Moraine Lake, nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, is a shimmering jewel that captivates visitors. Often described as one of the most picturesque spots in Alberta, this glacier-fed lake offers breathtaking turquoise waters and majestic mountain backdrop.
Whether you’re hiking the trails, canoeing on the lake, or simply soaking in the views, Moraine Lake is a quintessential Alberta experience that’s sure to leave you in awe.
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Where is Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is located in Banff National Park, 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) from the village of Lake Louise in Alberta, Canada.
What is the main road closest to Moraine Lake?
The main road closest to Moraine Lake is known as Lake Louise Drive. It’s a fully paved road that leads to the lake. However, it’s best to note that as of 2023, personal vehicles are no longer allowed access to Moraine Lake.
How to Get to Moraine Lake
Closest bus stop: The best way to access Moraine Lake is via the shuttle bus at Calgary International Airport which stops at Canmore, Banff High School, and Lake Louise.
Alternatively, you can hop one of the services offered by private companies, such as Moraine Lake Bus Company, Fairview Limousine, and Parks Canada.
What to Do and See in Moraine Lake
Take on the Moraine Lake Lakeshore Hike
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The Moraine Lake Lakeshore Hike is a 5.1 km round-trip trail that starts from the Moraine Lake parking lot. With minimal elevation gain, this hike is accessible for most explorers and even pure beginners.
Hikers can choose to walk to a small waterfall at the lake’s end or turn back at any point. While the path is mostly flat, it is not fully paved, which is why properly gearing up is highly recommended.
The trail offers stunning views of Moraine Lake’s waters and the surrounding mountain peaks, perfect for taking gorgeous photos during a leisurely hike.
Walk through the Moraine Lake Rockpile Trail
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The Moraine Lake Rockpile Trail is an easy, 1 km round trip hike with a measly 10-meter elevation gain. Starting near the bathrooms on the east side of the parking lot, the well-marked trail easily leads to the Rockpile.
In just 10 minutes, you’ll be rewarded with jaw-dropping views of Moraine Lake and its surrounding Ten Peaks. This short hike is perfect for beginners and even families with small kids who want to burn energy.
Enjoy the Consolation Lakes Hike
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Another unmissable option is the Consolation Lakes hike. It’s an easy 2.9 km trail with a 65-meter elevation gain, taking about two hours to complete a round trip.
Starting from the parking lot, you can simply follow the signs to Consolation Lakes at the Rockpile fork. The trail offers stunning scenery with minimal effort. However, due to bear activity in the area, it’s required to hike in groups of four or more.
Challenge yourself to the Larch Valley Hike
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For those who simply can’t resist a challenge, the Larch Valley Hike offers a moderately difficult hike. This 8.5 km round-trip trail features a 535-meter elevation gain.
Starting from Moraine Lake’s west side parking lot, the trail leads through a picturesque forest of golden larch trees. Expect a rewarding 3 to 4-hour hike, ideal for intermediate and experienced hikers who love outdoor sightseeing.
Go to Sentinel Pass
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Sentinel Pass in Banff National Park offers a challenging 11.5 km round trip hike with an elevation gain of 762 meters. Starting from the Larch Valley trailhead, the steep ascent includes stunning views of the Valley of the Ten Peaks and a dense forest of larch trees.
From the summit, hikers can also glimpse Paradise Valley, which connects to Saddleback Pass – an option for those looking to extend their adventure towards Lake Louise.
Canoe in Moraine Lake
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Exploring Moraine Lake doesn’t stop at hikes and touring, you can also enjoy the lake via canoes.
If you book a stay at Moraine Lake Lodge, you get complimentary access to their canoes. Each canoe can accommodate 2-3 persons and is equipped with paddles, life jackets and basic instructions.
But because water levels rise depending on the season, canoeing in Moraine Lake closes down from mid-June to mid-September. So, avoid booking around those dates!
Take pictures of the water and the snowy peaks
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The best times to take pictures in Moraine Lake are between June and September, before the turquoise water starts to freeze in winter. But if you want photos of snow-capped mountains, then visit around winter.
To find the best photography location, take the pathway on the left of the parking lot. You’ll find large rock piles that stack up in front of the lake where the water appears the most blue.
Where to Eat and Drink in Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake Lodge
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Address: 1 Moraine Lake Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 403-522-3733
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 7:00 AM – 10:15 AM / 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM / 5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Pricing: $$$
Good to know: Offers hearty meals
Nestled in Banff National Park, the Walter Wilcox Dining Room offers a refined menu showcasing regional cuisine.
Highlights include AAA Alberta Beef Tenderloin ($85), Herb-Crusted Pickerel ($65), and Confit Chicken ($60).
With an elegant Rocky Mountain interior and views of Moraine Lake, it’s a must-visit for food lovers who want to enjoy great food with great vistas.
Post Hotel Dining Room Lake Louise
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Address: 200 Pipestone Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 403-522-3989
Pricing: $$$
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Good to know: Offers great seafood meals
The Dining Room at Post Hotel is perfect for those who want to enjoy an upscale dining experience with a rich range of flavors. Favorites include the Heirloom Tomato with Buffalo Mozzarella and Aged Balsamic, which offers a great blend of sweet and tangy tastes,
The B.C. Spot Prawn Ceviche is another personal favorite. It features a refreshing mix of citrusy Leche De Tigre, tropical Passion Fruit Reduction, and crispy rice.
The Cured King Salmon is ideal for those who prefer light meals. The dish showcases rich, delicate flavors heightened by wasabi cream and preserved lemon vinaigrette.
Whitehorn Bistro
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Address: 1 Whitehorn Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
Phone:+1 403-522-1310
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:00 AM – 4:45 PM
Good to know: Seasonal dishes
Located atop a sightseeing gondola, Whitehorn Bistro offers a gourmet menu featuring seasonal ingredients from local suppliers. Highlights include Whitehorn Burger and Albertan Honey & Tomato Antipasti.
They also serve cocktails with local spirits and BC VQA wines. For beer lovers, they also have a selection of Canadian craft beers that are perfect for a chill dinner night.
Plain of Six Glaciers Tea House
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Address: 0000000, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 403-762-3200
Pricing: $
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 11:30 PM – 4:30 PM
Good to know: Amazing baked goods
Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse is an amazing spot to enjoy baked goods amidst a serene mountain setting. Here you can enjoy their famous cinnamon cake, with its warm cinnamon spice and moist, fluffy texture.
The cinnamon’s soft crumb is perfect for any type of tea that you might fancy at the tea house (or coffee, depending on your mood). Just remember that the teahouse only accepts cash at the moment.
The Walliser Stube
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Address: 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 403-522-1817
Pricing: Pricing: $$
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 5:30 PM – 9:30 PM
Good to know: European cuisine
Walliser Stube offers a nightly showcase of innovative European alpine cuisine, featuring classic Swiss, German, and Alpine dishes. It’s a great choice for those who want a bit of Europe near Calgary.
Their signature Cheese Fondue is one of the crowd favorites here. It features Appenzeller and Emmental cheeses mixed with white wine, garlic, and a hint of kirsch. This dish pays homage to Swiss Mountain Guide heritage and is enhanced with confit garlic and nutmeg.
Where to Shop in Moraine Lake
Pipestone Quarry
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Address: 111 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 403-522-2359
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Good to know: Great for collectors
Pipestone Quarry, located in Lake Louise’s Samson Mall, offers an impressive selection of geodes, semi-precious gemstones, and other collectibles. While some items are typical of tourist shops, the store stands out for its unique and high-quality pieces.
Here, you can take souvenir items such as labradorite coasters, orthoceras fossil bowls, and dinosaur bone pendant beads.
If you’re a serious collector, you’ll have a great time here – but of course, casual shoppers are welcome as well.
Moon River Gift Gallery
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Address: 420C 9 Ave N, Golden, BC V0A 1H0, Canada
Phone: +1 403-678-9311
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Good to know: Offers trinkets
Moon River Gift Gallery offers a unique shopping experience with a diverse selection of crystals, clothing, and curiosities. For 36 years, the gallery has been the go-to spot in the area for various finds, mostly for tourists to take home as souvenirs.
Some of the stuff might be slightly pricier, especially if they’re hard-to-find stones. It’s best to come here with a decent amount of cash.
Wilsons Mountain Sports
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Address: Samson Mall, Building A, 101 Lake Louise Dr, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 403-522-3636
Operating hours: Monday – Sunday: 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Good to know: Sports equipment
This local outdoor store in Lake Louise provides an excellent array of summer adventure rentals. Selections include rock climbing gear, fishing kits, and new electric bikes.
The place is staffed by knowledgeable bike technicians who ensure all gear is well-maintained, so expect to score some high-quality products when you drop by.
Where to Stay in Moraine Lake
Post Hotel & Spa
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Address: 200 Pipestone Rd, Lake Louise, Banff National Park, Alberta T0L 1E0 Canada
Phone: +1 403-522-3989
Operating hours: 24/7
Pricing: $$
Post Hotel & Spa offers a variety of suites that meet any space needs. Their Executive Superior Suite offers an open-concept layout, perfect if you want a balcony with stunning views of the area.
If you’re looking for more space, consider their Executive Loft Suite which offers a loft area on top of what is available in the Executive Suites.
For large families, they have the Family Loft Suite specifically designed to accommodate you and all your loved ones.
Mountaineer Lodge
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Address: 101 Village Rd, Lake Louise, AB T0L 1E0, Canada
Phone: +1 403-522-3844
Operating hours: 24/7
Pricing: $$$
If you’re planning a trip to Moraine Lake, consider staying at The Mountaineer Lodge right in the heart of downtown. You’ll love the cozy atmosphere and amenities, including hot tubs and a complimentary breakfast.
They offer a range of accommodations, from pet-friendly rooms to spacious suites that are great for small groups.
Like most accommodations in the area, this lodge also offers fantastic mountain views, although that’ll depend on the suite you get.
The Juniper Hotel
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Address: 1 Juniper Way, Banff, Banff National Park, Alberta T1L 1E1 Canada
Phone: +1 866-551-2281
Pricing: $$
If you’re considering a stay in Banff, The Juniper Hotel is a fantastic choice. Their comfortable rooms come with free Wi-Fi, climate control, and French presses.
For something special, the King Fireplace Suite offers a jetted tub, a gas fireplace, and breathtaking mountain views.
If you’re traveling with a larger group, the 3-bedroom suite is perfect for up to eight guests. It includes a full kitchen, gas fireplace, and panoramic views, making it ideal for special occasions.
Peaks Hotel & Suites
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Address: 218 Lynx St, Banff, AB T1L 1K5, Canada
Phone: +1 800-661-1021
Pricing: $$
Peaks Hotel & Suites is an ideal serene escape just steps from the excitement of downtown Banff. You’ll love their cozy Standard Queen Rooms, which have two beds and all the essentials.
If you prefer more space, their Junior Studio Suites offer a king bed, an expanded living area, and a balcony. While the balcony has an alley view, every room provides a comfortable retreat.
Moose Hotel & Suites
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Address: 345 Banff Ave, Banff, AB T1L 1H8, Canada
Phone: +1 403-760-8570
Pricing: $$
Moose Hotel & Suites offers a variety of rooms equipped with complimentary wifi, coffee maker and tea kettle, in-room safe, and more. If you’re checking in with the elderly, they do have accessible rooms on the first floor.
If you’re looking for a room that gives the best view of the lake and the mountains, you can book their rooftop rooms that have one or two beds, a balcony, and a Mountain Rain Shower.
But what’s great about them is that their rooms welcome pets. You can also opt for a separate corner house, so you can enjoy your stay without crowding with people in an elevator.
