Moraine Lake Road

Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
3-4h
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
18.4 km
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
275 m
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Overall Rating
This is the average user-submitted overall rating on a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being the highest.
10.0
Physical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the physical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical Difficulty
This is the average user-submitted rating on the technical difficulty of this route. In general, green is beginner, blue is intermediate, black is advanced/most difficult and double-black is expert-only. It is recommended that users build up to black and double-black routes.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
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Directions to Trailhead
Panorama of Moraine Lake Road XC ski trail in Banff National Park, Alberta

A morning spent cross-country skiing along the Moraine Lake Road is a must-do route in the Canadian Rockies. This XC-ski trail is usually kept in the best condition in Banff National Park, with regular track-setting and great snow conditions. While it doesn’t descend down to Moraine Lake, it is still a great day out skiing.

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Route Description for Moraine Lake Road

The cross-country skiing on Moraine Lake Road is usually the best condition skiing in Banff National Park. Being at a high elevation and regular grooming means that the snow is usually in great condition and you can expect to have a great day skiing here. Most people don’t ski the entire road, so you’ll find many beginner cross-country skiers turning around part-way.

From the parking area at the beginning of the Moraine Lake Road, begin skiing on the double track set road. There is a skating lane here as well. On your left, you will get glimpses of the Lake Louise Ski Resort, and surrounding peaks in the Bow Valley.

You will gain 275 m as you glide along the summer-only road. All elevation is gradual with no major ascents or descents. The track set ski trail will take you to a viewpoint over Consolation Lakes and the Bow Valley. This is the end of the official trail. It is not recommended to continue beyond this point due to avalanche risk.

Return the way you came.

If you’re feeling strong, you can add the Fairview trail on your way back. To get to the Fairview trail, look for a turn-off on your left by the Paradise Creek parking area. This route is signed as Number 2, and takes you back up to Lake Louise. From there you’ll need to come back down to your car by taking the Tramline ski trail. It makes a great day out.

Insider Hints for Moraine Lake Road

  • This is usually one of the first cross-country ski trails to open in November.
  • Don’t go past the end of the track set portion of this trail unless you are trained and equipped to travel in avalanche terrain.
  • Pick a clear, sunny day to maximise your experience on this trip.

Getting to the Moraine Lake Road Trailhead

From the Trans-Canada highway, take the turn off for Lake Louise and follow the road through the village and up towards Lake Louise. You will see a sign for Moraine Lake Road on your left. You may pull off to the entrance of the road and park by the closure barricades.

Route Information

  • When to do

    Mid-November to April

  • Backcountry Campsites

    No

  • Toilets

    No

  • Pets allowed

    Yes - On Leash

  • Avalanche Risk

    Simple

  • Family friendly

    Older Children only

  • Route Signage

    Average

  • Crowd Levels

    Moderate

  • Route Type

    Out and back

  • Type of XC Route

    Double with skating lane

Moraine Lake Road Elevation Graph

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Moraine Lake Road Reviews

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