Getting to Moraine Lake isn't as simple as it used to be.
Private vehicles are no longer allowed on Moraine Lake Road — access is limited to shuttles, public transit, and licensed operators. During peak season, spots sell out quickly, especially for sunrise. This guide breaks down everything you need to plan your visit.
Can you drive to Moraine Lake?
No. Private vehicles are not allowed on Moraine Lake Road. The restriction is enforced year-round and there is no public parking available at the lake.
To visit Moraine Lake, you'll need to:
- Book a shuttle
- Take public transit
- Join a licensed tour operator
All visitors to Banff National Park must also have a valid Parks Canada pass. Shuttle tickets do not include park entry — purchase yours in advance at parks.canada.ca.
Best ways to get to Moraine Lake
Shuttle from Banff or Lake Louise
Most popular- Multiple departures daily
- Direct access to Moraine Lake
- Ideal for most travellers
Parks Canada shuttle
- Departures from Lake Louise
- Requires advance booking
- Often sells out quickly in summer
- Fixed departure schedules
Guided tours
- Includes transportation and sometimes extra stops
- More expensive than a standard shuttle
- Good option if you want a curated experience
The private shuttle from Banff or Lake Louise is the most flexible option — it offers more departure times and is easier to book last-minute than Parks Canada.
When should you book?
Book as early as possible — Moraine Lake is one of the most in-demand destinations in Banff National Park.
- Sunrise departures fill first
- Summer (June–September) books out days in advance
Waiting until the last minute often means limited options or no availability at all — especially for popular sunrise slots.
Where do shuttles depart from?
Most operators depart from the main towns in the Bow Valley:
- Banff — most operators, central pickup points
- Canmore — convenient if staying outside the park
- Lake Louise — closest to Moraine Lake, shortest ride
Exact pickup locations vary by operator and are shown before you book. Some operators offer hotel pickup — check the listing details.
Can you visit Moraine Lake and Lake Louise in one day?
Yes — and it's a popular combination. Both lakes are within the same area and many shuttle providers offer combined routes that connect them in a single trip.
Allow at least 2–3 hours at Moraine Lake if you want to walk the Rockpile Trail or take a canoe out on the water.
Check whether the operator offers a return trip or drop-off only — some routes are one-way and require a separate return booking.
Compare Moraine Lake shuttle options
Instead of checking multiple websites, you can compare routes, schedules, and availability across all operators in one place.
Search Moraine Lake shuttles