Will I definitely see the northern lights?

We wish we could promise it, but the aurora answers to nobody. Sightings are possible, most often in winter, and conditions have to cooperate. The good news: even on a quiet aurora night, the dark-sky stargazing over Moraine Lake is genuinely spectacular, so you are in for a memorable night either way.

How long is the Night Adventure, and what time does it start?

Plan on about 4.5 to 5 hours in total, with roughly 1.5 to 2 hours out at the lake itself. Because we head out after dark, the start time moves with the season, and you will get your exact pickup time when you book.

How cold does it get, and what should I wear?

Nights at the lake are cold year round, and it is colder than you would expect even in summer. Dress seriously warm: thermal layers, a proper jacket, hat, gloves, and warm footwear. You will thank yourself once you are standing lakeside under the stars.

What is the cancellation policy?

Cancellations for scheduled shared (group) shuttles and tours made at least 48 hours before the scheduled pick-up time will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours of the scheduled pick-up time are non-refundable. Group bookings for six or more guests require a 7-day cancellation notice. No-shows or failure to cancel a reservation will result in no refund.

Tours

Parks Canada Pass Required

After the day tours leave and the road goes quiet, Moraine Lake becomes a different place. The turquoise shifts to deep blue under a darkening sky. On a clear night, the Milky Way rises directly above the Ten Peaks. This is Moraine Lake without the crowds, the noise, or the rush just the water, the mountains, and whatever the sky decides to offer.

Canmore Travel was the first company to offer night tours at Moraine Lake. The experience runs on a special access permit that puts you at the lake when it is closed to private vehicles and most other operators. No headlights, no crowds, no artificial light.

The night at Moraine Lake includes headlamps, cosy blankets, chairs, a telescope, hot chocolate and tea, Moraine Lake access fee, and a surprise activity from your guide. Dress warmly because standing still at elevation in the dark after the day tours have left is colder than most guests expect.

People boarding the shuttle at night on a dark road, lit by the bus and a flashlight.

Step 1: Pickup

Your guide picks you up at your pickup location in Canmore, Harvie Heights, or Banff after dark. Departure time is set by darkness for that date and confirmed the day of the tour. No need to navigate mountain roads at night; your guide handles the full drive both ways.

Silhouette of a telescope under a swirling starry night sky with silhouetted trees

Step 2: The Drive In

Your guide drives the route to the lake, watching the sky and conditions along the way. Far from city lights, Moraine Lake at night offers an awe-inspiring setting for an unforgettable experience.

Aurora lights over snow-capped mountains reflected in Moraine Lake at dusk

Step 3: Moraine Lake After Dark

You have 1.5 to 2 hours at the water's edge: time to let your eyes adjust and see what appears above. On a clear night with a low moon, the Milky Way is directly overhead. The aurora appears in this region several times per season, most reliably late summer through early winter but is never promised. Dress warm; the lake after dark is genuinely cold.

Aurora lights over a dark forest road with a red-lit vehicle at the bottom right

Step 4: Return

The same guide and vehicle bring you back to your original pickup location after the experience.

Will I definitely see the northern lights?
We wish we could promise it, but the aurora answers to nobody. Sightings are possible, most often in winter, and conditions have to cooperate. The good news: even on a quiet aurora night, the dark-sky stargazing over Moraine Lake is genuinely spectacular, so you are in for a memorable night either way.
How long is the Night Adventure, and what time does it start?
Plan on about 4.5 to 5 hours in total, with roughly 1.5 to 2 hours out at the lake itself. Because we head out after dark, the start time moves with the season, and you will get your exact pickup time when you book.
How cold does it get, and what should I wear?
Nights at the lake are cold year round, and it is colder than you would expect even in summer. Dress seriously warm: thermal layers, a proper jacket, hat, gloves, and warm footwear. You will thank yourself once you are standing lakeside under the stars.
What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations for scheduled shared (group) shuttles and tours made at least 48 hours before the scheduled pick-up time will receive a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours of the scheduled pick-up time are non-refundable. Group bookings for six or more guests require a 7-day cancellation notice. No-shows or failure to cancel a reservation will result in no refund.

Get in touch

Moraine Lake Night Adventure with Possible Stargazing and Aurora Chasing

What to Expect on the Moraine Lake Night Tour

Step 1: Pickup

Step 2: The Drive In

Step 3: Moraine Lake After Dark

Step 4: Return

Why Guests Skip the Parks Canada Shuttle

What Guests Say About the Moraine Lake Night Tour

Want More Time at the Lakes?

Moraine Lake Night Tour FAQ