Before the new system, I used to just wing it.
One year I drove in at 2am, slept in the parking lot, and woke up for sunrise. On the way in I saw a mama moose and her baby. The mom bolted and the baby slipped around like it was on an ice rink. By sunrise the lot was completely full.
Those days are gone.
How It Works Now
Moraine Lake is shuttle only. It protects the area, but it means you need a plan.
You can book months ahead, but if you are like me, two weeks out still works.
You just need to be online at 7am sharp.
Day one, I tried to grab the cheap Parks Canada shuttle. I refreshed like crazy and still missed it.
There were more expensive private options that were easy to book, but I was stubborn and tried again the next morning.
Back online at 7am, clicked faster, got our spots.
A little flexibility helps, I definitely would try to book for early in your trip in case you have to switch days.
Was It Worth It?
Absolutely.
We watched sunrise over the peaks in complete silence.
Then we hiked to Sentinel Pass for the larch trees which is honestly one of the top hikes in Canada.
We made friends with a former NFL player on the way up.
On the way down we found a tiny alpine lake with a thin layer of ice around the edges and we went for a skinny dip.
Freezing. Completely worth it.
larch trees - pines that turn fall colours
By the time we got back down, Moraine Lake was even busier than I have ever seen it.
My Take
Do not let the rules or the crowds scare you off.
Moraine Lake is still one of the most beautiful places on the planet.
If you can get a sunrise slot, great. If not, take whatever you can get.
Just go. It is fully worth the effort..
