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Explore the stunning blue waters of the Canadian Rockies with guaranteed access, as private vehicles are no longer permitted on Moraine Lake Road. These guided trips from Canmore easily combine visits to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, offering flexible itineraries that include sunrise viewing, stargazing, and small-group sightseeing.
Free Cancellation Explore Banff, Lake Louise, and Moraine Lake with local guides and small groups for a personal mountain experience.
Free Cancellation A guided day trip from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff to the most iconic lakes and canyons of the Canadian Rockies.
Free Cancellation Experience Moraine Lake, Lake Louise, and Emerald Lake on a guided full-day tour from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff.
Free Cancellation Visit the Rockies' most famous lakes and quiet viewpoints at a relaxed pace with a small group and local guide.
Free Cancellation Discover Banff’s iconic lakes and townsite on a small-group day tour with exclusive road access to Moraine Lake.
Free Cancellation Explore Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in a small group with flexible morning or sunset tours through a wildlife corridor.
Free Cancellation See the sunrise at Moraine Lake and explore Lake Louise on this guided early-morning tour of Banff National Park.
Free Cancellation Watch the sunset over Moraine Lake and stargaze with telescopes on this evening tour through Banff National Park.
Free Cancellation Visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake with flexible schedules for hiking and canoeing in a small-group setting.
Free Cancellation Direct round-trip shuttle from Banff or Canmore to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, bypassing vehicle restrictions.
Read what travelers share about their experience visiting Moraine Lake — from practical tips to personal highlights.
Taking a tour to Moraine Lake from Canmore removes the stress of navigating road closures and parking restrictions, allowing you to simply soak in the Canadian Rockies. You can expect a comfortable ride through stunning mountain landscapes, guided insights into the region's history, and guaranteed access to one of the world's most famous alpine lakes.
Climb the short, rocky stairs of the Rockpile Trail to witness the iconic vista of the turquoise lake framed by the Valley of the Ten Peaks—a view so famous it was featured on the Canadian $20 bill.
Glide across the serene, glacially-fed waters in a classic red canoe. It's a peaceful way to experience the crisp alpine air and admire the dramatic mountain reflections.
Book an early morning tour to watch the soft morning light hit the mountain crests, casting a warm, golden alpenglow across the still, mirror-like water.
Enjoy an easy, scenic walk along the flat 2.7-kilometer round-trip Lakeshore Trail. You'll wander through quiet forests with plenty of benches to sit and take in the majestic views.
If you visit in mid-September, hike up into Larch Valley to see the alpine meadows transform as the larch needles turn a brilliant, vibrant golden hue.
Evening tours offer a quieter experience at the lake, complete with guided shoreline walks as the sun dips, followed by stargazing with telescopes and binoculars.
Planning your Moraine Lake excursion from Canmore requires a bit of preparation, especially since access rules have changed in recent years. Here is what you need to know before securing your tour.
As of 2023, personal vehicles are completely banned on Moraine Lake Road. Booking a guided tour or an official shuttle is the only way to access the lake, making early reservations essential.
You can choose from a variety of experiences, including pre-dawn sunrise tours, evening stargazing trips, quick half-day shuttles, or full-day combo tours that also visit Lake Louise and Emerald Lake.
Most guided tours from Canmore include the mandatory Moraine Lake access permit and your National Park entry fees. Always double-check your specific tour details, as some basic shuttles may require you to buy the park pass separately.
Mountain weather is highly unpredictable, and the lake sits at a high elevation of 1,884 meters. Morning temperatures can drop to 5°C, so dress in warm layers, bring a beanie, and wear sturdy footwear for the rocky trails.
Almost all tour operators in the region require adult participants to sign an electronic liability waiver at least 24 hours before departure. Minors must have a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
While the main viewing areas are suitable for all fitness levels, some specialized tours (like sunrise or sunset excursions) have a minimum age requirement of 6 years old for safety and comfort.
If you want to paddle on the lake, canoe rentals are managed separately by Moraine Lake Lodge on a first-come, first-served basis. They cost around $160 CAD per hour and are not included in tour prices.
Most Moraine Lake tours offer a flexible cancellation policy, allowing for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
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| Sunrise & Sunset Tours | Full-Day Combo Tours | Flexible Half-Day Shuttles | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Duration | 8 hours | 8-10 hours | 5.5 hours |
| Best for | Photographers and early birds | Seeing multiple lakes (Louise, Emerald) | Independent explorers |
| Includes | Hot drinks, blankets, headlamps, guide | Park passes, hotel pickup, guided commentary | Round-trip transport, access fees, AC vehicle |
| Price from | ~$79 USD | ~$55 USD | ~$38 USD |
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Moraine Lake is a seasonal destination. Because of severe avalanche risks, Moraine Lake Road is completely closed to vehicle traffic from mid-October through late May.
Since personal vehicles are strictly banned on Moraine Lake Road, you must rely on transit or tours to get there from Canmore.
The absolute best months to visit Moraine Lake are June through September.
While Moraine Lake is labeled as wheelchair accessible, the natural terrain presents some challenges.
Moraine Lake is a backcountry location, meaning amenities are limited. Prepare accordingly before you leave Canmore.
Because Moraine Lake is located within a protected UNESCO World Heritage Site and a fragile alpine ecosystem, strict rules apply.
No. Personal vehicles have been completely banned from Moraine Lake Road since 2023. You must use an approved commercial tour, a private shuttle, or the Parks Canada park-and-ride shuttle to access the lake.
Most guided tours departing from Canmore include the required Banff National Park entry fees and the Moraine Lake access permit. However, always check the 'Inclusions' section of your specific tour, as some basic transport-only shuttles may require you to purchase a park pass separately.
No. As of 2026, all private watercraft—including paddleboards, kayaks, and personal canoes—are strictly prohibited at Moraine Lake to prevent the spread of Whirling Disease. You can only use the rental canoes provided by Moraine Lake Lodge.
It can be very chilly. Because the lake sits at an elevation of 1,884 meters, early morning temperatures can drop to 5°C (41°F) even in the summer. If you book a sunrise tour, dress in warm layers, and bring a heavy jacket and gloves.
No, Moraine Lake is a backcountry location with zero cell service or Wi-Fi. You will lose cellular reception about 5 kilometers down Moraine Lake Road, so download any necessary tickets or maps before leaving Canmore.
Yes, but you must contact the tour operator in advance. Space in 14-passenger vans is limited, so strollers must be foldable. Specialized infant seats are usually available upon request, but children cannot simply sit on a parent's lap.
Canoe rentals are operated exclusively by Moraine Lake Lodge and cost approximately $160 CAD per hour. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis and include paddles, life jackets, and basic instruction.
Tours run rain, shine, or snow. Mountain weather changes rapidly, so most operators provide complimentary ponchos or umbrellas. In the event of extreme, unsafe weather, operators will either reschedule your tour or offer a full refund.
Yes. Almost all tour operators require every adult participant to sign an electronic liability waiver at least 24 hours before the trip. Minors must be included on a parent or guardian's waiver.
No, Moraine Lake Road is completely closed to all vehicle traffic from mid-October to late May due to severe avalanche risks. During these months, tours do not operate, and the lake is only accessible to highly experienced backcountry skiers.
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This tour visits the most iconic locations in the Canadian Rockies, including Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, and Banff Town. Rather than standard sightseeing, our local guides focus on storytelling, sharing indigenous legends and mountain history to provide a deeper connection to the landscape. We limit groups to a maximum of 24 guests to avoid the crowds of larger buses, ensuring a more relaxed pace and plenty of time for photography at hidden viewpoints. Pickups are available from Calgary, Canmore, and Banff, with all travel provided in premium vehicles for comfort. Please note that Moraine Lake is accessible only from June 1st to October 13th; outside of these dates, we visit an alternative scenic location to ensure a complete experience. Whether you are looking for the best photo spots or a better understanding of the local culture, this tour is designed to feel like an outing with a knowledgeable local.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This tour departs from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff for a full day of sightseeing through the Rockies. You will travel past Castle Mountain and the Spiral Tunnels, stopping at the Natural Bridge and the turquoise waters of Emerald Lake. The itinerary is designed to give you plenty of time at Lake Louise, where you can also choose to add seasonal activities like "Bigfoot" snowshoeing or afternoon tea at the Fairmont. When Moraine Lake is closed for the season, the tour includes a visit to the limestone walls of Marble Canyon. By handling the transportation and scheduling, this trip allows you to see the region's major highlights and hidden spots without the stress of navigating mountain roads or finding parking at busy locations.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This guided day trip departs from Calgary, Canmore, or Banff, handling all transportation to ensure direct access to the region's busiest locations. The morning focuses on the iconic blue waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (accessible June through October). At Moraine Lake, you can walk the Rockpile Trail to see the famous view of the Valley of the Ten Peaks before heading to Lake Louise Village for a lunch break. The tour then crosses into Yoho National Park to visit Emerald Lake and the Natural Bridge, a limestone formation carved by the Kicking Horse River. The day concludes with free time in the town of Banff and several photo stops along the scenic mountain parkways. An expert local guide provides commentary throughout the journey, covering the history and geography of the Canadian Rockies.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This small-group tour provides a more personal way to see the Rockies, combining visits to the famous lakes with stops at quieter, less-visited viewpoints. With specialized access to the region’s most popular sites, you’ll spend less time worrying about logistics and more time at the water’s edge. Your guide will share local stories throughout the day, providing context to the landscape beyond what you’ll find in a guidebook. The schedule is intentionally relaxed to ensure you aren't rushed from one spot to the next. We prioritize the best locations for photography and take the time to find perspectives that most visitors miss. It’s a straightforward, stress-free day focused on the scenery and the history of the mountains.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This full-day excursion departs from Calgary, Banff, or Canmore, focusing on the most recognized landmarks in Banff National Park. The itinerary includes time at Lake Louise to see the historic hotel and the turquoise water, followed by a visit to Moraine Lake. Since the road to Moraine Lake is closed to private vehicles, we use our commercial license to drive you directly to the lakefront, bypassing the need for public shuttles. From June 1st through October 13th, Moraine Lake is a primary stop. Outside of these dates, when the road is inaccessible due to seasonal conditions, we visit Marble Canyon instead. The tour also includes a stop in the Banff townsite. Traveling in a small group allows for a more flexible pace and a chance to get to know your guide, who can assist with photos and provide local context at each location throughout the day.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This small-group tour offers two distinct ways to see Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. The morning departure starts at 8:00 AM and provides 1.5 hours at each location, giving you enough time to walk the shoreline or take a quick canoe trip while the water is at its most vibrant blue. Alternatively, the afternoon and sunset tour focuses on the quietest hours of the day, offering one hour at each lake as the crowds thin out and the evening light hits the peaks. You will travel in a spacious, high-roof van limited to 14 guests, with pickup available from various locations in Banff, Canmore, and Harvie Heights. Your guide handles the driving and navigation through a known wildlife corridor where grizzly bears are frequently spotted. Throughout the trip, the guide provides local history and can help capture photos of your group. The van remains parked on-site at each stop, so you have a warm place to retreat if the mountain weather turns.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This tour starts with a pre-dawn departure to Moraine Lake, arriving in time to see the sun rise over the mountains. To keep you comfortable, your guide provides blankets and hot beverages, along with advice on the best photography spots and viewpoints. Arriving at this hour allows for a quieter experience of the lake before the standard shuttle services begin. The journey continues to Lake Louise, where you will have several hours to explore at your own pace. Options include walking the shoreline trail, hiking to elevated lookouts, or visiting the Fairmont Château Lake Louise. Each booking supports reforestation in Canada, with one tree planted through our partnership with the Blue Green Planet Project.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This evening tour starts with a drive along the Bow Valley Parkway, where we often spot local wildlife on the way to Morant’s Curve. At Moraine Lake, you will join a guided walk along the shoreline to see the peaks catch the last of the evening light. By visiting later in the day, you avoid the large daytime crowds and experience the area at its quietest. As night falls, we head up to the Rockpile for a panoramic view of the stars. We use telescopes and binoculars to look at planets and constellations in one of the darkest spots in Banff National Park. Depending on the conditions, you might even see the northern lights before the trip concludes.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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This small-group tour offers flexible schedules for visiting Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, starting at 8:00 AM. You can choose between three timing options: a split of 1.5 hours at Moraine and 3.5 hours at Lake Louise, a more even 3 hours at Moraine and 2 hours at Lake Louise, or a full 5-hour stay at Moraine Lake. This allows you to tailor your day for specific goals, such as hiking the Lake Agnes Teahouse trail or spending more time on the water. You will travel in a high-roof, 14-passenger van with panoramic windows and air conditioning. The drive follows a wildlife corridor where sightings of bears, elk, and deer are common. The tour includes expedited lake access, all entry fees, and the services of a local guide. Pickups are available from designated points in Canmore, Harvie Heights, and Banff, all located within walking distance of most local accommodations.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Since private cars are no longer permitted on Moraine Lake Road, this shuttle offers a straightforward way to visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in a single trip. You can choose a morning or afternoon departure from Banff or Canmore, traveling in a climate-controlled vehicle with a guaranteed return ride included. The tour stops first at Lake Louise before continuing to Moraine Lake, giving you time to explore both locations without the hassle of parking or navigating traffic. For those booking from Banff, pickups take place at the Mount Royal Hotel; travelers starting in Canmore should select the specific Canmore pickup option.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.