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Everything You Need to Know About the Moraine Lake Shuttle (Q&A)
- andrewsco3
- Aug 28
- 19 min read
Updated: Sep 4
Planning a visit to Moraine Lake can be tricky since personal vehicle parking is no longer allowed and access rules have changed in recent years. The best way to get there now is by shuttle, but the system can be confusing if it’s your first time.
As a family that’s spent more than a decade exploring the national parks across Alberta and British Columbia, we’ve experienced Moraine Lake in just about every way it’s been possible; we’ve driven there before personal vehicles were banned, we’ve caught the Parks Canada shuttle, and we’ve biked the road in spring before it opened to traffic.
Those different experiences have given us a good sense of what works best depending on how you want to explore.
To help you plan with confidence, we’ve put together this Q&A guide that answers over 40 of the most commonly asked questions about the Moraine Lake and Lake Louise shuttle.
Important 2025 Update:
The Canada Strong Pass, which granted free admission to Canada's National Parks for the summer, ended on September 2, 2025. From September 3, 2025, a valid Parks Canada pass such as a Discovery Pass or daily entry fee is required for any time spent in the parks.
Table of Contents
To jump ahead to a certain section, click the links below:
General Questions
Booking Tickets
Schedule & Availability
Logistics & Boarding
Accessibility & Families
Gear & Activities
Planning Your Visit
General Questions
What is the Moraine Lake Shuttle?
The Moraine Lake and Lake Louise shuttle is the system that Parks Canada has set up to manage access to two of Banff National Park’s most popular lakes. Since personal vehicles can no longer access Moraine Lake, and parking at Lake Louise fills before sunrise, the shuttle has become the main way for visitors to reach these lake
The service runs daily through the summer season and links a central parking area at Lake Louise Ski Resort with both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise lakeshore. Once you’ve parked, you catch a shuttle bus that drops you off at either lake, and you can use a connector route between the two without needing to drive yourself.
It’s designed to reduce traffic, protect the environment, and make sure more people have a chance to enjoy the lakes without the stress of finding a parking spot.
Can I Drive to Moraine Lake or Lake Louise?
Moraine Lake
No.
You can no longer drive your own vehicle to Moraine Lake. As of 2023, Parks Canada permanently closed Moraine Lake Road to personal vehicles due to very high traffic volumes. Generally speaking, the only way to get there is by shuttle, tour bus, cycling, or walking (there are a few exceptions).
Reminder: Moraine Lake cannot be accessed by any vehicle between June 1 and October 13 in 2025. During this period, the only ways to reach the lake are by backcountry travel, such as hiking or cross-country skiing. There is significant avalanche risk along the route, so this is not recommended.
Lake Louise
Yes, but....
You can park at Lake Louise, but the lot usually fills before sunrise during the summer. Parking costs $35 per vehicle regardless of how long you stay.
If you want to drive there, consider going after 7 p.m., when spaces are usually available and parking is free until the next morning. In the summer months, the nights are long enough that you can still enjoy nice views.
Outside of the summer months, there is no shuttle service to either lake, so driving is usually the best option to visit Lake Louise unless you have booked a tour.
Do I Need a Parks Canada Park Pass to Take the Shuttle?
Yes, a valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass or daily pass is required to access both Moraine Lake and Lake Louise, even if you’re only using the shuttle. The pass covers your entry into the National Park, not just vehicle access, so everyone riding the shuttle must have a pass.
For more details on the different types of Parks Canada passes, costs, and how to get them, check out our guide: Canada National Park Pass - Your Questions Answered.
Booking Tickets
How do I Book a Shuttle Ticket?
Shuttle tickets for Moraine Lake and Lake Louise can be booked online through Parks Canada’s official reservation system.
Tickets are released in two stages.
On Launch Day, 40% of the season’s tickets become available, while the remaining 60% are released on a rolling basis two days before each departure date.
Since Launch Day typically sells out, it’s best to book right away if your dates are firm.
Once you've found availability and pressed the 'reserve' button, you’ll be asked to choose the number of passengers. Every passenger, including children and babies, requires their own ticket (even though children under 17 are free).
Tickets can also be booked by calling 1-877-RESERVE (1-877-737-3783). We’ve always booked online and found it the most straightforward option, so we can’t speak to how easy it is to get through by phone on Launch Day.
After completing your reservation, you’ll receive a digital confirmation via email that can be shown on your phone when boarding.
When do Tickets Go on Sale?
Shuttle tickets are released in two phases each year. For the 2025 season, the key dates are:
Phase 1 - Launch Day: On April 16, 2025 at 8:00 AM MT, 40 % of tickets for the entire season will be released. Note: all available tickets were sold on the day of release!
Phase 2 - Rolling release: The remaining 60 % of tickets are released two days before each departure date. For example, tickets for July 10 will be released on July 8 at 8:00 AM MT.
If you arrive at the Lake Louise Park and Ride without a reservation, you will not be able to get on the shuttle.
How Much Does the Shuttle Cost?
The cost of the Parks Canada shuttle to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise is quite reasonable. The cost in 2025 is as follows:
Adults (18–64 years): $8.00
Seniors (65+ years): $4.00
Youth (17 and under): free
Please note that a non-refundable reservation fee applies (per booking, not per person):
Online bookings: $3.50
Phone bookings: $5.50
The ticket covers the shuttle from the Lake Louise Park and Ride to either lake, the Lake Connector between the lakes, and the return trip. You may travel between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake multiple times on the same day using the same ticket.
Do I Need a Physical Ticket to Board the Shuttle?
Yes, you do need a physical ticket to board the shuttle.
While you can book your reservation online and show the confirmation barcode on your phone at the Park and Ride, Parks Canada will issue you a physical boarding pass before you get on the bus.
Keep in mind that cell signal can be limited at the Park and Ride, so it’s a good idea to download or screenshot your barcode in advance
Look for the Parks Canada Shuttle reservation check-in (shown above), they will ask to see your reservation barcode and the reservation holders ID, and they will then issue a physical ticket that you show to the bus driver to board.
You cannot board the bus without the physical ticket (don't lose it)!
The only place you can get your physical ticket is at the Lake Louise Park and Ride - you cannot get a physical ticket at Lake Louise Lakeshore, or anywhere else.
Do Shuttle Tickets Sell Out?
Yes.
Shuttle tickets do almost always sell out during the initial release - you are at the mercy of the 'Parks Canada gods' as to where you end up in the randomly generated queue.
If you miss out, try checking back after about 15 minutes since some bookings aren’t finalized in shopping carts and those time slots may open up again for purchase.
Even during the second phase, where tickets are released two days prior to each departure, the tickets do go quickly, so you need to be logged in and ready to go at 8am on the dot!
Do Kids Need Tickets?
Yes.
Every passenger on the Moraine Lake and Lake Louise shuttles, including children of any age, requires a ticket.
For youths under 17, rides are free, but a ticket must still be reserved for them. This ensures that all passengers have a confirmed spot on the shuttle and helps Parks Canada manage capacity.
When booking for a family, make sure to include all children in your reservation to avoid any issues at boarding.
Can I Change my Shuttle Reservation?
Yes, you can change your reservation, but availability is usually limited, so it will be difficult to switch to a different time.
If you are able to find another available date, you can make a change up to 1 hour before your scheduled bus departure, although you will be charged a non-refundable change fee per booking. The fee is $3.50 online or $5.50 by phone.
Changes cannot be made less than 1 hour before your reserved departure time.
Can I Get a Refund if I Cancel My Shuttle Reservation?
You can cancel your reservation and receive a refund if it’s done at least 1 hour before your scheduled shuttle departure.
The refund will be issued minus the original non-refundable reservation fee and a cancellation fee. The fees for both are $3.50 if completed online or $5.50 if completed by phone.
Cancellations are not permitted less than 1 hour before your departure time.
Example: If you booked the 1:00–2:00 pm shuttle on July 20 but your plans change, you’ll need to cancel by 11:59 am on July 20. By doing so, you’ll receive a refund for the booking, less the original $3.50 online (or $5.50 by phone) reservation fee and the $3.50 online (or $5.50 by phone) cancellation fee.
There are no penalties for no shows.
Are Same-Day Tickets Available?
No, same-day tickets are no longer available for the Parks Canada shuttles at the Lake Louise Park and Ride.
In the past, walk-up tickets were sometimes available, but this is no longer the case. All shuttle seats must be reserved in advance through the Parks Canada Reservation Service.
Do I Need Separate Tickets for Moraine Lake and Lake Louise?
No, you do not need separate tickets for the Moraine Lake and Lake Louise shuttles and you will be able to see both lakes in one day.
A single reservation allows you to visit both lakes on the same day. When booking, you'll choose your first destination (either Lake Louise or Moraine Lake), and your ticket will include:
The shuttle to your first destination
The Lake Connector shuttle between the two lakes
The return shuttle to the Lake Louise Park and Ride
This integrated system ensures you can explore both lakes conveniently without the need for multiple bookings.
Schedule & Availability
When Does the Shuttle Season Start and End?
Parks Canada’s shuttle service to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake operates seasonally.
For 2025, the Moraine Lake shuttle operates from June 1 to October 13, while the Lake Louise Lakeshore shuttle runs from May 16 to October 13. Note that they are slightly different.
The Moraine Lake shuttle dates are subject to change if the weather makes running the shuttles unsafe.
What Time Is the First and Last Shuttle From the Lake Louise Park and Ride?
The first Parks Canada shuttle departs from the Lake Louise Park and Ride at 6:30 AM.
The last shuttle from the Park and Ride to the lakes leaves at 6:00 PM.
The final shuttle back to the Park and Ride leaves at 7:30 PM.
An exception to this schedule is the Alpine Start shuttle, which departs at 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM from the Lake Louise Lakeshore parking lot - more on that below.
Is There a Shuttle to See the Sunrise at Moraine Lake?
Yes. Parks Canada offers an Alpine Start Shuttle for people that want to experience the famous sunrise at Moraine Lake. The shuttle departs daily at 4:00 AM and 5:00 AM.
Pick-up for the Alpine Start Shuttle is at the Lake Louise Lakeshore parking lot, not at the Ski Resort Park and Ride.
After your visit, you can return to Lake Louise lakeshore via the Lake Connector shuttle, which runs every 15 minutes between 7:00 AM and 7:00 PM.
Important: Parking at the Lake Louise Lakeshore lot is not free, and you will still be required to pay the daily fee of $36.75 CAD to park your vehicle if you are getting the alpine start shuttle.
Is There a Shuttle to See the Sunset at Moraine Lakes?
No. Parks Canada does not offer a special 'sunset shuttle.'
The regular shuttle system finishes for the day with the last return to the Park and Ride at 7:30 PM, which is well before sunset in the mountains during the summer.
If sunset photography or views are your goal, you’ll need to consider other options, such as:
Staying at Moraine Lake Lodge, which gives you direct access to the lake in the evening and early morning
Booking a private tour that includes sunset access
Hiking or cycling in, since the road is open to non-motorized traffic outside shuttle hours, but it will be very dark!
Consider Lake Louise instead
It’s also worth noting that sunsets at Moraine Lake are less dramatic than sunrise since the sun sets behind the mountains, leaving the lake in shadow.
How Regularly Do the Shuttles Run?
Parks Canada’s shuttle services run frequently throughout the day. According to the official Parks Canada website, shuttles from the Lake Louise Park and Ride to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake depart every 30 minutes, but our tour driver told us (and our experience was) that they run every 15–20 minutes during peak season.
When Does the Lake Connector Shuttle Operate?
The Lake Connector shuttle, which links Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, starts at 7:00 AM and runs every 15–30 minutes throughout the day.
The last connector shuttle leaves the lakes at 7:00 PM, but keep in mind the final return to the Park and Ride is at 7:30 PM, so catching that last connector doesn’t leave much time to explore.
Do I Need to Pay for Parking at Lake Louise Lakeshore if I’m Taking the Alpine Start Shuttle?
Yes, parking at Lake Louise Lakeshore is not free if you're using the Alpine Start shuttle.
Since this shuttle operation departs from the Lake Louise Lakeshore parking lot (not the Park & Ride), you’ll need to pay a daily parking fee to leave your vehicle there.
The general parking rate is $36.75 CAD per vehicle per day
For visitors with accessible parking placards, the fee is $8.00 CAD per vehicle per day
Logistics & Boarding
Where is the Park & Ride Located?
The Lake Louise Park and Ride is situated at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. This is the official boarding location for the Parks Canada shuttles to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Tickets are issued only at this site, so you must start your shuttle trip from here.
Reminder: For the Alpine Start shuttle, which departs very early in the morning, boarding occurs at Lake Louise Lakeshore, not at the Park and Ride, and you will get your physical ticket there.
How Big is the Park and Ride Lot?
The Park & Ride lot is very large, with plenty of spaces, and it almost never fills up, even during the busy summer months. As the shuttles have a maximum capacity, I don't expect that to change any time soon.
A reminder that parking at the Lake Louise Park and Ride is free.
How Early Should I Arrive Before My Departure Time?
Shuttle reservations are assigned to a one-hour time slot, meaning you can board at any time within that hour. The time slot will be clearly stated on your email reservation.
For example, if your reservation is for 8:00 AM, you can board anytime between 8:00 and 9:00 AM.
It's recommended to arrive 15–30 minutes before your chosen time to allow for check-in and boarding, especially for popular morning slots.
Do I Need to Select a Return Time?
No. When you book your shuttle ticket you only need to choose your departure time from the Park and Ride.
For your return trip from Moraine Lake or Lake Louise you can board any available shuttle back within the operating hours, without reserving a specific time.
How Long Does the Shuttle Ride Take to Moraine Lake?
The shuttle ride from the Park and Ride to Moraine Lake takes approximately 20 minutes. This is a direct route with no intermediate stops.
Can I Hop Between Moraine Lake and Lake Louise on the Same Ticket?
Yes, you can travel between Moraine Lake and Lake Louise using the Lake Connector Shuttle, which is included with your Parks Canada shuttle reservation.
This connector shuttle operates roughly every 15–30 minutes from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
No additional reservation is required for the Lake Connector, as it is available on a first-come, first-served basis.
What if I Miss the Last Shuttle?
In short, do not miss the last shuttle!
The Parks Canada Website states:
"There are no guaranteed transportation services offered at Moraine Lake Day-use Area between 8 pm and 7 am. Visitors who miss the last shuttle may have to walk 14 km down Moraine Lake Road to access transportation services available in the community of Lake Louise."
Make sure you are in the queue 15 minutes before the last shuttle to be sure.
Accessibility & Families
Is the Shuttle Accessible for Wheelchairs?
Parks Canada notes that wheelchair accessibility on the shuttle is limited.
However, visitors with an accessible parking hang tag can drive their own vehicle to Moraine Lake between 8 am and 8 pm, provided accessible stalls are available. Because of this, most visitors with accessibility needs will not need to rely on the shuttle.
Can I Bring a Car Seat for My Child?
Yes, you can bring a car seat for your child. It must be properly secured during the ride. A reminder that all children (even babies) must have a ticket in order to ride the shuttle.
Are Pets Allowed on the Shuttle?
Service animals are welcome on the shuttle free of charge, but owners should be ready to show proof of training if asked.
According to the Parks Canada website, small pets are also allowed as long as they can fit on your lap in a secure, clean carrier that is designed for animal transport.
I personally would call the Parks Canada website to confirm before arriving to ensure you aren't turned away.
Is the Shuttle Suitable for Kids?
Yes, the shuttle is family-friendly and regularly used by visitors with young children. You can take car seats and strollers onto the shuttle.
There are seatbelts on all seats and Alberta law requires that passengers wear them at all times. It’s a safe, convenient way to reach Lake Louise and Moraine Lake without worrying about parking or traffic.
Is There Cell Service at Moraine Lake?
Cell service is minimal to none at Moraine Lake, so it's advisable to download or screenshot tickets and maps in advance.
About three kilometres down the road towards Lake Louise, you start to gain cellular reception, but that's a long way to walk to download an Alltrails map!
Gear & Activities
Are Canoes or Paddleboards Allowed on the Shuttle?
You are allowed to bring inflatable paddleboards and kayaks on the shuttle (packed in a bag). Keep in mind that the water at Moraine Lake is extremely cold, and falling in without a life jacket can be life threatening, so always bring one if you plan to go out on the water, as winds can pick up quickly.
According to Parks Canada, small hard sided kayaks are also allowed if there is enough space on the shuttle. If you do not have your own watercraft, canoe rentals are available at Moraine Lake.
NOTE: Anyone launching non motorized watercraft including canoes, kayaks, paddleboards, or inflatables is required to complete a self certification permit each time they enter a new body of water in Banff National Park.
What if I Want to Rent a Canoe?
Canoe rentals are available from mid-June to mid-September and cost $160 CAD per canoe for a one-hour rental. The canoes accommodate up to three adults, or two adults and two children.
It is not cheap, but it is a bucket list experience for many visitors. If the line is too long, you could consider kayaking at equally beautiful lakes such as Emerald Lake or Lake Louise for a similar cost.
Are Bikes Allowed on the Shuttle?
No, bikes are not permitted on the regular Parks Canada shuttle.
If you are cycling to Moraine Lake, you must use the road independently.
If you are considering biking the road, check out our blog post on how to bike to Moraine Lake before the road opens for tips and planning advice.
Can I Store My Backpack Somewhere at the Lakes?
There are limited options for storing gear at Moraine Lake. Most people carry backpacks with them, as there are no official lockers.
Planning Your Visit
How Can I Get to Moraine Lake Without a Shuttle Ticket?
If shuttle tickets are sold out, there are still a few ways to reach Moraine Lake. Some options require planning or special arrangements, but they can help you enjoy the lake even without a shuttle reservation:
Bike the road independently - you can hire e-bikes in town
Hike in along the road (14km) - not recommended in winter due to avalanche risk
Drive with an accessible parking hang tag if you qualify and spots are available
How Much Time Should I Plan to Spend at Moraine Lake?
The amount of time you spend at Moraine Lake really depends on what you want to do.
If your goal is photography or scenic views, such as capturing the iconic "Twenty Dollar View" from the Rockpile Trail or enjoying a short walk along the lakeshore, plan for about 1 to 2 hours.
If you are planning to add a short hike like the trail to Consolation Lakes, you should allocate roughly 3 to 4 hours.
If you are planning on tackling an extended hike or scramble, such as the Tower of Babel scramble or the Larch Valley to Sentinel Pass trail, you will likely want to spend half a day to a full day to fully enjoy the experience.
Can I Visit Moraine Lake & Lake Louise in One Day?
This is the most common question we get asked!
Yes, it is absolutely possible to visit both lakes in a single day using the Lake Connector Shuttle.
Whether it is right for your family to try and fit in both really depends on what you plan to do at each lake.
In general, if you are planning to just see the lakes, do an hour of canoeing, or take a short hike along the lakeshore, you can definitely fit both in.
If you are planning a longer hike, like some of the options listed below, you should consider starting early to fit everything in, or visit the second lake on another day.
My best advice is to research the hikes you want to do, estimate how long they will take, and plan your day accordingly.
What are the Best Hikes Accessible from Moraine Lake
If you’re planning to spend time at Moraine Lake, there are several hiking options to choose from depending on your interests and fitness level. Here are some of our favourite hikes:
Rockpile Trail: A short 0.7km trail where you (and many others!) can view the famous $20 note panoramic view of the lake and surrounding peaks. Easy.
Lakeshore Trail: A 1.5 km trail that follows the edge of Moraine Lake to the end. It's flat and great for kids to throw rocks into the lake and paddle. Easy.
Consolation Lakes: A 2.9 km round-trip hike with a gentle ascent, leading to a nice lake. A great option to get away from the crowds without spending all day hiking. Easy.
Tower of Babel Scramble: A challenging scramble with approximately 474 meters of elevation gain - trust me when I say the views are worth it! Hard.
Larch Valley Trail: A moderate 8.9 km round-trip hike with some elevation gain, offering stunning views of larch trees in fall. Moderate.
Eiffel Lake: A moderate 11.9 km round-trip hike leading to a tranquil alpine lake. Moderate.
Sentinel Pass: A strenuous 11 km round-trip hike with significant elevation gain, providing spectacular views, especially during the larch tree color change in fall. Hard.
Paradise Valley: A strenuous 16.9 km round-trip hike through beautiful valleys and peaks, best suited for experienced hikers. Hard.
It’s worth noting that the hikes around Moraine Lake and Lake Louise are at high altitude, so depending on where you are visiting from, you may find them more challenging than expected.
Planning a Canadian Rockies Adventure?
If you're in the midst of planning a Canadian Rockies road trip, we’ve got plenty of resources to help you plan.
Start with our 2-week Canadian Rockies itinerary, which we've split into two parts to make it easy to follow:
If you’re starting or finishing in Calgary, don’t miss our 2-day Calgary itinerary and our guide to the 40 best things to do in Calgary with kids.
If you are heading to Waterton Lakes National Park then we’ve written about the best things to do in Waterton Lakes, and a few sample 1, 2, and 3-day itineraries to help you plan your stay.
You can also check out our guide to driving from Banff to Invermere through Kootenay National Park, and if you’re continuing south, our post on the Calgary to Fernie drive includes some great stops along the way.
Enjoy your stay in the Canadian Rockies!
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