Moraine Lake reopens soon! 5 ways to visit this summer 🏔️

That’s right — access to Moraine Lake reopens in 2.5 weeks!

If visiting this bright blue-green water is on your summer bucket list, it’s time to start planning.

Because this iconic Canadian destination isn’t the easiest to access, and it attracts thousands of visitors — every single day.

The road reopens from June 1-October 13 roughly each year, and you can no longer drive a personal vehicle there.

So we’re breaking down 5 ways you can visit this stunning mountain lake in 2025:

(we’re planning to do #1 and #5 this season!)

1) Least Crowded: Bike The Road (Before June 1)

Kelsey did this in 2021 (see above), and we hope to go again this spring!

It’s 24kms roundtrip, and uphill the whole way there. At the top, you’ll enjoy stunning mountain views without the crowds or a car in sight. However, the lake will likely still be icy / snowy this early in the season.

BUT, it comes with a caveat: The road is typically snow-covered until Parks employees clear it 1-2 weeks before the road officially opens.

So keep your eyes peeled for updates. While you can bike the road after June 1, the shoulders are narrow and it will be busy with shuttles and tour companies.

⚠️ Important: Moraine Lake Road is in an avalanche zone. Before you head out, make sure to check trail conditions and park advisories if the road is clear + safe — currently, it is not.

2) Most Effort: Hike The Trail

If you’re not into biking, you can also hike a trail that runs somewhat parallel to Moraine Lake Road.

Just know it's a long, strenuous trek with plenty of elevation — definitely not for everyone! Talk about earning your view.

Plus you’ll still have to find parking at Lake Louise, which fills up fast and costs $36.75/car, unless you can snag one of the shuttle spots.

3) Highest Demand: Reserve A Shuttle Spot

The Parks shuttle is an affordable choice, but you need to act fast.

40% of tickets were released for reservation earlier this spring, and popular times filled up within minutes. The remaining 60% of seats are released for reservation 48 hours in advance of your departure.

So this makes it hard to plan ahead, plus you have to work around the shuttle schedule, but it’s an option as well.

4) Most Expensive: Stay At Moraine Lake Lodge

Staying at the lodge guarantees you access to the lake, and lodge guests are the only personal vehicle exception for driving up to the lake.

However it books up far in advance, and available rooms right now range from $1,400-1,900/night starting at the end of July 😮

It sounds like an unforgettable experience, but this option requires a lot of planning (and a healthy budget).

5) Most Flexible: Go With A Tour Company

If you’re looking for the easiest, most stress-free option to visit Moraine Lake this summer…

Consider booking a public or private tour with a commercial operator like Big Nature!

They take care of everything, including transportation, planning, timing, park pass, and access.

Simply show up and take in Moraine Lake’s stunning water in peak season — no 4am wake-ups, no parking headaches, no crossing your fingers for shuttle spots.

Plus, you’ll visit 3 additional Canadian Rockies destinations, all in one relaxing adventure.

We’re going on this tour later this summer, and can’t wait to sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the most beautiful places in Banff National Park.

However you decide to experience Moraine Lake this summer...

Happy trails!