1. My Trip
2. About the Rock Pile @Lake Moraine
3. Best Time to Visit
4. Trail Details
5. How Long is the Rock Pile Hike?

My Trip

Lake Moraine is one of the top attractions recommended for tourist, and that’s for a good reason. I’ve only been to this place 2x and the first one was a very short stopover. We did not even get the chance to explore the area. Last year was my 2nd time going to this place with my girlfriends. We went on a 3 days hiking trip and Lake Moraine was one of our stop.

We did 2 hikes in this area. The longer Consolation Lake Hike and the short easy Rock Pile hike. The Rock Pile hike took only 15 – 20 minutes to get to the top. We did this as a last hike after we had a snack.

It was a nice easy hike although it was all uphill. I can assure you that the view from the top is worth it. The view from the top was breathtaking and gave more appreciation of the Lake Moraine.

We spent probably 1 hr to do this, including the picture taking at the top. Visiting Lake Moraine without doing the Rock Pile is not a complete visit in my opinion. This is the highlight of the Lake Moraine trip. If you are in good physical condition to do this, go for it. It’s worth it, look at the view!

About the Rock Pile @Lake Moraine

The Rockpile Trail at Moraine Lake is conveniently located within Banff National Park, Alberta, Canada. This is a must-do experience for visitors. Here are the details:

• Length: The trail is approximately 0.8 kilometers (about 0.5 miles) round trip.
• Time: It takes 15 to 20 minutes to hike up and back down. This of course is dependent on your physical condition.
• Rating: The trail is considered easy to moderate.
• Elevation Gain: You’ll ascend about 12 meters (approximately 38 feet).
• Availability: The Rockpile Trail is open only when Moraine Lake is accessible, which typically falls between mid-May and mid-October.
• Basecamp: Moraine Lake itself serves as the starting point for this short hike.

Best Time to Visit

Summer (June to September) is always the best time to visit Lake Moraine where the Rock Pile is located. I personally prefer close to end of Summer as the weather is bit cooler. The Rock Pile hike although short is pretty open, so in a hot day, it is really hot. If you can make it early morning, that is even the better option, not only that it is not yet too hot but there is also less crowd. The view point is a popular spot for taking photo and it gets really crowded and busy later on the late. You will have to be patient in waiting for your turn to take the photo without too many people crowding the view.

Trail Details

1. Access Point:
   • The Rockpile Trail is easy to find. Head to the side where the washrooms are located at Moraine Lake.
   • Walk down the path and proceed over a small bridge.
   • Ignore signs pointing to Consolation Lakes for now; they lead to a longer hike. I have a separate post that too, have a look HERE.
   • Stay to the right and climb up the steps—you’ll reach the Rockpile viewpoint in just 5 minutes.
   • Note that the Rockpile Trail is not wheelchair accessible, but the lakeshore is. If you have a handicapped parking placard, you can drive into the lake area.
   • If you’re unable to hike, consider bringing friends or family to take photos for you while you enjoy the view from below.
2. The Viewpoint:
   • At the top of the Rockpile, you’ll witness a breathtaking scene:
     • Turquoise-blue water nestled in the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
     • The unique vantage point offers unparalleled views.
   • Pictures don’t quite capture the magic—this view must be experienced firsthand to be believed.
   • Take your time, soak in the beauty, and perhaps even sit on one of the benches provided 

How Long is the Rock Pile Hike?

The Rockpile Trail at Moraine Lake is a relatively short hike, perfect for those seeking stunning views without committing to a lengthy trek. Although this is only a 15 – 20 minutes hike assuming you are in a good physical condition, expect an up-hill hike and uneven ground. If you are in a good physical condition, I highly recommend that you do this short hike. The best view of Lake Moraine is at the top of Rock Pile in the view point. This short hike is definitely worth it, so go for it if you can. You will not regret it, promise 🙂

• [VIDEO] Lake Louis
• [VIDEO] Lake Moraine
• [VIDEO] Peyto Lake
• [VIDEO] Grassi Lake
• [VIDEO] Consolation Lake Trail
• [VIDEO] Bow Lake
• [VIDEO] Bow River Loop Trail
• [VIDEO] Rock Pile
• [VIDEO] Cascade Garden

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