Review: Moraine Lake Lodge

Barely 9 miles from Lake Louise, and the Trans-Canada Highway (115 miles west of Calgary International Airport, 36 miles from Banff), the road to Moraine Lake Lodge is only open from May through October (and happens to be a great spot for grizzly sightings). Once there, the views of the turquoise, glacially-fed lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks are unforgettable. Starting point for hikes into Larch Valley and Sentinel Pass are some of Banff National Park’s best (ablaze in autumn when larch needles are golden). Longer hikes often require a minimum of six walkers due to the possibility of encountering aforementioned bears. The resort has a refreshingly unpretentious vibe, and now oddly-endearing late-80s aesthetic from when it was first designed and built. Best rooms are in lower level, deluxe cabins with river rock, wood-burning fireplaces and private balconies. All accommodations come without telephones or TVs – and cell service is blissfully patchy, with signals interrupted by Mount Babel. The Walter Wilcox Dining Room highlights specials including local deer and buffalo. NOTE: Day trippers during peak summer months are aplenty, but only between 10am and 5pm. Nothing beats a sunset canoe paddle after the crowds leave. David Jefferys