Lake O'Hara

Hidden deep in the Canadian Rockies is Lake O'Hara, a diamond among the rough peaks. Ten minutes drive east of a small town called Field in British Columbia, or sixty minutes west of Banff, Alberta; is a small parking lot where the adventure begins. A $25 return, 30 minute bus ride from there takes you to Lake O'Hara itself, you can opt to hike the unadventurous 11km trail. The real adventure starts at the lake with numerous day hikes.

Lake O'Hara is the trailhead for several hikes with all abilities, the Alpine trail is Advanced. Alpine Trail = 7.4km divided into 3 sections for shorter hikes. 5 + ½ hours round trip. Very steep terrain, rock ledges, route finding. Spring, Summer, Autumn for hiking and Winter for Snowshoeing or XC Skiing.

I took the bus in and camped for two nights, the first day exploring the Alpine Circuit trail with some of the worlds most breathtaking views with the highlight being the 'Yukness Ledges'. The second day I adventured up to Lake McArthur, undoubtedly one of the Blue-est lakes in the world, before relaxing by the campfire on the last morning and catching the bus out.

Lake O'Hara is one of the worlds most protected playgrounds, the views here unbelievable, you'll be pinching yourself the whole hike. The number of day hikers is restricted by Parks Canada so you can go a few hours before seeing another person, you'll be surrounded by wildlife, wildflowers and grand views.

You HAVE to book your trip exactly three months in advance and you will be on the phone for up to two hours just to try to get into this beautiful place. You have the option of staying at the Elizabeth Parker or Abbott Pass Huts as well, these are owned by the Alpine Club of Canada and can be even more challenging to book.