Experience Lake O’Hara
“In all the mountain wilderness the most complete picture of natural beauty is realized at O’Hara Lake.”
- Walter Dwight Wilcox
To many, Lake O’Hara is THE jewel of the Canadian Rockies. Surrounded by spectacular alpine summits, this emerald green gem is a delight, shimmering in the brilliant light of the summer sun or covered by soft powder in winter. Some feel that Lake O’Hara is at its finest in autumn when the golden larches blaze against the blue sky and snow-covered peaks. In 1908 in the Canadian Alpine Journal, R. L. Glisan wrote, “Not a trace of human presence or any disturbing element, the whole scene was the personification of a majestic peace.” Although not quite as pristine as it once was, Lake O’Hara’s unspoiled beauty has been well maintained by Parks Canada. Unlike many other renowned destinations in the Canadian Rockies, Lake O’Hara is never crowded. In the mid 1970s a master plan was created whereby only about 250 visitors are allowed in the valley per day: 30 tents at the campground (number of people per site will vary), 24 visitors each at the Alpine Club of Canada’s Elizabeth Parker Hut and Abbot
Pass Hut, 60 visitors at Lake O’Hara Lodge, and 42 day users. This means you will never be crowded while exploring the trails - the area is large enough to absorb the visitors and leave lots of space for solitude. In the wintertime Lake O’Hara is a popular ski destination. Many people just ski up the snow-covered road for a day trip, but others overnight at the Elizabeth Parker Hut. And if you crave a little luxury, try a night at the Lake O’Hara Lodge, sitting around the fire with a glass of wine and good company. Located in Yoho National Park, Lake O’Hara is on the BC side of the Continental Divide. The starting point for your trip to O’Hara is a parking lot just off the Trans-Canada Highway near Kicking Horse Pass, about equidistant from Lake Louise and Field. Here you catch the bus to the lake. Reservations can be hard to get so book early. By: Chic Scott
Approaching the Elizabeth Parker Hut near Lake O’Hara. Photo by Chic Scott
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