Summer magic that is Lake O’Hara
As I was driving home from my most magical day at Lake O’Hara, I thought about how I could properly share my experience. This has to be one of the most magical and beautiful places on earth. It’s a highly protected piece of landscape as there was some destruction with overuse, and the protecters of this area want this to be preserved and shared for many years to come. To give you an idea of how privileged it is to get a ticket for the day bus, there’s only 220 day passes up for grabs.
It begs the question, what are your options? I’ll dive into this in detail. To learn more about the area, please visit their website for all the details, in addition to the Parks Canada page.
I was 16,500 in line to get a ticket and somehow, I managed to snag one. When you’re online and you’re in the queue, be sure to have your visa read as you have about 60 seconds to punch all your information in! So game on if you get on the reservation page 😊.
Now to the logistics:
- You cannot get to the lodge other than by the shuttle (with your day/camping pass) or by foot.
- You cannot drive or bike up.
- When you hike up, there is an option to take the bus down IF there are spots. Check the bus schedule as it can change on the parks Canada page. You need $10 cash to take the bus down.
- Arrive about a half hour before the bus departs. They leave right on time.
- There are options to camp, but you need a reservation.
- There is no cell reception once you arrive to the parking lot.
Dogs: I couldn’t find information on pets being allowed on the trails, but I did meet someone that walked up the road and had their dog around the Lake O’hara trail. I would call Parks Canada to confirm if you are able to take the dog back down on the bus.
Accessability: I didn’t see anyone around the lake with strollers. Most families with infants had back carriers. I would recommend the Opabin loop for families as it’s a very doable hike. I met all sorts of folks of all ages enjoying that circut.
Be prepared and bring the following:
- Hydration (Nuun Endurance) and food. You can fill up your water bottle at the Campsite only which is near the bus stop/pick up at Le Relais day lodge.
- Weather can change quickly so ensure you have a rain jacket, warm clothes and a backpack to switch up when required.
- Recommend trail shoes or hiking boots.
- Have cash on hand as the Lodge does serve food. Check the Ohara website for hours and options.
- Hiking poles are handy for the alpine climbs.
- Leave no trace behind!
My route choices:
Given that I was there for the day I wanted to ensure that I picked a route that would offer the best bang for my buck. I opted for the Opabin Circuit. A few details about this hike:
- The signs around the path of Lake O’Hara will lead you to the Opabin Circuit.
- Hike up the West and come down the East side trail. The West side has more rocks (no scrambling at all, just rockier) and it’s easier coming down the East side.
- Once in the alpine, head towards Opabin prospect for an amazing view! Then circle to Opabin Lake and this loop will take you towards the East side trail and back down to O’Hara Lodge.
I then spent the day hiking around Lake O’Hara and the lookout along with the campground circuit. With more time and energy, I would have liked to have done Lake McArthur trail. Next time!
When you go to depart, you go back to the same spot you were dropped off, Le Relais day lodge.
Cherish every moment you have up there. It’s an experience of a lifetime!
