Private Moraine Lake Stargazing Tour
Discover the night in one of Banff’s most awe-inspiring places on a private 5-hour stargazing tour at Moraine Lake. Designed exclusively for your group, this experience blends comfort, astronomy, and the rare chance to enjoy Moraine Lake in near silence—long after the daytime crowds have gone.
Moraine Lake is known as one of the best stargazing locations in Banff National Park. Its high elevation, minimal light pollution, and dramatic valley setting create exceptionally clear, brilliant night skies. When the stars appear over the Ten Peaks, the view is nothing short of unforgettable.
The moment you arrive, your guide will provide everything you need for a cozy and comfortable evening: complimentary hot drinks, blankets, hiking poles, chairs, and headlamps. Together, you’ll take a short 15-minute walk to the top of the Moraine Lake Rockpile—an easy, guided path that opens to one of the most spectacular night-sky vantage points in the Rockies.
What to Expect on this Stargazing Tour
Step into the quiet of the night on a private 5-hour stargazing tour at Moraine Lake, where the pristine mountain skies reveal a dazzling canopy of stars. Designed exclusively for your group, this tour combines comfort, flexibility, and the untouched beauty of Banff National Park after dark.Unlike the daytime crowds, at night you’ll have the rare opportunity to experience Moraine Lake in near solitude—almost as if the lake is yours alone. Known as one of the very best places in Banff National Park to view stars and constellations, it offers unmatched clarity and brilliance in its night skies.
Upon arrival at Moraine Lake, each guest will be offered complimentary hot beverages, along with hiking poles, hand warmers, comfortable chairs, and headlamps to ensure comfort and safety throughout the evening. Guided by headlamps, we’ll take a short 15-minute hike to the Moraine Lake Rockpile, where the view opens to one of the most breathtaking night skies in the Canadian Rockies. At the top, you’ll be provided with telescopes, binoculars, iPads for constellation identification, and a smart telescope that brings galaxies, planets, and star clusters into remarkable clarity. Wrapped in cozy blankets with the stillness of the mountains all around, you’ll experience the night sky in a way few ever do.
A Closer Look at Your Stargazing Experience
CAD $1200
5 hours
13 people max
June-Oct
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Private Van CAD $1200
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Additional Hours CAD $220
- In order to participate all adults must sign a waiver prior to the tour. A waiver must also be completed by the parent or guardian of any child under the age of 18. Failure to complete the waiver will result in the cancellation of your tour. For your reference, please see the waiver link at the bottom of the website.
- By law, children under 6 years old or weighing less than 40 lbs (18 kg) must use an appropriate child safety seat. A limited number of child seats are available—please contact us ahead of time if you need one.
- Please wear appropriate clothing for the unpredictable mountain weather, we reserve the right to refuse boarding if an individual doesn’t wear the proper clothing for the activities/tours.
Please visit our FAQ for more information.
We aim to provide a hassle-free and comfortable experience for all our guests. Here’s what you can expect on this adventure:
- Private van & guide — your group only.
- Guided Experience: Learn about the stars, planets, and constellations with the help of a knowledgeable guide.
- Premium Equipment: Use a constellation-identifying iPad, telescope, binoculars & smart telescope for up-close views of celestial wonders.
- Hot beverages: Complimentary hot chocolate & tea.
- Comfort Essentials: Comfortable chairs, blankets, & hand warmers
- Hiking Equipment: Hiking poles & headlamps.
- Night Sky Immersion: up to 3 hours of stargazing.
Tour Overview & Private Experience
What makes this a private tour?
Your experience is exclusively for your group—no shared guests. This means:
• A guide dedicated entirely to you
• A flexible pace tailored to your comfort level
• Time to ask questions and explore without interruptions
• Space to settle in, relax, and enjoy the quiet atmosphere
Everything is designed to feel calm, personal, and unhurried.
Can we customize the experience?
Yes. Private tours allow you to adjust the evening to your preferences, such as:
• Spending more time stargazing or taking photos
• Focusing on certain celestial objects
• Enjoying extra quiet time at the lakeshore
• Adding optional scenic stops before or after the tour (e.g., Vermilion Lakes, Lake Minnewanka viewpoint, or Mount Norquay Lookout)
Your guide will shape the experience to what feels best for you.
How long is the stargazing tour?
The Moraine Lake stargazing experience lasts approximately 5 hours, including transportation, guided insights, and time at the Rockpile viewpoint.
Stargazing Experience & Night Sky
Do I need any stargazing experience?
No experience is needed. Your guide will show you how to use the telescopes, smart telescope, binoculars, and constellation-identifying iPads. Everything is beginner-friendly and paced for your comfort.
Is Moraine Lake good for stargazing?
Yes. Moraine Lake is an excellent place for stargazing thanks to its high elevation, minimal light pollution, and protected alpine setting within Banff National Park. On clear nights, the dark skies combined with the surrounding peaks create an unforgettable night-sky experience.
Will we see the Milky Way?
It’s possible. On clear, dark nights with minimal moonlight, the Milky Way can be visible at Moraine Lake. While visibility always depends on weather and moon phases, this area is known for excellent dark-sky conditions.
What can we actually see in the night sky?
Depending on conditions, you may see:
• The Milky Way
• Constellations
• Meteors during active showers
• Satellites
Your guide uses binoculars, a telescope, and a star-identification app to enhance the experience.
Will we see the northern lights?
Northern lights are always a magical bonus, but they can never be promised. Clear skies and the right natural conditions are needed for them to appear. The best chances in Banff National Park are typically from late August through October, when nights are darker.
Can I bring a tripod or my own camera?
Yes. You’re welcome to bring your own camera gear. Your guide can assist with angles and settings to help you capture great night-sky shots.
Access to Moraine Lake
Can you stargaze at Moraine Lake at night?
Yes, stargazing at Moraine Lake is possible with proper access. Private vehicles are not permitted, so visiting at night requires guided transportation. As a licensed commercial tour operator, we take care of all logistics and provide access to Moraine Lake, allowing you to enjoy a peaceful stargazing experience without worrying about transportation or restrictions.
Is Moraine Lake open at night?
Moraine Lake does not allow public vehicle access at any time of day. Visitors cannot drive themselves to the lake, whether it’s daytime, early morning, or night.
As a licensed commercial tour operator, we provide transportation and handle all logistics, allowing guests to experience Moraine Lake—including at night—without needing to worry about access or parking.
Is Moraine Lake better than Lake Louise for stargazing?
Moraine Lake generally offers darker skies and a more secluded atmosphere than Lake Louise at night. Its higher elevation, reduced ambient lighting, and dramatic Rockpile viewpoint make it a preferred location for guests seeking a quieter, more immersive stargazing experience.
What makes Moraine Lake special at night?
At night, Moraine Lake transforms into a peaceful alpine sanctuary. With crowds gone, the stillness of the valley, the silhouettes of the Ten Peaks, and the reflection of stars on the lake create a rare and intimate connection with the night sky—an experience few visitors ever get to witness.
Accessibility, Hiking & Preparation
Is there any hiking involved?
Yes. The experience includes a short, guided 15-minute walk up the Moraine Lake Rockpile. The trail has some elevation but is manageable for most guests.
Is this experience suitable for children or seniors?
This tour works well for guests who can comfortably manage the short walk up the Rockpile trail. If you have mobility concerns, feel free to ask—we’re happy to help determine if this experience is the right fit.
What should I wear?
Even in summer, nights in the Rockies can feel very cold. We recommend:
• Long pants and a long-sleeve top
• A warm layer or jacket
• A hat and gloves
• Comfortable, closed-toe shoes
Cozy blankets and complimentary hot drinks are provided, but dressing warmly will make the experience much more enjoyable.
Safety, Wildlife & Weather
Is the tour safe at night?
Yes. Your private guide is trained in nighttime safety and carries all necessary equipment, including headlamps and bear spray. Staying together as a group ensures a safe and comfortable evening.
Is it safe to be at Moraine Lake at night because of wildlife?
Yes. Safety is our top priority. Your guide is fully wildlife-risk trained, carries appropriate safety equipment, and keeps the group together at all times. All nighttime movement is controlled and guided only.
What happens if the weather is cloudy?
If the skies become too cloudy for optimal stargazing, your guide will adapt the experience with:
• Night photography guidance
• Astronomy storytelling and education
• Scenic nighttime viewpoints
If conditions look completely unsuitable, we will contact you to discuss alternatives.
Booking Details
When do the stargazing tours run?
Tours begin after sunset, with start times adjusted throughout the year to ensure the darkest and clearest skies.
What is your cancellation policy?
We offer a 7-day cancellation window for private tours so you can adjust your plans if needed.
For those who want to enhance their adventure, this private tour can be customized with unique add-ons such as:
Sunset at Moraine Lake or Lake Louise before stargazing.
Scenic wildlife drive along the Bow Valley Parkway with a stop at the iconic Morant’s Curve
Guided lakeshore hike around the lakes.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, traveling with loved ones, or simply seeking a private escape beneath the stars, this tour offers everything you need for an unforgettable night in Banff National Park.