Moraine Lake
About
Located just 14 kilometers south of Lake Louise, Moraine Lake is a spectacular glacially fed lake situated in the rugged Valley of the Ten Peaks. Reaching its peak water level and brilliant, deep-teal color in mid-to-late June, the lake is surrounded by ten towering, sheer rock mountains that rise abruptly from the water's edge. It is famously depicted on the reverse side of the vintage Canadian twenty-dollar bill, earning its viewpoint the nickname "The Twenty Dollar View."
Highlights
What makes this place special
The Rockpile Trail
A short, easy path leading to the top of a natural moraine rock dam, offering the iconic "Twenty Dollar View" over the lake.
Valley of the Ten Peaks
The thundering row of ten sheer, snow-capped mountain peaks that rise dramatically behind the teal waters.
Moraine Lake Lodge Canoeing
Rent a classic wooden canoe to glide across the brilliant waters in near-silent mountain serenity.
Things to Know
- •Private vehicles are completely banned from driving on the Moraine Lake Road year-round; you must pre-book a Parks Canada shuttle, Roam Transit bus, or commercial tour to visit.
- •The access road and lake are completely closed from mid-October to late May due to extreme alpine avalanche hazards along the route.
- •Shuttle tickets are released in blocks by Parks Canada starting in spring and sell out rapidly; planning months in advance is essential.
