Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Sunrise Tour with Pickup & Blankets

Summary

Watch sunrise colors at Moraine Lake then wander Lake Louise shores

You’ll wake before dawn for a quiet ride from Banff or Canmore straight to Moraine Lake’s shoreline, wrapped in blankets with hot drinks as sunrise unfolds. After two peaceful hours exploring or just soaking it all in, you’ll head over to Lake Louise for another unhurried wander along trails or lakeshore views—no rush, no crowds—just crisp air and real mountain silence.

What’s the experience like?

The van was waiting outside our place in Banff before I’d even finished my coffee — still dark, just that thin mountain chill in the air. Our guide, Sarah, handed out these thick blankets and a bag with a headlamp and some hot chocolate packets (which honestly saved me). I didn’t realize how quiet it would be driving up to Moraine Lake at that hour — barely any cars, just the sound of tires on gravel and someone quietly humming along to Neil Young in the front seat. When we got out, you could smell pine needles and something cold and mineral off the lake. Sarah led us up to the Rockpile with her little flashlight swinging side to side.

I thought sunrise would be this big dramatic thing but it crept up slow — first blue, then pink streaks catching on those wild peaks. Everyone kind of went silent for a minute. I wrapped myself tighter in the blanket and sipped my drink; someone next to me whispered “worth it” under their breath. We had almost two hours there before anyone else showed up — plenty of time to wander down by the water or just sit on a rock and let your fingers thaw. At one point Sarah tried to teach us how to pronounce “Ten Peaks” in Stoney Nakoda but I completely butchered it (she laughed, which helped).

Back in the van, we left our stuff safely inside while heading over to Lake Louise. The sun was up by then but the light still felt soft somehow — everything reflected twice as bright off that turquoise water. Sarah pointed out where to start if you wanted to hike up towards Fairview Lookout (I didn’t make it far; too distracted by watching paddleboarders try not to fall in). She offered to take photos for everyone near the Fairmont Château but honestly I liked just sitting there with my feet dangling over the dock, watching people feed crumbs to some very entitled ducks.

On the way back toward Canmore she gave us a bunch of ideas for what else we could do around Banff — some spots only locals really know about (I wrote them down but now can’t read half my handwriting). It’s funny how those early mornings stick with you longer than you expect. Even now when I see photos of Moraine Lake online, I remember that first cold sip of cocoa and how everyone just sort of breathed out together when the sun hit those peaks.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Sunrise at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise

• Pickup from Canmore or Banff
• Arrive early at Moraine Lake
• Enjoy hot drink and cozy gear
• Watch sunrise from Rockpile viewpoint
• Explore Moraine Lake at leisure
• Leave belongings in vehicle
• Arrive at Lake Louise
• Visit lake entrance and photo spots
• Stroll lakeshore or hike Fairview Lookout
• Admire Fairmont Château Lake Louise
• Return scenic drive to Banff
• Drop off at original pickup location

Top questions

How long is the Moraine Lake & Lake Louise sunrise tour?

The tour lasts about 6 hours total, including 2 hours each at Moraine Lake and Lake Louise plus travel time from Banff or Canmore.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, pickup is included from select locations in Banff or Canmore. You’ll receive your specific pickup time by email 2–3 days before your tour.

What should I wear for a sunrise tour at Moraine Lake?

Dress warmly in layers—the mornings are chilly even in summer. Blankets are provided but you’ll want gloves and a hat too.

Are food or drinks provided during the tour?

You’ll get hot drinks like coffee, tea, or hot chocolate plus water refills if you bring your own bottle. No full meal is included.

Can I store my belongings safely during the stops?

Yes, you can leave your belongings securely in the shuttle van while exploring each lake; your driver stays with the vehicle.

Is this sunrise tour suitable for kids?

The minimum age is 6 years old; children under 6 aren’t allowed for safety reasons.

What if there’s bad weather on my tour date?

The tour runs rain or shine (or snow), but may be rescheduled or refunded if weather is extreme enough for safety concerns.

How many people are on this group tour?

The group size is capped at 13 guests for a more personal experience.

What’s included

Your morning includes pickup from Banff or Canmore hotels, cozy blankets for chilly moments by Moraine Lake’s shore, complimentary hot drinks like local coffee and tea (or hot chocolate), use of hiking poles and headlamps if you want them, umbrellas or ponchos if it rains—even water refills if you bring your own bottle—and safe storage for anything you don’t want to carry while wandering both lakes before returning midday.