Consolation Lakes
A serene, less crowded gem near Moraine Lake, offering stunning mountain vistas and a peaceful hiking experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Consolation Lakes
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene, less crowded gem near Moraine Lake, offering stunning mountain vistas and a peaceful hiking experience.
"This is undoubtedly one of the most underrated lakes in Banff National Park."
🎯 Beat the Moraine Lake Rush
Consolation Lakes is a peaceful escape from Moraine Lake crowds. Arrive early for parking or shuttle .
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The final approach to the lakes involves a boulder field; wear shoes with good grip .
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Consolation Lakes
Trailhead at Moraine Lake
A serene, less crowded alternative to Moraine Lake, offering stunning mountain vistas and tranquil waters.
Boulder Field Scramble
End of the main trail
Navigate a fun, rocky section for unobstructed views and a closer encounter with the pristine lakes.
Peaceful Picnic Spot
Lakeshore
Enjoy a quiet lunch surrounded by dramatic peaks, a perfect escape from the busier Moraine Lake area.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds to Consolation Lakes
Essential Gear for Your Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beat the Moraine Lake Rush
Consolation Lakes is a peaceful escape from Moraine Lake crowds. Arrive early for parking or shuttle.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The final approach to the lakes involves a boulder field; wear shoes with good grip.
🦟 Mosquitos Beware!
Pack insect repellent, especially in early to mid-summer. Some visitors report fewer mosquitos in late July.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife sightings are possible.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beat the Moraine Lake Rush
Consolation Lakes is a peaceful escape from Moraine Lake crowds. Arrive early for parking or shuttle.
👟 Sturdy Footwear is Key
The final approach to the lakes involves a boulder field; wear shoes with good grip.
🦟 Mosquitos Beware!
Pack insect repellent, especially in early to mid-summer. Some visitors report fewer mosquitos in late July.
🐻 Bear Safety First
Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Wildlife sightings are possible.
📸 Photo Opportunities Galore
The reflections and surrounding peaks offer stunning photo ops, especially with fewer people around.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Consolation Lakes is praised for its stunning beauty and relative tranquility compared to nearby Moraine Lake. Hikers appreciate the easy-to-moderate trail and the rewarding effort-to-reward ratio, especially the scenic boulder field scramble. Some visitors note the presence of mosquitos and the challenging final approach to the lake's edge.
"If you're looking for a serene hike with stunning views, Consolation Lakes is a great choice. The trail is relatively easy, and the scenery is breathtaking. The lakes are surrounded by towering mountains, making for some amazing photo ops. A must-visit if you're already in the Moraine Lake area"
Mohit Gupta
"Very few people on this trail so this easy hike was awesome!
Too bad there are too many mosquitos.
The trail ends and getting to the actual lake is challenging."
Jong Lee
"Beautiful and fairly easy hike, about an hour each way. Definitely recommended if you want to get away from the insane crowds at the main entry area of Moraine. Not many people on the trail and super peaceful. A bit of a rocky scramble at the end if you want to get close to the lake. We had a peaceful lunch on a big rock on the lake. Not many mosquitoes when we went (mid July)."
Mateo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Consolation Lakes trailhead is located at Moraine Lake. Access to Moraine Lake is restricted to Parks Canada shuttles, Roam Public Transit, or commercial operators. Private vehicle access is not permitted. Book your shuttle in advance!
Parking at Moraine Lake is extremely limited and fills up very early. It's highly recommended to use the Parks Canada shuttle or Roam Public Transit to access Moraine Lake and then begin the hike to Consolation Lakes.
No, private vehicles cannot drive directly to Moraine Lake, which is the starting point for the Consolation Lakes hike. You must use Parks Canada shuttles, Roam Public Transit, or authorized commercial operators.
The hike to Consolation Lakes from Moraine Lake is approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) round trip.
The hike typically takes 2-3 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the lakes.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is no separate ticket for the Consolation Lakes hike itself. However, you will need to pay for access to Moraine Lake via shuttle or transit.
Consolation Lakes is accessible when Moraine Lake Road is open, typically from late May to mid-October. The trail is open during daylight hours.
The Consolation Lakes hike is free to access once you are at Moraine Lake. Fees apply for shuttle services or transit to Moraine Lake.
Yes, booking shuttle tickets for Moraine Lake in advance is highly recommended and often required. Check the Parks Canada website or Roam Public Transit for booking information.
Visit early in the morning or on a weekday. The trail is generally less crowded than Moraine Lake itself, offering a more peaceful experience.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The hike is considered easy to moderate. The initial part is relatively flat, but the end involves a boulder field scramble.
Wear comfortable hiking shoes with good traction for the boulder field. Layers are recommended as mountain weather can change quickly.
Restrooms are available at the Moraine Lake parking area, which is the starting point of the hike. There are no facilities along the trail to Consolation Lakes.
Yes, the trail is generally suitable for children, but the boulder field at the end may require assistance for younger ones.
Swimming is generally not recommended due to the cold water temperatures and the pristine nature of the lakes. Enjoy the views instead!
📸 📸 Photography Tips
The entire lakeshore offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The boulder field provides unique angles, and the reflections on a calm day are spectacular.
Early morning offers soft light and fewer crowds. Late afternoon can also provide beautiful golden hour light.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the colors of the water and sky.
The boulder field can be tricky to navigate with camera gear. Be mindful of changing weather conditions and potential wildlife.
Drone usage is restricted in Banff National Park. Always check Parks Canada regulations before flying a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the boulder field at the end might require some assistance for very young children, most kids find it an exciting part of the adventure. It's a great way to experience the stunning scenery of the Canadian Rockies without the intense crowds often found at Moraine Lake itself.+1Family-Friendly Tips:
* Pack Snacks: The lakeshore is a perfect spot for a picnic.
* Bring Bug Spray: Mosquitos can be present, so protect your little ones.
* Go Early: Beat the heat and potential afternoon crowds.
* Consider a Carrier: For very young children navigating the boulder field.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Couples
+1 The relatively easy trail allows for a relaxed pace, perfect for conversation or quiet contemplation. The stunning mountain backdrop provides a romantic setting or a rewarding sense of accomplishment for a solo journey.+1Tips for Solo/Couples:
* Embrace the Quiet: Enjoy the tranquility and fewer people.
* Capture the Moments: The scenery is incredibly photogenic.
* Pack a Lunch: Enjoy a serene picnic by the lake.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Consolation Lakes Trail Experience
+1 The trail winds through a forest, with the sound of a nearby river accompanying your steps. Many visitors find this hike to be a perfect half-day adventure, providing a significant reward for a modest effort.As you approach the lakes, the terrain changes. The final section involves navigating a boulder field, which requires careful foot placement and a bit of patience.
Key Takeaways:
* Trail Difficulty: Easy to moderate, with a final boulder field scramble.
* Distance: Approximately 6 km (3.7 miles) round trip from Moraine Lake.
* Time: 2-3 hours, including time to enjoy the lakes.
* Scenery: Stunning mountain vistas, pristine lakes, and a less crowded atmosphere compared to Moraine Lake.
Wildlife and Safety at Consolation Lakes
Beyond bears, mosquitos can be a significant factor, particularly during the early to mid-summer months. Many visitors recommend bringing insect repellent to make the hike more enjoyable.
Safety Checklist:
* Bear Spray: Carry and know how to use it.
* Insect Repellent: Essential for mosquito season.
* Footwear: Sturdy hiking shoes for the boulder field.
* Water: Stay hydrated, especially on warmer days.
* Communication: Let someone know your hiking plans.
Social
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