Explore More of Banff, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
Make the Most of Your Visit
Looking for the best things to do in the Canadian Rockies? We’ve handpicked top outdoor activities and tours offered by trusted local companies to help you experience more adventure during your stay. These are the must-do experiences we recommend near Banff, Canmore, Golden and Abraham Lake!
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
No trip to the Canadian Rockies is complete without a visit to the iconic turquoise waters of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. These stunning alpine lakes, located in Banff National Park, are bucket-list destinations for nature lovers, photographers, and outdoor adventurers. With vehicle access to Moraine Lake now limited, we’ve partnered with reliable local tour and shuttle providers to make your visit smooth, memorable, and stress-free.
How to Get to Moraine Lake & Lake Louise
Exploring the breathtaking beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is a highlight of any trip to the Canadian Rockies. With private vehicle access to Moraine Lake restricted, booking a shuttle or guided tour is the most convenient way to experience these iconic destinations. Below, we’ve outlined the starting points for our recommended tour operators:
Moraine Lake Bus Company
Explore Moraine Lake and Lake Louise with the #1 rated shuttle company, departing right from the Lake Louise Park & Ride. With the most
departure times throughout the day and flexible shuttle options, you can enjoy the lakes at your own pace! Choose from:
- Direct shuttle to Moraine Lake
- Direct shuttle to Lake Louise Lakeshore
- Combo: Moraine Lake + 1-hour stop at Lake Louise Lakeshore
- Sunrise at Moraine Lake
Book now to guarantee your spot
Lake Louise Gondola
Looking for breathtaking views and a chance to spot wildlife like grizzly bears? The Lake Louise Summer Gondola is one of the best scenic activities in Banff National Park. Ride up to a stunning alpine viewpoint with panoramic views of glaciers, wildflower meadows, and the iconic Lake Louise area.
Looking for breathtaking views and a chance to spot wildlife like grizzly bears? The Lake Louise Summer Gondola is one of the best scenic activities in Banff National Park. Ride up to a stunning alpine viewpoint with panoramic views of glaciers, wildflower meadows, and the iconic Lake Louise area.
At the top, explore a variety of hiking trails, or take in the scenery over a meal at Whitehorn Bistro—a hidden gem perched at 2,042 metres (6,700 feet). Known for its locally inspired dishes and gourmet comfort food, the bistro also boasts one of the highest elevation patios in Canada, offering jaw-dropping views of Mt. Temple and the surrounding peaks.
Book your Lake Louise Gondola tickets as a package with your Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Shuttle through this link for the lowest available price! It’s the most affordable way to secure your spot and skip the lines.
Via Via Moraine Lake Shuttle
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Starting Points: Canmore and Banff
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Ideal For: Travelers staying in Canmore or Banff seeking direct transportation to Moraine Lake.
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Pickup Details: Offers multiple daily departures with hotel, Airbnb, or Vrbo pickups in both towns.
Via Via provides a hassle-free experience, especially for sunrise tours, ensuring you arrive at Moraine Lake before the crowds
Into the Wild Tours
Base: Canmore & Banff
Best For: Guests looking for insightful, guided experiences with a deeper connection to local nature and history.
Signature Tours:
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Moraine Lake + Lake Louise Explorer – Small-group, story-rich visits with time for short hikes and photos
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Sunrise Wildlife Safari – Look for bears, elk, and moose with an experienced local naturalist
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Hidden Gems Tour – Discover lesser-known waterfalls, canyons, and viewpoints off the beaten path
Why Choose Into the Wild?
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Guided by naturalists & passionate storytellers
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Emphasis on conservation and local knowledge
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Comfortable vans, not big buses
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Great for nature lovers and families
Radventures
Base: Banff & Canmore
Best For: Adventurers seeking epic views, humor-filled guiding, and less touristy experiences.
Top Experiences:
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Moraine Lake Sunrise Tour – Beat the crowds with a fun and photo-friendly early start
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Banff Highlights & Wildlife Tour – Classic spots plus local legends and viewpoints
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Icefields Parkway Explorer – Jaw-dropping glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine lakes (full-day)
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Custom Private Tours – Great for small groups and photographers
What Makes Radventures Stand Out?
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Local guides with awesome storytelling skills
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Emphasis on fun, freedom, and flexibility
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Small groups = less rush, more time to explore
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Unique photography stops and hidden gems
Radventures is a favorite among solo travelers and couples who want to explore like locals.
Adventure pass from Don’t Bug Me I Am On Vacation
Looking for a smarter way to explore Canada’s Rockies (and beyond)? Don’t BUGMe I’m On Vacation makes local adventures more affordable and accessible with their $99/year Road Trip Pass—offering 20% off activities at participating businesses like paddle rentals, guided tours, and more.
How It Works
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Explore & Save – Use their interactive map to discover authentic local experiences.
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Grab a Pass – Purchase your Road Trip Pass and gain access to exclusive discounts.
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Book Direct – Reserve experiences directly with businesses and get 20% off your main activity (e.g. canyoning, rafting, SUP, yoga on water)
Grab your pass here and use the code BanffCanyoning20 to get $20 off your adventure pass!
