Banff and Jasper: the park pass, Moraine Lake by shuttle, and shoulder season

The national parks require a daily or annual Parks Canada pass, bought at the gate or online; the Discovery Pass pays off in a week. Moraine Lake's road is closed to private cars, so reserve the Parks Canada shuttle from the Lake Louise park-and-ride weeks ahead, or take the early Roam bus. Late September gives the larches turning gold and far fewer people; June still has snow on the high trails. Carry bear spray on hikes and know how to use it.