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Moraine Lake Sunrise Guided Tour from Banff

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Starts atCA$ 179US$ 134€ 117£ 101A$ 194
Duration: 5 Hours
Age: All Ages
Departure: 3:45am (will vary based on sunrise)
Season: June-Oct

Guaranteed departure. This tour runs as scheduled with no minimum group size — book with confidence, it won’t be cancelled for low numbers.

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Overview

Moraine Lake Sunrise Tour from Banff

Witness One of Banff’s Most Iconic Bucket List Experiences

Start your day with one of the most unforgettable experiences in Banff National Park: watching the sunrise at Moraine Lake . This world-famous viewpoint is celebrated across the globe and was even featured on the Canadian $20 bill , making it one of the most photographed landscapes in Canada.

With personal vehicle access now prohibited , this guided sunrise tour is the only stress-free way to experience Moraine Lake at its most magical hour. By booking with us, you’ll enjoy convenient pickup and drop off at various hotels in Banff , followed by a comfortable, scenic drive to the lake. No parking stress, no permits, no early-morning confusion. Just sit back and enjoy the journey.

We arrive well before sunrise , giving you plenty of time to find the perfect vantage point and settle in as the sky begins to change. As the first light touches the Valley of the Ten Peaks, you’ll be treated to a hot tea and fresh pastry , included in your tour. Wrapped in a cozy blanket, you can relax and fully absorb the quiet beauty of this extraordinary place.

Your knowledgeable local guide will share fascinating facts about Moraine Lake , its history, and the surrounding peaks, along with insider tips on the best photo spots to capture the iconic turquoise waters and glowing mountain backdrop. Umbrellas are also provided if the weather decides to add a little drama to the morning.

This is more than a tour. It’s a peaceful, awe-inspiring nature experience and a once-in-a-lifetime moment that belongs on every Banff bucket list.

Are you ready to book an unforgettable sunrise at Moraine Lake and create a memory that will stay with you long after your Banff vacation ends?

Reserve your spot today. Sunrise waits for no one.

Highlights

The best parts of the tour for most people include the following:

Guaranteed Access
Guaranteed Access
Sunrise at Moraine Lake
Sunrise at Moraine Lake
Pick up and Drop off at the most of Banff's hotels
Pick up and Drop off at the most of Banff's hotels
Comfort and light breakfast Included
Comfort and light breakfast Included
Expert Local Guide
Expert Local Guide

Tour Details

Tour Duration
5 Hours
Departure Time
3:45am (will vary based on sunrise)
Age Required
All Ages
Season
June-Oct

Included

  • Guaranteed access to Moraine Lake at sunrise
  • Hotel pickup and return in Banff
  • Professional certified guide
  • Hot tea, pastry, blankets, and umbrellas included
  • One of the most iconic views in the Canadian Rockies

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is the tour?+
The Moraine Lake Sunrise Tour lasts approximately 5 hours , including hotel pickup and return in Banff. This allows plenty of time to arrive before sunrise, enjoy the views, take photos, and relax with hot tea and a pastry before heading back.
What does the tour include?+
The tour includes round-trip transportation from Banff , guaranteed access to Moraine Lake during sunrise hours, and the services of an experienced local guide . Guests are provided with hot tea and a fresh pastry , along with cozy blankets and umbrellas for comfort while waiting for sunrise. The guide will also share interesting facts about the area and offer insider tips on the best viewpoints and photo spots .
Where is our pick up and drop off from?+
We pick up from most hotels in Banff, and you can select your preferred pick-up location during the booking process. For drop offs, our guide will ask you on the way back where you would like to be dropped off either in town or at your hotel.
How can I join this tour if I'm not staying in Banff?+
You are welcome to meet us at any of our pick up locations in Banff to join the tour, and there is free parking at the Banff Train Station in Banff for up to nine hours. Guests parking here can select their pickup location as the Banff Train Station (in front of Main Entrance). Most guests choose to self-drive into Banff, although please note that you will need to find parking in Banff that exceeds the duration of the tour. Please refer to the Town of Banff website for general parking information, or the banffparking.ca website for live parking availability.
How long are the stops at Moraine Lake?+
We will be at Moraine Lake for up to 2 hours. If the weather is extremely uncomfortable, we might leave earlier and offer some alternative viewing opportunities for you along the way.
I want to see turquoise lake, when do the lakes thaw?+
Moraine Lake usually thaw in June. The lake is beautiful at anytime of year, but if you are set on seeing the famous blue-green water then the best time to visit is from late June to early September.
When is the road closed to Moraine Lake?+
The access road to Moraine Lake is closed each year from early October to late May due to avalanche risk. In spring and fall, you can book our Spring/Fall Lake Louise tour or full-day winter Discover Lake Louise and Yoho tour , which operates while the access road to Moraine Lake is closed.
Can I drive to Moraine Lake?+
Moraine Lake Road is restricted to access by tour companies, public buses, and taxis, and it is not accessible by public vehicles. Taking a guided tour provides guaranteed access to both lakes without the parking hassles.
Is there a lot of walking involved?+
The Rockpile at Moraine Lake is an easy, short trail of less than 500 metres that offers fantastic views, and Moraine Lake offers an easy, flat shoreline walk.
Will I see wildlife on the tour?+
There is a chance of seeing wildlife on the tour and we often spot animals, however we do not guarantee seeing wildlife on any of our tours. Our guides have a lot of knowledge about the animals within the park and can fill you in about them if you see any wildlife or if you have any questions.
What is the cancellation policy?+
We require 24 hours notice prior to departure to cancel or change a tour without penalty. Group bookings of 9 or more guests, as well as custom and private bookings, have a 7 day cancellation period.
Should I tip my guide?+
Tips are not expected, but are certainly appreciated. If you think your guide did a wonderful job and would like to indicate that with a tip, it will be graciously accepted.

Booking Terms

  • Children aged 15 years and under must be accompanied by their parent or legal guardian.
  • All children, including infants, require a ticket to be able to participate.
  • Early and late season road closures will limit access to Moraine Lake (until late May and from early October).
  • Photo ID may be required for identity verification.
  • By participating in a tour with Discover Banff Tours, guests are acknowledging that they understand that we may take video and photographs of them during their tour. These videos and photographs may be used in promotional materials including, but not limited to, social media.
  • Please note our tours require a minimum of 4 participants, please call us 24 hours prior to your tour on 1-877-565-9372 to confirm your booking.

What Our Guests Are Saying

Real, verified reviews from guests who explored the Canadian Rockies with us.

Moraine Lake Sunrise Guided Tour from Banff
From CA$ 179US$ 134€ 117£ 101A$ 194