FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Moraine Lake? Moraine Lake is located off the number 1 Highway at the Lake Louise turn off between the Village and the actual lake. You will need to take a shuttle to the lake via the Ski Louise parking lot.
What is the best time of year to visit Moraine Lake? The best time of year to visit the lake is from June 1st through to mid October. The lake is busiest during the summer months, avoid it, if at all possible.
What is the best time of day to see Moraine Lake? The best time of day to see the lake is just after 10:00 am. This is when the light shines on the water and brings out that turquoise blue. Overcast or cloudy days will make it like just another lake, though still beautiful. You really need sunny days or sun and cloud days. Consult your Moraine Lake Forecast.
What's a Park Pass? Parks Canada requires everyone to purchase a park pass. It can be daily or yearly, group or single, one park specifically or all parks.
Is Moraine Lake open year round? Technically yes, but the road isn't. In the off season (mid October - June 1) the road is closed and converted into a cross country ski trail that ends at the avalanche area. To proceed further, you need special avalanche gear and training.
Can I bring my dog to Moraine Lake? Technically yes. But, unless it is a service dog with papers it wont be allowed on the public transport.
Can I rent a Canoe at Moraine Lake? Yes. Canoe rentals are available from 9:00 - 5:30 daily during the summer. Click here for details.
How long does it take to get to Moraine Lake? Once you are on Moraine Lake Rd., it can take 15-20 minutes by shuttle to get there, 1 hour to bike and 2 hours and 40 minutes to walk.
Where is best spot to view Moraine Lake? As you enter Moraine Lake you will see a "Rockpile" on you left hand side. This is the very best spot to view the lake. The gentle hike up to the top via a very manicured path is well worth the trouble. This hike is easy and will take you under 10 minutes.
What other hikes or trails are around Moraine Lake?
- Rockpile. An easy hike that takes less than 10 minutes... a must do.
- Lakeshore Trail. This will take about an hour and you will follow the lakeside trail past the Moraine Lake Lodge, past the canoe rentals and on to the far side of the lake. Then return the way you came. Rated easy.
- Consolation Lakes. This 2 and half hour hike will take you to another set of lakes. Out and back, rated easy.
- Larch Valley Sentinel Pass. A moderate hike that will take you 5 hours to complete. There is an area where you encounter switch backs, this is the most difficult part of the hike.
- Mt. Temple. Do Sentinel Pass first, then when you are at the pass take the path to your right and keep hiking. Total 9 hours there and back, rated difficult.
- Eiffel Lake and Peak. After the switchbacks on the way to Sentinel Pass, you will see a trail marked Eiffel Lake to your left, rated moderate. Further along the trail to Sentinel Pass you will see another marker for Eiffel Peak, rated difficult.
- Tower of Babel. A 2 and half hour "scramble" that will take you to the top, poles and helmet are recommended and rated moderate to difficult.
Why is the road always CLOSED? Moraine Lake is one if not thee most popular destination in the National Park. Demand to see this lake far exceeds capacity and 1000's are turned away every year. If you want to see Moraine Lake you will need to take a shuttle (see below).
Is there fish in the lake? Can I fish for them? Yes and yes. You can fish in the lake but you will need a special Nation Parks Fishing Pass.
Can I ride my bike to Moraine Lake? Yes, but be careful. You can ride your bike to Moraine Lake however, there is no shoulder, the road is narrow in spots and there are constantly large commercial vehicles driving on the road. Also, you are in bear country and should carry bear spray. It will take about 1 hour to traverse.
Can I walk to Moraine Lake? Yes, a little safer than biking. Just remember you are in bear country and should carry bear spray. It will take you about 2 hours and 40 minutes to walk to Moraine Lake.
Can I take a shuttle to Moraine Lake? Of course! Take a shuttle. There are several scheduled shuttles to choose from, but you have to reserve. Just click on the green button below and it will take you to the Park's Canada reservation page.
Is there a gift shop at Moraine Lake? Yes. All you typical souvenir knick knacks with embroidered Moraine Lake logo's, it is in the Moraine Lake Lodge.
Is there a cafeteria at Moraine Lake? Yes, there is food at Moraine Lake. Muffins, sandwiches, coffee, tea, and all other cafe confections are available.
Why won't my cell phone work at Moraine Lake? Because you are out of range of the cell tower.
Is there a public pay phone at Moraine Lake? Yes, there is a public pay phone anyone can use. There is also a phone in the Moraine Lake Lodge.
Was the Valley of the 10 Peaks on a Canadian $20 dollar bill? The $20 dollar bill was in circulation from 1969 to 1979.
Can you name all of the 10 Peaks? Mt. Fay, Mt. Little, Mt. Bowlen, Mt. Tonsa, Mt. Perren, Mt. Allen, Mt. Tuzo, Deltaform Mountain, Neptuak Mountain and Wenkchemna Peak.
What is the name of the glacier I can see off to the far left? It is the Fay Glacier.