraine Lake.
5. Moraine Lake Big Bus
The Moraine Lake Big Bus open-top double decker shuttle has an option to visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake from the Deer Lodge, just a 5 minute walk to Lake Louise. This is one of the lowest priced options with a ton of flexibility and the only one that is accessible (besides Roam Transit).
The Moraine Lake Big Bus includes parking at the Deer Lodge, allowing you to visit Lake Louise before or after your shuttle. Shuttles to Moraine Lake leave Deer Lodge on the hour from 8:00 – 1:00.
Travel Banff Canada readers can get a 5% discount on the Moraine Lake Big Bus when booked with GetYourGuide. To get this deal, and many others, visit our Banff discounts page.
Departs from: Deer Lodge
Duration: 25 minutes
Cost: starting at $95 for adults.
Accessible: Yes, the lower deck is wheelchair accessible.
Pets allowed: No; but service dogs are allowed.
Time at Moraine Lake: No return time required, just hop on the next shuttle.
Includes other stops: No. It’s encouraged to visit Lake Louise from the Deer Lodge.
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: 8 am / 5 pm
6. Ten Peaks Shuttle & Tours
Ten Peaks Shuttle & Tours is the only shuttle option for those staying along the Bow Valley Parkway. This option lets you visit both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise with time to do a short hike or a canoe ride.
They also offer guests options to skip Lake Louise to have a full 5 hours at Moraine Lake, or stay at Lake Louise for 4.5 hours before visiting Moraine Lake. With 5 hours at Moraine Lake, there’s enough time to do one of the longer hikes at Moraine Lake. Similarly, with 4.5 hours at Lake Louise, it’s possible to hike to the Lake Agnes Tea House.
Departs from: Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows, Castle Mountain Chalets, Baker Creek by Basecamp, Samson Mall and Paradise Lodge & Bungalows.
Duration: 1 hour to Lake Louise
Cost: from $89 per person
Accessible: No.
Pets allowed: No.
Time at Moraine Lake: 2.5 hours at each lake. Option 1 to skip Lake Louise to have 5 hours at Moraine Lake only. Option 2 to have 4.5 hours at Lake Louise before visiting Moraine Lake.
Includes other stops: Both lakes included unless Option 1 is chosen.
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: 7:30 am is the earliest departure.
7. Fairview Limousine
Fairview Limousine is a Lake Louise based company that provides shuttles to both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. They are currently the only shuttle operators that allows bigger dogs.
Departs from: Lake Louise Inn (parking is roadside or in the back parking lot)
Duration: 30 minutes to Moraine Lake
Cost: $75 Sunrise / $35 Moraine Lake / $25 Lake Louise / $60 Dual Lake Combo
Accessible: No.
Pets allowed: Yes, you will need to reserve for large dogs who need a seat.
Time at Moraine Lake: Choose return time when booking.
Includes other stops: No
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: 8 am / 10:30 pm for Moraine Lake.
8. Explore Banff Tours & Transfers
Operated by another Bow Valley Local, Explore Banff Tours & Transfers offers visitors a choice of a private transfer or a shared transfer from Canmore or Banff to Moraine Lake. For the private transfers, groups can choose a starting time between 8am and 12pm. Sunrise tours are based on the time of sunrise for that particular day.
Departs from: Canmore or Banff
Duration: 1 hr + depending on departure location.
Cost: $165 per person for shared transfers ($185 for sunrise). Private transfer prices are $1590.
Accessible: No
Pets allowed: Yes, but contact directly to arrange.
Time at Moraine Lake: Up to 2 hours for shared transfers. Private tours can split their 4 hours how they wish between the two lakes.
Includes other stops: Lake Louise is an included stop.
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: Departure and return times are discussed with each transfer.
9. Lake Louise Gondola and Shuttle Combo
If you planned to ride the Lake Louise Summer Gondola on the same day, you can book a shuttle through the Lake Louise Ski Resort. They operate a two-lake shuttle to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. The first shuttle for Moraine Lake departs at 8:15 am and the last return shuttle is at 6:00 pm.
You can use your gondola ticket at any time during the day.
Departs from: Lake Louise Ski Resort
Duration: 20 minutes.
Cost: $94 for Lake Louise only / $159 for Lake Louise + Moraine Lake.
Accessible: No
Pets allowed: No
Time at Moraine Lake: 1 hour, then as much time at Lake Louise as you want.
Includes other stops: No
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: First shuttle leaves 8:00 am. Last return shuttle is at 5:50 pm.
10. Roam Transit Super Pass to Moraine Lake
There is a regional bus that operates from Banff to Lake Louise. Roam Route 8X will take visitors to the village or right to the Lake Louise lakeshore.
Roam Route 8X is an option for getting to Moraine Lake from Banff. Take the Roam Route 8X to Lake Louise with the Roam Super Pass. Visitors with the Super Pass will have access to the Parks Canada Lake Connector shuttle.
This means you can take the Roam Bus right from the town of Banff to Lake Louise lakeshore, then use your Roam Super Pass to hop on the Parks Canada Lake Connector shuttle to Moraine Lake. This option is reservable (recommended) and costs $30 for adults, $15 for youth and seniors.
You will need to take the Lake Connector Shuttle back to Lake Louise at the end of the day to return to Banff by Roam Bus 8x. You also NEED to have your trip originate from Banff. You cannot park at Lake Louise lakeshore and show them your Super Pass to get on the lake connector shuttle.
As part of our Banff Travel Planning Service, we have learned there is often confusion between the Parks Canada shuttles and Roam Transit. To help clear up the confusion, we’ve written a post about Parks Canada vs Roam Transit for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
Departs from: Banff Transit Hub at Banff High School
Duration: Banff to Lake Louise is approximately 1 hour (slightly longer to Moraine Lake).
Cost: A Roam Transit Super Pass is $30 for adults, $15 for seniors/youth and 12 and under is free (with a reservation).
Accessible: Yes
Pets allowed: Small dogs in carrier on lap.
Time at Moraine Lake: No departure time required.
Includes other stops: Route 8X goes to Lake Louise Village and Lakeshore.
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: 6:30 am / 11 pm
11. Hop On Banff
The Hop On Banff bus offers a hop-on hop-off service in Banff. It makes stops at Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise Gondola, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. You don’t need to specify the time you want to leave, you just need a ticket for a specific day.
You can leave Banff on one of the three departure times and spend as much or as little time at each of the stops along the way. This option even allows you to fit in a hike at Johnston Canyon or hiking to Lake Agnes Teahouse at Lake Louise.
Departs from: Banff Train Station or Moose Hotel
Duration: 2 hours
Cost: starting at $130 for adults.
Accessible: No.
Pets allowed: No.
Time at Moraine Lake: No return time required, just hop on the next shuttle.
Includes other stops: Yes, Johnston Canyon, Lake Louise Gondola and Lake Louise
First shuttle / Last return shuttle: 7:45 or 9:30 am / 3:05 pm
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Moraine Lake Tours
1. Radventures Moraine Lake Sunrise and Lake Louise Tour
If seeing Moraine Lake for sunrise was on your must-see list, the Radventures Moraine Lake Sunrise and Lake Louise Golden Hour Adventure offers a multi-hour sunrise tour of Moraine Lake that includes an early morning visit to Lake Louise. You get to visit both iconic Banff lakes in one tour.
This small group tour includes pickup from select Banff or Lake Louise village locations, a guide that helps you find the perfect sunrise locations, an optional hot breakfast add-on, and a stop at Lake Louise.
You’ll get to spend 2 hours at each of these incredible Banff lakes before the crowds arrive. This tour costs $390 per person.
Travel Banff Canada readers can get a 5% discount on tours by Radventures. To get this deal, and many others, visit our Banff discounts page.
2. Discover Banff Tours Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Tour
This guided small-group tour is a good option if you want to visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake without dealing with shuttle reservations, parking, or timing logistics. It includes Banff pickup, a scenic drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, time at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
It’s more than a basic shuttle as you’ll have a local guide sharing stories, tips, and context along the way, making it a good fit for travellers who want an easy, guided half-day experience rather than just transportation.
You’ll have half an hour at each of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. This tour starts at $89 for adults & $72 for children.
3. Brewster Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls Tour
Explore the most iconic locations with the Brewster Mountain Lakes and Waterfalls tour through Banff and Yoho National Parks. Stops include Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Spiral Tunnels, and Takakkaw Falls. The stops at Moraine Lake and Takakkaw Falls depend on seasonal road openings.
As part of the tour, you also get to enjoy a lunch at Emerald Lake Lodge.
Prices start from $260 for adults and $169 for children aged 6-15, with a $35 Moraine Lake entrance fee added at checkout.
Can You Stay Near Moraine Lake?
The Moraine Lake Lodge is the only hotel located right at Moraine Lake. No shuttle booking is needed, you can just walk right out the door. With one of the most scenic locations you can imagine, it’s one of the best places to rent a cabin in Banff National Park.
Hotels close to Lake Louise have the option of getting on the Parks Canada Lake Connector* Shuttle from Lake Louise and bypassing the Park and Ride. Visitors should confirm this with their hotel and have proof of their hotel accommodations PLUS their reservation for the Parks Canada Moraine Lake shuttle.
These hotels would include:
*Lake Connector is a Parks Canada shuttle that operates between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake for visitors who have booked a shuttle to either lake. This Lake Connector shuttle is included with your reservation and is first-come-first-serve.
Read More
We share our recommendations for the best hotels in Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. You may also enjoy our Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise review.
Can You Bike to Moraine Lake?
While you’ll need to contend with all the shuttle buses on the Moraine Lake Road, it’s possible to ride a bike up to Moraine Lake. This is a popular activity in the spring after the road is cleared but it’s not open for vehicles yet.
If the road is open to tour and shuttle buses, we only recommend biking it if you’re very comfortable on a bike, as the road doesn’t have a lot of room for passing.
Another alternative is to rent an e-bike in the village from Wilson Mountain Sports.
Local Tip
None of the ways to get to Moraine Lake mentioned in this post will include your Banff Park Pass. That must be purchased separately at the Banff park gates, a visitor centre or online.
How Far Is Moraine Lake from Banff, Canmore, and Calgary?
Now that you know the best ways to get from Banff to Moraine Lake, here are a few more things to know about Moraine Lake:
Moraine Lake is located just outside of the village of Lake Louise in Banff National Park. The distance from the village of Lake Louise to Moraine Lake is approximately 14 km.
The Moraine Lake Road is 11 km from the start to the lake.
Distances to Moraine Lake
These distances give you a rough idea of how long it takes to reach Moraine Lake from Banff, Canmore, or Calgary.
Banff to Moraine Lake Distance: 70 km or 58 minutes.
Canmore to Moraine Lake Distance: 94 km or 1 hour 10 minutes.
Calgary to Moraine Lake Distance: 200 km or 2 hours 15 minutes (will vary depending on actual location).
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Tips for Visiting Moraine Lake in the Fall
Summer is most definitely high season in Banff National Park, but Banff in September can be quite busy too. Around the third week of September will bring the beginning of larch season and along with it, hordes of hikers.
Visiting Moraine Lake in the fall is pretty spectacular. You can combine a visit to this stunning turquoise lake with some of the best fall hikes in Banff. From mid-September to early October, the larch trees will turn a golden yellow then eventually drop their needles. Hiking amongst the golden larch trees is one of the best ways to experience the fall colours in Banff.
One of the best places to experience hiking amongst the golden larches is the Larch Valley hike, which is one of the best hikes from Moraine Lake.
Moraine Lake retains its popularity through September and into October. Larch hiking season is typically from the third week of September until early October, which is good news if you are visiting Banff in October.
It’s important to plan ahead during this time as it is one of the best times of year to visit Banff. Moraine Lake can be extremely busy with visitors and locals looking to get in some of the best larch hikes!
Read More
Looking for larch hikes other than Larch Valley? Don’t miss our Best Alberta Larch Hikes post.
FAQs about Getting to Moraine Lake
Is there a free shuttle to Moraine Lake?
No, there is not a free shuttle to Moraine Lake. Parks Canada operates the most cost effective shuttle to Moraine Lake and there are several other commercial operators with shuttle options that give visitors more time at the lake.
Can you still drive to Moraine Lake?
Parks Canada has closed the Moraine Lake Road to private vehicles. Moraine Lake Lodge guests are the one exception, as they can drive up Moraine Lake Road and park at the hotel.
How do you get from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake?
The easiest way to get from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake is by using the Lake Connector shuttle. This requires a shuttle reservation to Lake Louise and having checked in at the Park and Ride. For visitors staying at hotels near Lake Louise, check with your hotel for the best option.
How do I get from Banff to Moraine Lake without a car?
The easiest way to get from Banff to Moraine Lake without a car is to book a shuttle that operates from Banff to Moraine Lake. Alternatively, the Roam bus route to Lake Louise with a Super Pass allows visitors on the Lake Connector shuttle to Moraine Lake.
Can you do Moraine Lake and Lake Louise same day?
Yes, with the Parks Canada shuttle and the Lake Connector shuttle, it’s easy to visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in the same day.
How to get to Moraine Lake from Canmore
Roam Transit operates a regional bus from Canmore to Banff, but there is no bus from Canmore to Moraine Lake. In order to get to Moraine Lake from Canmore without a car, book a tour or shuttle through one of the many commercial tour and shuttle operators. Moraine Lake Sunrise Shuttle, Explore Banff Tours and Transfers, and Canmore Travel all operate shuttles from Canmore to Moraine Lake.
Is Moraine Lake open?
If you are visiting between the end of May and early October, then yes there is a good chance that Moraine Lake is open.
In the winter, the Moraine Lake Road is closed (typically in October after Canadian Thanksgiving) due to avalanche risk. The Moraine Lake road closure is in place for the duration of the winter.
The road to Moraine Lake is opened back up between the third week of May and the first week of June.
Is there accessible parking at Moraine Lake?
There used to be accessible parking at Moraine Lake, but not anymore. Visitors with mobility needs still need to use the Parks Canada shuttle system. You don’t need to register in advance for an accessible vehicle. Just arrive with your shuttle ticket and let Parks Canada staff know you have mobility needs, and an accessible vehicle will be arranged as needed.
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Celine Brewer, a local Canmore resident, is the co-owner of Travel Banff Canada. She has a passion for being out in the mountains any time of year. In the summer, you'll often find her hiking or mountain biking. In the winter, she enjoys cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and winter hiking the most.
As much as she loves the mountains, she also loves travel! When she's not playing outdoors at home, she's either traveling the world with her husband and two kids or working on their other two travel sites: Family Can Travel and Baby Can Travel.
If we’re staying at the lake Louise campground late May to early June, what’s the best way of getting Moraine lake? You mentioned something in your podcast but I didn’t see that option in your write up. We’re all hikers so hiking is an option. We didn’t get to book the moraine lake alpine shuttle so we’re trying to figure out alternative way to get there for sunrise. We’re in a budget so private tours are not doable.
Hi! Your best options for sunrise from the Lake Louise campground are going to be to try to get the Alpine Start shuttle when they release more tickets on a 48 hour rolling basis throughout the summer. I know you said no private tours, but other shuttle options are Moraine Lake Bus Company (from Samson Mall) or Fairview Limo (from Lake Louise inn).
Now that I read my post…hoping to go North to LL/Moraine L without a car from Johnson Canyon bungalows without driving south down to Banff to pickup the Roam#10. Suggestions on how early to drive to LL park n ride on 9/16/24 to get parking and then hop on a Lake Connector Shuttle (provided we can snag a reservation when released 2 days before.). Any suggestions for navigating the reservation site to get a shuttle last minute reservation or just parking at Park n Ride would be appreciated. At this point I’m just frustrated. But your site is still the best!!! 🙂
Hi Paige, So if you can manage to get either Moraine Lake Shuttle or Lake Louise shuttle tickets 48 hours in advance, you can just get to the park & ride within your 1 hour time slot. It’s a pretty easy drive from Johnston Canyon. On the flip side, it’s a similar amount of driving to go to Banff to catch the Roam Route 10, so that is a good back up plan, if you don’t get the Parks Canada shuttle tickets.
For your best chance at getting the Parks Canada shuttle tickets 48 hours in advance, make sure you are logged in BEFORE 8am. You should already have your account figured out and know exactly where to go on the site.
Even if you are not finding tickets right away, you can keep refreshing that morning. I’ve heard people having good luck with that.
One other really reasonable option is Fairview Limo! You can choose your departure and return time. They leave right from the Lake Louise village (from the Lake Louise Inn).
If you are having any additional issues, please feel free to email me questions @ travelbanffcanada.com
I will tell you your site is the most concise site I have seen on travel in this area. All the other sites are pretty confusing. Thank you! Who knew life could be so complicated to go and hike in Lake Moraine area. We are staying in Johnson Canyon Lodge for 3 nights. Hoping to do Via Ferrata one day/explore town of Banff, then thought it would be nice to take the Sentinel Pass/Larch Valley hike which starts at Lake Moraine another day,……. Well getting to Moraine is like a looking for the holy grail….very complicated! Hate to buy a $69 ticket x 2 to take a bus to Moraine to hop off and hike all day. Obviously don’t have a reservation so hoping to snag a last minute one. We will be driving up from Glacier on 9/14/24 and staying at Canyon the driving back to Kalispell, MT on 9/17 and not going north of LL/Banff (that will be another trip.). So trying to find the best way to do that. figured we could go to LL one evening and hike around and see. It sounds like a tourist spot mostly.
Hi Paige, Thank you so much for your comments! I’m glad you are finding our site so helpful! I see you already know about the Roam Transit from your next comment. I’m going to give you some tips there!
Would there be time to do the Larch Valley Hike on the same day we would take the Parks Canada shuttle to Lake Louise and then the Connector shuttle to Lake Moraine (then the Larch Valley Hike) and still get back in time before the last shuttle took us back to the Park & Ride at Lake Louise?
Thank you.
This would depend on what time your shuttle is at. If it’s in the morning, then yes, there is definitely enough time. It’s only around 2.5 to 3.5 hours to hike to Larch Valley (depending on how fast you hike). The last Parks Canada shuttle is at 7:30pm. So even arriving in the afternoon should give you enough time!
Always remember to check for any trail reports/conditions before going and bring plenty of water + snacks!