If you’re planning a trip to the Canadian Rockies, visiting Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in Banff National Park is a must. These two world-famous lakes are only a short distance apart, yet getting from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake has become more complicated due to parking restrictions, shuttle requirements, and increasing visitor demand.
Good news: You can still get there easily — you just need the right plan.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
How to get from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake
Shuttle options, costs, schedules, and what to book in advance
When to visit for the best experience and fewer crowds
Pro tips only locals know
A real travel case study
Whether you love scenic viewpoints or want perfect photos of the turquoise water, this blog will help you plan a smooth trip.
Content
How to Get from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake (Easiest Options)
The distance from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake is only 14 km (8.7 miles) — but private vehicles are no longer allowed at Moraine Lake during the tourist season (late May to mid-October). This means you cannot drive your personal car to Moraine Lake during peak months.
Your best choices are:
Moraine Lake Shuttle Options (most affordable)
Tour Bus or Private Shuttle Service
Biking from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake (adventurous route)
Taxi or private transfer (expensive but convenient)
1. Parks Canada Shuttle (Most Popular and Affordable)
If you’re looking for the cheapest and most convenient option, book the Parks Canada shuttle service from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake.
Approximate Cost: CAD $8–$21 (varies based on age + parking add-on)
Why choose it:
Guaranteed access to both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise
Simple round-trip route
Frequent departure times throughout the day
Pro Tip: Book your shuttle online weeks before your trip — spots sell out during peak season.
2. Moraine Lake Bus Company (Early Sunrise Photography Access)
If sunrise photography is your goal, this shuttle service is your best bet.
Why? Unlike Parks Canada, this company offers sunrise departures — perfect if you’re dreaming about that glowing turquoise water shot.
Cost: CAD $35–$59 Perk: Some packages include both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake on the same trip.
3. Bike From Lake Louise to Moraine Lake (For Adventure Seekers)
Want a challenge? You can bike the 14 km road to Moraine Lake.
Zero parking worries
Great opportunity for scenic stops
The uphill ride is intense but rewarding
Just be prepared for changing weather and wildlife encounters.
4. Taxi / Private Transfer (Fastest, Most Convenient)
If convenience matters more than budget, book a private transfer.
This option is great for:
Families
Travelers short on time
Those who don’t want to manage shuttle schedules
Estimated cost: CAD $75 – $150 one-way
Shuttle Schedule & Best Times to Go
The best time to visit Moraine Lake is sunrise to mid-morning. Not only is the light magical, but the water color looks unreal — deep turquoise with mirror-like reflections.
Typical schedule window:
5:00 AM to 7:00 PM, depending on the shuttle provider
Always check updated times before booking because schedules change every year.
Best Time of Year to Visit (Avoid Disappointment!)
Moraine Lake is only accessible from late May to mid-October.
Outside this period, the access road is closed due to avalanche danger.
Local Tips to Make Your Trip Stress-Free
Book shuttles early morning — lighter crowds, best lighting.
Bring layers. Weather can change quickly.
Snacks + water = essential. There are no food vendors at Moraine Lake.
If you want the best photos, follow the Rockpile Trail (10–15 minutes hike) for classic panoramic views.
Real-Life Case Study (Traveler Experience)
Last July, a traveler named Amelia from New Zealand planned her visit. She drove from Calgary to Banff, expecting to simply park at Moraine Lake.
But when she arrived at the Moraine Lake road, she found it closed to personal vehicles.
Frustrated, she returned to Lake Louise village and learned that the shuttle service from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake still had seats available for late afternoon. She booked the 2:15 PM Parks Canada shuttle, enjoyed an easy ride to the lake, and spent the afternoon on the Rockpile viewpoint. She told me:
“I almost missed Moraine Lake because I didn’t know about the parking restrictions. Booking the shuttle saved the day.”
This is why planning ahead matters — especially during peak season.
Estimated Budget (Per Person)
Item
Average Cost
Parks Canada Shuttle
CAD $8 – $21
Sunrise Shuttle (Private Tour)
CAD $35 – $59
Taxi / Private Transfer
CAD $75 – $150
Bike Rental
CAD $25 – $50
Final Thoughts
Visiting Moraine Lake isn’t difficult — it just requires planning.
The best way to get from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake is to book a shuttle early, avoid parking frustrations, and enjoy the journey. Whether you choose the affordable Parks Canada shuttle or a sunrise photo tour, your effort will be rewarded when you reach one of the most iconic lakes on the planet.
Moraine Lake is not just a destination — it’s an unforgettable experience.
FAQs
Is there parking at Moraine Lake?
No — there is no public parking during the tourist season. You must take a shuttle or tour.
How long is the ride from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake?
About 25–30 minutes, depending on traffic and weather.
What’s the cheapest way to reach Moraine Lake from Lake Louise?
The Parks Canada shuttle is the cheapest and most convenient option.
An avid traveler, Kirk Grover has been to over 50 countries. He has an extensive background in tourism and hospitality management, along with a degree in Hospitality Management from the University of Nevada Las Vegas. Kirk is very knowledgeable about travel-related topics – they are always up to date on the latest deals for flights, hotels, and other adventures around the world.
