Lake Louise Summer Shuttle Guide: How to Visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake by Shuttle
How to Plan Your Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Experience
Getting to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake by shuttle is the smartest way to experience two of the most photographed places in Banff National Park. With a little advance planning, it's simpler than most visitors expect.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the Lake Louise summer shuttle: how to book, which routes to take, what the shuttles cost, and the tips that make your day at the lakes run smoothly. We update it every season, so the information reflects current Parks Canada operations.
Whether you're already staying at Mountaineer Lodge in Lake Louise village or still deciding where to base yourself, you'll find everything here to plan your visit with confidence.
What's covered in this guide:
• How to book your Parks Canada shuttle — step by step, including account setup
• The best shuttle routes for guests staying in Lake Louise
• Shuttle schedules, connections, and return times
• Ticket prices and what's included
• Tips for getting the most out of your day
• Frequently asked questions
Ready to plan your Lake Louise trip?
Check Rates & Availability at Mountaineer Lodge
Recommended Shuttles for Mountaineer Lodge Guests
Yes, you will need to book a Parks Canada shuttle to visit Moraine Lake and/or Lake Louise.
Yes, you will need to set up a Parks Canada account in advance to make your shuttle reservation.
Important Update: The free Park and Ride Connector from Samson Mall to the Park and Ride is no longer operating.
Guests must arrange their own transportation to the Lake Louise Park and Ride (located at the Lake Louise Ski Resort).
Once you're on the Parks Canada shuttle:
- You can visit either Lake Louise or Moraine Lake first.
- Use the free Lake Connector Shuttle to travel between the two lakes.
- Stay at either lake as long as you like (pets are welcome in a secure carrier).
- Return shuttles run every 30 minutes and will bring you back to the Park and Ride.
Visiting both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in a single day is very doable. The shuttle system is designed for exactly that, and most guests who plan ahead find it the easiest part of their trip.
How to Book Your Shuttle
Booking your Parks Canada shuttle takes about five minutes once your account is set up. Here is how to do it:
1st - Set up your Parks Canada account, as you will need it to make a shuttle reservation.
2nd - Book your reservation now - Log in and select the Day Use tab to browse Lake Louise and Moraine Lake shuttle reservations. Select your date, choose your route, and follow the booking steps. If you run into any trouble, Parks Canada provides a step-by-step booking guide on their website.
If you're staying at Mountaineer Lodge and have questions about the process, ask at the front desk when you check in.
We're happy to help.
Alternative Shuttle Transportation
If the Parks Canada booking window has passed, or you'd prefer more scheduling flexibility, Mountain Park Transportation offers daily shuttles to both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake from June through October.
Pickups run from Banff and Lake Louise Village multiple times each day. If you're staying at Mountaineer Lodge, the Lake Louise Village pickup is right in the village - no extra driving required.
Booking ahead is recommended, as seats fill quickly during peak summer months.
Visit Mountain Park Transportation's website
Keep reading for shuttle routes, times, rates, and tips.
Shuttle Routes & Times
Lake Louise Lakeshore Shuttle - Reservation required
Dates & Times: May 19 - Oct 9, every 20 mins between 6:30am - 6:00pm
Stops: Park and Ride / Lake Louise Lakeshore
Moraine Lake Shuttle - Reservation required
Dates & Times: June 1 - Oct 13, 2025, every 20 mins between 6:30am - 6:00pm
Stops: Park and Ride / Moraine Lake
Alpine Start Moraine Lake Shuttle - Reservation required
Dates & Times: June 1 - Oct 13, 2025, 4:00 am and 5:00 am
Stops: Moraine Lake
Note: Departures leave from the Lake Louise Lakeshore, not the Park and Ride.
Lake Connector - included with Parks Canada shuttle reservation
first-come, first-serve
Dates & Times: June 1 - Oct 13, 2025, every 30 mins between 7:00am - 7:00pm
Stops: Lake Louise / Moraine Lake
Please note: Return buses from each lake run until 7:30 p.m. Frequency of the shuttle is approximate and may vary.
Shuttle Ticket Prices
The ticket prices shown include your shuttle from the Park and Ride to Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, use of the Lake Connector shuttle to move between the two lakes, and your return journey to the Park and Ride.
- Adult (18 – 64 years): $11
- Senior (65+ years): $9.50
- Youth (17 and under): free
- Family/Group: $22
- Commercial Group, per person: $9.35
Lake Louise and Moraine Lake Alpine Start fares:
- Adult (18 – 64 years): $8
- Senior (65+ years): $4
- Youth (17 and under): free
There is a non-refundable $3.50 reservation fee if booking online, and $5.50 if booking by telephone.
Your shuttle ticket does not include a National Park entry fee.
Your National Park entrance fee does not serve as a shuttle ticket.
Purchase your National Park Pass online now.
Note: 2026 National Park Passes are not required
Shuttle Tips & Recommendations
A few things that will make your shuttle day run smoothly, from the team and guests who've done it many times.
Tip 1: Save your shuttle reservation before you leave the lodge.
Cell service is unreliable around both lakes. Screenshot your confirmation or print it out before you head to the Park and Ride. Do not count on being able to pull up an email on-site.
Tip 2: Give yourself more time to get to the Park and Ride than you think you need.
Parking at the ski resort fills faster than most visitors expect, especially mid-morning in July and August. Build in an extra 20 to 30 minutes, and you'll arrive relaxed rather than rushed.
Tip 3: Book your shuttle as early as you can, even if your trip is weeks away.
A limited number of same-day seats are released at 8:00 am MDT two days before departure, but counting on availability at peak season is a real gamble. Book when your dates are confirmed, and you'll have nothing to think about until the morning of.
Tip 4: If you're catching an early shuttle, handle breakfast the night before.
The Alpine Start shuttle departs at 4:00 am and 5:00 am. Guests staying at Mountaineer Lodge can arrange to have breakfast on-property before they go, no getting in the car and driving into town before sunrise. When you're planning a big day at the lakes, that kind of ease at the start makes a real difference.
Keep reading for Frequently Asked Questions....
Frequently Asked Lake Louise Shuttle Questions
Do I need to book a Parks Canada shuttle in advance, or can I show up and get a ticket?
You need a reservation as walk-up tickets are not available. All shuttle seats must be reserved in advance through the Parks Canada Reservation Service at reservation.pc.gc.ca or by calling 1-877-737-3783. During peak summer months (July and August especially), shuttles sell out quickly after they open. Book as soon as your travel dates are confirmed rather than waiting until you arrive.
When do shuttle reservations open?
Parks Canada releases 40% of available seats on opening day — April 15 at 8:00 am MT. The remaining 60% of seats are released on a rolling basis, exactly 48 hours before each departure date, also at 8:00 am MT. If you miss opening day, checking 48 hours before your intended visit is your best second chance at securing seats.
What exactly is included in my shuttle ticket?
Your Parks Canada shuttle ticket covers your ride from the Park and Ride to your chosen lake (Lake Louise or Moraine Lake), unlimited use of the Lake Connector Shuttle between the two lakes, and your return journey to the Park and Ride. Parking at the Park and Ride is also free for shuttle passengers. What is not included: your National Park pass, which must be purchased separately.
Do I need a National Park pass as well as a shuttle ticket?
Typically, yes, but in 2026, National Parks passes are not required. In all other years, both are required, and they are completely separate purchases. A valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass or daily entry pass is required to enter Banff National Park. Your shuttle ticket does not include park entry, and your park pass does not serve as a shuttle ticket. Purchase your National Park Pass in advance at parks.canada.ca to avoid delays at the gate.
How early should I arrive at the Park and Ride before my shuttle?
Plan to arrive 15 to 30 minutes before your scheduled departure window. Your reservation covers a one-hour boarding window, which gives you some flexibility, but arriving with time to spare means you board relaxed rather than rushed. If you're staying at Mountaineer Lodge, the Park and Ride is approximately a five-minute drive up to the Lake Louise Ski Resort — factor that into your morning plan, especially if you're catching an early shuttle.
Can I visit both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake on the same day with one ticket?
Yes, and it's one of the best ways to spend a full day in the area. One shuttle reservation covers both lakes. After arriving at your first lake, take the Lake Connector Shuttle (included with your reservation, first-come, first-served) to travel between the two. The Lake Connector runs every 30 minutes from 7:00 am to 7:00 pm. Most guests find that an early start at one lake, then the connector across to the other, makes for a very full and satisfying day.
What if the Parks Canada shuttles are fully booked?
Check back 48 hours before your intended visit date. 60% of seats are released at 8:00 am MT exactly two days before each departure, and this is your best second chance at availability. If Parks Canada is sold out entirely, Mountain Park Transportation offers private shuttle service to both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake from June through October, with daily departures from Banff and Lake Louise Village. Booking in advance is recommended for this option as well.
Are the shuttles accessible for guests with mobility needs or wheelchairs?
Yes. Accessible shuttle buses are available upon request at the Park and Ride. Speak to Parks Canada staff when you arrive, and they will accommodate you. Guests with a valid, government-issued accessible parking placard may also drive directly to Lake Louise Lakeshore when accessible stalls are available. Note that there is no accessible vehicle parking at Moraine Lake itself, but the shuttle provides accessible service to Moraine Lake for placard holders.
Are pets allowed on the shuttle?
Pets are welcome on the Parks Canada shuttle if they are secured in a small, clean hard-sided carrier that fits on your lap for the duration of the journey. Service animals travel free, and no carrier is required. Pets cannot ride loose or in soft-sided bags on the bus.
What happens if I miss the last shuttle back from the lakes?
The last return shuttle from both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake departs at approximately 7:30 pm. If you miss it, you are responsible for arranging your own transportation back to the Park and Ride. Moraine Lake Road is approximately 14 km from the Park and Ride — this is not a situation you want to be in after a full day of hiking. Set a reminder on your phone for the last departure time and head to the shuttle stop with time to spare.
What is the best hotel in Lake Louise to experience Lake Louise and Moraine Lake?
The Chateau Lake Louise is set on the shores of Lake Louise. However, many international travelers are seeking more affordable options, especially for families. The Mountaineer Lodge is centrally located in downtown Lake Louise and offers spacious rooms, breakfast onsite, and easy access to all area sites and attractions. Check rates and dates here
