CANCELLED Castle Junction to Moraine Lake, Int, 87km, 1120m, LyleOpseth

CANCELLED, the rain forecast for Banff won't go away. It just keeps looking wetter and wetter.

Look for this ride to be rescheduled later this summer.

Note: Registration will open the weekend before the ride.

Park entry is free this summer. And with the closure of the Moraine Lake Road to private vehicles, access to the lake is now normally done by an expensive bus ride. But you can still cycle the road at no cost! Here's your chance to see some of the best sights in Banff NP this summer with no park fees.

Coordinator: Lyle Opseth

Distance: 87 Km

Pace: 20-25 kph

Difficulty:

Pace: 22 km/h; intermediate

Distance: intermediate

Elevation Gain: 1121 m advanced (steep climbs)

E-Bikes: Yes. E-bikes are permitted but must be able to do the distance. Alternatively, you can catch a roam bus (with your bike).

Park Pass: Entry is free to the national park for the summer until September 2nd.  

Route description:

We will cycle from Castle Junction to Lake Louise via Bow Valley Parkway (highway 1A). At Lake Louise we will cycle up Lake Louise Drive to Lake Louise, with a visit to the Lake Louise shoreline. We will then descend partway down to Moraine Lake Road and head to Moraine Lake. We return to Lake Louise and return to Castle Junction via 1A.

Water and food can be picked up in Lake Louise townsite. Laggan's is always a popular spot for treats.

There are pit toilets at the Rockbound Lake trailhead on 1A; washrooms at Lake Louise; pit toilets at Moraine Lake.

Parking: Parking is in the public parking lot by the Castle Mountain hostel across from the Castle Mountain Lodges. Do not use the lodges' parking lot or the hostel's parking lot (behind the public parking lot).

Safety elements:

• Consider carrying bear spray
• There are areas on 1A and Moraine Lake Road without cell service
• Be self-sufficient; carry tools and be prepared to perform simple bike maintenance (especially where the road is closed to vehicles)
• Due to the distance and remoteness, ensure your e-bike battery will last
• Roam bus can be caught at Lake Louise for you and your bicycle if need be