Moraine Lake is amazing! I could have stayed at the top of the Rockpile for hours, taking it all in! As it is, there are other worthwhile activities in the area--canoeing (for rent at Moraine Lake Lodge) and hiking. In fact there are five notable hikes that start there, not including the easy trail around lake. We chose the Consolation Lakes trail (branches off the Rockpile trail). The trail mainly meanders through a wooded area along a small river, but there is some rocky terrain thrown in for variety. At the end of the trail are the Consolations Lakes, small and crystal clear with rocks and boulders to clambor over, and with mountain peaks looming.
After a morning spent hiking there is also a cafe to grab a quick bite (fairly reasonable prices) and a little shop to browse in.
I thought Lake Louise was beautiful, but once I saw Moraine Lake it became my favorite place in the Banff area, hands-down.













