Moraine Lake Lodge: Is It Worth the Splurge?

Why staying here is different

Moraine Lake is difficult to visit casually because regular personal vehicles cannot drive Moraine Lake Road. Most visitors arrive by shuttle or authorized transportation. Lodge guests can drive up and park, which made the whole experience dramatically easier for us.

We arrived around noon, our room was ready, and suddenly Moraine Lake was not a shuttle stop. It was where we were staying.

Sunset was the real magic

I expected sunrise to be the quiet time. It was not. We were out before 6:30 AM and multiple buses had already arrived. Sunrise was crowded.

Interestingly, it became quieter again for a couple of hours after sunrise. But sunset was the time when the lake truly changed. Once the day visitors left, we walked up the easy Rockpile Trail and had the famous view almost to ourselves with the other lodge guests.

Hike directly from the lodge

We hiked Sentinel Pass, which starts right from the Moraine Lake area. The views through the Valley of the Ten Peaks were fantastic, and it was incredibly convenient to finish the hike and simply walk back to the hotel.

There are several other hikes that begin from Moraine Lake, so hikers could easily justify more time here. For us, though, one night was perfect.

Canoeing was one of the best perks

A complimentary canoe rental was included with our stay. The first day was too windy and the canoes were not operating. The next morning they were, and we went out early.

It was peaceful and the perspective from the water was completely different from the viewpoints above the lake. If the canoes are operating during your stay, do it.

Dinner, breakfast and the little details

We reserved dinner in advance and had a lovely meal overlooking the lake, with good food and drinks. The lodge also had an evening naturalist presentation that was informative and entertaining.

Breakfast was included and was very good. Our room had thoughtful touches including chocolate, wine and a journal. We also received a discount in the lodge shop and cafe.

How many nights?

For us, one night was perfect.

Arrive as early as the lodge allows, hike from the lake, have dinner, go to the naturalist program, experience sunset after the crowds leave, canoe in the morning if weather allows, have breakfast, and then move on.

Two nights could make sense if you want several hikes from Moraine Lake or more weather flexibility, but given the price, one night gave us most of what made the stay special.

Our Verdict