Banff Express Shuttle to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise — Guaranteed Access
Difficulty
easy
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for casual walkers and families; expect short shoreline walks and uneven footing on rock piles
Overview
Skip the parking battle and let a local shuttle deliver you to two of the Canadian Rockies’ most photographed lakes. This five-hour shared tour guarantees access to Moraine Lake and includes lakefront time at Lake Louise — perfect for photographers and first-time visitors.
Banff Express Shuttle to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise — Guaranteed Access
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A low rumble of tires, a view that forces you to stop talking: the shuttle pulls away from the back lot of the Mount Royal Hotel and, within minutes, the valley opens into the Rockies. The windows frame serrated ridgelines and stands of black spruce that lean toward the road as if curious; by the time the driver points out the first turquoise glint, the quiet in the van is one of people preparing cameras, jackets, and the small, polite hush that comes right before a good view.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive 10 minutes early
Meet at the Mount Royal Hotel bus terminal (rear lot on Beaver Street); buses depart promptly and there is limited flexibility.
Dress in layers
Mountain weather shifts quickly — bring a windproof layer and light hat even on warm mornings.
Carry a refillable bottle
There are limited water options at viewpoints; filtered tap water is available at some facilities but bring your own for hikes.
Respect wildlife distance
Keep at least 100 meters from bears and 30 meters from elk; flash photography or approaching animals is unsafe and illegal.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Elk
- Black bears (seasonal)
History
The area has been important to the Stoney Nakoda people for centuries; Euro-Canadian tourism expanded after railway access in the late 1800s and the construction of historic hotels.
Conservation
Banff National Park manages visitor access to sensitive lake shores to reduce erosion and protect spawning waterways; follow Leave No Trace and obey trail closures.
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Adventure Hotspots in Banff
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy walking shoes
Provides traction on wet boardwalks, moraine rock, and shoreline paths.
Layered jacket (windproof)
Protects against sudden wind, rain, or chill near glacial lakes.
Refillable water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during shore walks and reduces plastic waste.
Camera or smartphone with extra battery
Long vistas and rapidly changing light mean you’ll take more photos than expected.