Overview
The Canadian Rocky Mountains in Alberta offer stunning landscapes, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife. This UNESCO World Heritage site is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.
Known for their breathtaking beauty and diverse ecosystems, the Canadian Rockies are a major tourist destination.
Location
Address
Alberta
Neighborhood: Bow Valley
Coordinates
51.179400, -115.571200
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
June-August
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and better wildlife sightings
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
mild to cool
- • wildflowers
- • waterfalls
summer
warm to hot
- • all trails open
- • long daylight hours
autumn
cool to cold
- • fall colors
- • cool weather
winter
cold to very cold
- • snow activities
- • holiday lights
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book accommodations ahead
- Check trail conditions
- Prepare for altitude
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: moderate to high (depending on activity)
- • altitude sickness
- • wildlife encounters
Medical facilities: available in nearby towns
Payment Information
Accepted
cash, cards
Currency
Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
casual, comfortable, layered clothing, hiking boots, inappropriate clothing for hiking
Booking Tips
- • 3-6 months
- • official park website
- • varies by service
- • available for some attractions
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Parks Canada
Size: 100 MB
Features: Map, Trail conditions, Wildlife sightings, Tickets
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor centers
Charging Stations: Visitor centers
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Calgary International Airport
Distance: 130 km
Travel Time: 1.5 hours
From City Center
Distance: 130 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Stunning natural beauty, outdoor activities
Historical Significance: Home to Indigenous peoples for thousands of years, significant in Canadian history
Insider Tips
- Visit lesser-known trails for solitude
- Best sunrise spots are less crowded
Local Recommendations
- • Try local cuisine like bison and elk
- • Ask for recommendations from park rangers
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: English, French, Spanish
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Moraine Lake
Best Time: Sunrise
Tips: Wide angle for the full view
Result: Stunning reflection of the mountains
Lake Louise
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for the lake and mountains
Result: Iconic turquoise lake with mountain backdrop
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Banff Gondola
Distance: 2km
Walking: 25 min
Type: Scenic Ride
Banff Upper Hot Springs
Distance: 3km
Walking: 40 min
Type: Hot Springs
Johnston Canyon
Distance: 25km
Walking: N/A
Type: Hiking Trail
Reviews
Based on 5,000 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Visit Moraine Lake early"
- "Book accommodations in advance"
- "Check weather conditions"
Contact Information
Related Tours & Activities (24)
Banff Gondola Ride Admission
Banff and its Wildlife - Year Round Tour
Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, Peyto Lake, Crowfoot, Johnston Canyon
Explore 3 National Parks - Exclusive Small Group Tour
Banff Town, Lake Louise, Moraine, Emerald & Canyon Day Trip
Banff (Canmore) to Calgary Public Shuttle
Shared Tour: Lake Louise & Emerald Lake from Canmore/Banff
Canmore Cowboys and Coal Miners History Tour - 2H Walk
Lake Minnewanka, Peyto Lake, Bow Lake , Icefields
Canmore: Wilderness & Wildlife Tour - 2hr Walk
Canmore: Canyons & Cave Paintings - 2.5hr Hiking Tour
Johnston Canyon, Gondola and Banff Day
Canadian Rockies Full Day Guided Tour
Icefields Parkway Moraine Lake & Lake Louise Tour Full Day
5-Day Rockie Calgary Tour
Discover Lake Louise and Yoho In Winter
Along Icefields Parkway: Peyto Lake, Bow Lake & Columbia Icefield
Day Trip to Emerald & Minnewanka Lakes, Natural Bridge & Banff
Baff and Yoho National Park Private Day Tours
Full Day Tour in Lake Louise and Ice field Parkway
Winter 5 Days- Banff, Yoho, Icefields, Canyon & Gondola
Winter 3 Days- Banff, Yoho, Canyons & Gondola
Banff, Yoho, & Kootenay National Parks Billingual Day Trip
3 Day Adventure Johnston Canyon and Lake Louise
Quick Info
Available Tours
14
Rating
4.8 / 5.0
Reviews
5,000
Adult Entry
$10 (daily pass)