Sunrise Shuttle to Moraine Lake
Round trip from $123 CAD / person (approx. US$87)
Moraine Lake Sunrise Shuttle
Greet the day with the Canadian Rockies bathed in a sunrise glow.
Looking for more shuttle options after sunrise?
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Most Popular
Moraine Lake Sunrise
Greet the day with the Canadian Rockies bathed in a sunrise glow — early departures get you to Moraine Lake for first light.
From $123 (CAD) / person (round trip)
What's included?
- Free parking — guaranteed
- Reserved pickup — never wait in line
- Flexible booking — make changes up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure
- You choose how long you stay — grab a few photos and head back, or spend the day hiking and pick your return shuttle
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12 Daily Departures
Selling Fast
Moraine Lake Daytime
Round-trip shuttle to Moraine Lake with a reserved seat and a return time you choose.
From $40 (CAD) / person (round trip)
What's included?
- Free parking — guaranteed
- Reserved pickup — never wait in line
- Flexible booking — make changes up to 24 hours before your scheduled departure
- You choose how long you stay — grab a few photos and head back, or spend the day hiking and pick your return shuttle
Save up to $15 on the Lake Louise Summer Gondola with your shuttle booking.
Why Choose Moraine Lake Bus Company
Guaranteed Parking
We offer more departure times than any other shuttle service with convenient pick-up & drop-off locations.
No Waiting in Lines
Never wait in line to/from Moraine Lake.
Flexible Booking
You can make changes to your date/time up to 24 hours before your scheduled shuttle.
Shuttle Schedule
Our shuttles depart approximately every 30 minutes. Availability and specific time slots fluctuate based on seasonal demand. For the most up-to-date schedule and to secure your seat, enter your preferred date in our booking calendar.
Reviews
What Makes Our Sunrise Shuttle to Moraine Lake Unforgettable?
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VIP treatment. We did sunrise shuttle and had great experience and totally worth it. Mitch provided photography tips, history and what we can do next fpr rest pf the day in this area. Each of us also got a postcard with beautiful pictures of Canada locations.
— Pavan G. -
Given that self-drive is no longer an option, Moraine Lake Bus Company is a dream for being able to get to this gem of a lake to see sunrise! An absolute must for the Rockies, and 10000x more magical at sunrise. The Moraine Lake Bus Company team was prompt, friendly, informative, and seamless. Highly recommend!
— Kellie P. -
We (my best friend and I) booked a shuttle for both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (sunrise). The drivers/guides were ALL amazing and informative. We loved their spunk, their music selection on the bus, their suggestions for places to eat and see, and their consideration of their guests needs. We had amazing experiences and would absolutely recommend Moraine Lake Bus Company to anyone visiting here. Thank you for being so kind and lovely!!
— Kelly M. -
It was a great experience! So easy and the drivers were really helpful. We even finished one of the lake a bit early and they were able to accommodate us in an earlier return shuttle. The moraine lake sunrise experience was unforgettable! Added bonus that the drivers had ponchos and umbrellas for us since it was rainy type of day.
— Carolina V. -
We took the 4 AM sunrise shuttle with Moraine Lake Bus Company and it was absolutely incredible. Our driver Mitch was super knowledgeable about the Rockies and even shared some of his stunning photography—such a cool personal touch. On the ride back at 8 AM, Chris was full of energy and fun facts, pointing out avalanche paths and mountain peaks.
— Carla H.
Why Is the Sunrise at Moraine Lake So Spectacular?
The view at sunrise is a incredible play of light and shadow that creates a sense of solitude and peace.
As the first rays of sunlight begin to crest over the towering peaks of the valley, the entire landscape comes to life. The calm, turquoise waters of Moraine Lake, reflect the vibrant hues of the morning sky creating a surreal mirror image of the surrounding mountains and trees.
The peaks, often dusted with snow, catch the early light, turning them a soft gold and pink. Get ready for a moment of pure tranquillity, and a reminder of the incredible natural beauty in our world.
Sunrise tips
Tips for Visiting Moraine Lake at Sunrise
Sunrise Times Vary Throughout the Season
Be sure to check the time for sunrise when you plan to visit Moraine Lake as it varies throughout the season from 5.26am in mid June to 8:05 in mid October.
What to wear for your Sunrise Journey to Moraine Lake
Moraine Lake is located at a higher elevation than Banff or Lake Louise so expect the mornings to be chilly even on a summer day. We recommend you wear sturdy shoes, and layers of clothing. Pack a jacket, long sleeves, and pants. Consider bringing along hats and gloves during September and October months. You will be standing around and even a short hike up to the Rockpile Trail can be chilly.
Best Places to Watch the Sunrise
Two popular spots to watch the sunrise are The Rockpile Trail, a 10-minute hike to the summit that offers an excellent vantage point. Alternatively, witnessing the sunrise from the picturesque Moraine Lake Shoreline provides another fantastic perspective.
What do to when you arrive to Moraine Lake
There’s lots of activities awaiting when you arrive!
- Visit to the viewpoint at the end of the brief and accessible Rockpile Trail.
- Embark on one of the numerous trails originating at the lake, ranging from quick 20-minute strolls to extensive multi-hour treks.
- Rent a colourful canoe from Moraine Lake Lodge and get right up close to the towering peaks.
- Enjoy a snack at the lodge’s café and savor it on the patio with breathtaking views of the Lake.
- Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including squirrels, native birds, chipmunks, and marmots.
- Don’t forget your camera! Take lots of photos to remember your adventures 😊
Frequently asked questions
FAQs
Do you pick up in Banff or Canmore?
At this time, we do not offer pickups from the Banff townsite or Canmore. Our departure locations are the Lake Louise Summer Gondola and Samson Mall (Lake Louise Village), about a 45-minute drive from Banff.
Can I visit both lakes?
Yes! Visiting both lakes is easy with a bit of planning. We recommend one of the following options:
Option 1: Both Lakes Shuttle (Most Popular)
Book the Moraine Lake w/ 1-hour stop at Lake Louise shuttle.
This is the best choice for most guests – you’ll enjoy a 1-hour sightseeing stop at Lake Louise, then continue to Moraine Lake where you can stay as long as you like and select your preferred return time.
Option 2: Two Separate Bookings
If you’d like to spend more than 1 hour at Lake Louise (for example, if you’re planning a hike or canoe), you can book two separate shuttles:
- Moraine Lake Shuttle
- Lake Louise Shuttle
Many guests like to stop in Lake Louise Village (Samson Mall) between shuttles to grab a bite at one of the local cafés (Trailhead Cafe or Laggan’s Bakery), then catch their next shuttle from there.
How long should I spend at Moraine Lake?
Most guests spend around 1-2 hours at each lake, which is the perfect amount of time for sightseeing, photos, and a short walk along the lakeshore.
If you’re planning to hike or canoe, you can easily select a later return time that works best for your day.
For more information on activities at Moraine Lake, you can check out our Moraine Lake Hiking Guide, and our guide to Canoeing on Moraine Lake.
Are your prices one-way or round-trip?
Prices for the Moraine Lake shuttle are round-trip.
What time of year can I visit Moraine Lake?
The Moraine Lake and Lake Louise shuttles are operational from June 1 till October 12.
How long does the shuttle to Moraine Lake take?
A trip on the Moraine Lake shuttle takes 40 minutes (25 minutes at sunrise).
A trip on the Lake Louise shuttle takes 20 minutes.
See our Schedule & Rates page for more information.
Can I drive my personal vehicle to Moraine Lake?
No. Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles. To visit Moraine Lake, you must take a Moraine Lake shuttle bus.
What luggage/equipment can I bring on the bus?
Our buses have space for visitors to bring strollers, large backpacks, climbing equipment, inflatable paddle boards and walkers. Our buses do not have space to accommodate rigid canoes or kayaks.
If bringing a watercraft to Moraine Lake or Lake Louise, please ensure you are compliant with all Banff National Park Water Activity Rules & Regulations.
What is the Moraine Lake Commercial Vehicle Fee?
Starting in 2025, Parks Canada began applying fees to all commercial operators visiting Moraine Lake. Fees are charged to commercial operators on a per-trip basis, and are slightly over $300 for each bus trip we make. The revenue from the fees charged to commercial operators go directly to offsetting the cost of Parks Canada’s traffic management in Lake Louise and Moraine Lake.
What is your Cancellation Policy?
>24 hours before your departure: You may modify the date and time of your reservation within the same calendar year. Please note that tickets are non-refundable, but we encourage you to reschedule as required so you can still enjoy Moraine Lake and Lake Louise.
To make changes, click the ‘Reschedule My Booking’ link in your confirmation email.
<24 hours before your departure: No changes or modifications can be made within 24 hours of your departure time. Shuttle seats are limited, and many visitors plan their trip around visiting the lakes. Allowing enough notice ensures others have the opportunity to book in advance.
Can I bring my pet?
Pets are welcome on our shuttles if they are in a carrier small enough to fit on your lap (typically under 25 lbs). Certified service animals are welcome at any size.
Our policies are aligned with those of Parks Canada and Roam Transit.
What if I’m a rock climber/mountaineer and aren’t sure what time I’ll be back?
Depending on your objective, we recommend booking the last shuttle from Moraine Lake. If you’re back earlier, you can hop on an earlier bus if there’s space. Please send us an email if you’re trying to climb one of the bigger routes in the area and we can help you out.
What if I miss the bus?
There are no refunds or reschedules if you miss the bus. Our buses leave on time, every time, so please plan to arrive at your bus stop at least fifteen (15) minutes before your departure. It may take up to ten (10) minutes to walk from your vehicle to the bus stop, so please give yourself plenty of time.
Do I need a Parks Canada Pass?
Yes. All adult visitors to Banff National Park are required by Parks Canada to buy a permit for the duration of their stay. Passes are available for purchase online, in-person at Parks Canada’s park gates, and information centres in Banff and Lake Louise.
From June 19 to September 7, 2026, no park pass is required to enter Banff National Park as part of the Canada Strong Pass.
Will I have cell service?
There is no cell service at Moraine Lake. You start to gain cell reception approximately three (3) kilometres down the road towards Lake Louise.
There is cell service at the Lake Louise Lakeshore, but it can be limited, especially during busy times and when you are out on the trails.
Are your buses wheelchair accessible?
At this time, our buses are not wheelchair accessible.
Parks Canada offers accessible shuttle service for visitors with mobility needs travelling to Moraine Lake. Accessible vehicles are dispatched as needed.
Visitors with a valid government-issued accessible hang tag may use the limited accessible parking stalls at the Lake Louise Lakeshore parking lot (first come, first served).
Are infants free of charge?
All infants and children are required to pay the child rate. Parents/guardians are responsible for supplying an appropriate child safety seat for their infant and/or child (as required).
Can I pay for the Moraine Lake shuttle when I board?
Due to the limited number of seats, we highly recommended that you plan ahead and make a reservation for the Moraine Lake shuttle before you visit. However, if there is availability when you arrive, you will be able to purchase a ticket directly from our friendly team at the ticket shack.
Send us an email if you have any more questions about how to book our Moraine Lake shuttle service or our Lake Louise shuttle service.
What else is there to do?
We recommend the breathtaking views aboard the Lake Louise Summer Gondola. Book with us and save $15 off the price of your gondola ticket!
Can I change my reservation to another day?
Yes, so long as the date you are changing from is not within 24 hours of departure.
Can I park at Lake Louise Lakeshore and catch the bus from there?
No. Please board at our designated pickup locations:
- Lake Louise Summer Gondola – All shuttles departing after 6am.
- Samson Mall (Lake Louise Village) – Sunrise shuttles (before 6am)
Can I walk to Moraine Lake?
Walking to Moraine Lake is not recommended as it is a 28km round trip. There are better ways to spend your day!
Can I get off at Paradise Valley?
Yes, just let the bus driver know and they will let you off at the trailhead.
To return, please complete the loop and get picked up from Moraine Lake. We do not pick-up from Paradise Valley.
Where can I park to take your shuttle for sunrise?
For sunrise departures (before 6:00am), shuttles depart from Samson Mall in Lake Louise Village.
Free parking is guaranteed and included with your booking, so you’ll always have a place to park!
What time is the Moraine Lake Sunrise Shuttle?
The first shuttles of the day depart from Samson Mall at 4:00 am, 5:05am, and 5:30am, arriving at Moraine Lake by sunrise.
In late September and October, the 6:40am and shuttle can be used as a sunrise shuttle.
Moraine Lake Sunrise times can be viewed here.
Does the Moraine Lake Shuttle have seatbelts or child seats?
Our shuttles have seatbelts. We do not offer child seats.
