A Guide to Moraine Lake in Banff National Park (2023)

Are you planning a trip to Moraine Lake in Banff National Park? This iconic glacial lake is a must-see destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. From hiking to photography, there’s something for everyone. In my guide, I’ll provide you with all the essential information you need to plan your visit to Moraine Lake in 2023 including answering questions like “Can you swim in Moraine Lake?”. Discover the best hiking trails, photography spots, accommodations, and best things to do. Let’s dive in!

About Moraine Lake in Banff National Park

Moraine Lake is famous for its stunning turquoise blue color and the surrounding mountain scenery. Its unique shade of blue is caused by the refraction of light off the rock flour (tiny particles of rock) in the glacial water. The lake’s beauty has been captured in countless photographs and paintings, making it a popular destination for nature lovers and photographers alike. Additionally, Moraine Lake has been featured in several films and television shows, cementing its status as an iconic Canadian landmark.

When does Moraine Lake open in 2023?

The opening date of Moraine Lake in 2023 may vary depending on weather and other factors, but typically, Moraine Lake opens to the public in late May or early June and closes in mid to late October. However, it’s always a good idea to check with Parks Canada closer to the time of your trip to confirm the exact opening date for the year.

How to get to Moraine Lake?

In 2023, Parks Canada has restricted personal vehicles from accessing Moraine Lake due to environmental concerns and traffic congestion. However, visitors can still access the lake by taking the shuttle bus provided by Parks Canada. 

Shuttle to Moraine Lake

Since personal vehicles are restricted from accessing Moraine Lake in 2023, there are a few different ways you can get there. The best way is if you take a shuttle bus from the Lake Louise Park and Ride, which is located about 14 km away from Moraine Lake. 

Here are some details:

1. The shuttle bus service will run from May to October 2023.
2. Visitors will need to purchase a shuttle bus ticket in advance, which includes the national park entry fee and the shuttle bus fee.
3. The shuttle bus departs from the Lake Louise Park and Ride and takes visitors to Moraine Lake.
4. It runs on a frequent schedule, so visitors can plan their trip accordingly.
5. The shuttle bus ticket is valid for the entire day, allowing visitors to spend as much time as they want at Moraine Lake before returning on the bus.

An important thing to note that the shuttle bus is the only way for visitors to access Moraine Lake in 2023, so it’s essential to plan ahead and purchase shuttle bus tickets in advance to ensure availability.

Hiking or Biking

Another option is to hike or bike the 14 km distance from Lake Louise down Moraine Lake Road. 

Stay Onsite

If you’re staying at the Moraine Lake Lodge, you may be able to arrange for their shuttle service to transport you to the lake. 

Keep in mind that some of these transportation options may require advance reservations, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

How much does it cost to go to Moraine Lake?

Access to Moraine Lake is included in the entry fee for Banff National Park. In 2023, the entry fee for adults (18-64 years old) is $10 CAD per day, while a yearly Discovery Pass is $69.19 CAD. Children and youth under 18 years old can enter for free. It’s important to note that there may be extra costs for parking, camping, and other activities. For example, the shuttle bus from the Lake Louise Overflow parking lot to Moraine Lake costs $10 CAD per person, and camping fees vary depending on the campsite and time of year. It’s always a good idea to check the Parks Canada website for up-to-date information on fees and regulations before planning your trip.

What are the best hiking trails around Moraine Lake?

If you’re looking for hiking trails around Moraine Lake, there are several great options to choose from. Here are some of the best hiking trails in the area:

1. Rockpile Trail: This short and easy trail takes you to the top of the rockpile at Moraine Lake. It’s a great place where you can get stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains.
2. Larch Valley Trail: This moderate trail is about 4.3 km one way and takes you through a beautiful valley filled with larch trees. The trail starts at Moraine Lake and ends at the Sentinel Pass.
3. Consolation Lakes Trail: This easy trail is about 3.4 km one way and takes you to a pair of small lakes surrounded by mountains. The trailhead is located about 8 km away from Moraine Lake.
4. Sentinel Pass Trail: This challenging trail is about 11 km round trip and takes you up to the pass between Mount Temple and Pinnacle Mountain. The trail offers the best view of the surrounding peaks and glaciers.
5. Eiffel Lake Trail: This moderate trail is about 5.2 km one way and takes you through a scenic valley to Eiffel Lake. The trailhead is located at Moraine Lake and offers great views of the Ten Peaks.
6. Mount Temple Trail: This difficult trail is about 16 km round trip and takes you to the summit of Mount Temple, the highest peak in Banff National Park. The trail is steep and requires scrambling, but the views from the summit are truly spectacular. The elevation gain of the Mount Temple Trail is approximately 1,675 meters (5,500 feet) from the parking lot to the summit. It’s important to note that the Mount Temple Trail is a challenging hike that requires experience and proper gear.

Keep in mind that some of these trails may have seasonal closures or restrictions, so it’s a good idea to check with Parks Canada or the visitor center before setting out on your hike.

How long does it take to hike the Rockpile Trail?

The Rockpile Trail at Moraine Lake is a short and easy trail that takes you to the top of the rockpile overlooking the lake. The trail is only 300 meters long and gains about 24 meters of elevation, so it’s a quick and easy hike for most people. The round-trip hike should take you less than 30 minutes, depending on your pace and how long you spend enjoying the view at the top. Keep in mind that Moraine Lake is a popular spot and the trail can be crowded during peak season, so you may want to plan your visit accordingly.

How much time do you need at Moraine Lake?

The amount of time you need at Moraine Lake really depends on what you want to do and see. If you just want to take a quick look and snap a few photos, you can probably do that in 30 minutes to an hour. However, if you’re planning on hiking one of the surrounding trails or renting a canoe to explore the lake, you’ll want to budget more time. A half-day to a full day at Moraine Lake is a good amount of time to explore the area and take in the stunning views. If you’re camping nearby, you could easily spend multiple days at Moraine Lake and the surrounding trails. It’s always a good idea to plan ahead and check the Parks Canada website for trail conditions and other updates before your visit.

What are the best photography spots at Moraine Lake?

Moraine Lake is one of the most picturesque spots in the Canadian Rockies, with stunning scenery in every direction. There are several great photography spots around the lake, but here are some of the best:

1. Rockpile: The top of the rockpile at Moraine Lake offers one of the most iconic views of the lake and the surrounding peaks. This is a great spot for capturing the classic postcard shot of Moraine Lake.
2. Lakeshore: The lakeshore is another great spot for photography, especially during the early morning or late afternoon when the light is soft and warm. You can capture reflections of the mountains and trees in the still waters of the lake.
3. Canoe dock: The canoe dock at Moraine Lake is a great spot for capturing the lake and the surrounding mountains from a different angle. You can rent a canoe and paddle out onto the lake for even more photo opportunities.
4. Larch Valley: The Larch Valley trail takes you through a stunning valley filled with larch trees, which turn golden in the fall. This is a great spot for capturing fall colors and sweeping views of the surrounding peaks.
5. Sentinel Pass: The Sentinel Pass trail is a challenging hike that takes you up to a high pass with stunning views of the surrounding peaks and glaciers. This is a great spot for capturing panoramic views of the area.
6. Eiffel Lake: The Eiffel Lake trail takes you through a scenic valley to a beautiful alpine lake with stunning views of the Ten Peaks. This is a great spot for capturing reflections of the mountains in the still waters of the lake.

Remember that photography restrictions and regulations may apply in some areas, so it’s always a good idea to check with Parks Canada or the visitor center before taking photos.

What are some of the photography restrictions or regulations in the Moraine Lake area?

If you’re planning to take photographs in the Moraine Lake area, there are a few important regulations to keep in mind. These rules are in place to protect the natural environment and ensure the safety of visitors, as well as to preserve the area’s beauty for future generations to enjoy. Some of the key regulations include:

1. Drones: You cannot fly a drone in Banff National Park, including the Moraine Lake area. This is to protect wildlife, ensure visitor safety, and maintain the natural environment.
2. Wildlife: It’s important to keep a safe distance from wildlife and not approach or feed them. This is for your safety as well as that of the animals, and to prevent habituation and dependency on humans.
3. Vegetation: Please don’t damage or trample vegetation, including flowers, trees, and shrubs. This is to preserve the natural beauty of the area and protect the fragile ecosystem.
4. Trails: You’re required to stay on designated trails and not create new ones. This is to protect the natural environment and prevent erosion and damage to the ecosystem.
5. Commercial photography: If you’re planning to take photographs for commercial use or sale, you’ll need a permit from Parks Canada, and fees may apply.
6. Respect for others: Please be considerate of other visitors and not interfere with their experience or photography. This includes not blocking pathways or viewpoints, and not disturbing the natural environment with excessive noise or litter.

By following these regulations, you can help protect the Moraine Lake area’s natural beauty and ensure that it remains a stunning destination for everyone to enjoy.

Can you swim in Moraine Lake?

Unfortunately, swimming is not allowed in Moraine Lake. The water is extremely cold and there are no lifeguards on duty, so it can be dangerous to swim in the lake. The lake is fed by glacier meltwater with temperatures rarely rising above 10°C (50°F) even during the summer months. Additionally, the lake is a protected area, and swimming or any other water activities are not permitted in order to protect the delicate ecosystem of the lake. Visitors can still enjoy the lake’s stunning views and take part in activities such as hiking, canoeing, and photography.

However, there are other nearby lakes and rivers where you can swim if you’re looking for a refreshing dip on a hot day.

What are the best places to stay near Moraine Lake?

If you’re looking for places to stay near Moraine Lake, there are several lodging options available in the area. Here are some of the best places for you to consider:

1. Moraine Lake Lodge: This lodge is the closest accommodation to Moraine Lake, with private cabins, lodge rooms, and suites available. The lodge offers a restaurant, a bar, and a range of outdoor activities, including guided hikes and canoe rentals.
2. Lake Louise Inn: This hotel is located about 20 minutes from Moraine Lake and offers a variety of room types, including standard rooms, suites, and condos. The hotel features a restaurant, a spa, and an indoor pool.
3. Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: This iconic hotel is located on the shore of Lake Louise, about 25 minutes from Moraine Lake. The hotel offers a range of room types, including mountain view rooms, lake view rooms, and suites. The hotel features several restaurants, a spa, and an indoor pool.
4. Deer Lodge: This historic lodge is located in Lake Louise, about 20 minutes from Moraine Lake. The lodge offers a range of room types, including standard rooms, loft rooms, and cabins. The lodge features a restaurant and a rooftop hot tub.
5. Mountaineer Lodge: This lodge is located in the town of Lake Louise, about 20 minutes from Moraine Lake. The lodge offers a range of room types, including standard rooms and suites. The lodge features a restaurant, a sauna, and a hot tub.

If you prefer camping, there are also several campgrounds available in the area, including the Moraine Lake Campground and the Lake Louise Campground.

What is the best time of year to visit Moraine Lake?

The best time of year to visit Moraine Lake depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to see the lake in all its turquoise glory, then the best time to visit is during the summer season, typically from June to early September. During this time, the lake is typically ice-free and you can enjoy activities like canoeing and hiking.

However, keep in mind that summer is also peak tourist season, so the area can get quite crowded, and parking can be a challenge. If you prefer a quieter and more peaceful experience, you may want to consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of May or October. During these times, the crowds are thinner, and the fall colors can be particularly beautiful.

Winter is also a magical time to visit Moraine Lake if you’re a fan of snow and winter sports. From November to April, the lake is typically frozen, and you can enjoy activities like ice skating, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing. However, keep in mind that the road to Moraine Lake is closed during the winter, and you’ll need to access the area via shuttle or guided tour.

No matter when you choose to visit, Moraine Lake is a breathtaking destination that’s sure to leave you in awe of the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

Are there any restrictions on hiking or camping around Moraine Lake?

Yes, there are some restrictions on hiking and camping around Moraine Lake to help protect the delicate ecosystem and ensure visitor safety. Here are some of the main restrictions to keep in mind:

Camping: Overnight camping is not permitted at Moraine Lake, and there are no designated backcountry campsites in the immediate area. However, there are several nearby campgrounds that you can stay at, including the nearby Lake Louise Campground and the Two Jack Lakeside Campground.

Hiking: There are several hiking trails around Moraine Lake, but it’s important to stay on designated trails to avoid damaging the fragile ecosystem. Also, pets are not allowed on any of the trails in the area to help protect the wildlife.

Bear Safety: The Moraine Lake area is home to a significant population of grizzly bears and black bears. It’s important to take bear safety precautions while hiking, such as making noise, traveling in groups, carrying bear spray, and being aware of bear signs and habitat.

Fishing: Fishing is permitted in Moraine Lake, but you must have a valid fishing license and follow all regulations and restrictions set by Parks Canada.

By following these guidelines, you can help ensure that the Moraine Lake area remains a pristine and beautiful wilderness destination for years to come.

What are the weather conditions like at Moraine Lake?

Moraine Lake is located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains and is subject to a variety of weather conditions throughout the year.

In the summer months (June to August), temperatures can range from around 10°C to 25°C (50°F to 77°F), with occasional rain showers and thunderstorms. It’s also not uncommon to see snow at higher elevations in the summer.

In the fall (September to November), temperatures can range from around 0°C to 15°C (32°F to 59°F), with cooler nights and occasional snowfall. Fall foliage is a popular attraction during this time of year.

In the winter (December to February), temperatures can range from around -20°C to 0°C (-4°F to 32°F), with heavy snowfall and occasional periods of extreme cold.

In the spring (March to May), temperatures can range from around -5°C to 10°C (23°F to 50°F), with occasional snowfall and frequent rain showers.

It’s important to note that weather conditions in the mountains can be unpredictable and can change quickly, so it’s always a good idea to check weather forecasts and be prepared for a range of conditions when visiting Moraine Lake.

What are some of the best lakes surrounding Moraine Lake?

There are several other beautiful lakes in the area surrounding Moraine Lake, including:

1. Lake Louise
2. Peyto Lake
3. Bow Lake
4. Hector Lake
5. Emerald Lake
6. Consolation Lakes
7. Lake Minnewanka: This is the warmest lake in Banff National Park. Due to its size and depth, it retains more heat than some of the smaller lakes in the area, resulting in relatively warm water temperatures during the summer months. However, it’s important to note that the water in all of the incredible lakes in Banff National Park is generally quite cold year-round, so visitors should exercise caution when swimming or boating.
8. Vermilion Lakes
9. Maligne Lake (a bit further away along the Icefields Parkway in Jasper National Park)

Each of these alpine lakes offers their own unique beauty and outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy.

How far is Moraine Lake from the Town of Banff?

Moraine Lake is located approximately 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) southeast of Lake Louise in Banff National Park. The distance between Banff town and Moraine Lake is approximately 40 kilometers (25 miles) and takes around 45 minutes to 1 hour to drive depending on traffic and road conditions on the trans-Canada highway.

If you’re planning a trip in the winter, read about 33 Things to Do in Lake Louise in Winter and 3 Reasons to Visit Banff in Winter.

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