“gorgeous glacier-fed lake”
Moraine Lake is a glacially-fed lake in Banff National Park, 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) outside the Village of Lake Louise. It is situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, at an elevation of approximately 6,183 feet (1,885 m). The lake has a surface area of .5 square kilometres (0.19 sq mi).The lake, being glacially fed, does not reach its crest until mid to late June. When it is full, it reflects a distinct shade of blue. The color is due to the refraction of light off the rock flour deposited in the lake on a continual basis. The area around the lake has several walking/hiking trails which are, from time to time, restricted. This is the one most commonly taken by tourists. The Rockpile Trail along the actual moraine is approximately 300 metres long, with an elevation change of 24 metres (79 ft). The view of the lake from the top of the rockpile is one of the most photographed locations in all of Canada. That view of the mountains behind the lake in Valley of the Ten Peaks is known as the Twenty Dollar View, as Moraine Lake was featured on the reverse side of the 1969 and 1979 issues of the Canadian twenty dollar bill. Along the same trailhead, the Consolation Lakes trail starts, which is approximately 3 kilometres (1.9 mi) long, with an elevation change of 90 metres (300 ft). Upon reaching Consolation Lakes hikers may continue along to the upper lake, which is not visible from the end of the lower lake. There is, however, no clearly marked trail, and can often be a scramble over large rocky areas.Near the canoe docks of Moraine Lake Lodge there is another trailhead. This trailhead is the start of two trails, one of which branches out into four different trails - so there are in total, five trails starting at that trailhead (Moraine Lake Lakeshore Trail, Eiffel Lake, Wenkchemna Pass, Larch Valley, and Sentinel Pass).
Reviews
There is nothing more majestic then Moraine Lake which is nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, located a few short kilometers from Lake Louise, Alberta. A must see attraction, particularly in the spring after the access road is open to tourists.
The water is shockingly beautiful. A short hike up a small hill affords a great view. For those that bring their own kayak, make sure you have wheels because the launch place is not convenient to the parking area. Speaking of parking, it is a problem finding a spot, so, if you are wise, visit this lake first and early but be sure to visit.
Amazing view. Make sure you hike the valley of the 10 peaks. Best hike in the park!
Stupid gorgeous!
Climb up the rock pile on the left when you start to see the lake for the famous views with trees in the foreground!
the Icefields are melting fast , better go soon..
Holy mother of WOW. I have never seen anything quite like this before. We went right before a wicked snow storm blew in, and it was still beautiful.
We also went later in the day, so parking wasn't full. There is a shuttle that can take you up if needed.
Probably the most stunning lake in Banff. A definite must see!!
I loved this lake more than Lake Louise. The blue was so deep and beautiful even on a cloudy day. The parking is very full, but turns over quickly especially mid day. You can paddle the lake, but if you expect to rent a canoe plan to pay $120 per hour! Yikes.
Absolutely breath taking. All the water in this area is a beautiful blue but Moraine Lake was a deeper blue and so gorgeous. I loved hiking on the rocks piled on the side. With Moraine you park and walk to the front of the parking lot, and there it is. It is a must see and plan to spend an hour here even though the hike is so small.
Rain or shine!! This lake is breathtaking from the view on top!! Great place to hikes and capture the beauty surrounded the lake and see the amazing sunset peaking the top of the mountain.
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Moraine Lake
Hours
- Sun - Sat: 12:00 am - 11:59 pm
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