Moraine Lake, located in Banff National Park, is a stunning alpine lake known for its vibrant turquoise waters and breathtaking mountain backdrop. Fed by glacier melt, the lake remains frozen most of the year and only thaws from June to October due to its high elevation.

Access to Moraine Lake is now restricted to shuttle services, making it easier to experience this majestic beauty without the hassle of parking. Make sure to book your shuttle ahead of time - https://www.banfflakelouise.com/explore-the-park/moraine-lake-shuttle

The road to Moraine Lake is only accessible by booking the shuttle. Check out my Moraine Lake post within the guide for all the info needed!

One of the best hikes in Banff national park, especially during larch season (September).

This is a longer (11.5km) hike that is rated as hard due to the incline and switch backs. Its well worth the effort!

The Consolation Lakes guided hike in Banff National Park is a moderate trek that takes you through rocky terrain and mature forests to the picturesque lakes. The 6.5 km round trip trail offers stunning views of alpine meadows, towering peaks, and the Quadra Glacier.

You will need to get a shuttle to Moraine Lake in order to do this hike, so book that in advance and plan accordingly for shuttle schedule.

Book shuttle here - https://www.banfflakelouise.com/explore-the-park/moraine-lake-shuttle

Lake Louise is one of the bluest lakes in the world! This area has tons of sight seeing & hiking trails all from one parking lot.

Paid parking is present from 3 a.m. to 7 p.m. between May 17 and October 14, 2025. The parking fee is $36.75 per vehicle per day and $8 if you have a handicapped placard. You will also need a valid Parks Canada Pass for all National Parks in Canada.

If you drive yourself, make sure to get to the parking lot before 8am as it does get full quickly.

You can also choose to take a shuttle here.

Reservations are required for the shuttle online at https://reservation.pc.gc.ca/or by calling 1-877-737-3783.

60% of the shuttle tickets are released at 8 am MT two days before, so check back two days in advance for more availability. Shuttle cost is $8

We recommend to spend one full day exploring the hikes at Lake Louise (our favs are Big Beehive or Plain of Six Glaciers)

If you drive yourself, all trails are dog friendly.

The Lake Agnes Tea House, located in Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada, is a charming spot nestled by the picturesque Lake Agnes. Built in 1901 as a refuge for hikers, it has been serving tea since 1905 and is known as the oldest teahouse in Canada. Accessible only by foot or horseback via the Lake Agnes Tea House Trail, visitors can enjoy a variety of loose leaf teas, sweet treats, soups, sandwiches, and snacks while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

3.5 KMS Moderate

The Big Beehive in Banff National Park is a must-do for hikers looking for epic views and a solid challenge, offering stunning vistas of Lake Louise and surrounding peaks. Starting from Lake Louise Lakeshore, hikers can also visit Mirror Lake and Lake Agnes along the way. The trail is popular, so expect crowds, but the surreal scenery makes it all worth it. Don't forget to check out the historic Lake Agnes Teahouse to grab a snack on your way up or down!

10.78 KM Hard

The Plain of Six Glaciers hike in the Canadian Rockies is a stunning adventure that begins at the iconic Lake Louise and takes you through breathtaking mountain scenery. The trail offers incredible views and a chance to connect with nature while getting some exercise.

Everyone has heard of the iconic Lake Agnes Tea House but few people know there is another secret tea house along this trail with just as amazing views but half the crowd! Reward yourself with a sweet treat half way up or down this hike at the tea house while surrounded by amazing mountain views!

14.64 KM Moderate

Since this starts at Lake Louise, make sure to get there early to get parking or take the shuttle. If you're feeling ambitious, you can add on some of the other hikes at Lake Louise. Our other favourite hike here is the Big Beehive.

Nourish Bistro in Banff is a cozy spot that serves up delicious plant-based dishes. With a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant offers a variety of options for vegans and vegetarians. This is the only vegetarian restaurant in Banff! We loved the "Bison" burger, veggie gyozas & ramen! They also have insanely good cocktails with a mountain view patio to enjoy it on!

COWS is a Canadian-made ice cream with a delicious set of flavours, and some pretty unique apparel and goodies for sale in the shop! You'll be lucky to see this place without a line up out onto the street, even on the cooler days!