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Difficulty
This reflects the 10Adventures difficulty rating for each route. We aim to keep ratings consistent across regions.
Easy
Elevation
This reflects the total elevation gained throughout this route as measured by the GPS file. This includes all ascents and descents, and is higher than what is quoted in most route guides, which simply measure the distance between the starting-point and high-point of the route.
135 m
Distance
This reflects the return distance of this route as measured by the GPS file.
5.8 km
Duration
This reflects the estimated time the majority of users will take on this trail. If you are slower, add time to the top-end figure. If you are fast, then you may complete this route faster than this time range.
1.5-2h
User Ratings
These ratings are completed by users who have completed this trail and not subject to reviews by 10Adventures.
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Physical DIFF
Easy (Circle)
Suitable for beginners, families, young children, and those looking for a casual adventure.
Technical DIFF
Directions to Trailhead

Consolation Lakes

Panoramic views from the Consolation Lakes hike near Lake Louise, Banff National Park
Measurement:

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Table of contents

The Consolation Lake trail is a favorite family hike near Lake Louise, and can be paired with the Moraine Lake Rockpile and Lakeshore hike. Hike along Babel Creek to Consolation Lakes, which are fringed with stunning glacier clad mountains.

Route Description for Consolation Lakes

Parking at Moraine Lake is extremely limited, and the best bet is to aim to get to Moraine Lake before 6am if you want to park.

There are paid shuttle options to Moraine Lake Parking lot.  These are available from the Lake Louise Village and the Lake Louise Overflow Parking lot which is where traffic will be redirected to once the Moraine Lake Parking Lot is full. There is nowhere to line up if access is blocked to Moraine Lake Road.

You can also ride a bike to Moraine Lake, and it’s a beautiful ride.

From the Moraine Lake parking lot, follow signposts leading off to the left towards Consolation Lakes. Continue on this route by crossing the bridge and follow the trail, noting that this hike often requires hiking in groups due to bear activity.

This path is well-maintained and the scenery is excellent as you hike below the Tower of Babel on your right and then through a boulder field that leads to a pleasant forest walk. You’ll be surprised how quickly the crowds of Moraine Lake melt away and you can enjoy the solitude and beauty of the Canadian Rockies.

The landscape opens as you approach Lower Consolation Lake. Many people stop here, however you can continue to Upper Consolation Lake via either side of the lake. We recommend taking the route through scree, as the other side can be quite wet.

Want to find more amazing Lake Louise hikes? Check out the Plain of the 6 Glaciers, Sentinel Pass, Morraine Lake or the Skoki Lakes hike.

Insider Hints for Consolation Lakes

  • Try to begin before 8am or after 5pm for fewer crowds and better access to parking.
  • Pair this hike with Moraine Lakeshore and Rockpile for a wonderful morning.

Getting to the Consolation Lakes Trailhead

If you want to park at Moraine Lake, your best bet is to get there before 6am. To get there, take Lake Louise Drive from Lake Louise Village for 1.2mi, then turn left on Moraine Lake Road and follow for 7.6mi. Most people end up taking the public transportation.

Route Information

  • When to do:

    May through October

  • Backcountry Campsites:

    No

  • Toilets:

    Trailhead

  • Family friendly:

    Yes

  • Route Signage:

    Average

  • Crowd Levels:

    Moderate

  • Route Type:

    Out and back

Consolation Lakes Elevation Graph

Weather Forecast

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