It was bound to happen.

Moraine Lake.  Probably the most iconic Banff National Park landscape - after all it was once featured at Canadian 20 dollar bill.  Also incredibly overrun by tour buses and tourist hordes. Small parking lot at end of 16km access road being able to accommodate less than 5% of those interested coming here, creating traffic jams and all other gong show nonsense in summer months.  I heard stories of people waking up super early, driving up before 3am and still not being able to find the spot.   Finally at beginning of 2023 Parks Canada announced private vehicles will not be allowed on Moraine road anymore (rule does not apply for vehicles with disability stickers) in order to attempt to easy up congestion.   Tour buses and taxis are also exempt.

So what are the options?  Shuttle is one -similar to places like Zion or Grand Canyon National Parks in US.   But even before restrictions it was difficult to book space;  now it will become downright impossible.  Taxi is two.  And finally - cycling.  I cycle Moraine Road regularly every spring before opening in late May and find experience superb with no traffic.  Photo below was taken at one of these cycling trips couple of years ago - I had entire lake to myself, something that is entirely in realm of science fiction in summer season

Moraine LakeMoraine Lake still half frozen in late May along north side hiking trail

As Rockies veteran I find this move by Parks Canada a good thing.  Moraine will still be congested in summer, but with far less traffic and cycling option it will also mean seasoned hikers will be able to enjoy this beautiful area again.   I stopped hiking here in summer > 5 years ago, but am now looking forward to coming season and at least one or two trips this coming summer.

For anyone out of Alberta or Canada reading this - do visit Moraine Lake.  But when you come, please PLEASE treat this beautiful and fragile area with respect.  It belongs to all of us and we are all equally responsible of protecting natural heritage human race keeps destroying in ever increasing rate.  And if you want to check some of beautiful hiking trails in Valley of Ten Peaks - see Eiffel Lake / Wenkchemna Pass or Consolation Lakes Trip Report on this site.