A quick google and you’ll see why Moraine Lake wedding photos are some of my favourites. In fact, I’d argue that it’s one of the most beautiful places in the entire world. That’s why Karen & Emanuel, two mountain lovers, couldn’t imagine taking their elopement photos anywhere but Banff National Park.

The ten peaks glowing bright orange and reflecting on Moraine lake in Banff National Park near Lake Louise

Emanuel & Karen met each other on Instagram. They joked that they weren’t completely convinced as they messaged back and forth, but decided to meet up at the zoo anyway. Construction on the C-train in Calgary left Emmanuel almost an hour late for their first date and he was convinced Karen wouldn’t still be waiting by the time he made it. But there she was, tickets in hand, waiting patiently for the guy from Instagram. A fantastic time at the zoo led to dinner together which led to a lifetime together. A year and a half later, young and so deeply in love, Emanuel proposed by a frozen lake in the mountains. Karen, if you hadn’t guessed this yet, said yes!

It makes sense that their marriage story would come full circle, back to the stunning land that started it all. Karen + Emanuel contacted me in the spring about an early June elopement at Moraine Lake. But we all know that recent years haven’t really gone to plan. Due to restrictions on large groups and potentially inclement weather, the couple decided to push their wedding. After shifting plans a few times, they decided to have a small Catholic ceremony before and then meet for a sunrise photo session in late June at Moraine Lake!

It wasn’t until I met them that morning that I realized just how hard they worked to make this happen. I knew their work schedules because sunset wasn’t an option due to their jobs, but I had no clue both of them had also worked the entire night before. Karen had only a couple of hours of sleep, while Emanuel only slept on the drive to the park. Talk about commitment!!

But wow, was it worth it! Although the area was already buzzing with visitors at sunrise, there was excitement in the air. A few other photo shoots were going on, while many others gathered to watch the sun come over the mountains. After a year of isolation, it was a beautiful moment to share with others.

Karen was absolutely stunning in her long-sleeved white wedding gown and Emanuel was extra dapper in his navy suit. They were so easy to photograph as they flowed so well together and are undeniably so in love. Their families met us at Lake Louise for family photos and they, too, were an absolute joy. After family photos, the bride and groom, as well as their family, headed off for a barbecue picnic in Canmore!

Moraine Lake is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful lakes in Canada and, because of that, one of the most trafficked. There are plenty of places a little less trafficked for photos, like this session at Peyto Lake. But if you are dreaming of Moraine Lake wedding photos, some planning and research is required. Here are some of my top tips for eloping at Moraine Lake!

Tips for Moraine Lake wedding photos:

Plan ahead! Moraine Lake is easily one of the most popular destinations within Banff National Park, an already uber-popular park. Know that even at sunrise, parking lots will start to fill. I have actually had better experiences with sunset. In peak season, the sun sets so late (often not before 10 pm) and many visitors have already left the park. If you do choose sunrise, show up well before the sun comes up to ensure you’ll get in. They do only allow a certain amount of visitors in at a time due to parking. If you are worried, there is a shuttle that runs from Lake Louise, a great idea for peak season.

Check road conditions! The road to Moraine Lake is 20 minutes from Lake Louise! The road doesn’t open until the last weekend of May or the first weekend of June and closes mid-October. Keep in mind that they don’t plow this road, though, so when snow falls it could affect road conditions.
Explore the area! Moraine Lake is super accessible! I love that such a stunning place is easily accessible for everyone. All experience levels can enjoy its serene turquoise waters. If you are looking for a little more of a hike, there are plenty of awesome trails starting at Moraine Lake! I’ve done Consolation Lakes Trai l, for example, and it’s was beautiful!
Choose a time of year carefully! Moraine Lake actually looks different at different times. It won’t be its truly exquisite turquoise colour until late June and into July. Its water levels will be low in early June, high in July as the snow melts, and drop as the season goes on. Again, doing a little research will go a long way!
Take note of the weather! Seasons are very different in the mountains. We can get snow as early as August and it’s common for snowfall in September and October. In contrast, summers can experience major heat waves and frequent thunderstorms.
Get your permits! Banff National Park does require a permit to get married in the park. You can find all of the information and the application he re! Bonus tip for photographers: Banff National Park requires photographers to purchase permits for shooting in the park. You can find information about that he re!