9 Best Hikes from Moraine Lake

Moraine Lake sits in the Valley of the Ten Peaks. It’s one of the most photographed lakes in the world. The color of the water is unreal. A mix of blue and green that looks painted. But there’s more than just the lake. The area has some of the best hikes in the Canadian Rockies.

You don’t have to be a hardcore hiker. There are easy paths and tough climbs. Each one gives you a different view of mountains, glaciers, and forests. The air is fresh. The crowds are less early in the morning. And every trail feels like a new adventure.

Rockpile Trail

This is the shortest hike from Moraine Lake. It’s just around 1.5 km round trip. But it gives you that famous postcard view.

You climb a small pile of rocks. From the top, you see the turquoise lake with the Ten Peaks behind it. Go at sunrise if you can. The light makes the peaks glow. It’s also quieter. Most people stop here and don’t hike further.

Consolation Lakes Trail

This trail starts near the Rockpile. It’s about 6 km round trip. The path is mostly flat and goes through forest.

You’ll reach two peaceful lakes with big boulders around. The reflections of the peaks in the water are beautiful. It’s less busy than other hikes. Carry bear spray and hike in groups. This area is popular with wildlife.

Eiffel Lake Trail

This is a step up in difficulty. The hike is around 12 km round trip. It begins with switchbacks shared with the Larch Valley Trail.

After the split, the trail flattens out and opens up. You’ll walk along a ridge with views over Moraine Lake and the valley. Eiffel Lake is quiet and peaceful. It sits below steep cliffs and sometimes you’ll spot mountain goats.

Larch Valley Trail

This is one of the most loved hikes in Banff. Especially in fall. That’s when the larch trees turn golden yellow. The trail is about 9 km round trip.

It climbs from Moraine Lake through a forest and then opens into a wide valley filled with larch trees. The view of the Ten Peaks from here is stunning. Even in summer, the wildflowers make it feel magical.

Sentinel Pass

If you want more after Larch Valley, you can keep going to Sentinel Pass. It adds about 3 km one way. So the full trip is around 12 km round trip.

The trail gets steeper as you climb. At the top, you stand between two ridges. You can see into the next valley. Snow sometimes stays here late into summer. Be careful if the path is icy.

Wenkchemna Pass

This hike goes beyond Eiffel Lake. It’s longer, around 16 km round trip. The trail keeps climbing past the lake into alpine territory.

You’ll see wildflowers, glaciers, and steep cliffs. The pass gives you a wide view of the Wenkchemna Peaks. Not many hikers go this far. So it feels remote and wild. Start early and carry enough food and water.

Tower of Babel Scramble

This is not a marked hiking trail. It’s a scramble. That means it’s more of a climb than a walk. Only for experienced hikers. The route goes up a scree slope next to the Rockpile.

From the top, you get a bird’s eye view of Moraine Lake. It’s only about 2 km round trip, but very steep. Loose rocks can make it tricky. You’ll need good shoes, balance, and confidence on steep ground.

Paradise Valley via Sentinel Pass

You can also turn the Sentinel Pass trail into a loop. Go up from Moraine Lake, then down into Paradise Valley. It’s a long route. Around 20 km total.

You’ll pass through meadows and near waterfalls. Paradise Valley is quieter than other areas. It’s also full of flowers in summer. You’ll need a ride back from the trailhead, or plan to loop back.

Moraine Lake Shoreline Trail

If you just want a gentle stroll, this is a great choice. The trail runs along the edge of Moraine Lake. It’s flat and easy. Just a few kilometers.

You get views of the water and the peaks from different angles. It’s nice in the evening when the crowds are gone. The calm water reflects the sky and trees. Great for photos or quiet moments.