Canada Consolation Lakes

The Consolation Lakes trailhead is just off the Moraine Lake parking lot. Moraine Lake is one of the most beautiful lakes on earth and is certainly worth visiting. Most visitors just walk up the “rock pile” for the breathtaking views of Moraine Lake. Only a very small percentage of the crowd elects to hike to Consolation Lakes making the 3.4 miles R/T hike feel like solitude. The views of the mountains beyond the shallow ponds and lakes are superb. This is grizzly bear country, so you are not permitted to hike alone. There’s a sign posted near the trailhead advising whether hiking in groups of four or more is "Recommended" or "Mandatory" for that day. When we were leaving the lot at the end of our visit, there was a huge grizzly just 100 feet from us with a park ranger standing guard with what looked like a bear spray "rifle" (?) on steroids. He wasn’t allowing anyone to go anywhere near the animal.

From Lake Louise Drive in Lake Louise, Alberta, turn south on Moraine Lake Road and drive 12 km to the Moraine Lake Parking lot. 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. Snagging a parking spot can be extremely challenging during the spring, summer, and fall. The lot is huge but if you don’t arrive before sunrise or just before sunset, the lot might be full. All tour buses stop there to add to the throngs.