But that doesn’t mean it’s difficult to visit. In many ways, it’s easier.
With a network of shuttles and local tour operators running throughout the Bow Valley, getting to both lakes without a car is straightforward, reliable, and far less stressful than trying to time parking perfectly. Whether you’re staying in Canmore, Banff, or Kananaskis, there are a few different ways to plan your day depending on how you like to travel.
Can You Drive to Moraine Lake or Lake Louise?
Moraine Lake is now closed to personal vehicles, so the only way to access it is by shuttle, tour, or active travel like cycling.
Pro Tip for Cyclers
- Best Time to Ride: Mid-to-late May and October, when the road is clear but still closed to most traffic.
- Summer Riding: After shuttle service begins (typically June 1), cycling is still allowed, but early mornings or evenings offer the best experience.
Lake Louise still allows vehicle access, but parking is extremely limited and fills up very early in the day. During summer, it’s not uncommon for the lot to reach capacity before 6:00am.
Taking the Parks Canada Shuttle
For a straightforward and affordable option, the Parks Canada Park & Ride shuttle is the most commonly used service. Bookings can be completed via Parks Canada Park & Ride website, and it costs approximately $10 per person (subject to change).
You’ll drive to the Lake Louise Ski Resort parking area and board a shuttle that takes you directly to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, or both via a connector route. The system is efficient and runs continuously throughout the day, but it does require a bit of planning. The majority of tickets are released in advance on April 15th, 2026 at 8am MDT on the Parks Canada website. Additional seats are released two days prior to departure at 8am MDT.
Last year, Parks Canada shuttles serviced the Lake Louise Lakeshore from May 16, 2025 to October 13, 2025 and Moraine Lake from June 1, 2025 to October 13, 2025. Both departing every 30 minutes, from 6:30am to 6pm, with the last return shuttle departing at 7:30pm. The lake connector route runs from June 1, 2025 to October 13, 2025, and runs every 30 minutes from 7am to 7pm, and will take you from Moraine Lake to Lake Louise, or the other way around. Due to weather and other changing factors, these dates and times are subject to change for the upcoming 2026 season.
If you’re already planning to be in the Lake Louise area with a vehicle, this is usually the simplest way to access both lakes in one trip. Reservations are mandatory to ride the Parks Canada shuttles.
Private Shuttles & Guided Tours from Canmore and Banff
If you’re staying in Canmore or Banff, private shuttle operators offer a more seamless experience. Instead of coordinating parking and transfers, you can start your day right from town, sometimes directly from your hotel.
Many of these services focus on early access, with sunrise departures that get you to Moraine Lake before the crowds arrive. Others offer more flexible schedules, small-group experiences, or full-day itineraries that include additional stops like Emerald Lake.
Operators like Via Via Moraine Lake Shuttle, Moraine Lake Bus Company, and Ten Peaks Shuttle all run regular service throughout the season, while guided experiences through companies like Peak Perfection, Explore Banff Tours, Stellar Experiences, or Canadian Rockies Experiences offer a more curated day with local insight along the way.
If you’re looking for ease, flexibility, and a bit more comfort, this is often the best option, especially without a car.
Where Do You Catch a Shuttle?
Pickup locations vary depending on the operator, but most services run from central points in Canmore and Banff, with some extending into Kananaskis or Lake Louise.
Many private operators offer convenient in-town pickup locations, and some provide direct hotel pickup, making the entire experience feel much more relaxed from the start. Continue reading to learn more about the pickup locations at Basecamp Resorts hotels.
Planning Your Day at the Lakes
A trip to Moraine Lake or Lake Louise doesn’t require much, but a bit of preparation makes a big difference.
What to Wear at Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
Mountain weather can shift quickly, even in the middle of summer, so dressing in layers is always a good idea. Comfortable footwear is also important, as even short walks around the lakes can involve uneven terrain.
What to Bring to Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
Food options at Moraine Lake are limited, Lake Louise less so, but it’s worth bringing water and snacks with you. And while you’ll definitely want your phone or camera, it’s helpful to download maps or directions ahead of time, cell service can be unreliable in the area.
Best Time to Visit Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
Timing also plays a big role in your experience. Early mornings and evenings tend to be quieter, with softer light and fewer crowds, which makes a noticeable difference once you’re there.
Things to Do at Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
Once you arrive, it’s worth planning how you’ll spend your time, both lakes offer far more than just a quick photo stop.
At Moraine Lake, one of the most popular first stops is the Rockpile Trail, a short walk that leads to the iconic viewpoint overlooking the Valley of the Ten Peaks. For those looking to explore further, hikes like Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass offer a more immersive experience, especially in late summer and early fall when the landscape shifts in colour. Canoe rentals are also available on the lake, providing a unique perspective right from the water.
At Lake Louise, the lakeshore path is an easy and scenic walk, perfect if you’re looking for something relaxed. From there, trails like the Lake Agnes Tea House hike or the Plain of Six Glaciers offer more elevation and some of the best views in the area. If you’re not up for a longer hike, simply walking the shoreline or renting a canoe is very well worth your time.
If you’re deciding how to structure your visit, many travellers choose to start at Moraine Lake early in the morning, then continue on to Lake Louise later in the day when services are more accessible.
Getting to Moraine Lake & Lake Louise from Basecamp Hotels
If you’re staying at a Basecamp Resorts property in Canmore, Banff, or Kananaskis, getting to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise can be even more convenient.
Several local shuttle and tour operators offer pickup locations throughout the Bow Valley, with some providing service directly from, or very close to, select Basecamp hotels.
Via Via Moraine Lake picks up from the following Basecamp Resorts hotels in Banff and Canmore, and pricing ranges from $45 to $135 per person, depending on the package you choose. Plus, Basecamp guests receive 20% off their tickets, when they book direct & stay at one of our hotels.
- Picks up from: Basecamp Lodge Canmore, Northwinds Hotel Canmore, Basecamp Suites Canmore, Lamphouse by Basecamp, Everwild Nordic Spa & Hotel, Baker Creek by Basecamp
Ten Peaks Shuttle & Tours picks up from Baker Creek by Basecamp, Johnston Canyon Lodge & Bungalows, as well as the Banff Train Station. Pricing ranges from $89 to $169 per person, and Basecamp guests receive 10% when they book direct & stay at one of our hotels.
Moraine Lake Bus Company picks up from various locations in the Lake Louise area, and parking is always guaranteed and included. Pricing ranges from $49 to $99 per person, and Basecamp guests also receive 15% off when they book direct & stay at one of our hotels.
Looking for something more personal? Peak Perfection, Stellar Experiences, Explore Banff Tours & Transfers, and Canadian Rockies Experiences all offer guided, small-group adventures with local experts. With flexible pickup in Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise, and Sundance. When you stay at one of our hotels and book directly, you’ll get exclusive rates for all guided experiences.
Where to Stay Near Lake Louise & Moraine Lake
With shuttle options departing right from select Basecamp Resorts hotels across the Bow Valley, getting to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake has never been easier.
Staying in Banff? Hotels like Basecamp Suites Banff place you just a short walk from major transit pick-ups and tour departures, including services like Ten Peaks Shuttle and other operators offering direct routes to both lakes—no car required.
Looking for something closer to the lakes? Baker Creek by Basecamp offers one of the most seamless experiences, with direct shuttle access right from the property. Guests can hop on a Ten Peaks Shuttle or ViaVia straight from their cabin door to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, making it one of the most convenient (and scenic) starting points.
Additional shuttle partners across the region—including Parks Canada, Moraine Lake Bus Company, and private operators—offer frequent departures throughout the day from Banff, Lake Louise, and nearby accommodations, helping you skip parking stress entirely.
Planning ahead? Lock in our Early Mountain Booker rate and save up to 30% at select hotels when you book at least 7 days in advance.
