Moraine Lake Road is Open for the Season: Everything You Need to Know to Visit in 2025
It’s official—Moraine Lake Road opened for the season on June 1, 2025, and with it comes the return of one of Banff National Park’s most iconic landscapes. If visiting this magical spot is on your Canadian Rockies bucket list (and it should be!), this guide will help you plan your visit with ease, whether it's your first time or your tenth.
Moraine Lake from the Rock Pile • Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Why Moraine Lake Is So Popular
Nestled in the stunning Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake is famous for its surreal turquoise waters, dramatic mountain backdrops, and bucket-list hikes. It’s easily one of the most photographed lakes in the world—and for good reason. During peak season, this area draws hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, with crowds flocking to witness the glacial melt that gives the lake its striking blue hue.
And while its popularity means competition for access is fierce, it also means there are plenty of transportation options and well-maintained trails to enjoy—if you plan ahead.
Plan Ahead: No Personal Vehicles Allowed
As of 2023, Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles for the entire summer season. This change was made to reduce congestion and protect the fragile alpine ecosystem—but it also means you’ll need to arrange alternative transportation. Don’t worry—I’ve rounded up all the best ways to get there, from shuttles to private tours, and even a few adventurous options for the active traveler.
Transportation Options to Moraine Lake in 2025
Here are your best options for getting to Moraine Lake this summer, with pros and links to book your ride:
Parks Canada Shuttle
From: Lake Louise Park and Ride
Cost: Requires a reservation + Connector Pass if you’re coming from Banff
Good for: Budget travelers and those staying near Lake Louise
Notes: Frequent departures, but books up quickly—reserve early!
Roam Transit
From: Downtown Banff to Lake Louise
Cost: Affordable; requires Connector Pass for Moraine Lake
Good for: Public transit lovers or those without a car
Notes: Offers free Wi-Fi and convenient stops around Banff
Moraine Lake Bus Company
From: Lake Louise Village
Cost: Mid-range
Good for: Efficient, small-group transportation
Notes: Flexible departure/return times and experienced local guides
Via Via Moraine
From: Canmore and Banff
Cost: Premium pricing
Good for: Personalized, small group experiences
Notes: Offers sunrise tours and longer stays at the lake
Explore Banff Tours
From: Banff hotels
Cost: Mid-to-high range
Good for: Guided experiences with optional hikes included
Notes: Great for first-time visitors
Canmore Travel
From: Canmore accommodations
Cost: Affordable
Good for: Convenient access from outside the park
Notes: Smaller group sizes and flexible booking
Fairview Limousine
From: Custom pickup (Banff, Canmore, Lake Louise)
Cost: Premium
Good for: Private luxury transfers
Notes: Ideal for special occasions or travelers seeking a quiet, comfortable ride
What to Do at Moraine Lake
Once you’ve made it to the lake, it’s time to explore! Here are a few can’t-miss things to do:
Rockpile Trail
A quick walk to the postcard viewpoint of Moraine Lake.
Moraine Lake • Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Larch Valley & Sentinel Pass
A moderate to challenging hike through golden larch trees (best in late September).
Larch Valley Hike • Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Consolation Lakes
A family-friendly, moderately-easy 3.0 hike that trail heads just behind the iconic Moraine Lake Rockpile.
Hiking Trails at Moraine Lake • Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Canoeing
Rent a canoe for that classic experience (available from Moraine Lake Lodge).
Canoe Rentals at Moraine Lake • Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada
Photography
Early morning and golden hour are unbeatable for reflections and colors.
Pro Tip:
Not seeing that vibrant Instagram-blue hue when you arrive? Don’t panic! The lake’s color depends on direct sunlight reflecting the glacial silt (called "rock flour") suspended in the water. On cloudy mornings or before sunrise, the lake can look dull or grayish-blue. Take a walk, be patient, and head to the Rockpile—that electric blue usually reveals itself once the sun hits just right!
Alternate Ways to Get to Moraine Lake
Feeling adventurous? Here are a few less conventional ways to reach Moraine Lake:
Biking
Route: Lake Louise to Moraine Lake (approx. 12 km each way)
Trail Conditions: Paved but with steady elevation gain
Good for: Early birds and cyclists who want to beat the crowds
Hiking
Route: Moraine Lake Highline Trail or Paradise Valley Connector
Distance: Varies by route, generally 8–14 km one-way
Good for: Experienced hikers with solid gear and a plan
Stay at Moraine Lake Lodge
Bonus: Guests get exclusive lake access and parking
Note: Rooms are very limited in peak season—contact me to book your stay!
Travel Tips and Extras
Best time to visit: Moraine Lake road is only accessible during summer months (typically from around June 1-October 1, pending snowfall and avalanche risk). This limited tourism window means there will likely be crowds during your visit— prepare to share the area with others.
Getting there: The nearest airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC), just under two hours away. There are multiple public and private shuttle/bus options departing from Canmore and Banff daily.
How long should we stay at Moraine Lake? Depending on your transportation selections and activity preferences, you can spend as little as an hour or a full day at Moraine Lake. Ask me about tour recommendations and tips for adding a Moraine Lake visit to your Banff and Lake Louise vacation itinerary!
Ready to Book Your Banff Adventure?
Whether you're planning a solo getaway, family adventure, or celebration trip, Moraine Lake delivers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences.
