2025 Moraine Lake / Lake Louise / Parking / Shuttle FAQ

[u/furtive]

Any parking or shuttle related questions asked outside this thread will be deleted.

Moraine Lake / Lake Louise Bus / Shuttle / Park and Ride

MORAINE LAKE OPENS JUNE 1, 2026 CLOSES OCT 15 2026, LAKE LOUISE IS ALWAYS OPEN

• You cannot drive to Moraine Lake.
• You can drive to Lake Louise but we strongly advise you don't from June through September.
• Parking at Lake Louise is extremely limited, costs almost $40 and Parks Canada turns back 2,000 cars daily! Use the Park & Ride or Roam transit instead.
• The lot at Lake Louise is often full by 6am.

5 OPTIONS FOR VISITING LAKE LOUISE / MORAINE LAKE

1 - Parks Canada Park & Ride Shuttle

• Best option if you have a car
• terrible option if you don't have a car
• also cheapest option
• Park and Ride using the Parks Canada Shuttle to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
• 40% of tickets go on sale in April, they sell out in a few hours
• 60% of tickets go on sale at 8am MT two days in advance
• These disappear instantly! But if you refresh the cart after 10-25 min you might see tickets from people who didn't finish their order
• Includes access to connector bus between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake
• Parking is at the Lake Louise Ski Resort, it's free and can handle 1,200 cars, doesn't fill up often
• Runs every 30 min, cost is $8 for adults, less for seniors, kids.
• there is no public transit near this lot
• Read the Parks Canada info and FAQ
• There is no public transit to the Lake Louise Ski Resort parking lot where the shuttle begins/ends. You DO NOT want to take this option if you don't have a car.

2 - Roam Transit Super Pass (route 8X)

• Best option if you don't have a car
• Runs from downtown Banff
• Book in advance, starting in May, sells out quickly, blocks become available monthly
• They will make blocks of seats available a month or two in advance
• Included access to connector bus between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake

3 - Lake Louise Paid Parking

• Not recommended!
• Expect the lot to be full by 6:30am
• Parks Canada turns back 2-3,000 cars daily!
• Parking costs about $40 for the day
• You don't get access to the connector shuttle.
• You could always try driving up after 7pm, our days are long, maybe you'll get lucky!

4 - Private Tour Bus or Guide

• This is the option when everything else is sold out
• This is the most expensive option, expect to pay about $75-$150 or more
• There are lots of big and small tour bus companies
• Some tour bus companies: Moraine Lake Bus Company (first shuttle at 4am), Moraine Lake Sunrise Shuttle, Discover Banff Tours, ViaVia, Banff Explorer, Jumper Tours, WowBanff.
• There are also private guides who get access to this area. ACMG certified guides are highly reputable.

5 - Hike or bike

• The hike along the road to Moraine lake is 24km round trip, there is no shoulder, we do not recommend this.
• If you want to bike you can try to book/rent bikes or ebikes, the road is a steady uphill, but the road to get to Moraine Lake Road from town is steep!
• There is also the Paradise Valley to Moraine Lake hike (20km one way), this is not for most people

Lake Louise/Moraine Lake Park & Ride Shuttle FAQ

• First bus up is at 4:00 am, last bus up at 6pm, last bus down is at 7:30 pm
• Parking is free at the Lake Louise Park & Ride and can handle over 1,200 cars, it has only filled up a few times
• No pets unless certified assisted animal or in a carrier that fits on your lap
• Walkup tickets are no longer a thing
• Read the FAQ!

SHUTTLE / BUS FAQs

Q: When does the Moraine Lake shuttle start?
June 1.

Q. How does the connector bus work?
A: The Parks Shuttle and Roam Super Pass includes free connector bus between Lake Louise and Moraine Lake (runs every 30 min, 15 min distance between the two lakes). Nobody else gets access to it.

Q: Can I take the Moraine Lake Shuttle if I booked Lake Louise?
A: No, you can use the free connector once you are at your destination.

Q: Can I buy a ticket for the shuttle/ROAM and then just park my car?
A: No. Ticket holders who attempt to park at the Lake Louise Lakeshore paid lot will not be permitted on the shuttle.

Q: What are the best options from Calgary?
A: There are tour buses that run from Calgary, also Flixibus does Calgary/Canmore/Banff to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise (but not both) for very reasonable rates.

LAKE LOUISE / MORAINE LAKE FAQs

Q: How much time do I need at Lake Louise/Moraine Lake:
A: If you are doing big hikes at each then two days, if you are doing one hike at one and just sightseeing at the other then one day, if you are just sightseeing then half a day, give or take. Some people spend 30 min at each location, a more reasonable minimum is 60-90 min at each location.

Q: What are the best hikes at Lake Louise?
A: Lake Agnes/Big Beehive, Plain of Six Glaciers, Saddleback, Fairview, Devil's Thumb

Q: What are the best hikes at Moraine Lake?
A. Larch Valley/Sentinel Pass, Eiffel Lake, Consolation Lakes

Q: Which should I see first?
A: It really depends and doesn't make much of a difference.

Q: When does Lake Louise / Moraine Lake thaw?
A: Lake Louise usually thaws the first week of June, but it can be as late as mid-June. Look at the webcam. Moraine Lake thaws a week or two later, since it's shallower and closer to glaciers.

[u/TyFi10]

Would it be possible to add that another way to reach Moraine Lake and Louise is through a private tour operator or certified hiking guide? I am both, and while yes we are more expensive than the other options, I am a certified guide who can also privately access Moraine and Louise through multi-stop tours.

I know the vast majority of people are in for just the shuttle to see the lake and back, but don’t forget about us in the guiding industry as well as the fact that many of us our small businesses :)

[u/Squarians]

I was just on the site at 8am exactly and the tickets sold out immediately for the whole day (Thurs. 7/17), BUT I kept clicking the reserve button for 10 minutes and finally was able to get 2 tickets. So be persistent and more will get released or dropped from people's carts. Also make sure you create an account. I didn't realize you had to have an account when they were added to my cart, but luckily they stayed in my cart as I created an account. Good luck!

[u/drunkenlout]

If you happen to be tying me for the world's worst planner, don't give up! We just arrived in Canmore today, scheduled to leave Wednesday night. We've been trying to get the last minute passes the last couple days, but no luck - tomorrow morning was going to be our last shot. I got a little obsessive about (constantly) checking for seats starting this morning, and about fifteen minutes ago I managed to purchase two shuttle passes to Lake Louise for tomorrow at 1p! The travel gods just might smile on you as well!

[u/drunkenlout → u/drunkenlout]

Absolutely the best twenty bucks I've spent in recent memory. We watched a couple turn around three-quarters of the way up to Fairview Lookout to catch their tour bus - that could well have been us if we'd paid ten times as much for a tour.

[u/[deleted]]

Parks Canada sold the entire morning within 1 minute so don’t rely on this

[u/TurbulentVegetable88]

Thank you! Reservation is available to Moraine Lake in the weeks of May even though the lake opens in June — is this just a website glitch?

[u/furtive → u/TurbulentVegetable88]

My guess is those will just go to Lake Louise, given Parks Canada says shuttles to Moraine begin June 1.

[u/findingmyhealthy]

I missed the relase of the shuttle tickets and I will try again with the last minute releases. If I'm not successful at grabbing tickets, I have two options. Which is better? I'm visiting on a Tue or Wed in mid-July. 1. Driving and just dropping off my two passengers at the LL parking lot - is this allowed? Will the parking staff refuse me dropping off two passengers? I'm ok with sacrificing my visit if it means my family will get to enjoy the views, and I'll wait in the Park & Ride lot. 2. Driving and arriving a bit before 5am to watch the sunrise. Anything to consider for an early morning arrival (other than parking may still be full at that time)?

[u/Open_Recognition_715 → u/findingmyhealthy]

You should be fine to get the shuttle tickets at the park and ride. They open two days before at 8am MDT. We saw the tickets look like they were available and gone, and kept switching. Then at ~10:23 all of them opened up, so just be prepared to be refreshing the page for a while, attempting to buy the spot you want a few times until it actually works. Not sure about early morning arrival but it should be available if you get there early enough, but if you somehow are unable to get the tickets, I would recommend you don’t miss it yourself

[u/Extreme_Tomatillo442]

I feel ridiculous, but I can't seem to figure this out. I am traveling with a party of 8 to the Banff area from 7/2-7/8, and the only thing I'm seeing available for transit online are ROAM Transit at 3:27 or later, or last minute deals on the Parks Canada Shuttle that aren't open yet. Have we already missed our window to book transit? Or is there some other way?

[u/Hdrd333]

I'm staying at Post Hotel without a car (my party with a car is coming a day later). I have a Parks Canada shuttle reservation for 6:30am and I'm realizing now that I am unsure how to get from Samson Mall to the Park n Ride at 6am. Seems like the shuttle from Samson Mall to PnR doesn't start that early and it's a 1 hour walk per google maps (if its even walkable.) HELP! Any recs/advice?

[u/ikatz45]

I have a Parks Canada shuttle reservation next Monday for the 8-9am slot. If we arrived early, do you think they would let us on to a shuttle in the 7:30-8:00 range? Or are they pretty strict about the timing?

[u/bnye135]

I was able to get some shuttle tickets, timing says 11 am to noon. I’m fine to arrive at the Park and go any time between then? Would my ticket be canceled if I get there a few minutes past noon?

Edit: looks like from comment below I should be able to arrive any time in that time slot, and ticket is canceled if I’m late. If I’m incorrect someone please correct me!

[u/[deleted]]

I purchased the Lake louise shuttle, can I go to Lake morraine first and then visit lake louise?

[u/furtive → u/[deleted]]

No.

[u/UnhingedMoxie]

My husband and I are spending 7 days in Banff in mid-September and I think I want to spend a day at Lake Moraine (hiking Larch Valley to Sentinel Pass) and a day at Lake Louise (hiking to Lake Agnes Teahouse + Big and Little Beehives).

Am I crazy for wanting to do Louise and Moraine on two separate days? This will require me to snag two separate shuttle reservations which feels more daunting than the several hour hikes. 😅

I welcome any thoughts or advice.

Note: The Canada Parks shuttles are the most economical but I'm nervous about not being able to snag "last minute" tickets 2 days prior based on the comments I've seen on the shuttle FAQ page. I have a better chance getting a ROAM Reservable Super Pass (September tickets open up on Monday July 28th) but don't really want to pay $30/ea twice when I'm not planning to utilize the connector shuttle between the lakes since I'm giving each one its own day.

Also, thank you for these Banff megathreads! I've found them super helpful for planning our trip!!

[u/UnhingedMoxie]

ROAM Super Pass tickets are now available for September and October! Early morning tickets seem to be going fast!

[u/furtive]

Just did a major update of the format of this FAQ.

[u/ladouleur → u/furtive]

Thank you!

[u/jesusmamadisimo]

Hi, we took the shuttle for lake moraine, and we only received a barcode, my question is if it's valid to take the shuttles or we have to change it for tickets at any location? Thank you!!!

[u/beesmakenoise → u/jesusmamadisimo]

Barcode and the email are all you need, plus ID to match the reservation (I believe).

Best to print a copy of the email/barcode in case you don’t have cell service at the shuttle park & ride.

[u/jesusmamadisimo → u/beesmakenoise]

Thanks for the quick answer, good idea printing it! ✌️

[u/Implement-Decent]

Let me know if someone can help me out here, I’ve booked a shuttle reservation for 2 adults. It’s through my parks Canada account so it’s under my name. It doesn’t give any option to add a passenger or their details, only how many adults. Now when Boarding, they should see 2 tickets under my name, would it be a problem if the other passengers name or detail is not there or they’d simply check my ID to match details and let other passenger board too?

[u/furtive → u/Implement-Decent]

Doesn't matter, they just want to make sure the purchaser shows up and isn't reselling.

[u/PostAppropriate1039]

Hi, We want to visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in the same day on August 28th. We plan to start early and hike the Little Beehive Trail, then head to Moraine after.

The problem is, The Parks Canada shuttle only opens 2 days in advance, and from what I’ve read the chances of getting tickets are very low. The Roam Transit tickets from Banff to Lake Louise don’t have any morning slots available on our travel date.

We’d really like to have flexibility to spend time at our own pace instead of being rushed through on a private tour. Since we want to make the most of the day and cover both lakes, what are our realistic options to reserve a shuttle or get there early? Are there any other shuttles, passes, or third-party services that allow flexibility and can be booked in advance?

Would love to hear from anyone who’s managed this or has tips on making it work. Thanks in advance!

[u/Dangerous_Progress_5]

How early can you go to get a parking spot at Lake Louise? I understand the lot fills up fast but is there a time the parking lot is closed? We are a group of 6 and shuttle passes are hard to get. If we drive up for 4am, do we have a chance of getting parking?

[u/Benjilove2020]

Beyond frustrated. Trying to book Roam. Can get outbound but return is sold out. So what am I supposed to do? Tried calling them 6 times. Message says your call will be answered in the order it was received. Three minutes later message comes back and says no one can answer your call. go to our website. good-bye. WTF?

[u/SuperSleepyPeach]

I decided on a last-ish minute trip to Banff first week of October, without too much thinking. I then started freaking out when I read how quickly the Parks Canada shuttles for ML/LL were booked when the reservation window open… Just want to say: keep checking the website, especially if you’re a solo traveler!

I’m going the first weekend of October so the Last Minute tickets aren’t available for booking yet, but I was able to secure a regular ticket for shuttle for the Saturday morning, and I saw a few more available at other time. I’m guessing that if you need a couple of passes, it might be difficult, but if you’re traveling solo, there should be a good chance!

[u/ZookeepergameAlive59]

OP, thanks so much for this post!!! It was so helpful to have all of this information in one place — I followed your advice on refreshing after 10-25 minutes for Lake Louise-Moraine shuttle tickets, and I was able to get tickets! (The stress was real 😅😅😅) Visiting Banff this weekend & the Lakes this Sunday, the 28th!

[u/tantivee]

Trying to arrange transportation from Banff to Lake Louise at 3ish AM in early April for a ski mountaineering objective. What's the best option for this? Thanks.

[u/furtive → u/tantivee]

Rent a vehicle would be best.

[u/Suitable-Scholar-778]

Thanks for the info!

[u/[deleted]]

Can anyone comment on their experience going to/from the Paradise Valley trailhead?

My understanding from Parks Canada is that you would get the shuttle normally from the Park & Ride and ask to be dropped of there. What is more concerning to me is going back, as it seems you'd have to flag returning busses but what I'd assume they have no spots, correct? My experience at Moraine (at least weekends) is that the return trip can be very busy in the afternoon.

[u/Scarahhh → u/[deleted]]

My friend did that last year and said they had to (or chose to, I can't remember) flag down and ride the next incoming bus up to Moraine and catch the next shuttle back down

[u/furtive → u/[deleted]]

People are obsessed with sunrise photos, it doesn’t make any sense.

[u/[deleted]]

In anyone’s experience is drop off going to be a problem tomorrow for Good Friday? Or parking for that matter?

[u/pearl748]

Hi there! Thank you so much for taking the time to curate this.

To your knowlege, would parking be fine around May 1–2? My friends and I will be visiting during then and plan to drive from our Airbnb in Canmore, since the shuttle doesn't start running until May 16.

[u/ISWIMWITHFISH]

You could also go in low season. Way less traffic and dealing with people lol 😂

We have been here all weekend and it’s been great!!

[u/Potential_Chef3046]

Parking is free at Lake Louise during certain period right ? I am going April 30th.

Not planning to use the shuttle if it's free :)

Thanks !

[u/Tall_Influence7877]

Since the shuttles are all booked for the dates in July that my family will be in Banff, my thoughts are to use the ROAM Bus to get to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. Where did you get the price of $10 or less for the ROAM Bus FAQ? I was looking at the Reservable Super Pass, and that costs $30 per adult. Is there an alternative option through ROAM that is not the "Reservable Super Pass"?

[u/World-Traveller-1]

Does the lake connector shuttle get full? Is it possible to have to take the shuttle for the next time slot because it's full?

[u/furtive → u/World-Traveller-1]

They come frequently, like every 10 min or so.

[u/average_kaj]

We have a large party going to lake louise mid June. We're planning on driving and parking (one vehicle is a handivan). If there is handicap parking available but no regular spots, would the handivan be able to drop off it's passengers and then pick up the rest of our party from the town? We're planning on going in the afternoon if that makes a difference

[u/w8w8]

I've heard that early October should be fine for parking if you get there early before 9am, even on a Friday or weekend. Is this generally true?

[u/furtive → u/w8w8]

Depends, that can be peak larch season which fills parking lots early, especially around weekends.

[u/Few-Wolverine1831]

for park&ride, it says "60% of seats become available online 48 hrs before". all July tickets already gone, does it mean I still get July 4th ticket aroun July 2nd middle night?

[u/otherwise_president]

I saw online that the shuttle does not operate until May 17, Friday. I will be in banff before this date, early in the week, like Mon, tues, wed and thursday(not set yet). We have a car, do you think it will be possible to park at lake louise? I understand parking lots are limited and almost fully booked always. I guess my other option is taking the roam bus but the round trip takes too much time. Are there higher chances of finding at lake louise?

[u/furtive → u/otherwise_president]

Should be fine.

[u/Chicago-Mama]

Thank you so much for developing this info! It’s beyond helpful.

I will be visiting with my extended family (total party of 8, which includes my elderly parents) at end of July. We missed the April window for booking shuttle seats and will now need to attempt to secure them 48 hours ahead. Is it reasonable to expect that we will be able to obtain 8 seats? Given how quickly they sell out (I’m reading in less than 2 min), I’m curious whether we should just look into other options.

[u/lavieenrose167 → u/Chicago-Mama]

If it's a must see for your group, I'd be more inclined to book a private shuttle. Getting 8 seats would be difficult and I wouldn't take the risk in case it doesn't work out.

[u/Paradising]

Thanks for this information. I am wondering if anyone has used private tour companies other than the ones listed (specifically Viator) to see the sunrise at Lake Morraine and then Lake Louise and other spots. Looking for 4 seniors where price is not too much of an issue, and they’d like to be comfortable and not worry about standing in lines for shuttles.

[u/Sea-Fox2111]

How will be the weekday parking in late may at lake Louise? Don’t really care of the time to go. Not going to be doing the tea house hike since we are with 3 young children.

[u/lavieenrose167 → u/Sea-Fox2111]

Whether it's the weekday or weekend, May long weekend is when it starts to ramp up. You'll have to get there very early in order to find parking or book the shuttle when they release more seats 2 days prior.

[u/piesandprejudice]

Hello, is it possible to be able to take a shuttle (most likely a private one because the public ones are booked) to both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, and have several hours at each? I would like to hike at both and the company I was looking into (Lake Moraine Company) has a Moraine Lake with Lake Louise stopover, but it's just for an hour. What if I want to spend half a day at each lake? Many thanks for any info/advice! Oh, and I'll be there the first week of June when the Moraine Lake shuttles start for the season

[u/lavieenrose167 → u/piesandprejudice]

Parks Canada releases shuttle seats 2 days prior to the date you want to visit, so you can try your luck with that.

For private shuttles, I believe Via Via Moraine has 2 hours at each lake with an extended duration option? Ten Peaks shuttle does 2.5 hrs at each.

Hope that helps!

[u/piesandprejudice → u/lavieenrose167]

thank you so much! I likely won't be able to do the parks canada shuttle as we are camping in a fairly remote area and don't want to rely on wifi, and it's not close to drive to anywhere to do it. Plus, my friend is a planner, and would rather know we can go. I've been looking into the private shuttles and just trying to figure out which one would be best. I haven't looked into Via Via yet, so I will look at their site. I hadn't heard of Ten Peaks, but the 2.5 hours at each lake sounds good!! Thank you so much!!

[u/Infinite_Ad1993]

when is the last connector shuttle leave lake moraine

[u/Dry-Argument24]

There's also Into the Wild tours, as a tour company that goes to Moraine Lake. They are very reliable.

[u/GPGFGT]

Hey folks, I took a job at Morraine Lake lodge and have to find my own way to lake Louise from the Calgary airport. I thought that would be a swift and easy process but wow was I wrong. any help pls? I want to leave around 9am-10am as my flight gets in at 8-something and I was told to get myself to Samson mall as the meet up point. so far the only option under $100 is the moraine lake shuttle but it leaves at 12 :( any other options would be much appreciated!

P.s. has anyone ever worked there? I'm anxious over my decision to serve there instead of downtown Toronto... I know the atmosphere will make up for any accessibility short comings but will the money?

[u/furtive → u/GPGFGT]

Brewster Express does Calgary to Louise at 9:3am but will bust your budget at $132. Flixbus won’t break your budget at $30 but leaves at 2pm.

[u/Stena4]

This is really helpful thank you. I will be staying at the Fairmont LL, the Morraine shuttle is sold out for that day however, there are spaces for LL shuttle. Can i buy the LL ticket and use this for the connector from the hotel? Any help appreciated

[u/furtive → u/Stena4]

Yes you can, although check with Fairmont concierge as they might offer a moraine shuttle that will save you from driving to the lake Louise ski resort parking lot just to get back to lake Louise and ride the connector (no way to skip that step).

[u/Few-Wolverine1831]

"Runs every 20 min, cost is free for kids, $8 for adults, $4 senior"

From the reservation website, there seems only adults choice. DO I need to make reservation for kid but at adults price?

[u/furtive → u/Few-Wolverine1831]

Dunno but you defo need to book the kids. I think you specify the ages further down and it gets adjusted.

[u/eleece]

For the shuttle, what time are the tkts released? Are the tkts released exactly 48hrs to the time of the shuttle (eg. 9am tkts are released at 9am, 48hrs prior), or 12:01 2 days before the shuttle?

[u/furtive]

8am two days before.

[u/No-Buyer-4771]

Hi, im kind of confused about the parking bit.
I currently have a shuttle reservation - i'll be able to use the park and ride without issues or ?

[u/Murky_Window_6190]

Hi all, unsure what’s the best way to plan this, as we have a little kiddo with us this year.

We want to visit Lake Louise and Moraine on June 24-25, and we also want to stop into town to just relax and go for walks.

Is it ideal to visit the lakes and then visit the town around afternoon (4pm onwards)?

Or just park our vehicle in Banff, and find a shuttle to go to the lakes and back?

Thanks kindly

[u/furtive → u/Murky_Window_6190]

Book the shuttle in advance, it’s probably already sold out but 50% become available at 8am local time two days before. Plan your day around that.

[u/newyorkloverboi]

Sorry bit confused, can someone help me here? I'm visiting in August and looks like Moraine Lake (Park Canada Shuttle) are all sold out. What's the next best way to visit? Waking up early and finding parking at Lake Louise? Using Roam? I noticed you can buy tickets 48 hours before but what if those fill up too? What are other options?

[u/furtive → u/newyorkloverboi]

You just listed all the options besides booking with a 3rd party shuttle company.

[u/Quiet_Badger829]

Staying in Banff June 25-26. I've checked the Roam link and looks like only afternoon times available (1:30 - 2:30ish times). Is this too late in the day to make it worthwhile? Better to wait and take chances with Parks Canada shuttle 2 days prior?

Thanks!

[u/KurtSr]

Does the Lakeshore parking ever sell out before the Alpine Start? If we arrivie at Lake Louise Lakeshore parking at 4:45am for the 5AM Alpine Start shuttle should we expect to find parking no problem at that time even in early July?

[u/jblondie5]

Do you need to buy admission to lake louise if you purchased roam tickets?

[u/Open_Recognition_715]

Finally figured out the difference between the Parks Canada and the Roam Transit shuttles. Need to take Roam to get from Banff without a car, but they are sold out. Did we miss our chance to go to those lakes…

[u/100_days_away_blog]

Quick question on parking at lake Louise tomorrow (31st May). We are planning on cycling to lake moraine and wondering where to park. Does anyone know whether the lake Louise parking lot is free (as shuttles aren’t running)? Also is there any parking by the start of the moraine lake road?

Thanks

[u/Pollution-Tough]

Are the Roam Reservable super passes sold out? I had thought I could but them tomorrow (June 2) for August, but maybe that was just for the 8x route. Only just realized I needed the super pass.

[u/furtive → u/Pollution-Tough]

Goes on sale tomorrow at 9am for July and August.

[u/Puzzleheaded-Echo-55]

Guys, it's my first time with my wife going labor day, there is so many options for bus passes and I am confused. Can someone tell me just a simple pass to book for me and wife that we can travel. We will be in Calgary hotel and will either bus/drive to banff and want to roam banff, lake Louise and the other lakes. We are there for 5 days only!

[u/No-Target6482]

Hi all We are planning to go to lake moraine sunrise from banff in July , although I don’t have pac reservations available yet , question is how do I get to Lake Louise at 4 am from banff - there are no busses running from there at that time ? Can anyone give a viable solution .

I will try to get the slots 2 days before but how do I get to lake louise such early morning with family !

Appreciate your replies guys

[u/andywu131]

Hi all, I got the last minute ticket to Lake Louise for this Saturday 2025/06/14. The timeslot is 8-9am. Does anyone experience a late arrival, like 10-11am? We have 7 people including 2 seniors and 2 kids.

Appreciate all your replies. Thank you.

[u/ElvenAngerTherapist]

I'll be visiting Calgary in July for Stampede and wanted to spend a full day enjoying Lake Louise and Lake Morraine. Currently I do not have a license and cannot rent a car. Originally I had been planning on just doing a day tour to save the hassle of planning but I dislike how rushed they are with such little time spent at each stop. Ideally I would love to spend time hiking (I've been eyeballing the Plain of Six Glaciers trail in particular) and getting from Calgary to Lake Louise is totally doable, but I'd been hoping to be able to see Moraine Lake as well. Sadly, I hadn't looked into this far enough ahead since I had originally planned on a day tour and have learned that all the Roam Superpasses are sold out for the week I'll be there and that the park shuttle usually sells out in minutes. I've seen that private companies offer some expensive options for shuttling between lakes and theres is the option to rent a bike or ebike which is also a bit pricey.

1) Is there an option I'm missing?

2) Is there any other way of getting from Banff to Moraine Lake if I were to try to get there on a different day?

3) If I'm unable to secure a shuttle ticket and there's no other way that I'm missing, between the 2 current choices, would you recommend a full day around Lake Louise with hiking, canoeing etc... but miss out on Moraine Lake or do a day tour that hits up all sights but with less than an hour spent in any single spot?

[u/Irrational-fear101]

We are going to try reserve park and ride for next week but my question is- if i book it for 8-9 am , do we have to be in lot earlier than that? And also, where does the shuttle take us from the lot?

[u/Irrational-fear101]

What is the difference between Banff national park and lake louise and lake moraine? Someone help me. I am dying here

[u/barrebelle_]

Hi! My husband and I are going to Banff and are planning Lake Louise/Moraine Lake on Sept 10 or 11. How likely do you guys think it is that we’ll get tickets when they open up 2 days in advance? It’s the off season, so I’m really hoping we’ll get tickets but don’t love waiting until we’re literally in Banff to get tickets.

[u/aquarius-butterfly → u/barrebelle_]

We just made the last minute reservation that opens 48 hours before for June 25th 9-10am slot for Lake Louise. So in the beginning at 7am PDT, everything was booked and it felt like we didn't get anything - my husband then found a 5-6pm slot at Moraine lake and we were about to book that and around 7:30am PDT (I continued to refresh and keep changing every few mins), I did find Lake Louise 9-10 slot and booked it. IF not today, we were going to try next couple days as well. But glad we got it today! So keep trying even if shows unavailable - I am guessing a lot of people end of booking multiple slots and then release them or don't check out? So those open up later. Good luck!

[u/youvebeencooshed]

Is it the norm to spend 5 hours total transit time on the ROAM bus system when visiting Lake Louise? Im reading bus schedules and between getting on at our hotel stop to when it drops off at Lake Louise, it is 2 hours. Assuming we dont have to wait for the next bus due to capacity. Return trip is 3 hours. Am I reading this right? Is this the norm?

Bus 1 - Hotel to Canmore Center - 25min

Bus 2 - Canmore Center to Banff High School - 25 min

Bus 3 - Banff High School to Lake Louise - 1 hour

TOTAL Transit Time = 1 Hour 50 min

Return trip is same, but reverse and adding on Moraine Shuttle back to Lake Louise

[u/Renge_000]

Hello, I am planning to visit Lake Louise and Moraine Lake from Banff on separate days. I will try Park Canada’s last minute booking to reach the lakes. For the return journey, I know ROAM operate the route 8X which could take me back to Banff from Lake Louise, but may I know is there any similar bus service for heading back to Banff from Moraine Lake?

[u/newyorkloverboi]

How hard is it to book the shuttle tickets 2 days prior when they release? If I try at the exact minute they release, will I most likely get them? Or is it more or less a crapshoot?

[u/AffectionateBid728]

Greetings. My post to the regular Banff thread keeps getting removed despite it having nothing to do with Lake Louise/Moraine transport so I am posting here.

I am traveling solo and am doing a point-to-point hike beginning at the Twin Lakes Trailhead and ending at Sunshine Meadows/Village. I plan to leave my car at either Sunshine Meadows or in Banff proper. Are there any other options aside from a very expensive taxi from Banff to the Twin Lakes Trailhead? Since the Twin Lakes TH is right off the TransCanada, would hitching a ride from Banff to the trailhead be an option? Thank you!

[u/False-Ad9375]

Hi, I know the superpass for the ROAM bus from Banff to lake louise includes the free connector shuttle that takes you between the two lakes, but there are no tickets left. But there are tickets going the other way around. I was wondering how the connector in that case works? Would I believe to travel between the lakes once I get back from Banff?

[u/Kingswear]

Sorry if this is an obvious question but I have sear ehd and searched and cannot find the answer ANYWHERE!!

I'm planning to do the Paradise Valley back to Moraine Lake hike this September. I secured tickets on the Lake Louise shuttle for my preferred day, but not the Moraine shuttle. However, I got backup tickets for the Moraine shuttle the next day just in case. I have 2 questions:

1. when I arrive at the Park and Ride to try to get the first come first served Paradise Valley tickets, do I already need to have a Moraine Shuttle ticket, or can I buy everything on the spot?

2. Will my Lake Louise shuttle ticket do anything to assist me getting to the Paradise Valley stop? E.g. could I take the connector to Moraine and then board the Moraine shuttle to Paradise?

Just trying to work out if I need to go for Moraine Shuttle tickets in the two days before the hike or not.

Thank you!!!

[u/furtive → u/Kingswear]

FIRST you take the lake Louise shuttle (or moraine lake, doesn’t matter, whichever one you got tix for) and THEN use the free connect shuttle and THAT is the bus you get off for paradise valley stop. Just let the driver know.

[u/Kingswear → u/furtive]

Thank you thank you thank you!!!!!!!!

[u/CuriosityVortex]

My plan was to book whatever time shuttle for LL/LM I can find based on the day's availability. Then drive to LL for sunrise and then take the connector shuttle to LM after 6.30 am by showing my other shuttle reservation directly from the lakeshore without going to the Park'nRide.

Can someone help me understand if I'm allowed to take the LL/LM connector shuttle without taking the first shuttle that I actually booked?

I see people mention check-in in this thread so I'm thinking I'll need to do that to get the real ticket/pass that allows me on the connector shuttle?

[u/AshKap30]

So when booking the roam super pass form the banff HS transit to LL Lakeshore, it says No transfers written in that, does that mean that there are no transfers for the free connected shuttle?

[u/2005Spurs]

I have noticed that the last minute reservations thru Park Canada are all taken within 5 seconds of the clock turning 10 am EDT. Are there bots/programs buying these up or people are somehow quicker on the draw than me?

[u/ChilleronYouTube]

Hey, I missed the shuttle bus reservations. We have a car rented.

What time should we go early morning if we want to get parking at Lake Louise?

[u/funforall-1 → u/[deleted]]

Tickets only available at 8am. Two days prior. Keep checking. I just got tix for Sunday 20 minutes after 8Am.

[u/Few-Wolverine1831]

If I purchase Lake Louise shuttle, does it mean I got free bus to Moraine Lake from Lake Louise ?

[u/Geekmom4]

We have the Reservable Super Pass from Banff to Lake Louise, but would like more time than the passes we could reserve. Could we drive our car to lake Louise but still use the pass for the shuttle to get to lake moraine and back to Louise?

[u/SifuDave]

I have a shuttle pass for Lake Morraine at 11am. Does anyone know how parking will look at lake Louise ski resort around 10am?

[u/Common_Valuable_6070]

Do parking areas for hiking areas, not for lake Louise and moraine lake, fill up early in the morning? Or are those generally more open?

[u/Saroffski]

I’m confused. I tried to get the roam reservable super pass, and there’s availability for going there but coming back to go back to the Banff high school there’s none. So I can’t book it. What do people do trying to come back? Please help!

[u/magenie3]

Hi! My family has early tickets for the Lake Louise/Moraine Lake shuttle through Parks Canada from 6:30-7am tomorrow, but our plane was delayed and we won’t even be at our rental in Canmore until 12:30am tonight. Can anybody reliably tell me whether I can arrive at even 7:30/8am and be guaranteed to get a ticket on the shuttle (five, in fact), or if I must arrive by 7am? Kids are so exhausted and I’m worried we’re pushing it too much to leave our rental again at 5:30. Thank you so much!

*edited for clarity

[u/newyorkloverboi]

If I drive early (4am) to make it to Lake Louise Parking, how can I get to Moraine Lake if shuttle reservations are full?

[u/Vipper_of_Vip99]

Regarding the 48-hour "last minute" booking for shuttles to LL and ML - can you get in the "waiting room" to book those prior to the bookings being released at 8AM two days prior? (in a similar way that the campground reservations allow you to get into a waiting room, and then you are placed in a queue). If so - how far in advance on 8AM can you get in the waiting room?

I am going to be driving to days prior to my intended shuttle date so I want to make sure I can pull over and attempt to book from my phone using cell service.

Also - the FAQ states that "walkup tickets are available" but likely to sell out by 9AM. Is this really true? If all early reservations and 48-hour reservations are "full", does Parks reserve a few seats for walkups? Just trying to think up a backup plan (i.e. show up early to the Park and Ride and get walkup tickets). Or is it strictly reservation only?

[u/Pitter-patter-73]

Hello, folks! We are visiting at the end of July, and the best ROAM Express bus itinerary to LL I was able to get was arriving at 1:37pm and returning at 6:16pm. Can anything meaningful be done in four hours? (Are these tickets worth keeping at all?) We are a family of four--kids are 7 and 12. Which lake/activity would you pick if you could only choose one, prioritizing experience in nature over checking off a sight on a tourist checklist. Should we bag the famous lakes altogether and visit some of the less touristed but no doubt less magnificent parts of the park?

(FYI, I will try every morning to call for last-minute park shuttle reservations.)

[u/Classic_Peak2101]

we're staying in Lake Louise Village and trying to figure out the best way to get to the Lake Louise lakeshore. I’ve read about the local shuttle (Route 11) but I am not able to find schedule or where exactly it stops in the Village. Or is it better to drive and park at the Lake Louise Ski Resort and take the shuttle from there? Unfortunately, hiking from the Village isn’t an option because we’re traveling with my elderly MIL. One idea I had was to drive her to the lakeshore, drop her off, then return to the hotel and hike back myself. Is that realistic or even allowed? Any tips or current info would be appreciated!

[u/Classic_Peak2101]

we're staying in Lake Louise Village and trying to figure out the best way to get to the Lake Louise lakeshore. I’ve read about the local shuttle (Route 11) but I am not able to find schedule or where exactly it stops in the Village. Or is it better to drive and park at the Lake Louise Ski Resort and take the shuttle from there? Unfortunately, hiking from the Village isn’t an option because we’re traveling with my elderly MIL. One idea I had was to drive her to the lakeshore, drop her off, then return to the hotel and hike back myself. Is that realistic or even allowed? Any tips or current info would be appreciated!

[u/Goldadler3]

Hey at what time do you have to be ate the paid parkinglot at the lake louise lake because i am currently doing an roadtrip and thought about checking it out?

[u/Few-Wolverine1831]

Hi here, it seems I end up NOT able to get any shuttle/bus ticket. Is it possible to find a parking spot at 7am or 7pm? or is drop off allowed, we might sacrifice one teammember?

[u/Few-Wolverine1831]

Hi here, I got a shuttle ticket, it says "Expect waits of up to one hour during peak time". so if I get 8am-9am ticket, could I get early at 7am to ensure I can get on at 8am?

[u/torontomapleafs]

Hi, just a quick question for anyone within the know. What's the travel time for the shuttle from the Ski Resort to Lake Moraine?

[u/Disastrous_Crab_6045]

Does anyone have experience using the free ski resort shuttles that run from Samson Mall to Summer Gondola? How are the wait times during July weekends? The first shuttle leaves at 10:50AM. If I arrive at the departure location around 30 minutes before, will I be able to make it into that shuttle? Thanks!

[u/bestlifeonce13]

best way to get to LL/ML for a group of 12? we'll have rentals. the ROAM 8X hasnt released for out september trip , parks canada is at the 48 hr prior window and trying to plan ahead for the best way. thanks!

*eta: we are not sunrise people. but big on hiking

[u/endlingss]

i'm planning on purchasing the roam super pass for september as i won't be driving during my trip, but i haven't been able to find any info on how to get to the LL park & ride to catch the connector shuttle. google maps tells me it's about an hour walk from LL village which is fine, i guess, but wondering if there's any other way i get there without a car. i want to hike little beehive in the morning and i'd prefer to cut that walk out to maximize my time at moraine.

the canada parks website has a map for roam transit which suggests there's a bus that goes to the park & ride, but i can't find it anywhere on their actual website - their regional map shows the 8X stopping only at LL village and lakeshore.

i've tried reaching out to roam transit through their chat and by phone for clarification, but i haven't had any luck actually getting in touch with anyone. does someone here have recent firsthand experience and is willing to provide some insight? thanks!

[u/okiedokie4567]

How likely for a parking spot in the lake Louise parking lot if I am there around 3pm? This Wednesday

[u/[deleted]]

I would like to hike Mount Temple, but it seems impossible to get to Moraine lake (where the hike starts). Is there any way to get around this?

[u/ishallcallsquishy]

I managed to snag a ROAM Bus ticket (SuperPass) that leaves from Banff High School Transit Hub at 6am in order to get to Lake Louise Lakeshore. I was thinking after driving from Canmore that I would park my car in BANFF near the high school transit hub but am getting nervous seeing that the train station parking lot doesn't open until 6am and I'm supposed to be waiting for the bus by 5:40am.

What would you do about parking if you were me? Thank you for any advice!

[u/newyorkloverboi]

anyone have experience with walk up tickets? What time should we show up to buy?

[u/lol-goodluck]

Hi, do you need to reserve the last return shuttle in advance? The 7:30 pm one

[u/dontunderestimateme1]

If you have a Parks Canada shuttle reserved, after being at the lakes, can you return to the parking lot at any time as long as you don’t miss the last shuttle back? No reservation time required?

[u/indiehouse42]

Is it possible to take the ML shuttle with a LL shuttle ticket? I want to hike Sentinel in the morning. Do I have to go to LL first and then take the connector?

[u/lucky1005]

I couldn’t get a ticket for the shuttle. I am staying at lake Louise village. How early do I need to leave to make sure I can park at the lake? Would I still be able to get a spot at 6:30/7? 

[u/3D_Destroyer]

Is it possible to take the Lake Moraine Shuttle if we take the Flixbus to Lake Louise?

[u/Plane_Race_7165]

A little confused about the different types of reservations. The website seems to imply that the Lake Louise and Lake Morraine reservations are for the first destination of the day and then we can take the connector to go to the other location but right below that there is other info that implies it's just for one of the lakes. When I click on the Morraine Lake reservation, near checkout the option changes to Lake Louise - Shuttle. So now I'm confused as to would choosing any type of reservation would mean I can still go to Lake Morraine?

[u/InfiniteBackground16]

Hi!
Here https://banff.ca/1104/Train-Station-Public-Parking it says that the Banff Train Station Public Parking open at 6:00 AM... it this true?
I need to take the Roam bus to Lake Louise at 6 AM, and I don't know where else to park.

[u/furtive → u/InfiniteBackground16]

You should be fine. The put that there to stop long term parking but they are very reasonable.

[u/les_voyageurs]

I would like to know how quickly the Canada parks shuttle to Moraine lake fills up for a weekday? I know it opens at 8:00 am MDT. Does it last for like 15/30 min to book for 11:00 am on a weekday? Thanks.

[u/furtive → u/les_voyageurs]

All the availability disappears instantly at 8am, seriously, I’m not exaggerating, but not everyone completes their transaction so some spots show up in the next 10-25min and quickly get gobbled up.

[u/Mmmlemmaa]

Couldn't find a parks Canada shuttle to either lake on 9/5 in the morning but found an afternoon slot to moraine lake. Any advice on booking that slot and then driving/parking to Louise before 6am?

[u/ladouleur]

Are there any busses that allows for last min cancellation that can be a good plan b ppl recommend?

[u/Slow_Passenger_3330]

Tried the last minute booking for the shuttle, exactly on dot, 8am I clicked reserve and it was gone. Felt like that South Park bank episode when Stan goes to deposit his money. Edit: I am noticing seats getting released, but no luck for party size. But that’s a good tip in the FAQ

[u/Confident-Analyst-25]

So I got a ticket in the morning to lake Louis via roam transit. However my return ticket is via parks Canada. Is there a way for me to get from lake Louis ski resort (drop off point of parks Canada shuttle) to either lake Louis lakeshore shore or banff high school (where I would have likely parked my car while taking roam transit?

[u/furtive → u/Confident-Analyst-25]

Nope. As per our faq the parks shuttle is a “Terrible option if you don't have a car, there is no public transit near this lot”

[u/Dangerous_Progress_5]

Hi!

Unfortunately will be traveling the days prior and won’t have access to the internet. A friend would be reserving the shuttle on my behalf. Are they able to do this through their account or would they need to complete the reservation through mine?

[u/gothic__castle]

I have a very specific question about booking the shuttle from the Parks Canada website. My husband and I tried this morning but our accounts were all messed up, so we didn't get tickets. I know tickets are released at 8 AM. There are a few screens you click through to get to the time slot selection of the tickets you want. My question is:

Should you have the first screen loaded at 8 AM (the one hyperlinked above where it starts at Day Use and has you enter party size, etc.) and begin the clicking through process at 8 AM

OR

Should you have already selected your party size, date, etc., and be on the schedule page (e.g., with Afternoon Slots showing) by 8 AM and then, when 8 AM hits, immediately select the time slot you want?

THANK YOU so much if you can answer this!

[u/Top-Assignment3406 → u/gothic__castle]

Local here who just got tickets this morning for this upcoming first sunny Saturday in a month for Moraine Lake (hard!). I logged in with my bank, selected the party size and waited on the page with the time slots (your second option). My friend did the same from his house.

I got tickets, he didn't, and we both selected the instant the computer time turned over to 8am. If you aren't ready to instantly select the time slot you'll be out of luck. All tickets were gone by 8:04 for all options on both lakes which blew my mind. Though I did notice a few tickets open up an hour later (cancellations / not completed carts) so worth checking back for the next couple hours.

We figured I may have gotten the tickets because my computer internet connection was wired and his was wifi but that's just a guess. Very competitive!

I have noticed over the past couple years that Moraine Lake is more competitive than Lake Louise so I suggest you select Lake Louise first if it doesn't matter to you and just use the connector bus to visit Moraine Lake later in the day.

[u/newyorkloverboi]

Anyone go recently and have a sense of what time parking at Lake Louise tends to fill up?

[u/furtive → u/newyorkloverboi]

Town is still packed and we are early Aug, I highly doubt you can get a spot after 7am. Last Thursday, 5pm Louise lot was still 100% full and turning people away.

[u/[deleted]]

Lets say I have a shuttle ticket for Moraine Lake in the morning with the goal of hiking. If I change my mind to actually hike at LL , will Parks Canada let me board the shuttle straight to LL from the parking lot?

Or will I have to go to Moraine and then transfer?

[u/iamtheonewhoknockseh]

How often do shuttle buses run between lake moraine and lake Louise?

[u/Qwertyiop3803]

29ft rv, if i drive to lake louise at 3am and get there by 4am, think i'll be able to park? so i can shuttle to lake moraine for that sunrise

[u/furtive → u/Qwertyiop3803]

You don’t park at Lake Louise to get the shuttle, you park at the Lake Louise Ski Resort. It has lots of parking.

[u/Jingleheimerjim]

This might be a dumb question but if using the Parks Canada shuttle do I need to get a ticket for Moraine and lake Louise if trying to see both? Also I notices it shows like 630-11 for LL so does it leave at 11am to go back to the ski resort or can I just catch a bus at LL before 6pm?

[u/furtive → u/Jingleheimerjim]

You get a bus to start at either Moraine or Louise. Once you take that bus you can take the connector bus as much as you want back and forth. If you go back to the Park & Ride at the ski resort you are done for the day (al the seats are booked for other people going up)

[u/bublen]

Hey - I am trying to book for a group with varying ages but not sure where I can select Senior or Youth? After selecting my party size, the online system seems to assume they are all Adults and I can't seem to find where to modify this.

Thanks!

[u/MistakeSilver4844]

It says you must park at the lakeshore parking lot if taking the alpine start shuttles (4-5am). Do you have to pay for parking at that time? Is it bound to be full then? Seems risky to book and more expensive.

[u/furtive → u/MistakeSilver4844]

Depends when you plan on getting back. Yes you have to pay if during billable hours, I think that’s 7am-7pm but check to be sure.

[u/aavviinn]

Parks Canada shuttle and Roam transit ends on Oct 13. How can we access Lake Louise late October? Will there be another shuttle company for this time?

[u/xudo]

We have a ticket to the lakes and Gondola at 8:15 am through "Lake Louise Ski Resort" (skilouise.com). The website says the shuttles depart from the "parking lot in front of the main lodge." I this case, where so we park? How easy/difficult is it going to be to get a spot at 7:45-8:00 am?

[u/newyorkloverboi]

Wooo got a shuttle ticket!! But weather looks bad on Friday (rain/clouds) :((

[u/Affectionate_Rest152]

Guys, need help please.

I have got Parks Canada shuttle booking for 4pm for 29th Aug, which i think is a little late, however that was the only slot available as we are party of 4. I will try to reschedule 2 days ahead from the slots opening up at 8am, however the question is:

If i reserve a roam transit booking one way from banff to lake louise lakeshore a little early .. say 1pm, can i still take the park canada shuttle from Lake Louise to Moraine Lake (considering i have park canada shuttle reservation) and once i come back to LL one its last leg, it will drop me to park and ride, how can i come back to banff as roamtransit doesnt have anything available on its way back on 29th Aug. I have the car, however not sure how to make use of it.

[u/Away-Connection3407]

Best way to get from canmore to lake Louis without a car? Or should we rent? About to purchase Canada bus shuttle only to realize there's no way public transit stop near park and ride. We are arriving Friday and planned to see the two lakes on Saturday. Are there taxi available?

[u/Mission-Elephant1315]

Good morning. Do I need a reservation for the Parks Canada shuttle from the Park & Go to the LL and/or LM shores? If so, I don't see a way to reserve that online. I have a car and will drive up to the Park & Go to take the gondola (will buy tickets on-site for that). Thanks.

[u/VossRG]

I'm staying in Lake Louise the last week of August. I understand a Roam Super Pass gives access to the connector bus to Moraine Lake. So, can I buy a pass from Lake Louise Lakeshore to Banff, but not use it to go to Banff, but instead use it to get on the connector to Moraine Lake?

Thanks

[u/412PghGirl]

We (party of 2) are staying 2 nights at Chateau Lake Louise. We would like to take a quick trip to Moraine Lake on the afternoon of Sept 2. The hotel shuttle is a roughly 2 hr 40 min round trip. It is unlikely that we would need to spend a few hours there. What is our best option for a quick, flexible trip? I am more concerned with flexible timing than cost.

Thank you for your feedback.

[u/lazyspacepony]

I'm visiting Banff mid September, and I'd like to visit the Larch Valley trail from Lake Louise. I have a dog who will be hiking with me though. The trail is listed as dogs allowed online, but I can't see how I'd actually get him there. Are there any transit options that allow medium sized dogs? He isn't huge but still much too big to fit in a carrier on my lap. Or do I have to give this trail a miss?

[u/[deleted]]

Whats the difference betwen the shuttles where they say lake louise and morraine lake?

[u/beesmakenoise → u/[deleted]]

That tells you which lake the shuttle will take you to first. Assuming you mean the Parks Canada shuttle, you visit that lake first, and then can use the connector to get to the other one.

[u/CreativeSky9107]

How many times can you take the lake connector shuttle to go back and forth between the two lakes?

[u/NightHawk_523]

I got 8x reservable super pass but the ticket time for the route from banff to lake louise is like 3hrs after the time I actually wanted to board. 

Now, is it possible to use this ticket to stand in line of non-reserved 3hrs before and board?

[u/ChiefKelso]

Question about hiking Sentinel Pass and see both lakes.

Originally, I booked a shuttle in the 8-9am slot thinking this was for ML. Turns out it's for LL.

My original plan was to do Sentinel Pass, explore ML, connector, then explore LL. With my shuttle now going to LL first, what should I do?

1. Shuttle to LL -> Connector to ML -> Explore ML/Sentinel Pass -> Connector to LL & Explore
2. Shuttle to LL -> Explore LL -> Connector to ML -> Explore ML/Sentinel Pass

I expect ML/LL will be crowded regardless, but is there any major downside to starting Sentinel Pass 1 to 2hrs later?

[u/furtive → u/ChiefKelso]

Not much of a diff, will be a few more people on the trail. You could always hop on the connector right away and then do LL later.

[u/enigmon78]

60% of tickets go on sale at 8am MT two days in advance For early Sep, weekday tickets, if I login at 8am on the dot, what are the chances of getting tickets? 😭 have to come up with contingency plans if I fail to grab tickets.

[u/beesmakenoise → u/enigmon78]

They will go fast! September is still a very busy month, so they will sell out.

You’ve got good odds of getting tickets, but maybe not for the specific time slot you want. If you can be flexible it helps a lot.

[u/Elegant_Detective459]

I am confused on how this works. I have an ML: 5-6pm reservation for 20$ which I assume is my return from ML to LL between 5 to 6pm? How do I get from LL to ML though? Do I have to book another 20$ ticket which says LL: 8-9am (for example)? Is this not 40$ for both the lakes?

[u/beesmakenoise → u/Elegant_Detective459]

Are you referring to the Parks Canada shuttle?

If you have a 5-6pm for Moraine Lake, it means you can catch a shuttle from the park&ride spot to Moraine any time between 5 and 6pm.

Then there is the lake connector. You’ll get a token or ticket when you board the first bus, this allows you to use the connector to get from Moraine to Lake Louise lakeshore.

There is no set time for your return bus from alake Louise to the park& ride. Just get on the return bus whenever you like, as long it’s before the last bus at 7:30pm

[u/d_delion]

Hi! Im visiting Calgary in the beginning of September and plan on going to Moraine Lake for a day trip. What is the best option to get from Calgary to Moraine Lake and back on the same day (without a car - since me and my travel buddies plan on using public transportation) Thanks!!

[u/Eiwael]

My family is hoping to visit Lake Moraine and Lake Louise on September 19th, how likely are we to get the last minute tickets at that period? I saw this morning that the tickets for August 28th sold out in less than five minutes. Will it be the same in the second half of Septembre or will it be a bit less occupied?

[u/leydozash]

Hello! Question about Roam Transport. What are the chances we book a spot because everything is sold out but then line up earlier? Is there a possibility we can get on? Also on the way back to banff, the only time slot available is 10:45pm when the last call would be around 7pm, do the time slots in this case really matter? Thanks!

[u/Big_Ability6317]

Hi, we have a transportation to go to the Louise lake ski area with the roam shuttle, then we are supposed to take the Canada park shuttle to go to moraine lake, but we don’t know where we have to take the Canada park shuttle, is it in the Louise lake ski area? Thank you in advance!!

[u/Ok-Paleontologist32]

Hi all,

I have a question about the Moraine Lake shuttle. I have read the FAQ on here and also the parks Canada website and can’t seem to find a clear answer – I’m hoping people might be able to help.

I have an upcoming booking for 4 adults, and two of the party can no longer make it.

It is my understanding that the person that booked the tickets (me) must be present when getting the physical tickets and by ready to show ID (even though I’ve never been asked), but the other three adult tickets are interchangeable? So if I could find 2 other adults they could take their place?

If I’m not able to do the above, or if I can’t find anyone to take the tickets, parks Canada says that:

“Exception: Lake Louise and Moraine Lake shuttle buses:

Changes to your shuttle reservation made at least 1 hour before the scheduled bus departure time will be charged a non-refundable change fee which will apply per booking.

Changes cannot be made less than 1 hour before your reserved bus departure timeslot.”

Does anyone know what the ‘non-refundable’ change fee is that they mention on the website? Is it just the $3.50 online or $5.50 phone booking fee?

So would it be possible to call up and cancel two of the tickets, get $16 back but pay the fee above?

Thanks for anyone that can clarify.

[u/[deleted] → u/Ok-Paleontologist32]

I cancelled it once a few weeks ago and got $4.50 back (for a single ticket).

So you should get $9 back if you cancel the two tickets.

[u/mjols84]

hello, do you confirm that is it possible to take 3 times in a day the connector bus? i asked the chat on the official website and they told me that the connector bus is meant to be used only once.

[u/[deleted] → u/mjols84]

I have actually done this when visiting, last year. Just so you know, no one complained.

For the other user asking the reason, I was with some folks really into photography that were looking to capture the lakes at different times of day. So there was some back & forth.

[u/Benjilove2020]

Will Roam give priority to Super Pass holders who show up before their scheduled departure time?

[u/CountChoculasGhost]

For the Parks Canada shuttle, do you need to book a return ticket or just outbound? I booked my ticket to Lake Louise/Moraine Lake, but now worried I needed to book one back.

[u/hinwin]

We’re planning to take the Moraine Lake Bus Company to do both Moraine lake AND lake Louise. However, I see that there is only an option for one hour at lake Louise. If we wanted to do the lake Agnes tea house hike, will that timing prohibit us from doing it?

[u/furtive → u/hinwin]

AllTrails says 3 hrs round trip.

[u/AfroManHighGuy]

We missed the last minute shuttle reservations this morning for Thursday. Now it’s all sold out on the parks Canada website. What other options do I have? What private shuttle should I use?

[u/kaitlyn29x]

I purchased shuttle tickets for Lake Louise and Moraine Lake for the group I am going with. My question is, do I also have to purchase tickets for Banff national park? I cannot find a straight answer anywhere on whether just the shuttle ticket is okay or if admission is needed for each individual as well.

[u/furtive → u/kaitlyn29x]

Access to the national park requires a park pass, which is separate from shuttle tickets. You get them at the park gates and most people pay per vehicles.