Credit: garrett parkerVia: Unsplash
If you’ve seen photos of Moraine Lake’s bright blue waters framed by snow-capped peaks, you’ve probably added it to your travel bucket list. If so, you aren’t alone: over four million summer-time visitors head to Banff National Park (where Moraine Lake is located) every year.
As one of the most stunning places in North America, it’s also one of the most photographed lakes in all of Canada — and that’s no mean feat when it’s estimated that there are over two million lakes in the country.
Midsummer is here, so it’s time to act fast if you’re yet to take a holiday. Planning to go to the Canadian Rockies but have yet to finalize the details? You’ve come to the right place. Read on to find out why now is the perfect time to book your visit to Moraine Lake.
About Access to Moraine Lake
One important thing to note before you pack your bags: private vehicles can’t access this lake. But don’t let this deter or disappoint you. This was a savvy move by Parks Canada to manage the crush of summer traffic that was clogging up the roads, leading to countless tourists turned away, and undue stress to local flora and fauna.
Now, commercial shuttle services take visitors to and from the location. When it comes to choosing your shuttle service, make sure that you find the best Moraine Lake shuttle that not only allows you to reserve a space to the lake but one that also lets you pre-book your return journey.
Now that getting there is out of the way, here’s why now’s the time to book your visit to Moraine Lake!
Booking in Advance Avoids Disappointment
For one, booking your tickets means that you can avoid disappointment. Arriving in the area and finding that all the shuttle services are at capacity— they book up fast! — is sure to put a damper on your vacation.
While some services, on rare occasions, will let you purchase a ticket directly from the bus driver, this is generally only when they’ve had last-minute cancellations, so space can’t be guaranteed.
Book now before you go, and you won’t have to think about it when you get there — your energy can be better spent elsewhere, like enjoying your trip!
Late Summer and Early Fall Are Great Times to Visit Moraine Lake
Shuttle services run to and from Moraine Lake when the access road is open from early June to mid-October. The last ride is on October 9th this year, which is coincidentally in line with Canadian Thanksgiving.
While Moraine Lake is gorgeous in June and July, as late summer and early fall move in, there’s something especially striking about the area. In early September, the crowds start to disperse; the temperatures start to dip (though the weather is still pleasant);the larch trees transform into a phenomenal shade of gold, and pockets of snow start to appear on the mountains surrounding the lake.
There’s an abundance of hikes at Moraine Lake, some of which are exceptionally kid-friendly. You can also rent canoes or sit and enjoy the scenery with a hot cup of coffee from the nearby café.
Seeing an area of such natural beauty transition into a new season is innately special and a memory you and yours will cherish.
Now Is the Time to Book Your Visit to Moraine Lake
If you’re visiting the Canadian Rockies and Banff National Park this August, September, or early October, book your visit to Moraine Lake now. And if you’re still deciding where to take your vacation, why not factor in a visit to Moraine Lake? It’s an experience you won’t forget!
Wow, your photos of Moraine Lake are simply breathtaking! Your tips for beating the crowds by arriving early are so helpful. Thanks for providing such a comprehensive guide to visiting, including transportation and hike recommendations. You truly captured the beautiful blue colors and scenic vistas perfectly. This makes me want to plan a trip to see Moraine Lake in person!