Lake Louise & Moraine Lake Shuttle: Flexible Pickup, Local Driver

Summary

Lake Louise and Moraine Lake shuttle with easy pickup from Banff or Canmore

You’ll ride from Banff or Canmore with a local driver who knows these roads by heart. Skip parking headaches at Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, enjoy flexible pickup times, and spend real time wandering those turquoise shores. It’s not fancy—just easy travel with space to breathe and notice what matters.

What’s the experience like?

“You’ll want to look left here—see how the light hits the peaks?” our driver, Mark, called out as we wound out of Banff. He had that calm way about him, like he’s seen every kind of weather on this road. I was still half-asleep, clutching my coffee, but suddenly everyone was craning for that first glimpse of blue-green water through the trees. The shuttle felt relaxed—no jostling for seats or awkward silences—just a few families and a couple from Germany quietly chatting about hiking boots.

I’d read horror stories about parking at Lake Louise in summer (don’t even try, they said), so this shuttle was honestly a relief. We got picked up right on time in Canmore—Mark waved us over—and it was just…easy. The air smelled like pine and sunscreen when we stepped out at Moraine Lake. There’s something about seeing those Ten Peaks up close that makes you stop talking for a second. One kid tried to skip rocks but missed every time; his dad laughed and handed him a bigger stone. I wandered down the lakeside path, shoes crunching on gravel, and realized I’d forgotten all about my phone until someone pointed out a marmot sunning itself near the rocks.

We had about an hour and a half at each stop—enough to walk slow, take too many photos, or just sit by the water if you wanted. Mark gave us tips on which trail had fewer crowds (he was right), and even joked about how Canadians can spot tourists by their bear bell obsession. On the way back, everyone seemed quieter, maybe tired or just full from whatever they’d packed for lunch. I kept thinking about that color—how do lakes get that blue? Still don’t really know.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Shuttle to Moraine Lake and Lake Louise

• Pick up at Canmore or Banff
• Visit Moraine Lake for 90 minutes
• Visit Lake Louise for 75 minutes

Top questions

How long does the shuttle tour to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake take?

The half-day shuttle typically includes 1 hour 15 minutes at Lake Louise and 1.5 hours at Moraine Lake during summer.

Where are the pickup points for this shuttle?

You can be picked up in either Canmore or Banff at set times listed when booking.

Is there a guide on board?

The shuttle is driven by a local driver who shares tips and insights along the way.

What happens if Moraine Lake is closed?

If Moraine Lake is closed (outside June 1–October 11), Johnston Canyon is visited instead.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

No meals are included; you should bring your own snacks or lunch.

Are crampons provided in winter?

Crampons are included during winter trips for safety at icy spots like Johnston Canyon.

Can I bring luggage or strollers on the shuttle?

You can bring luggage or strollers but should notify ahead as extra storage may incur charges.

Is this a private tour?

No, it’s a shared shuttle service with other travelers; private options are available upon request.

What’s included

Your day includes air-conditioned transport with a friendly local driver from Banff or Canmore, all taxes covered, plus crampons in winter if needed for icy trails. Pickup locations are fixed—you just show up with your gear (or stroller) after confirming details by email before departure.