Hiking, Road Cycling, and Mountain Biking to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
Discover the beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake without worrying about parking woes. The popularity of these lakes has grown immensely and the people keep on coming!
If you're an adventurous soul keen on biking or hiking, you're in for a treat. With limited parking in Lake Louise, biking and hiking emerge as fantastic options for those flexible with timing or arriving with a ride. Dive into our guide below to learn more about navigating to these stunning lakes on foot or by bike. Get ready for an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Hiking
Hiking to Lake Louise
The Louise Creek trail is a scenic way to connect the community of Lake Louise to Lake Louise Lakeshore. From Samson Mall, walk along Lake Louise Drive to a bridge crossing the Bow River. Cross the bridge and then look for the trailhead on the downstream side of the bridge.
Hiking to Moraine Lake
This is not recommended. Hiking to Moraine Lake from the village of Lake Louise is approximately a 28km round trip with moderate elevation gain. There is no pathway along Moraine Lake Road.
Hiking in the Lake Louise area
Road Cycling
Road cycling to Lake Louise
Cycling is permitted along Lake Louise Drive. This narrow, mountain road has minimal shoulders and heavy traffic. There is moderate elevation gain over 4km between the community of Lake Louise and Lake Louise Lakeshore. It’s best to ride early or late in the day when traffic volume is lower. Bike racks are provided at Lake Louise Lakeshore.
Road cycling to Moraine Lake
While personal vehicle traffic is restricted along the Moraine Lake road, cyclists will encounter bus traffic. The road is narrow and has no shoulders. Cyclists who wish to avoid traffic should consider riding early or late in the day. From the turnoff at the 3 km mark of Lake Louise Drive, Moraine Lake Road climbs to spectacular views of Consolation Valley and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. Bike racks are provided at Moraine Lake.
Road cycling in the Lake Louise area
Please note: There is very limited parking in the community of Lake Louise. There is no parking at the Moraine Lake junction.
Mountain Biking
Mountain biking to Lake Louise
The Tramline trail is the former route of a tramway (1912 to 1930). It is a quiet way to connect the village of Lake Louise to Lake Louise Lakeshore. The trail begins opposite Lake Louise train station (Station Restaurant) beside Bow River bridge.
Mountain biking to Moraine Lake
The Highline Trail is a demanding trail for experienced mountain bikers only. This single-track trail begins 2.5 km up Moraine Lake Road. No parking is available here, cyclists must cycle from the community of Lake Louise.
Mountain biking in the Lake Louise area
Please note: There is very limited parking in the community of Lake Louise. There is no parking at the Moraine Lake junction.
BanffNow provides up to date real time information to visitors including availability of parking, major traffic events, suggestions on places to visit and more. Plan ahead, stay informed and get the most out of your adventure in Banff National Park.
All information on this page is thanks to Parks Canada - Visiting Lake Louise
