Lake Louise Guide

Sunrise & Scenic Photography Expedition

This itinerary is designed specifically for photographers who want to capture the iconic beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake in the best possible light. It’s all about timing, positioning, and patience to get those perfect shots.

Before You Begin

This itinerary requires:

  • Pre-booked shuttle reservations for both lakes
  • Sunrise shuttle booking for Moraine Lake (essential!)
  • Camera gear and extra batteries (cold drains batteries faster)
  • Tripod for sunrise shots
  • Warm layers (sunrise shoots can be chilly)
  • Patience and flexibility

Pre-Dawn: Moraine Lake Sunrise

Very Early Start (5:00-6:00 AM) Take a private sunrise shuttle to Moraine Lake. You’ll want to arrive well before sunrise to secure your spot at the Rockpile Trail viewpoint. This is the most photographed location in Canada for good reason.

Rockpile Trail Setup The Rockpile Trail offers multiple viewpoints. Scout your spot early and set up your tripod. The classic shot is the Ten Peaks reflected in Moraine Lake, but don’t be afraid to explore different angles and compositions.

Sunrise Magic As the sun rises, the light changes rapidly. Be ready to adjust your settings and capture the different moods as the mountains light up. The golden hour here is absolutely magical.

Morning: Moraine Lake Exploration

Changing Light Photography After sunrise, spend time capturing Moraine Lake in different light conditions. The lake’s color changes throughout the day, and morning light often provides the most dramatic contrasts.

Canoe Photography (Optional) If budget allows, consider renting a canoe for unique perspectives. Paddling on Moraine Lake gives you access to compositions that are impossible from shore. The reflections and mountain views from the water are incredible.

Late Morning: Lake Louise Transition

Lake Connector Shuttle Take the shuttle from Moraine Lake to Lake Louise. Use this time to review your morning shots and prepare for the afternoon session.

Classic Lake Louise Views The main viewpoint at Lake Louise offers the iconic shot of the Fairmont Chateau with the Victoria Glacier behind it. Look for red canoes on the lake–they add beautiful color to your compositions.

Afternoon: Alternative Perspectives

Lakeshore Trail Photography Walk the Lake Louise Lakeshore Trail with your camera. This trail offers constantly changing perspectives and compositions. Look for interesting foreground elements like rocks, trees, or the shoreline.

Morant’s Curve (Optional) If you have time and patience, consider visiting Morant’s Curve on the Bow Valley Parkway. This famous railway photography spot requires patience (trains don’t run on schedule), but the shot of a train winding through the mountains is iconic.

Late Afternoon: Golden Hour

Return to Lake Louise Head back to Lake Louise for the golden hour. The late afternoon light often brings beautiful warm tones to the mountains and can create stunning reflections on the lake.

Final Shots Take your time at the main viewing area. The light changes dramatically in the last hour before sunset, and you might capture something completely different from your morning shots.

Pro Tips

  • Timing: Sunrise timing varies by season–check sunrise times before you go
  • Weather: Cloudy days can still be beautiful for photography, offering moody, dramatic shots
  • Patience: Good photography requires patience–don’t rush your shots
  • Batteries: Cold weather drains camera batteries quickly–bring extras
  • Composition: Look for interesting foreground elements to add depth to your shots
  • Reflections: Calm mornings offer the best reflection opportunities

Photography Gear Recommendations

  • Wide-angle lens: Essential for capturing the full scope of the landscapes
  • Telephoto lens: Great for compressing mountain layers and capturing wildlife
  • Polarizing filter: Helps reduce glare and enhance colors
  • Tripod: Essential for sunrise shots and long exposures
  • Extra batteries: Cold weather is hard on batteries

This itinerary is perfect for photographers who want to capture the iconic beauty of Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. With proper planning and patience, you’ll come away with incredible images that capture the magic of this place.