Photos of Moraine Lake and the Valley of the Ten Peaks are so widely published that I try to find a different twist on the scene when I photograph it. The day I shot this picture was a dud in terms of lighting on the peaks, but there was a bit of weak sunlight on the foreground, and the lake was almost dead calm.
Moraine Lake's origin belies its name. It was most likely formed by a landslide that blocked the drainage of the valley, not by a terminal moraine. This photo, like most photos of Moraine Lake, was taken from the top of that landslide. During low water periods the outlet creek goes dry and water drains from the lake under the rockslide.
While I was shooting this photo, I noticed a small whirlpool exactly where the sun is reflecting off the water in the lower right corner of this picture, suggesting to me that I had accidentally spotted the area of the underwater outlet.
Moraine Lake is the starting point for popular trails to Consolation Valley and Larch Valley. Both trails provide some of the most convenient access to larch forests in the fall.
The peaks in the reflection are popularly known as "The Ten Peaks," but the official name, "Wenkchemna Peaks," was given to the range by Samuel Allen who, along with Walter Wilcox, were the first Europeans to see the valley in 1893.
Moraine Lake is a very popular and heavily used area, and deservedly so. Access is by a road that originates near Lake Louise and terminates at a large parking lot where good bathroom facilities are available. The road is not plowed in the winter but is open for cross-country skiing. Here is a Parks Canada map for your convenience.
Moraine Lake Lodge is a privately owned lodge with a nicely stocked gift shop, dining facilities, and deluxe lodging. Amenities include colorful canoe rentals. Activities in the area include hiking, mountaineering, and rockclimbing.
Ash Creek Images
Photographs of the West by Doug Gorsline
Wenkchemna Peaks Reflect off Moraine Lake in the Valley of the Ten Peaks.
