Surrounded by ten huge peaks and featuring turquoise glacier-fed water, Moraine Lake is one of Banff National Park's most spectacular sights. It's also exceptionally popular. But it is not straightforward to reach.

It is not possible to drive to the shores of Moraine Lake. The options are:

• Reserve the Parks Canada park-and-ride shuttle ($8 per person) located at Lake Louise Ski Resort, 45 minutes drive from Banff. There are regular buses to both Lake Louise and Moraine Lake, with a Connector Shuttle between them

• Reserve the 8X Roam Transit bus from Banff to Lake Louise Lakeshore. This reservable express bus takes 55 minutes. The $25 Roam System Wide Pass includes access to the Parks Canada Lake Connector Shuttle to Moraine Lake

• Book a private bus tour

Once at Moraine Lake, check out the views from the flat Shoreline Trail and then head up to the Rockpile at the northern end of the lake. While canoeing the lake is popular, keep in mind that it is $160/hour (2-3 people max).

There are plenty of hiking trails starting at the lake, with Consolation Lakes being the most approachable for a short 2 hour hike - see separate entry in this guide.

A Parks Canada parks pass is required to explore Banff National Park - $22/day for a vehicle of up to 7 people.