Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
Banff National Park (Parks Canada) / UNESCO Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks · Lake Louise, Alberta
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake are two glacier-fed lakes in Banff National Park, in the Alberta Rockies, within a UNESCO World Heritage area listed in 1984. Lake Louise is a milky turquoise lake under the Victoria Glacier, with the Fairmont chateau at its shore. Moraine Lake is deeper blue and ringed by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, about 14 km away. The colour comes from fine rock flour carried by meltwater. Both are among the most photographed places in Canada, which means summer crowds, full lots and early starts. Moraine Lake Road is closed to private vehicles, so you need a Parks Canada shuttle, Roam bus or tour - confirm and book ahead. Allow half a day for each lake, or more for hikes. The water is cold and no place for swimming, and grizzly bears are present, so follow trail rules. Go early, expect crowds at both lakes, and bring layers because mornings are cold even in July. Check Parks Canada notices before you plan hikes.
Lake Louise Lakeshore, Lake Louise Drive, Lake Louise, Alberta, T0L 1E0, Canada
The lakes are open all year, but access changes with the season. Moraine Lake Road is closed to private vehicles and usually open to shuttles and buses from late spring or early June to about October, closed by snow otherwise - confirm dates. Lake Louise lakeshore parking is limited and commonly fills before 7am in summer, so confirm current rules and arrive early or use the shuttle. A Parks Canada pass is required in Banff National Park. Canoe rentals run in summer, roughly June to September (confirm). Lake Louise freezes in winter for skating and walks. Some trails close or require group hiking for bear safety, usually groups of four, so check Parks Canada notices before you go.
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