Complete Guide to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in Banff National Park

Adventuring with KidsAllNational ParksTravel Guides

Jan 8

For over five years, we’ve been returning to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in Banff National Park, and every visit feels like the first time. The stunning landscapes, endless hiking opportunities, and serene beauty keep us coming back year after year. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, this guide will help you make the most of your trip to these iconic destinations.

Getting There: Access Made Easy

Moraine Lake

Accessing Moraine Lake has changed significantly over the years. When we first started visiting in 2020, it was technically possible to drive to Moraine Lake, but securing a parking spot generally required a pre-dawn arrival. Since 2023, the road to Moraine Lake has been closed to private passenger vehicles to reduce congestion and environmental impact.

Here are your options for getting there:

Shuttle Services:

Parks Canada Shuttle: A convenient and eco-friendly option. Reservations are required and can be made online.
Private Shuttles: Companies like Moraine Lake Bus and ViaVia offer private shuttle services. We opted for Moraine Lake Bus on our last trip, and it was a seamless and enjoyable experience.

Biking:
In the short window between the snow melting and the shuttles starting (typically late May), biking to Moraine Lake is an option. We biked in during this period in 2023, bringing our Thule bike trailer for our daughter, Aspen. It was surreal to experience the lake with minimal crowds, but I’d caution against biking once the shuttles start running due to increased bus traffic.

Biking to Moraine Lake, Banff National Park

Hiking:
Hiking to Moraine Lake is possible but not recommended due to the distance and elevation gain.

Lake Louise

While you can drive to Lake Louise, parking is extremely limited and often fills up by sunrise. Shuttling in is highly recommended unless you’re staying at the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise (more on that later). Parks Canada offers shuttle services from the Lake Louise Park and Ride, and reservations are strongly advised.

Things to Do

Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake is a gem in any season. Beyond hiking, simply visiting the lake is an experience in itself. The turquoise waters, surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, are breathtaking.

Here’s what we love to do:

Canoeing: We haven’t canoed here yet, but it’s on our list.
Sunrises and Sunsets: The light hitting the peaks and reflecting on the lake is magical.
Biking and Picnics: During our 2023 visit, we biked in with Aspen and spent the day picnicking by the lake. It was surreal to have the place nearly to ourselves. We even braved an alpine dip in the chilly waters!

Swimming in Moraine Lake, Banff National Park

Lake Louise

Lake Louise is equally stunning and offers a wide range of activities:

Canoeing and Paddleboarding: We brought our Red Paddle Co. paddleboard last summer and enjoyed gliding across the lake. Don’t forget to get a self-permit for non-motorized watercraft.
Winter Activities: In winter, we’ve snowshoed to the Plain of Six Glaciers and skated on the frozen lake. It’s a winter wonderland.

Paddle boarding on Lake Louise, Banff National Park

Snowshoeing on Lake Louise, Banff National Park

Hiking Trails

Moraine Lake Area

The Rockpile:

Distance: 0.8 km round trip (0.5 miles)
Elevation Gain: 30 meters (100 feet)
Difficulty: Easy
This short hike offers iconic views of Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. It’s perfect for families or those short on time.

Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass:

Distance to Larch Valley: 4.3 km one way (2.7 miles)
Distance to Sentinel Pass: 5.8 km one way (3.6 miles)
Elevation Gain: 535 meters to Sentinel Pass (1,755 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate to strenuous
This hike is especially stunning in fall when the larch trees turn golden. Even with crowds, the views are worth it.

Mount Temple (Attempted):

Distance: 16 km round trip (10 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,690 meters (5,545 feet)
Difficulty: Very strenuous
We’ve attempted this hike but haven’t reached the summit yet. It’s still on our list, along with Eiffel Peak.

Lake Louise Area

Lake Agnes Tea House and Little Beehive/Devil’s Thumb:

Distance to Lake Agnes: 7 km round trip (4.3 miles)
Elevation Gain: 400 meters (1,312 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate
The tea house is a charming stop, and the views from Little Beehive or Devil’s Thumb are incredible.

Lake Agnes and Lake Louise from Devil’s Thumb

Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House:

Distance: 10.6 km round trip (6.6 miles)
Elevation Gain: 365 meters (1,200 feet)
Difficulty: Moderate
This hike offers stunning glacier views and a cozy tea house. We’ve yet to loop it with Lake Agnes, but it’s next on our list.

Looking back at Lake Louise from The Plain of Six Glaciers

Fairview Mountain:

Distance: 10.6 km round trip (6.6 miles)
Elevation Gain: 1,013 meters (3,323 feet)
Difficulty: Strenuous
This hike provides panoramic views of Lake Louise and the surrounding peaks.

Where to Stay

Lake Louise Campground

We often stay at the Lake Louise Campground with our trailer.

Here’s what you need to know:

Reservations: Required and can be made online through Parks Canada.
Amenities: Basic facilities, including fire pits and washrooms.
Location: Conveniently located near Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

For a more luxurious stay, we love the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. The lakeview rooms are worth the splurge, and the fondue restaurant is a highlight. We’re huge fans of Fairmont properties and the unique experiences they offer. We can’t wait to return once the new Nordic spa opens, adding another layer of relaxation to this already incredible destination.

A Bit of History

Lake Louise Chateau: Built in 1890 as a modest log cabin, the Chateau has grown into a world-renowned luxury hotel. It’s a historic landmark and a testament to the enduring allure of the Canadian Rockies.
Banff National Park: Established in 1885, Banff is Canada’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with over 1,600 km (1,000 miles) of trails.

Permits and Passes

Park Entry: A Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required for entry to Banff National Park. It can be purchased online or at park gates.
Shuttle Reservations: Required for Moraine Lake and Lake Louise shuttles. Book early, especially during peak season.
Watercraft Permits: Required for canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards. Self-permits are available at the lake.

Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are destinations that never lose their magic. Whether you’re hiking, canoeing, or simply soaking in the views, there’s always something new to discover. We’ll keep coming back year after year, and we hope this guide inspires you to do the same.