If you’ve ever seen a picture of Moraine Lake at sunrise, you know it’s a sight that dreams are made of. The shimmering turquoise waters reflecting the majestic peaks of the Valley of the Ten Peaks create a scene that’s almost surreal. To witness this breathtaking view in person, particularly at sunrise, is a bucket-list experience. But as of 2023, there are some significant changes to how you can access this iconic spot. In this guide, I will walk you through everything you need to know to make your sunrise visit to Moraine Lake a seamless and unforgettable adventure.
I took a trip with 3 of my closest girlfriends to Banff in September of 2023. Our entire trip was planned around this iconic spot. It was also 100% worth all of the effort. I am going to make sure you get that same experience.
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Where is Moraine Lake?
Moraine Lake is located in the heart of Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, it’s about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) from the village of Lake Louise and roughly 70 kilometers (43 miles) from the town of Banff. The lake sits at an elevation of approximately 1,885 meters (6,183 feet), surrounded by towering peaks and lush forests, making it one of the most picturesque spots in the entire park.
A Quick Look at Banff National Park
If you are short on time, here is a quick mini guide to Banff National Park
Where to stay:
Banff
Canmore (we stayed here and loved it)
Lake Louise
Field
When to visit:
-Summer (June-September) best for hiking
-shoulder season (October) fewer crowds
-Winter (December-March) best for skiing
Things to Do:
–Hiking
–Horseback riding
–Canyoning
–Via Ferrata (we did the 4 hour tour)
Key Information About Banff National Park
Overview
Banff National Park, established in 1885, is Canada’s oldest national park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Spanning over 6,641 square kilometers (2,564 square miles), the park boasts a diverse range of landscapes, from dense forests and alpine meadows to glaciers and ice fields. It’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering activities like hiking, skiing, wildlife viewing, and, of course, photography.
Entry Fees and Passes
To enter Banff National Park, you’ll need a park pass. Daily passes are available, but if you plan on spending more than a few days exploring the park, it might be worth investing in a Discovery Pass, which provides unlimited access to all Canadian national parks for an entire year. You can purchase passes online, at park gates, or visitor centers. It is important to note, that all passes must be printed and displayed on the dash of your vehicle while traveling in the national park. So you can’t buy your pass in the car in transit.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Moraine Lake is from late June to early October, when the road to the lake is open and the weather is generally more favorable. Summer temperatures in Banff National Park can range from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F) during the day, but mornings and evenings can be quite chilly, especially at higher elevations. Always check the weather forecast before heading out and dress in layers to stay comfortable.
Exploring Banff National Park? Check out these helpful links
Booking.com
1. Find your dream accommodations
Elevate your experience at by booking a stay at the Fairmont and enjoy their luxurious spa. Or stay in the neighboring Canmore with more affordable lodging and phenomenal views. Browse the wide options offered by Booking.com.
Discover Cars
2. Rent an Car
A car is a necessity while exploring Banff National Park. Set your own pace and schedule. If you are staying long enough, explore the neighboring Yoho, Golden, or Jasper. A trip to Banff also isn’t complete without a drive on the Icefields Parkway.
Viator
3. Book your activities
Enjoy unforgettable tours and activities while exploring Banff. From guided hikes, scenic gondola rides, and horseback riding to heart pounding adventures like canyoning and via ferratas. Find it all here.
New Changes Implemented in 2023: No Vehicle Access
Understanding the New Rules
In 2023, Parks Canada implemented new rules regarding access to Moraine Lake to manage the high volume of visitors and protect the delicate ecosystem. The most significant change is that private vehicles are no longer allowed to access the Moraine Lake Road. This means you can no longer drive your own car directly to the lake.
Why the Change?
The decision to restrict vehicle access was made to reduce traffic congestion, minimize environmental impact, and enhance the overall visitor experience. In previous years, the road to Moraine Lake would often reach capacity very early in the morning, leading to traffic jams and parking issues. The new rules aim to provide a more sustainable and enjoyable way for visitors to experience this natural wonder.
How to Get to Moraine Lake in 2023
With the new restrictions in place, here are the alternative ways to reach Moraine Lake:
Shuttle Services
Parks Canada operates shuttle services from the Lake Louise Park and Ride to Moraine Lake. These shuttles run frequently throughout the day, starting before sunrise to accommodate early risers looking to catch the first light. Tickets can be booked online in advance, which is highly recommended due to high demand.
Roam Transit
Roam Transit offers public bus services that connect Banff, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake. This is a convenient and eco-friendly option, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic ride without the hassle of driving and parking.
Guided Tours
Several tour companies offer guided excursions to Moraine Lake, including sunrise tours. These tours often include transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and sometimes additional activities like hiking or photography sessions.
Stay at Moraine Lake Lodge
Lodging is available overnight at the Moraine Lake Lodge. Accommodations here allow you to drive your car there with your luggage and park it. It is quite pricey, and you should book in advance.
Bike up Moraine Lake Road
You can park at the beginning of the road (spaces limited) and choose to bike the 8.7 miles (14 km) uphill. The road is narrow and tour/shuttle buses drive on it.
Planning Your Moraine Lake Sunrise Visit
Why Sunrise?
Sunrise at Moraine Lake is a magical experience. The soft, golden light of dawn illuminates the rugged peaks and casts a warm glow over the pristine waters. The tranquility of the early morning, with fewer crowds and the serene sounds of nature, creates a peaceful and awe-inspiring atmosphere that’s hard to match at any other time of day.
Booking Your Shuttle
To catch the sunrise, you’ll need to book one of the earliest shuttles. Parks Canada’s website allows you to reserve your spot in advance. The shuttles start running as early as 4:30 AM during peak season, ensuring you arrive at the lake well before the sun peeks over the horizon. Be sure to check the exact timing for sunrise on the day of your visit and plan accordingly.
What to Bring
Here’s a list of essentials to pack for your sunrise adventure:
– Warm Clothing: Early mornings can be quite cold, even in summer. Wear layers to stay warm and bring a hat and gloves if needed.
– Camera Gear: A camera with a good zoom lens, a tripod, and extra batteries will help you capture the stunning sunrise.
– Snacks and Water: There are no facilities at the lake, so bring some snacks and water to keep you energized.
– Flashlight or Headlamp: If you’re heading out before dawn, a flashlight or headlamp will help you navigate the dark trails.
– National Park Pass: Make sure you have your park pass with you.
Experiencing Moraine Lake
The Rockpile Trail
One of the best vantage points for viewing Moraine Lake is from the top of the Rockpile. This short, easy trail starts near the parking area and takes you up a series of steps to a viewpoint offering panoramic views of the lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. The climb isn’t too challenging and most of the visitors will be heading in this direction. This is an amazing spot, especially at sunrise when the light is just right for photography.
The Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail
For a different perspective, take a stroll along the Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail. This relatively flat, easy trail follows the edge of the lake, providing beautiful views from various angles. The trail is about 1.5 kilometers (1 mile) long and is perfect for a leisurely walk after watching the sunrise.
Canoeing on Moraine Lake
While most people come to Moraine Lake for the views, renting a canoe is another fantastic way to experience its beauty. Canoe rentals are available at the lake, and paddling on the crystal-clear waters surrounded by towering peaks is an unforgettable experience. The canoes are typically available starting at 9:00 AM, so this is a great activity to consider after your sunrise visit.
Photography Tips
Capturing the perfect sunrise shot at Moraine Lake requires some preparation and patience. Here are a few tips to help you get the best photos:
– Arrive Early: Get to the lake well before sunrise to secure a good spot, especially on the Rockpile where the best views are found.
– Use a Tripod: A tripod will help you keep your camera steady in low light conditions.
– Experiment with Settings: Try different shutter speeds and apertures to capture the changing light.
– Look for Reflections: The calm waters of Moraine Lake provide beautiful reflections of the surrounding peaks, so take advantage of this natural mirror.
– Be Patient: The light changes quickly at sunrise, so stay patient and keep shooting as the scene evolves.
Exploring Beyond Moraine Lake
Lake Louise
After experiencing the sunrise at Moraine Lake, consider visiting nearby Lake Louise. Just a short drive or shuttle ride away, Lake Louise is another stunning alpine lake with a beautiful turquoise hue. The Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail offers easy walking and fantastic views, while the more challenging Plain of Six Glaciers Trail provides a rewarding hike with spectacular scenery.
Hiking in the Area
Banff National Park is a hiker’s paradise, with trails for all levels of experience. Here are a few recommendations:
– Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass: Starting from Moraine Lake, this hike takes you through beautiful larch forests and up to a high mountain pass with incredible views.
– Plain of Six Glaciers: This trail near Lake Louise offers a mix of forest, alpine meadows, and glacier views, ending at a historic teahouse.
– Big Beehive: Also starting at Lake Louise, this hike takes you up to a lookout with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding peaks.
Wildlife Viewing
Banff National Park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including grizzly and black bears, elk, moose, and mountain goats. Early mornings are a great time to spot wildlife, as many animals are more active at dawn. Always keep a safe distance and follow park guidelines to protect both yourself and the animals.
Staying in the Area
Accommodations
There are several options for accommodations in and around Lake Louise and Banff National Park:
– Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise: A luxurious option right on the shores of Lake Louise, offering stunning views and top-notch amenities.
– Lake Louise https://tripadvisor.tp.st/Qjg4eZBQInn: A more budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms and a convenient location.
–Canmore: We personally stayed in Canmore at the Blackstone Mountain Lodge. The accommodations were gorgeous, and it was so affordable for a group of 4. There was an onsite pool and 2 hot tubs as well.
– Camping: For a more rustic experience, consider camping at one of the park’s campgrounds. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak season.
Dining
After your sunrise adventure, you’ll likely be ready for a hearty breakfast. Here are a few recommendations:
– Trailhead Cafe: Located in Lake Louise Village, this cafe offers delicious breakfast options and great coffee.
– Lakeview Lounge: At the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, the Lakeview Lounge offers stunning views
Explore Banff and Relax
After a long morning, you may just want to take it easy for the rest of the day. Walk around Banff and explore or go grab a spa treatment at the Fairmont Banff. Their spa is incredible and we had the best girls day there.
Conclusion
I hope this blog is helpful in making all of your Lake Moraine Sunrise dreams come true! If you love exploring the outdoors and gorgeous mountain scenery, check out my other blogs! If you are new at day hiking, you can find everything you need to know here!
