For a few days each May, cyclists can take advantage of the opportunity to ride Moraine Lake Road after it's plowed and before it's opened to motorized vehicles. It's a relatively short ride (27 km return), and a decent workout at >500 meters elevation gain. But it's a fair price to pay for the opportunity to enjoy Moraine Lake / Valley of the Ten Peaks views without crowds of people!
Some aspects of Parks Canada's 3-year pilot project for seasonal, vehicle-free cycling on the Bow Valley Parkway are less than ideal for families and casual cyclists. Make the most of the opportunity with careful planning and an adaptive mindset.
When water levels are high enough, the first and second Vermilion Lakes are connected by a channel that parallels Vermilion Lakes Road. Together, the two lakes create about a 10 km paddling loop, with lots of opportunities for bird spotting/photography, surrounded by beautiful mountains.
Lake Minnewanka Loop is a short, scenic road ride. In 2021, Parks Canada is piloting a 4 day/week vehicle free road cycling option during shoulder season.
The trail to Taylor Lake is entirely below treeline, which means it’s relatively lower risk for avalanche. It’s on the Park’s Canada list of difficult snowshoe/winter hiking trails in the Lake Louise area, with a warning of avalanche danger beyond reaching the lake. With over 600 meters elevation gain, this is a relatively challenging winter hike/snowshoe destination.