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Lake Moraine, Canada: A complete guide
Updated: Jun 17
With waters coming directly from Fay Glacier, Lake Moraine sits proudly in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, just outside of the hamlet of Lake Louise, in Banff National Park, Alberta. Surrounding glaciers continuously deposit 'rock flour' into the lake, the refraction of light from this flour giving the lake its incredible azure blue color, all year round.
In this blog post, we'll guide you on a journey through the wonders of Lake Moraine and explore just what makes it such a unique and unforgettable experience.
Read on for all you need to know about this epic natural wonder with our highlights, a bit of history, facts, and all you need to know to plan your trip to Lake Moraine.
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Our Lake Moraine highlights
Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, just a short drive Lake Louise in Banff National Park, lies one of Canada's most stunning natural wonders - Lake Moraine. With its crystal-clear turquoise waters and breathtaking surrounding landscapes, Lake Moraine is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to western Canada.
Perhaps the most striking feature of Lake Moraine is its stunning, and most unforgettable, turquoise color. The unique hue is the result of light reflecting off the rock flour that is carried into the lake by nearby glaciers. This creates a mesmerizing effect that changes throughout the day as the sun moves across the sky. Whether you're admiring the lake from the shoreline or exploring it by canoe or kayak, the beauty of Lake Moraine is truly awe-inspiring and definitely blew us away.
But the water is only one part of the natural beauty that encompasses Lake Moraine. The surrounding mountains are a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts, with miles of trails that wind through pristine forests and meadows.
Wildlife is abundant in the area as well, with sightings of bears, elk, and mountain goats common in the summer months. We were passing through and had limited time so did not get a chance to try, but we would certainly like to in a future visit. The views from up in the mountains is said to be amongst the best in all of the Rocky Mountains.
Neighboring Lake Louise tends to get most of the attention, yet Lake Moraine is rising in popularity and we can see why. It is really hard to pick a favorite, as they are both very special in their own way. We were very grateful to see both, and given the short distance between them, we recommend doing the same!
From crystal-clear waters to its majestic mountain views, experience the enchanting beauty of this crown jewel destination in Banff, Canada.
History of Lake Moraine in Canada
Lake Moraine was formed during the last ice age, approximately 10,000 years ago. As the glaciers began to melt, they left behind a series of large depressions, which eventually filled with water and formed the lakes we know today. The name "Moraine" comes from the Latin word "mora," meaning "mound of earth," which refers to the glacial deposits that can be found around the lake.
For many years, Lake Moraine was largely unknown to the outside world. It wasn't until the early 1900s that it began to attract visitors, thanks in large part to the construction of a nearby road and the establishment of a lodge on the shores of the lake. Today, Lake Moraine is a popular destination for tourists from around the world, drawn to its pristine beauty and serene atmosphere.
Read on for more information on how to get there, lake visiting times and our Lake Moraine rating.
10 Facts about Lake Moraine
1. Lake Moraine is located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada, and is a glacially-fed lake, its primary flows coming from Fay Glacier and Larch Creek.
2. The lake has a unique turquoise color, which is the result of light reflecting off the rock flour that is continuously carried into the lake by nearby glaciers, all year round.
3. The lake has a maximum depth of 14.5 meters (47.6 feet) and a surface area of 0.5 square kilometers (0.19 square miles).
4. Lake Moraine was named after the moraines, which are glacial deposits that can be found around the lake.
5. The lake has been featured on the Canadian twenty dollar bill in the past, which was in circulation between 1969 and 1979.
6. Lake Moraine is surrounded by the Ten Peaks, a series of majestic mountains that rise up to 3,000 meters (9,800 feet) above sea level.
7. The lake is a popular spot for hiking, with several trails leading to the surrounding peaks and offering breathtaking views of the lake and the mountains.
8. The lake is also a popular spot for fishing, with rainbow and brook trout being the most commonly caught species.
9. Lake Moraine was used as a filming location for the 1953 movie "River of No Return," which starred Marilyn Monroe and Robert Mitchum.
10. The lake is a protected area, and motorized boats are not allowed on the lake in order to preserve the tranquility, eco system and surrounding natural beauty.
Lake Moraine visiting times
The visiting times for Lake Moraine can vary depending on the season and weather conditions. Typically, the lake is accessible from mid-May to mid-October, although this is of course subject to weather conditions.
During the summer months, the lake is open from early morning until late evening, with specific hours again varying throughout the season. In the fall, the lake may have more limited hours due to unpredictable weather patterns and reduced daylight hours.
It's always a good idea to check the specific visiting times for the activities or facilities you're interested in on the Banff National Park website before you go, to avoid disappointment.
Best time to visit Lake Moraine
Lake Moraine is a popular destination year-round, and the best time to visit can depend on what you want to do and what type of experience you are looking for.
⪢ Peak Season: June to August
Lake Moraine can get very crowded during peak season, especially during weekends and holidays. If you prefer a quieter experience, consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon, or in the shoulder season (May, September, and October).
⪢ Best time to visit for activities: June to August
The summer months offer the most activities at Lake Moraine, including hiking, kayaking, and fishing. If you're interested in these activities, then summer is the best time to visit. However, if you're interested in seeing the fall foliage or enjoying the snow, then the shoulder season or winter months would be ideal.
⪢ Best time for photos
The unique turquoise color of Lake Moraine is especially stunning during the early morning or late afternoon, when the sun is at a lower angle and the light is softer. If you're interested in photography, then these times can be the best for capturing stunning photos.
⪢ The weather
The weather can greatly impact your experience at Lake Moraine and is the most important factor to consider. The summer months (June to August) generally have the warmest temperatures, the most sunshine, and are the most popular. However, the fall months (September to October) can also be a great time to visit, with cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage as the surrounding forests come alive with vibrant colors when the leaves begin to change.
Winter is a magical time too, with the surrounding mountains covered in snow and the lake frozen over, creating a winter wonderland that is perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.
Things to know when visiting Lake Moraine
Before you set out, it's a good idea to be aware of some important things to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip. Here are some important things to know before visiting Lake Moraine:
⪢ Permits & fees
To access Lake Moraine, visitors will need to pay the admission fee for Banff National Park. Additionally, some activities, such as fishing or backcountry camping, may require additional permits or fees.
⪢ Parking
During peak season, parking at Lake Moraine can be very limited and often fills up quickly. Consider arriving early in the morning or late in the afternoon, or taking a shuttle bus from the nearby town of Banff.
As of January 2023, personal vehicles will no longer be permitted access during peak season. Access to the lake will be by Parks Canada Shuttle, Roam Transit, commercial buses and taxis only from June to mid-October. This decision was made due to safety concerns and negative experiences caused by 24-hour demand for parking.
⪢ Wildlife
Banff National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears, elk, and moose. Visitors should always maintain a safe distance from wildlife and never feed or approach them.
⪢ Weather
The weather at Lake Moraine can change quickly and can be unpredictable, especially in the shoulder seasons or during winter. Visitors should always be prepared for a variety of weather conditions, including rain, snow, and wind.
⪢ Leave no trace
Lake Moraine is a protected area, and visitors should take care to leave the area as they found it. This means packing out all trash and following the principles of Leave No Trace, including staying on designated trails and minimizing impact on the environment.
⪢ Respect other visitors
Lake Moraine is a popular destination, and visitors should be mindful of others when visiting. This includes following trail etiquette, respecting quiet hours, and avoiding overcrowding popular areas.
By keeping these things in mind, you can help to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at Lake Moraine while also protecting the area for future visitors to enjoy.
Things to do at Lake Moraine
Lake Moraine offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are a few things you can try:
⪢ Hiking
Lake Moraine is surrounded by incredible mountain scenery and offers a variety of hiking trails for all skill levels. Some good hikes to try include the Consolation Lakes trail, the Eiffel Lake trail, and the Larch Valley trail.
One of the most popular in the area is the Rockpile Trail, a short but steep climb that rewards hikers with a stunning panoramic view of the lake and surrounding mountains. For those looking for a longer trek, the Sentinel Pass Trail is a challenging but incredibly rewarding hike that takes you up to the top of the surrounding peaks, with unforgettable views of the lake and surrounding valleys along the way.
⪢ Canoeing or kayaking
Visitors can rent canoes or kayaks to explore the turquoise waters of Lake Moraine. This is a great way to experience the lake and take in the stunning scenery from a different perspective. A peaceful paddle across the calm waters of the lake is an experience you won't soon forget. We did not give this as a try as we did not have the time, but will certainly consider it if the opportunity presents itself on our inevitable return!
⪢ Fishing
Lake Moraine is home to a variety of fish species, including rainbow trout and brook trout. Visitors can fish from the shore or rent a boat to explore the lake and try their luck at a catch.
⪢ Photography
Lake Moraine is known for its stunning turquoise color and picturesque mountain scenery, making it a popular destination for photographers. The best times for photography are early morning or late afternoon, when the light is softer and the colors are more vibrant.
⪢ Picnicking
Visitors can bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at one of the designated picnic areas around Lake Moraine. This is a great way to relax and take in the stunning views!
⪢ Snowshoeing or cross-country skiing
During the winter months, visitors can enjoy snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on the various trails around Lake Moraine. With the color of the lake and the breath-taking mountain backdrop, Moraine is perhaps the top place for this kind of activity in the entire national park.
How to get to Lake Moraine
Lake Moraine is located in Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. Here are some ways to get there:
⪢ By shuttle bus (recommended)
During peak season, visitors can take a shuttle bus from the nearby town of Banff to Lake Moraine. This can be a convenient way to avoid the limited parking at the lake during peak times. Check with Parks Canada for more information on shuttle bus schedules and fees.
⪢ By tour
There are a variety of tours available that include a visit to Lake Moraine. These tours may include transportation, as well as a guided hike or other activities.
⪢ By bike
Visitors can also reach Lake Moraine by bike by taking the Bow Valley Parkway (Highway 1A) from Banff to the Lake Louise Drive. This can be a scenic and enjoyable way to experience the area.
⪢ By car
The most common way to reach Lake Moraine is by car. From Banff, take the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) west and then take the Lake Louise exit onto the Lake Louise Drive (Highway 1A). Follow the signs for Moraine Lake Road, which is about 14 kilometers (8.7 miles) from the Lake Louise exit.
⪢ Parking
Parking at Lake Moraine can be very difficult at any point of the year. The parking lot at Lake Moraine can accommodate only a limited number of vehicles, and it often fills up early in the morning. Once the parking lot is full, visitors will not be allowed to park there and will have to seek other options. This is done to protect the fragile environment around Lake Moraine and ensure the safety of visitors.
To avoid parking problems, consider arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Another option is to take a shuttle bus from the nearby town of Banff. During peak season, shuttle buses run regularly from Banff to Lake Moraine, and access to the lake will be by Parks Canada Shuttle, Roam Transit, commercial buses and taxis only from June to mid-October.
It's also important to note that parking restrictions and regulations are strictly enforced at Lake Moraine. Visitors who park illegally or in restricted areas may be fined or towed. Be sure to read and follow all signs and regulations when parking at Lake Moraine to avoid any problems.
Regardless of how you choose to get there, it's important to plan ahead and be prepared for your visit to Lake Moraine. Check the weather forecast, bring appropriate clothing and gear, and be aware of the permits and fees that may be required.
We walked on the Athabasca Glacier in stunning Jasper, Alberta, Canada. You can too, read this blog to find out how!
Our Lake Moraine experience rating
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5/5
Of all of the epic places and spaces we encountered on our Great Canadian Adventure, Lake Moraine goes down as one of the very best. The color of the lake is virtually unrivalled and the feeling of awe and beauty that we had there is one that will forever be etched in our memories. Canada has so many incredible natural wonders, and we are both proud and humbled to have witnessed this amazing place.
As ever thank you for reading, and please feel free to share your experience, or ask any questions you may have, in the comments below. All feedback on the post is welcome too!
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