Getting to Moraine Lake is the most difficult part of any Lake Louise tour and requires some preparation before you reach Alberta. While Lake Louise is easily accessible, there’s only a single road that goes out to Moraine Lake. Unfortunately, that access road has been closed to private vehicles since early 2023 as part of an effort to reduce congestion and crowding at the lake itself. It’s possible that the park authorities might reopen the road at some point in the future but for now, it’s impossible to drive out to Moraine Lake in your own car.
That leaves a couple of ways to reach the lake. The first is to take the Parks Canada shuttle that runs from Lake Louise out to Moraine Lake. The shuttle operates between June and mid-October and costs $8 per adult, making it an inexpensive way to see the lake. However, slots fill up quickly so you’ll have to make a reservation months in advance. There are also a few private companies that offer shuttle service to Moraine Lake, including Fairview Limousine and the Moraine Lake Bus Company. Finally, you can reach the lake as part of a guided Moraine Lake tour, although you won’t be able to relax and enjoy the sights on your own time with this option.
Unfortunately, there is no way to reach Moraine Lake during the winter. While the access road is open to cross-country skiers, a dangerous avalanche zone lies between the road and the lake itself. Since Moraine Lake is completely frozen over during the winter months anyway, there’s really no reason to risk your life to see it – just wait until the summer.
To make the most of your trip, check out our Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Self-Guided Driving Tour, or you can sign up for Action+ and gain access to over 100 tours for a single yearly price.
