Explore The Park

Q) What if I do not have a vehicle?

A) Reserve a seat on transit or consider renting an e-bike for your visit. For a complete list of transit operators visit CarFreeBanff.ca.

Roam Public Transit’s Reservable Super Pass offers unlimited travel on all Roam Public Transit services and includes a round-trip on Parks Canada’s Lake Connector Shuttle, which goes between the Lake Louise Lakeshore to Moraine Lake during the shuttle’s operating hours. Remember: The last Connector Shuttle between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake is at 6 pm

Q) Where can I park my car if I am going to take transit/sightseeing tours around Banff National Park?

A) In and around the Banff townsite, visitors can park at the Banff Train Station for free. Walk 10 minutes to the Roam Public Transit hub and access most key attractions in and around town and Banff National Park such as Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Johnston Canyon, Lake Minnewanka, the Banff Gondola, Banff Upper Hot Springs and many campgrounds.

TIP: Paid parking is in effect and limited in the downtown core; park for the day at a designated long-term parking lot and use transit and shuttles to get around. See options here.

Q) Why can't I drive to Moraine Lake?

A) Very limited parking near Moraine Lake has created safety concerns and a negative visitor experience in the past years. As of June 1, 2023, personal vehicle access to Moraine Lake is no longer permitted. Parks Canada shuttles, private commercial transport or tour operators are the best ways to visit the lake.

Q) How do I use the Parks Canada shuttle system in Lake Louise?

A) The shuttle ticket allows you to access both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Shuttles run every 30 minutes from 6:30am to 6:00pm daily, departing from the Park & Ride at the Lake Louise Ski Resort & Sightseeing Gondola. Reservations are required - book online at https://reservation.pc.gc.ca/ or by calling 1-877-737-3783.

Note: Reservations for shuttles are available for the entire summer from April 16, 2025. Additional seats are released at 8:00am MT, two days prior to departure day.

Q) How do I visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake when all Parks Canada shuttles are booked?

A) If your desired time slot appears to be sold out, remember that just 40% of tickets were released in April for pre-purchase. The remaining 60% are released on a rolling window two days (48 hours) before the departure date at 8:00am MT, providing ample opportunity for you to visit this summer.

Roam Public Transit route 8X offers daily direct service between Banff and Lake Louise. Roam passengers with the Reservable Super Pass are permitted access to the Parks Canada lakeshore connector service to visit Moraine Lake.

For a complete list of commercial operators servicing Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, visit CarFreeBanff.ca

Visitors may choose to cycle to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Roam buses offer bike storage for visitors arriving from Banff, while bike and e-bike rentals are available from Wilson Mountain Sports and the Lake Louise Ski Resort & Sightseeing Gondola.

Q) Can I bring my pet on transit?

A) Many transport operators in the park can accommodate certified service animals or pets, provided they are crated in a secure and clean carrier designed and intended for the carrying of animals which is small enough to fit on the owner’s lap. Use the filter on CarFreeBanff.ca to search for operators on your desired route and reach out to companies directly to fully understand their pet policies.

Parks Canada shuttles and Roam Public Transit both have pet policies that permit certified service animals and small animals when crated. Please ensure you are familiar with these policies to avoid disappointment.

Q) Is accessible parking available at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake?

A) Yes, visitors in possession of a parking placard for persons with disabilities will be granted vehicle access to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise on a first-come, first-served basis.

Q) What if I miss the last shuttle back from Moraine Lake?

A) Parks Canada takes great care to ensure that shuttle riders are aware of the last return shuttle times and do not get stranded at the lakes. Visitors who miss their return transportation, are responsible for securing their own transport back to their vehicles or accommodations (including any costs incurred). Visitors are strongly encouraged to be mindful of the time for their return travel.

Visitors returning after the last Parks Canada shuttle has departed to the Park and Ride should note: Access to Whitehorn Road is restricted for wildlife movement between 8 pm and 6 am from May to October, entry and exit is controlled by a gate and there is limited public access.

Moraine Lake Day-use Area does not have cell phone reception or Wi-Fi capabilities. Cell service is available approximately 5km from the lake, down Moraine Lake Road. Visitors should prepare to be self-sufficient and not rely on the Moraine Lake Lodge for phone use, or shelter. Visitors planning trips that may not be completed during shuttle operational hours can also pre-arrange transportation to and from the lake via licensed commercial transportation services. Access to the lake for these operators will be allowed 24 hours a day.

Taxi services are not permitted on Moraine Lake Road, however limited transport providers offer services from 8:00pm-7:00am. A public phone is located on the path leading up to Moraine Lake Lodge.

Note: Pricing is set by the transit provider and pick up times vary, always confirm these details before calling after hours service.