Go on an unforgettable hiking adventure at Lake O’Hara, where pristine alpine lakes mirror towering peaks, and where wildlife roams freely in their natural habitat. Limited access to the area ensures preservation of the environment as well as exclusivity of this immersive experience. The well-maintained trails are surrounded by a sea of wildflowers, passing majestic waterfalls that cascade into emerald waters. Whether you’re an avid photographer, an aspiring artist, or just a nature enthusiast seeking tranquility, Lake O’Hara will surely awaken your senses and leave you captivated by its untouched beauty. Lace up your boots and learn how the Rockies earned their spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.
Tackle one of the greatest lakeside treks in the Rockies! Meet your guide in the Lake O’Hara parking area, and follow well-developed and well-maintained trails encircling the titular teal lake, admiring the surrounding forests and looming mountains. Once at the lake, you will have the opportunity to explore some of the surrounding trails (up to 11 km/ 7 miles) to gain some spectacular views. You can expect to hike to Lake Oesa, then potentially on to Opabin lake, depending on your fitness and skill level.
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Not included:
The best thing about hiking at Lake O’Hara is that there are incredible options for all skill levels. For beginner hikes, if you can walk for four to six hours with little elevation gain, you are good to go! Intermediate hikes will see a little more change in elevation and hikes will start to increase in length, hiking anywhere between four to eight miles. Advanced hikes are full-day treks with steep descents and challenging switchbacks.
On the Lake O’Hara hiking tour, you can expect to hike to Lake Oesa, then potentially on to Opabin lake.
Keep in mind, the weather in summer can be hot and you’ll also be packing a daypack filled with water and other things you’ll need throughout the day.
Liability waivers are a standard part of all guided outdoor adventures. Recently, the requirements have become a bit more rigorous for ACMG guides—meaning that you’ll need to agree to the signing of the waiver at the time of booking.
Prior to booking, we ask you to review the waiver. During the checkout process, you’ll have to acknowledge the risks and agree to the signing of the waiver. You are required to bring a printed copy on the trip.
Please note that signing and agreeing to the terms of the waiver is required in order to join this adventure. If you have any questions or concerns, please reach out to us prior to booking.
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
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Group sizes and prices:
Hiking at Lake O’Hara can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements:
If your group has hikers under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
Parks Canada strictly limits the number of visitors to Lake O’Hara to prevent the area from overcrowding. This means you can enjoy the scenery without crowds. Dates for this year are not yet confirmed—the guides are still waiting for the permits to be issued. You can still pick the month that suits you best and we’ll let you know about the permits and availability as soon as Parks Canada issue them.
The bus to the lake has limited capacity and reservations fill up quickly. Your guide will reserve your seats beforehand, meaning you don’t have to go through any extra hassle to reach the trailhead.
Lake O’Hara is in Yoho National Park which is close to the BC-Alberta Border as well as Lake Louise and Banff National Park. It’s about an hour’s drive outside of Golden too.
Most people fly into Calgary International Airport 3 hours away. From there, you can rent a car or take a bus or shuttle service. No matter which direction you’re coming from, be sure to check road closures on the highway.
Once you and your guide agree on the details of your itinerary, your guide will suggest the best place to meet, which will usually be the Lake O’Hara Parking Area. The guide will then choose the appropriate terrain dependent on conditions and the ability of the group.
We highly recommend that you cover all your bases with both medical and travel protection. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Deposits
Secure your spot with a 30% deposit upon booking! The remaining 70% of the trip price must be paid 90 days prior to departure at the latest. If booking within 90 days of departure, the full amount is required at the time of booking.
Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable after a 48-hour grace period. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options—Basic, Flexible, or Super Flexible. Depending on which one you choose, a different cancellation policy will apply to your booking.
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Flexible
Super Flexible
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