Travel Plan
Moraine Lake

Home Canada Banff & Lake Louise Moraine Lake

ATTRACTION GUIDE · BANFF & LAKE LOUISE

Moraine Lake

A vivid blue lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks — one of the most photographed views in Canada.

Tickets & tours Open in Google Maps
Time needed
Half a day
Entry
Shuttle/tour only
Best time
June–September
Area
Banff National Park

Green-blue lakes under cliffs.

Where it is & how to get there

Address: Moraine Lake Rd, Lake Louise, AB

  • Access: Private vehicles are no longer allowed; use the Parks Canada shuttle, Roam Transit or a commercial tour.
  • Viewpoint: Climb the Rockpile Trail (about 10 minutes) for the famous view.
  • Season: Road open roughly June to mid-October.

The story of Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake sits at about 1,885 metres in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, near Lake Louise. Like its neighbour, its colour comes from glacial rock flour.

The view from the Rockpile once appeared on the Canadian twenty-dollar bill.

Best time to visit

Best season

Late June to September.

Best time of day

Sunrise (book the earliest shuttle or a sunrise tour).

Autumn

Golden larches in late September.

Tips before you go

  • Drive the Icefields Parkway for more.
  • Book shuttle seats as soon as they open.
  • Climb the Rockpile for the classic photo.

Best hotels near Moraine Lake

Well-known hotels within easy reach. Check prices and availability for your dates.

Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise

Grand hotel on the lakeshore.

See prices

Fairmont Banff Springs

The "Castle in the Rockies".

See prices

Moraine Lake Lodge

Lodge on Moraine Lake (seasonal).

See prices
All hotels near Moraine Lake

What's around Moraine Lake

  • Lake Louise20 minutes by shuttle.
  • Larch ValleyAutumn hike.
  • Consolation LakesShort hike.
  • Banff town1 hour away.

Questions travellers ask

Can I drive to Moraine Lake?

No, use the shuttle or a tour.

Where is the famous view?

The Rockpile Trail.

When is it open?

About June to mid-October.

More in Banff & Lake Louise

Lake Louise

Lake Louise

Read the guide
Back to the Banff & Lake Louise guide
Travel Plan · Moraine Lake Travel times, prices and opening hours change. Check official sites before you go. Photos: Unsplash. Privacy & disclosure