Moraine Lake Travel Guide: Iconic Canada

Surrounded by the Valley of the Ten Peaks, Moraine Lake feels like something straight out of a dream that only Mother Nature could shape. It is a must-visit for anyone visiting Alberta or the Canadian Rockies, and no matter what time of the year you have booked your holiday to Canada, there is always something to see at Moraine Lake.

In the summer, the glassy water mirrors the surrounding peaks, and there are countless walking trails you can follow, whilst in the winter the lake freezes, offering you the chance to take some spectacular photographs and enjoy a variety of winter sports.

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Where is Moraine Lake?

Moraine Lake is located in Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada, specifically in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. It is just over eight miles outside of Lake Louise, and from here, Moraine Lake can be accessed via Moraine Lake Road.

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What is the weather like in Moraine Lake?

Moraine Lake is a popular attraction to visit year-round, but it does have a four-season climate, making it unique no matter what season you visit.

• Summer (Mid-June to late September): Warm, sunny, but with cool evenings. The lake is fully thawed at this time of year, and you can enjoy stunning views of its turquoise waters. There are average high temperatures of 22°C.
• Autumn (Late September to Early October): In autumn, it is Larch season when the trees begin to turn yellow, creating a picturesque landscape. Temperatures range from -1°C to 10°C.
• Winter (Mid-October to May): Heavy snowfall is common, and the road to Moraine Lake is closed during this period. Temperatures generally range from 0 to -15°C.
• Spring (Late May to early June): The lake begins to thaw during this time of the year, although snow is still present in areas around the lake. Temperatures range from 10-17°C.

The prime period for visiting Moraine Lake is the summer, as you can see it in all its glory. The lake is fully thawed, and you will be able to see the iconic turquoise waters that are synonymous with the lake. It is the best season for experiencing Moraine Lake's outdoor activities, as you can go canoeing on the water or hike along the picturesque trails dotted around the lake.

During the winter months, Moraine Lake is completely frozen and the road leading to the lake is closed as a result of the heavy snowfall. However, it is the perfect time to visit for winter adventures, as instead of driving, you can go cross-country skiing, snowshoeing or skiing and snowboarding in the surrounding areas.

Spring will bring warmer temperatures with it, but the lake is still partially frozen, and the best way to explore Moraine Lake and the surrounding area is to go walking or snowshoeing if there is still snow settling on the floor.

ALSO READ: The best lakes to visit in the Canadian Rockies

What is Moraine Lake known for?

Moraine Lake is one of the most famous lakes in the world, and it is known for its striking, vibrant turquoise-blue water and its stunning location within the Valley of the Ten Peaks in Banff National Park. The lake's colour is a natural phenomenon caused by the reflection of sunlight off rock sediment carried into the lake by glacier melt.

Key facts about Moraine Lake

• The view of Moraine Lake from the top of The Rockpile Trail is one of the most photographed locations in all of Canada.
• Moraine Lake was featured on the reverse side of the 1969 and 1979 issues of the Canadian twenty-dollar bill.
• Moraine Lake is around 46 feet deep.
• The surface area of the lake is around 50 hectares, or 120 acres.
• The valley that surrounds the lake is home to wildlife such as Grizzly and Black bears, Cougars, Lynx, Wolves and Coyotes.

• Hike the Rockpile Trail
• Canoe on Moraine Lake
• Capture iconic photographs
• Go on a wildlife watching tour
• Go stargazing
• Try snowshoeing or cross-country skiing (in winter)
• Watch the sunset or sunrise over the lake

Moraine Lake is full of things to see and do. There is a network of trails that you can follow around the lake, making it a haven for hikers. One of the best and most iconic trails is the Rockpile Trail, and from the famous viewpoint, you can take one of the most photographed views in Canada.

Going canoeing on the lake is another popular must-try activity, and being located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains means there is so much wildlife you can see. Located within Banff National Park, Moraine Lake is the perfect spot to go stargazing.

If you are visiting Moraine Lake in the winter months, you can enjoy plenty of winter activities, such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing.

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Are there any good places to eat in Moraine Lake?

Whilst Moraine Lake has limited options to eat, there are plenty of choices for places that are near to this iconic natural attraction. Some of the best restaurants in or near Moraine Lake are:

• Moraine Lake Lodge Café & Dining Room: You must book ahead if you are not staying at the lodge, but you can enjoy Canadian cuisine using regional ingredients and lakeside views.
• Bill Peyto’s Café: Located in Lake Louise, the café offers hearty meals and a relaxed atmosphere.
• Post Hotel Dining Room: If you fancy a fine dining experience, then the award-winning wine list, impeccable service, and a luxurious alpine ambience that this restaurant offers are certainly what you are looking for.
• Lake Louise Village Grill & Bar: This popular eatery has offered the ideal family dining experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner since 1990. It has a variety of delectable Western and Asian dishes on its menu.

Can I stay in Moraine Lake?

The only place to stay in Moraine Lake is at the Moraine Lake Lodge, which offers fantastic views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The lodge provides the ultimate getaway for those seeking a luxurious escape in the Canadian Rockies. There is a rustic feel to the lodge, and from the Deluxe Cabins to rooms in the main Lodge, all have their own private deck or balcony with breathtaking views of Banff National Park.

Book a stay at Moraine Lake Lodge

Lake Louise offers you another option, as you can easily take public transit to Moraine Lake, which is under 10 miles away. Lake Louise is a great base for exploring the Canadian Rockies' crown jewels.

Book a hotel at Lake Louise