Sunrise Logistics

Getting There for Sunrise

Your options for reaching Moraine Lake before dawn.

Why Sunrise Access Is Limited

Moraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles year-round. Standard Parks Canada shuttles start at 6:30am, while limited Alpine Start seats run at 4am and 5am and book quickly. Here's what you need to know:

No Private VehiclesMoraine Lake Road is closed to personal vehicles year-round.

Limited Pre-Dawn SeatsStandard Parks shuttles start 6:30am; the Alpine Start option runs 4am & 5am departures (June 1–Oct 12) and books out fast.

Reservations Sell OutParks Canada spots book within minutes

Sunrise Is EarlyAs early as 5:15am in peak summer

Your Sunrise Options

Parks Canada Shuttle

Public reservation system

  • Budget-friendly option
  • Departs from Lake Louise
  • Limited Alpine Start seats at 4am & 5am
  • Reservations sell out instantly
  • No guide or local expertise
  • Need your own transport to Lake Louise
Learn More

Cycle Up

For the adventurous

  • Bikes allowed on road before shuttles
  • Free access (no reservation)
  • 12km steep climb from Lake Louise
  • Requires excellent fitness
  • Wildlife risk in early hours
  • Need to bring your own bike
Not Recommended

How Our Pickup Works

We pick you up directly from your accommodation in Banff or Canmore. No need to drive, park, or navigate in the dark. Just be ready at your door!

Banff Hotels

Most downtown hotels, lodges & hostels

Canmore Hotels

Select Canmore accommodations

Airbnb/VRBO

Nearby meeting point arranged

The Easy Way to Sunrise

Skip the logistics and let us handle everything. We've done this hundreds of times - you just enjoy the experience.

Moraine Lake Sunrise Tour

Unlock This Feature

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Sunrise Insiders Get:

Save trips to your dashboard
Weather forecasts for trip dates
Pro photography tips
Early access to new features