Staying at Lake O’Hara lodge has been a dream of mine since my first visit to the lake in 2020! Nestled in the pristine wilderness of Yoho National Park, Lake O’Hara Lodge offers a magical blend of alpine beauty, cozy accommodations, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoor enthusiast or a family looking for a unique adventure, this hidden gem will leave a lasting impression.

Here’s everything you need to plan your stay.

How to Book Lake O’Hara Lodge

Securing a spot at Lake O’Hara Lodge is no small feat, as demand far exceeds availability. Reservations for the upcoming season typically open in early fall, and spots fill up quickly. Lodge guests are chosen via a lottery system, and priority is given to repeat visitors—a tradition that fosters a sense of community among guests.

For those new to the process, here’s how it works:

1. Submit your reservation request during the booking window.

2. If you don’t hear back right away, don’t lose hope—cancellations often open up spots closer to the season.

We attempted to book the lodge for two consecutive seasons (there are very limited spaces available for groups with young children). We weren’t successful initially however, approximately six weeks before the trip, we received an unexpected call: there had been a cancellation, and we were offered the spot.

At first, we hesitated. River would only be three months old on our travel date, and this would be our first bigger trip with both kids. Could we handle the logistics of traveling to such a remote and potentially challenging destination? Ultimately, we decided to take the leap, and it turned out to be one of the most rewarding experiences we’ve ever had as a family.

Here are some tips to increase your chances:

1. Join the Waitlist: If you miss the initial booking window, don’t despair—sign up for the waitlist. Spots often open up closer to the season.

2. Be Flexible: Weekdays and shoulder seasons, like early October, are less competitive.

3. Plan Ahead for Families: The lodge is family-friendly, but spaces for larger groups or specific cabins may go quickly. Book as soon as reservations open.

Whether you secure a spot months in advance or snag a last-minute cancellation, the magic of Lake O’Hara Lodge makes it worth every effort.

Getting to Field and Lake O’Hara Lodge

From Vancouver to Field:

We drove from Vancouver to Golden, making an overnight stop to break up the journey and ensure everyone (especially our four-month-old son, River, and three-year-old daughter, Aspen) were well-rested. This leg of the trip set a relaxed tone, allowing us to enjoy the scenic Trans-Canada Highway without feeling rushed. We love the drive through Revelstoke and Glacier National Park, it’s one of our favourite stretches of highway in the province.

Field to Lake O’Hara:

From Field, it’s a short drive to the Lake O’Hara parking lot, where the lodge’s shuttle service picks you up. Ensure you arrive on time, as the shuttle schedule is strict.

Pro tip: Use the downtime on the ride up to soak in the breathtaking scenery—it’s a perfect preview of the adventure awaiting you!

The Lodge Experience

Staying at Lake O’Hara Lodge felt like being welcomed into a big family reunion, and for many guests, it was exactly that. We stayed in one of the historic cabins, The Cedars, which exuded charm and coziness. The lodge staff went above and beyond to ensure our comfort, even preparing special meals for Aspen.

The food was nothing short of spectacular—think hearty, gourmet meals that fuel you for a day on the trails, paired with indulgent desserts to end the evening. Each meal was an opportunity to share stories with fellow guests, many of whom had been coming back for decades.

Exploring the Trails and Area

Lake O’Hara is a hiker’s paradise, offering a network of trails that range from leisurely lakeside strolls to challenging alpine circuits.

Here’s a breakdown of the trails we explored, along with their stats and highlights:

Lakeshore Trail

• Distance: 2.8 km loop

• Elevation Gain: Minimal

• Trail Type: Easy

Highlights: This gentle trail encircles Lake O’Hara, offering stunning views from every angle. It’s perfect for families with young children or anyone looking to acclimate to the area’s altitude. Along the way, you’ll find quiet spots to relax, snap photos, or simply soak in the serene beauty of the emerald waters.

Lake MacArthur Circuit

• Distance: ~8 km round trip

• Elevation Gain: ~310 m

• Trail Difficulty: Moderate

• Time: ~3-5 hours

We began our adventure along the lakeshore, making our way up past Mary Lakes, then onto Schaffer Lake and eventually the High Level Trail.

As soon as we popped out of the forest above Mary Lakes the trail opened up to breathtaking views. From there you quickly arrive at Schäffer Lake, a quiet spot with crystal-clear water and reflective surfaces, perfect for a brief rest before carrying on. After Schaffer Lake this trail winds along a ridge, providing elevated perspectives of the surrounding valleys and alpine scenery. The golden larches, set against the stark contrast of freshly fallen snow, made the trail feel like we were walking through a dream.

As we continued along the High Level Trail, the anticipation built with every step. When we reached Lake MacArthur, it was everything we had hoped for and more. The lake’s vivid cobalt-blue waters are mesmerizing, framed by dramatic cliffs and a rugged alpine setting that feels untouched by time. We paused here for a while, soaking in the views and snapping photos.

On our way back, we descended via the Low Level Trail, which brought a different but equally enchanting perspective. This section meanders through subalpine forest, where we encountered fewer people and enjoyed the tranquil surroundings.

Linda Lake

• Distance: 3.2 km round trip

• Elevation Gain: 120 m

• Trail Type: Easy to Moderate

Highlights: A lesser-known gem, Linda Lake offers tranquility and reflective waters surrounded by larch trees. This trail is great for those seeking a quieter, less-traveled path.

Lake Oesa

• Distance: 6.6 km round trip

• Elevation Gain: 240 m

• Trail Type: Moderate

Highlights: Lake Oesa is a turquoise jewel tucked among rugged peaks. The trail to Oesa is scenic, with cascading waterfalls and jaw-dropping vistas along the way. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting an accessible but rewarding hike.

Opabin Plateau

• Distance: 5.9 km loop via East and West Opabin Trails

• Elevation Gain: 250 m

• Trail Type: Moderate

Highlights: This was our favorite hike of the trip! The plateau is a wonderland of golden larches, crystal-clear ponds, and panoramic mountain views. Don’t miss the Opabin Prospect viewpoint, which offers one of the most iconic perspectives of Lake O’Hara and its surrounding peaks.

Alpine Circuit (Planned for Next Time)

• Distance: 10.7 km loop

• Elevation Gain: 1,000 m

• Trail Type: Difficult

Highlights: This challenging route connects several trails and ridges, offering unparalleled views of the area. While snow kept us from tackling it this time, it’s a must-do for summer visits when conditions are ideal.

Photography Tips

1. Golden Hour by the Lake: Sunrise and sunset light up the larches and surrounding peaks, creating magical photo opportunities.

2. Opabin Plateau: Carry a wide-angle lens to capture the sweeping vistas and alpine scenery.

3. Bring a Tripod: The reflective lakes offer dreamy long-exposure shots, especially with a light dusting of snow.

Why October is a Magical Time to Visit

Visiting in early October gave us a rare chance to experience Lake O’Hara in transition—golden larches glowing against a backdrop of fresh snow. While some trails had limited access due to snow, the beauty and tranquility of the season made it well worth it. It’s an ideal time for families looking for a quieter experience or seasoned hikers ready to tackle the cooler weather.

Lake O’Hara Lodge is more than just a place to stay—it’s a gateway to a world of natural wonder and connection. Whether you’re hiking with toddlers or dreaming of alpine circuits, the lodge welcomes you with open arms, incredible food, and trails you’ll never forget.

We can’t wait to return in the summer to explore more trails and continue creating family memories in this alpine paradise. If you’re planning your own adventure, we hope this guide inspires you to visit, explore, and fall in love with Lake O’Hara Lodge.

And as always, here’s a few reminders for recreating responsibly from the Parks Canada team and Leave No Trace Canada:

Rules for exploring our beautiful backyard:

Plan and prepare:

• Plan your travel route

• Get your Parks Canada pass

• Know the terrain and conditions - you can find detailed information about trail conditions, warnings and closures, fire updates and wildlife on the Parks Canada Website

• Check the weather

• Fill out a trip plan (check out AdventureSmart for more information)

Be considerate of wildlife and other visitors:

• On narrow trails, give way to uphill hikers.

• Take breaks on durable surfaces off the trail.

• Give freedom for the sounds of nature. Avoid excessive noise. 

• Pack out what you pack in, and help clean up the trails on your adventures.

• Keep dogs on a leash at all times, and properly dispose of their waste.

• Permits are required for fishing and watercraft.

• Feeding wildlife is illegal.

• Drones are prohibited in all Canadian national parks. 

• Always carry bear spray and know how to use it.

And most importantly, have fun! 

Parks Website(s): 

• Yoho National Park