Moraine Lake is a glacially-fed lake in Banff National Park, 14 kilometres (8.7 mi) outside the Village of Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada. It is situated in the Valley of the Ten Peaks, at an elevation of approximately 6,183 feet (1,885 m). The lake has a surface area of .5 square kilometres (0.19 sq mi).

The area around the lake has several walking/hiking trails which are, from time to time, are restricted. This is the one most commonly taken by tourists. The Rockpile Trail along the actual moraine is approximately 300 meters long, with an elevation change of 24 meters. The view of the lake from the top of the rockpile is one of the most photographed locations in all of Canada. That view from the mountains behind the lake is known as the Valley of the Ten Peaks which is also known as the twenty dollar view. Moraine Lake was featured on the reverse side of the 1969 and 1979 issues of the Twenty Dollar Bill.

Near the canoe docks of Moraine Lake Lodge there is another trailhead. This trailhead is the start of two trails, one of which branches out into four different trails - so there are in total, five trails starting at that trailhead (Moraine Lake Lakeshore Trail, Eiffel Lake, Wenkchemna Pass, Larch Valley, and Sentinel Pass). The Lake Louise & Yoho Map provides information on these trails.

Many hikers hike only to Larch Valley and with its exquisite view, it is not a surprise why Larch Valley is one of the most visited areas in Banff National Park. Described as "The Wonderful World of Alpine Larch", Larch Valley is a hidden gem on your way to Sentinel Pass. Along the trail in the beginning and towards the end of the valley, you can hear the sound of thundering water. If you explore some of the smaller more hidden trails that deviate off the path following the sound of rushing water, you can find yourself trekking through lush alpine larch and right to some magnificent waterfalls.

Larch Valley is the most popular around September when the leaves and needles of the larch trees turn into an autumn gold. Many stop their hike at Larch Valley since the view from valley is outstanding as well. You have a beautiful view of the Ten Peaks and there are some benches where you can sit and take in the beauty surrounding you. Just make sure you keep an eye out for any bears; they seem to rather enjoy the area too! You can spend the entire day just walking around the valley, taking in the beautiful views and exploring the meadows to Minnestimma Lakes. When we went, the Upper Minnestimma Lake ("Minnestimma" is the Native word for sleeping water) found underneath Sentinel Pass, was covered entirely in snow but generally is melted towards the end of summer.

Once you climbed the peak it was awesome. the air was clear, the wind was blowing and the local wildlife scurried around stealing fees from the hikers. We ate sandwiches, took pictures and just sat taking it all in.

Over time, some people stacked up some mountain rock in the area the size of an igloo. This little structure seemed to play a role in wind protection. Sometime the wind up here could be deadly. Be glad that wind barrier is there just in case you need it.

Then it was time to go down the other side. it was a very steep and jagged descent. the distance is very deceiving to tones eye of trying to figure out how long it was to take us. the group stopped 3 times before getting to the bottom.

And the pathways of gold. There were endless walkways of gold. Such a beautiful walk. To be able to walk on a pathway of gold layed down by the gods. A trully momental experience.