A GUIDE TO SHUTTLES AT MORAINE LAKE
**updated for 2024**
Welcome to the ultimate guide to navigating Moraine Lake with the shuttle bus system!
As an experienced and local Moraine Lake Photographer I have had the pleasure of helping hundreds of clients navigate the best way to visit this iconic Canadian Lake.
Moraine Lake is undoubtedly one of the most stunning and sought-after destinations in the Canadian Rockies, but with its popularity comes the challenge of managing access to this pristine location. To help preserve the natural beauty of Moraine Lake and provide a smooth experience for visitors, Parks Canada has implemented a shuttle bus system during peak season.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about using the Moraine Lake shuttle buses. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking to optimize your trip, we’ve got you covered. From booking your shuttle tickets to understanding the logistics of the system, we’ll ensure you’re well-prepared to make the most of your visit to Moraine Lake.
Let’s dive in and discover how to make your journey to Moraine Lake seamless and unforgettable!
JUMP TO:
Parks Canada Public Shuttle BUs
PRICE: $12 per adult
SHUTTLE TIMES: 6:30am – 6pm
RESERVATIONS: 40% of tickets are made available in April 60% of tickets are made available 48 hours prior to departure time. Reservations are made on the Parks Canada Website.
PICK UP: Lake Louise Ski Resort (Park and Ride)
Shuttle Bus Service Overview:
- The Parks Canada shuttle bus to Moraine Lake operates during the peak tourist season to manage traffic and parking congestion at the lake.
Operating Times:
- The shuttle buses typically operate from late May to early October, corresponding with Moraine Lake’s busiest period.
Shuttle Bus Schedule:
- Buses run regularly throughout the day from the Lake Louise Park and Ride area to Moraine Lake.
Ticket Prices:
- As of the 2024 season, adult tickets for the Moraine Lake shuttle bus are priced at CAD $8 per person (ages 18-64).
- Senior (65+) and youth (6-17) tickets are available at a reduced rate of CAD $6 per person.
- Children aged 5 and under ride for free.
Booking and Reservations:
- Tickets for the shuttle bus can be purchased online in advance through the Parks Canada reservation system or on-site at the Lake Louise Park and Ride.
Duration and Frequency:
- The shuttle bus ride from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake takes approximately 20-25 minutes, depending on traffic and road conditions.
- Buses depart frequently throughout the day, ensuring visitors have flexibility in planning their visit to Moraine Lake.
Accessibility and Amenities:
- The shuttle buses are equipped with facilities to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges.
- Each bus is also equipped with knowledgeable staff who can provide information about Moraine Lake and the surrounding area.
** NEW FOR 2024*** ALPINE START SHUTTLE
Departs from LAKE LOUISE SHORELINE PARKING LOT (not the Ski Resort Park and Ride)
4am and 5am pickups ONLY
PUBLIC Shuttle Options
FAIRVIEW LIMOUSINE
PRICE: $25 – $75 per person
PETS ALLOWED: $10-30 extra
SUNRISE SHUTTLE TIME: 4am – 6:30am
REGULAR SHUTTLE TIME: 8am – 8pm
PICK UP: Lake Louise Inn
MORAINE LAKE BUS COMPANY
PRICE: $35 – $50 per person
SUNRISE SHUTTLE TIME: 4am – 6am
SUNRISE PICK UP: Samson Mall – car must vacate Samson Mall by 8am
REGULAR SHUTTLE: 6am – 6pm
REGULAR PICK UP: Lake Louise Ski Resort
MORAINE LAKE SUNRISE SHUTTLE
PRICE: $95 per person for Moraine Lake
add $80 for a stop at Lake Louise with boxed breakfast
PICK UP TIMES: Canmore (3am) , Banff (3:30am), Lake Louise (4am)
This company also offers private shuttle for groups up to 13 passengers.
TEN PEAKS SHUTTLE
$69 per person
Pick-ups from Bow Valley Parkway and Lake Louise Village
$95 per person
Pick ups from Town of Banff
CANMORE TRAVEL SHUTTLE
$110-$125 per person
1 hour at Moraine Lake & 1 Hour at Lake Louise
PICK UP TIMES:
Sunrise, 10am, 11am, 1pm
PICK UP LOCATION: Canmore
PRIVATE CHARTER BUS
BANFF SEDAN
Sprinter Van – 11 passengers – $775-$1095
Mini Coach – 24 passengers – $1350
PRIVATE LIMOUSINE & CHARTER BUS
PATAGONIA LIMOUSINE & CHAUFFEUR
Executive Van – 14 passengers
Luxury SUV Limo – 14 passengers
Minicoach/Bus – 24 passengers
ROAM PUBLIC BUS
ROAM BUS OPTION 1 – Early June – Mid Oct
INFO: Bus from Banff to Lake Louise (Route 8X) and upgrade your bus ticket to the ROAM SUPER PASS for $25 per person to gain access to the Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle
PRICE: $25 per person for the ROAM SUPER PASS. It is one day pass only that must be reserved in advance by date.
PICK UP LOCATION: Banff High School Transit Hub (Route 8X) to Lake Louise and use Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake
ROAM BUS OPTION 2 – Sept – Mid Oct Only
INFO: Direct to Moraine Lake bus (Route 10) that runs in September and October ONLY.
PICK UP LOCATION: Banff High School Transit Hub (Route 10)
PLanning a Photo Session at Moraine Lake
Planning a photo session at Moraine Lake involves careful consideration to make the most of the stunning location within the limited time frame.
Begin by scheduling at least a one-hour session to allow for different shots and perspectives. For small sessions like proposals, couples, or engagement sessions, it’s advisable to utilize the Public Shuttles and the larger Shuttle buses provided by Parks Canada.
However, events such as weddings or elopements, booking a private bus or limo is recommended to ensure flexibility and privacy. Advance reservations for transportation are crucial due to high demand and limited parking availability at Moraine Lake.
This thoughtful planning will contribute to a successful and memorable photo session against the breathtaking backdrop of Moraine Lake.
Sessions at Moraine Lake starting at $1000 CAD
