The hike from Moraine Lake to Consolation Lakes is short and scenic, and pairs perfectly with the Moraine Lake Rockpile and Lakeshore Trails. This relatively easy trail rewards adventurers with dramatic mountain, glacier, and lake views (and also provides access to The Tower of Babel scramble and Panorama Ridge) and offers a reprieve from the crowds around Moraine Lake. Try this trail from late June until October.
Table of Contents
Consolation Lakes Route Description
What is GROUP ACCESS / MANDATORY GROUP OF 4 HIKING & when is it in effect?
When bears are active in the area, Group Access is mandatory on Moraine Lake Trails (except the Rockpile and Moraine Lake Lakeshore Trail). Group Access rules are as follows:
1) Hikers MUST hike in a group of 4,
2) Hikers must stay within 3 metres of each other,
3) Hikers must carry bear spray, and
4) Dogs and bikes are not permitted on the trail.
Fines for breaking the rules are up to $5,000 per person. Check Banff National Park Important Bulletins before you go, to see if Group Access is in effect, but note that the most current info is available onsite. The trailhead sign (at the Consolation Lakes turnoff) will let you know if hiking in a group of 4 is required or recommended.
Consolation Lakes Trailhead
The trailhead for Consolation Lakes & The Rockpile is between the washrooms and the rockpile. Before you start your hike, take a moment to appreciate the striking turquoise waters of Moraine Lake, and picture-perfect Valley of the Ten Peaks. This view alone is worth the trip (but it’s even better from the Rockpile or the dock)!
Moraine Lake Fun Facts: 1) Moraine Lake is the world’s most photographed lake! 2) “Rock flour” (particles of rock ground by glaciers upstream) suspended in the water absorbs the shortest wavelengths of sunlight, while water absorbs the longer wavelengths, so blue and green are reflected back to us, making the lake appear turquoise. 3) The Moraine Lake Rockpile which formed the lake is the result of a landslide.
Consolation Lakes Trail
The well-marked trail to Consolation Lakes is about 6 kilometers round trip with 60 metres elevation gain. From the trailhead, cross the bridge over Moraine Creek, follow the trail partway around the rockpile to the junction, and go left for Consolation Lakes. Reminder: Check the sign to see if Group Access is in effect before proceeding!
After crossing an avalanche slope below the Tower of Babel, the trail climbs gently through lush forest filled with spruce and fir trees. Cross Babel Creek and continue through the trees. This section is shaded and cool, providing a pleasant break from the summer sun. Occasionally, you’ll catch glimpses of the rugged peaks surrounding the valley, hinting at the spectacular views to come.
As you approach Lower Consolation Lake, you will have to navigate a large boulder field. Take your time and watch your step so you don’t trip and fall. The effort is well worth it as you approach the first lake. The water is crystal clear, reflecting the surrounding mountains like a mirror. Note: The lakes are usually frozen until late June, so don’t go before then if you’re trying to capture reflections in the water!
Find a spot to sit and enjoy the view! The lake is the perfect place to picnic and take in the peaceful atmosphere with towering Mount Babel on the right, Panorama Ridge on the left, and glaciated Quadra and Bident Mountains straight ahead. Looking back the way you came, Mount Temple dominates the skyline.
Go back the way you came, or if you’re feeling adventurous, continue 900 metres to Upper Consolation Lake.
Consolation Lakes Trail At a Glance
- Distance: 5.8 km round trip to Lower Consolation Lake (Going further: From late July until October, you can hike 900 metres further to Upper Consolation Lake. Hike around the right side of the lake, through the rocks.)
- Elevation Gain: 65 m
- Trailhead: North side of Moraine Lake (between the washrooms and rockpile)
- Parking: n/a unless you have a handicapped placard. See “Getting Here” below for shuttle bus info.
- When to go: Late June until October are the best times to hike here, when the trail is (usually) free of snow, and the lakes have melted.
More Moraine Lake Hikes
Allow time to hike the Rockpile Trail (800 m loop, 35 m elevation) for the classic view Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks. The Rockpile is near the parking lot (you can’t miss the big pile of rocks!) and can easily be done before or after hiking to Consolation Lakes.
The Moraine Lake Lakeshore Trail (1.5 km one way, flat) is also a must-do. Get a photo of colorful canoes at the dock, then hike to the end of the lake for a closer look at Fay Glacier, the source of Moraine Lake.
Longer popular hikes in the area include Larch Valley (4.3 km one way, 435 m elevation), Sentinel Pass (5.8 km one way, 725 m gain), and Eiffel Lake and Wenkchemna Pass (9.7 km one way, 720 m gain).
Know Before You Go
GROUP ACCESS / MANDATORY GROUP OF 4 HIKING: When Group Access is in effect due to bear activity, it is mandatory that you hike in a group of 4 and carry bear spray (fines for breaking the rules are up to $5,000 per person). Dogs and bikes are not permitted on the trail during this time period. Check Banff National Park Important Bulletins before you go, to see if Group Access is in effect, and check the trailhead sign at the Consolation Lakes/Rockpile junction befor you hard down the trail.
- A Parks Canada Discovery Pass / daily admission fee is required to stop in Banff National Park.
- Personal vehicles are no longer permitted at Moraine Lake unless you have a handicapped placard. See “Getting Here” below for transportation options.
- Bears are frequently seen around Moraine Lake. Review our Bear Safety Tips and keep bear spray accessible (NOT in your backpack!).
- Dogs must be kept on a leash. Reminder: Dogs are not permitted on the trails when Group Access is in effect.
What to Bring
Disclosure: This section includes affiliate links through which I earn a commission on qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
Waterproof mid-height hiking boots, a down hoody or fleece, toque, gloves, and windproof/waterproof shell are recommended year round. Trekking poles are useful for long hikes, steep descents, or when you’re carrying a fully-loaded backpack (or are babywearing). You should also carry The Ten Essentials including: water, extra food, extra clothes, a first aid kit, headlamp, GPS / compass / Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator* and map of the area, mineral sunscreen, bug spray (this DEET-free insect repellent contains 20% icaridin and will repel ticks), and bear spray. Carry bear spray in a Bear Spray Holster or Scat Griz Bear Spray Running Belt.
*A Garmin inReach Mini 2 satellite communicator is highly recommended for contacting Search & Rescue and emergency contacts in the event of an emergency, or communicating with friends and family when you are out of cell phone range. You can send text messages and your GPS coordinates via satellite, but a monthly service plan is required.
Getting Here
As of 2023, personal vehicles are no longer permitted on Moraine Lake Road unless you have a handicapped placard. You can get to Moraine Lake via Parks Canada shuttle, Roam Transit, or private shuttle. Reservations are required for all options, and free parking is available at the Lake Louise Park & Ride at Lake Louise Ski Area.
For detailed information, or to book your shuttle tickets now, see our story How to Visit Moraine Lake in Banff National Park.
More Lake Louise Area Hikes You Might Like
- Hiking from Moraine Lake to Eiffel Lake
- Plain of Six Glaciers Trail, Lake Louise
- Fairview Lookout, Lake Louise
