Can I drive to Moraine Lake?
No - Since 2023, personal vehicles are not permitted to access Moraine Lake. As a tour operator, we have special permits which allow us access to Moraine Lake as well as special parking at Lake Louise, which regularly closes to the public due to reaching full capacity.
What is the best time to visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise?
Sunrise is becoming an increasingly popular choice for visitors year-round, however, the crowds are typically much smaller at sunrise than they are in the later morning and afternoon.
The best time to visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise is typically from July and August, when the weather is pleasant, and the lakes are thawed, revealing their stunning turquoise waters. However, if you prefer fewer crowds, consider visiting during early June or September to mid-October.
What should I wear and what should I bring for the tour?
We recommend dressing in layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Comfortable walking/hiking shoes are essential for exploring the area around the lakes. Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle.
What weather can I expect?
Weather in the mountains is often unpredictable and forecasts can be misleading. During summer, we can experience almost every type of weather imaginable. From very hot and dry conditions, to freezing cold conditions, we see it all. Not to mention, it can be cloudy, foggy & rainy, and we even sometimes see snow on our summer trips. With that being said, it’s common for the weather to change quickly, so if it’s cloudy & raining, cross your fingers and in no time it might just be bright and sunny again.
Note: The tour runs rain, snow or sunshine, but safety is our first priority. We may modify the itinerary if conditions are severe, to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
What hikes can I do during the tour?
There are several hiking trails catering to various skill levels around both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise. Some popular trails include the Rockpile Trail and the Shoreline Trail at Moraine Lake, both offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains with a relatively easy hike. At Lake Louise, the Fairview Lookout trail and Lakeshore trail are two great options depending on your preference for uphill hiking vs flatland.
Can I rent a canoe?
Yes and no. Canoes cannot be rented at Moraine Lake as the canoe rental operator does not open until 8:30am, well after we have departed on the sunrise tour. Canoes can be rented at Lake Louise (weather dependent).
Rentals are provided by the local operator and are strictly subject to availability. Rentals are on a first-come, first-serve basis, and cannot be pre-booked. In addition, priority access is given to guests staying at the Fairmont hotel.
Are there breakfast options available at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise?
Yes and no. There are no breakfast options at Moraine Lake, however there are grab-and-go food options at Lake Louise open from 8:30am. Please note that prices are expensive so we recommend bringing your own packed food.
Will I see wildlife and what might I see?
Wildlife sightings are common in Banff National Park, including around Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, plus along the journey from Banff or Canmore. Keep an eye out for animals such as elk, deer, bears, big horn sheep and more. Remember to maintain a safe distance and never approach or feed wildlife. Your guide will be sure to tell you about some of our popular animals, but be sure to ask questions if there is anything you want to learn.
While we aim to provide opportunities for wildlife sightings, we cannot guarantee encounters. The presence of wildlife can vary based on many factors like season, weather and even just our luck. Typically, the more you look, the luckier you often are.
What is the new 'Parks Canada Moraine Lake Access' fee?
Parks Canada have introduced a Moraine Lake Access Fee for 2025, which is already included in the price of your tour.
Is a National Park Pass included in the tour?
Yes - A park pass is included in the cost of your tour and is only valid for the duration of the tour.
What is the maximum group size?
Our tours are designed for small groups, with a maximum of 13 participants for shared tours, and 14 for private tours, which ensures a more personalized experience.
How long does it take to travel from Canmore and Banff to the lakes?
From Banff, the drive typically takes around 45 minutes to Lake Louise and about 60 minutes to Moraine Lake. From Canmore, it's usually an extra 15 minutes. Driving between the lakes takes approximately 20 minutes.
What type of tour vehicle will I be in?
Our fleet of Ford Transit tour vans comfortably seat 14 & 21 passengers plus your driver, and are designed to provide a smooth, spacious ride. Each van is equipped with high windows to soak in the scenery, along with air conditioning and heating to ensure you’ll enjoy a comfortable journey, no matter the season.
Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
While efforts have been made to improve accessibility within the National Park/s, many areas may be challenging for individuals with mobility impairments. Locations throughout the park have designated accessible and viewing areas, but access to certain trails and viewpoints may be limited. Unfortunately, our tour vehicles are not equipped with lift systems and as such, entering and exiting the vehicles may not be a suitable option for individuals with mobility impairments.
Are there opportunities for photography on the tour?
Banff National Park and its surrounding areas are a haven for photographers. With incredible glacial lakes, majestic mountain peaks, and countless other natural wonders, our tours are carefully crafted to provide you the opportunity to capture stunning photographs. We ensure that you not only have the time to snap incredible shots, but also to set aside your cameras and fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery. Not to mention, you’ll definitely want to have your camera ready to capture the sunrise and the alpenglow at Moraine Lake.
Will it be busy?
We do our very best to avoid the large crowds to give you a more relaxed and intimate experience, but it’s not always that simple. Banff National Park and the surrounding area attracts more than 4 million visitors per year, and Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are easily two of the most popular sights in the park. For those of you who want to try and avoid the crowds, fear not, as our guides can recommend spots at each of the lakes which are typically the least crowded.
Why choose Explore Banff?
Choose Explore Banff Tours & Transfers for thoughtfully designed itineraries, small group experiences, and expert local guides who ensure a personalized and immersive adventure. With convenient pickups & comfortable transportation, we prioritize quality over quantity for a stress-free, unforgettable journey. Support a local family owned tour company that truly cares about your experience in the Rockies!
