Lake O'Hara

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The Lake O’Hara Valley is a high-elevation backcountry area, located in Yoho National Park, in British Columbia, Canada.

Prepare for stunning views, beautiful (and cold!) glacier water but also come prepared to be self-sufficient. Prepare for all weather conditions: carry extra clothing, sunscreen, a hat, light gloves, and rain gear. Wear sturdy shoes or hiking boots. Bring food and water. The Lake O’Hara Trails Club operates Le Relais Day Shelter. Here you can warm up, ask for trail information from knowledgeable staff, and buy a hot drink or snack (cash only).

Part of Lake O'Hara's beauty is its waterfalls. See below.

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Getting There

To protect this sensitive alpine area and maintain a wilderness experience, a quota system limits the number of visitors using the public bus service into Lake O’Hara. However, there is no quota for people who choose to hike in, a distance of about 12 km. (For what it's worth, the Alpine Club of Canada recommends taking the bus shuttle.)

A reservation with the Alpine Club of Canada is required for the bus service. The bus operates from June 16 - October 8 (start and end dates vary year to year). You may reserve up to three calendar months in advance of your visit, by telephone only. Phone number is 250.343.6433.

You can pay for your reservation by Mastercard, Visa or American Express. A $11.85 reservation fee applies. The bus, campground and reservation fees are collected at the time of booking. Once reservations are made, an additional $11.85 modification fee will apply for any future changes. Fees are as follows:

Bus Fare

Adult: $14.85 Youth (6-16): $7.40 Child (5 & under): no charge

Camping

Adult: $9.90 / night Youth (6-16): no charge Child (5 & under): no charge

Reservation Fee: $11.85 non-refundable
Modification Fee: $11.85

The Lake O'Hara campground fees are based on the Wilderness Pass system. If you are an annual Wilderness Pass holder, your O'Hara backcountry campground fee is covered.

For those looking for more upscale accommodations, the Lake O'Hara lodge is a beautiful place to stay.

The Lake O’Hara parking lot is located off the Trans-Canada Highway, 15 km east of Field, British Columbia, and 11 km west of Lake Louise, Alberta. Visitors require a valid National Park Pass. These can be purchased at any Park Visitor Centre or from the attendant at the bus.

You can park your vehicle here but be sure to hide and lock all valuables.

Some web sites mention that up to 5 day trippers can be accommodated per bus trip, without reservations. This information needs confirmation. If you can help, please click on “Edit Text,” above.

Hiking around Lake O'Hara

Short Hikes (1 to 2 hours)

Wapta Falls - 2.3 km trail, each way The 2 km gravel road skirts Leanchoil marsh. From the end of the road follow the level trail to where the Kicking Horse River drops 30 m. *Important: The trailhead is not marked on the TCH for westbound traffic as there is no left turn lane here. Continue 3 km to the west entrance of the park, turn and come back.

Emerald Lake - 5.2 km circuit A self-guided nature trail, this scenic hike is accessible for wheelchairs and strollers from the parking area to the bridge at the back of the lake (4.6 km return).

Hamilton Falls - 1.6 km return The trail starts at the entrance to Emerald Lake parking area.

Centennial Trail - 2.5 km circuit Begins at the bridge by Kicking Horse Campground on the Yoho Valley Road.

Walk-in-the-Past - 4 km return From the trailer circle in Kicking Horse Campground, cross the Yoho Valley Road and follow the trail to an abandoned, narrow-gauge locomotive used to build the Spiral Tunnels.

Point Lace Falls and Angel's Staircase - 4.4 km return Starts at Takakkaw Falls campground.