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Your Complete Guide to Visiting Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
- Rosie Serna
- 5 days ago
- 4 min read
It's the question our travelers ask us again and again. If you're planning a trip to the jewels of Banff National Park, Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, you probably already know that access by private vehicle is strictly limited (and at Moraine Lake, banned completely). That means we can't offer you that option, but our mission with this blog is to teach you and to be your eyes and your translators at this destination. To get there, you choose between two main transport systems: the Parks Canada shuttles and the Roam Transit public buses.
As local experts at Mango Tours Canada, we know the way these two services connect tends to cause confusion. They work together, but picking the wrong one can throw off the whole logistics of your day. Here we break down the differences in detail so you choose the right option for your travel style.
Transport Options for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
To visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in summer, there are two public transport options: the Parks Canada shuttles and the Roam Transit bus (Route 8X).
Which option is right for me?
If you have a car and want to visit both lakes:
Use the Parks Canada shuttle. It's the simplest option and everything is included in your booking.
If you're in Banff without a car:
Use Roam Transit Route 8X with the bookable Super Pass. It leaves from the town of Banff and you don't need to drive.
Option 1: Parks Canada Shuttle
The Parks Canada shuttle is the most popular way to see both lakes in the same day. You need a car to reach the starting point.
Where does it leave from?
It leaves from the Park and Ride lot at Lake Louise Ski Resort (1 Whitehorn Road). Parking is free if you have a reservation.
How does it work? (step by step)
Book your shuttle online and choose which lake you want to visit first.
Drive to the Ski Resort parking lot and arrive within the time slot you booked.
Check in at the Parks Canada kiosk and wait for your shuttle.
Enjoy the first lake. When you're done, take the Lake Connector to the second lake. This connector is included in your booking, with no set time to reserve.
At the end of the day, take the shuttle back to the Park and Ride. That's included too.
Opción 1: Shuttle de Parks Canada
El shuttle de Parks Canada es el más popular para visitar los dos lagos en el mismo día. Necesitas auto para llegar al punto de partida.
¿Desde dónde sale?
Sale desde el estacionamiento Park and Ride en Lake Louise Ski Resort (1 Whitehorn Road). El estacionamiento es gratuito si tienes reservación.
¿Cómo funciona? (paso a paso)
Reserva tu shuttle en línea y elige cuál lago quieres visitar primero.
Maneja al estacionamiento del Ski Resort y llégate dentro del horario que reservaste.
Regístrate en el kiosco de Parks Canada y espera tu shuttle.
Disfruta el primer lago. Cuando termines, toma el Lake Connector para ir al segundo lago. Este conector está incluido en tu reservación, no necesitas reservar hora específica.
Al final del día, toma el shuttle de regreso al Park and Ride. También está incluido.
Parks Canada Prices 2026
Adult: $8 CAD
Senior: $4 CAD
Youth: free (a booking transaction fee still applies)
Book here
Option 2: Roam Transit Route 8X
Roam Transit is the public bus system for the Bow Valley. Route 8X connects the town of Banff with Lake Louise. It's the best option if you don't have a car.
Where does it leave from?
It leaves from the Banff High School Transit Hub in the town of Banff. There's no parking at the school. We recommend parking at the Banff train station and walking to the hub.
How does it work? (step by step)
Book the bookable Super Pass online. This pass includes the round trip on Roam 8X plus access to the Parks Canada Lake Connector for Moraine Lake.
Arrive at the hub at least 20 minutes before your departure with your whole group.
Ride the Roam 8X from Banff to Lake Louise Lakeshore.
Take the Lake Connector from Lake Louise Lakeshore to Moraine Lake.
When you're done at Moraine Lake, return on the Lake Connector to Lake Louise.
Take the Roam 8X back to Banff at the time you booked.
Important:
The trip has to start in Banff. If you're staying in Lake Louise or arriving by car, you can't use the Super Pass to reach Moraine Lake.
Roam Transit Prices 2026
Super Pass (Banff to Lake Louise + Moraine Lake, round trip): $30 adult, $15 senior/youth, children under 12 free (they still need a reservation)
Lake Louise only, no Moraine Lake (Route 8X one way): $12.50 adult, $6.25 senior/youth
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take the Roam straight to Moraine Lake?
No. You take Route 8X to Lake Louise and then the Lake Connector. As of 2026 the old Route 10 direct to Moraine Lake no longer runs.
What happens if I miss the last shuttle back?
Parks Canada is clear: if you miss the last ride, getting yourself back is your responsibility. Moraine Lake has no cell service, so plan carefully.
Can I drive to Lake Louise and take the shuttle to Moraine Lake?
The parking lot at Lake Louise Lakeshore usually fills before sunrise in summer. On top of that, you can't use the Lake Connector from Lakeshore unless you checked in at the Ski Resort first. There's an exception for guests of the Chateau Lake Louise or Paradise Lodge.
Extra Tips for Your Visit
Plan Ahead
Planning your visit in advance is essential. Spots for both transport systems sell out within minutes of release. Make sure your booking is ready before you arrive.
The Lake Experience
Both lakes are stunning. Lake Louise is famous for its turquoise color and its mountain backdrop. Moraine Lake is known for its sweeping views and natural beauty. Don't forget your camera.
Enjoy Nature
Remember you're in a national park. Respect nature and follow the park rules. Keep the trails clean and don't feed the local wildlife.
Mango Tours tip: If you need personalized help building your Canadian Rockies itinerary or booking private transfers, reach out to us at mangotourscanada.com.
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