Moraine Lake Hike

Trailhead: Park in the Moraine Lake parking lot located at Moraine Lake 15kms west of the Lake Louise townsite. Banff National Park. Expect hordes of people here during the summer months. Moraine Lake Road is not plowed during the winter months however it is an excellent cross country ski in.

Description: This area is referred to as the Valley of Ten Peaks and is absolutely stunning. Many consider Moraine Lake and the surrounding valley to be the best of the Canadian Rockies. At one time a photo of Moraine Lake was printed on the back of the Canadian $20 dollar bill.

The Lake itself is a stunning blue green color that is created from glacial silt. I can’t think of any color to describe it. Some say turquoise but it’s not that color to my eyes. Unfortunately my camera does not show its true color. It’s far brighter and more brilliant with the naked eye and it changes with the suns position in the sky.

You can rent a canoe and paddle the entire length of the Lake which I’m sure would be an experience of a life time. Views of the Wenkchemna Peaks, Mount Fay, Mount Bowlen, Mount Allen, Mount Babel and several hanging glaciers are unforgettable. Just a short walk from the parking lot you’ll find a nice lookout on top of a natural rock slide that dams the Lake. This viewpoint is a favorite for artist trying to capture the views on canvass and where all those classic calendar photos are taken . Several must do hikes are located in this area. This Is Bear Country.

Bow Valley Parkway Map PDF