Skip to main content

LAKE O'HARA GUIDED DAY HIKE

LAKE O'HARA GUIDED DAY HIKE

2026 Dates coming soon!

SELECT DATES JUNE 20 - OCTOBER 1, 2026

Are you itching to explore Lake O'Hara, but couldn’t get a seat on the shuttle? We’ve got you covered!

Join Big Nature for a breathtaking guided adventure to one of the Canadian Rockies’ most iconic destinations. This full-day experience includes convenient pick-up and drop-off from West Calgary, Canmore, Banff, or Lake Louise, followed by a Parks Canada bus ride into the heart of Yoho National Park. From there, your expert guide will lead you on a rewarding hike to classic trails in the Lake O’Hara valley, with stops like stunning Mary Lake, picturesque Cascade Lakes as well as Hungabee and Opabin Lake along the way. This unforgettable journey combines alpine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and interpretive insights for a truly immersive mountain experience. 

JOIN OUR LAKE O'HARA GUIDED HIKE WAITLIST:

Please refer to our Weather & Cancellation policies while submitting your waitlist registration or making your booking.

QUESTIONS?

Read our FAQ below, or Contact us, maybe we can help!

This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

+1 (403) 242 - 8725

Possible Trail Routes*
Lake Oesa

7.4 km (4.6 miles) round trip (out and back) and 240m (790 feet) of elevation gain. Moderate difficulty. Climb switchbacks from the shores of Lake O’Hara and over Lawrence Grassi’s famous stone steps. Small aquamarine lakes are the warmup act as you travel through subalpine forests, before finally emerging at spectacular Lake Oesa, the headliner of the show.

Opabin Plateau + Opabin Prospect

7.3 km (4.5 miles) loop and 350 m (1,150 feet) elevation gain. Moderate difficulty. Get incredible views of Lake O’Hara from the plateau. Larch trees and pikas greet you as you explore an alpine oasis.

Lake Oesa + Opabin Plateau

9 km (5.6 miles) loop and 680 m (2,230 feet) of elevation gain. Challenging difficulty. Our most challenging route linking Lake Oesa and the Opabin Plateau via the Yukness ledges. This trail requires nimble feet and great balance through difficult terrain on the Yukness Ledge Alpine Route.

*Please note: Route selection will be made at the discretion of the guide based on the group’s fitness level, trail and weather conditions of the day. The guide will choose a route that does not exceed the chosen fitness level of your group.

INCLUDED:
  • Professionally Guided Hike

  • Roundtrip transportation:
      • West Calgary, Canmore, Banff, Lake Louise → Lake O’Hara
  • Admission to Yoho National Park and Lake O’Hara Bus
  • Cold Drinks and a Light Snack
  • Hiking Poles
NOT INCLUDED:
  • Personal Hiking Gear (See list)
  • Food (Except light snacks)
  • Accommodations
MORE DETAILS
  • $300.00 CAD🍁 / person
  • Program is designed for people 16+
  • Maximum group size:
    Date dependant, groups typical sizes range from 4-5 guests, plus our guide

CLOTHING LIST
  • Base Layer
    • Moisture-wicking shirt (synthetic or merino wool – avoid cotton
    • Moisture-wicking underwear and socks (merino wool or synthetic to prevent blisters)
  • Mid Layer (for warmth)
    • Fleece or lightweight insulated jacket (e.g., synthetic or down)
    • Optional: light sweater or vest for layering flexibility
  • Outer layer (weather protection)
    • Waterproof/windproof jacket 
    • Rain pants 
  • Bottoms
    • Comfortable hiking pants or leggings (Avoid jeans or cotton—they stay wet and chafe)
    • Comfortable hiking shoes or boots (broken-in, with good grip)
GEAR LIST
  • Backpack that fits all of your equipment & spare layers (15-30L is ideal)
  • Sun protection (Hat, Sunscreen, sunglasses, lip balm with SPF)

  • Lunch and snacks

  • 1-2 litres of water

OPTIONAL ITEMS
  • Hiking poles (we will have some to borrow as needed)
  • Extra layers and spare socks

  • Spare warm clothing to change into after the hike
  • Gloves and a toque (colder days)
Weather Policy:

We’re Here for Your Safety and Enjoyment!

We’re committed to offering a fun and safe experience, no matter the weather! We’ll hike in most conditions, but in the rare event of extreme weather that could impact safety—such as very cold temperatures, high winds, or hazardous road conditions—we may need to adjust the plan. This could include large amounts of snow, severe wind, or travel advisories.

If conditions are challenging, we’ll do our best to relocate to a more suitable spot, adjust the itinerary with extra breaks, or, in some cases, cancel the session if there’s no safe alternative. We’ll always keep you informed of any changes or cancellations ahead of time, so if you haven’t heard from us, you can assume the program is going ahead as planned.

To stay in the loop, please make sure we have your current contact information, including a phone number where you can be reached the day before or the morning of the session, in case we need to reach you.

Be sure to check mountain forecasts before the session, as conditions in the mountains can differ from the city. Dress accordingly, and we’ll see you on the trails—come rain, snow, or sunshine!

Cancellation Policy:

We understand that plans can change! If you need to cancel your participation, here’s our cancellation policy:

Up to 48 hours before your trip - should you wish to cancel, we will refund your full payment minus Big Nature's service fees, incurred by processing your transaction online through our payment processor.

Cancellations within 48 hours of the trip are not eligible for refund.

Please note:

We recommend letting us know as early as possible if you need to cancel, so we can try to accommodate others who may want to join. We appreciate your understanding, and we look forward to hiking with you!

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. Who is this program for?

This program is designed for people 16+ who want to hike moderate trails and explore Lake O'Hara.

If you have a teen who is interested in participating, please contact us to make arrangements.

2. What does the program include?

Program includes:

  • Professionally Guided Hike
  • Roundtrip transportation
  • Admission to Yoho National Park and Lake O’Hara Bus
  • Cold Drinks and a Light Snack
  • Hiking Poles
    3. How much does it cost?

    $300.00 CAD / person + 3% booking fee + 5% GST

    $1,500.00 CAD for private group (4-5 people max)

    4. Where & when do I get picked up?

    Your pick-up time depends on your pick-up location. Times will be communicated to you upon registration. 

    You will be dropped off at the same location.

    5. What should I bring?
    • Clothing: Wool or synthetic layers, waterproof shell jacket/pants, a hat.
    • Gear: Comfortable, broken-in hiking shoes or boots and a backpack.
    • Other: Packable insulating jacket, sunscreen, sunglasses, hiking poles, lip balm, and 1-2 liters of water.
    • Lunch and Snacks!
    • Cash for extra food or goods at the Lake O'Hara Lodge

    Recommended: Spare warm layers and clothing for after the hike.

    6. Is gear available?

    We are happy to lend you hiking poles for duration of the program.

    7. What is the group size?

    Maximum group size:
    Date dependant, groups typical sizes range from 4-5 guests, plus our guide

    8. What is the weather policy?

    We’ll hike in most weather conditions. However, sessions may be relocated, adjusted, or canceled in the event of extreme weather, such as large amounts of snow, high winds, or hazardous road conditions. We’ll notify participants in advance of any changes.

    9. What is the cancellation policy?

    Up to 48 hours before your trip - should you wish to cancel, we will refund your full payment minus Big Nature's service fees, incurred by processing your transaction online through our payment processor.

    Cancellations within 48 hours of the trip are not eligible for refund.

    10. How do I register?

    Register online through the booking widget on this webpage, or contact us directly with any questions. Early registration is recommended as spaces are limited. Spots are available on a first-come-first served basis - spots are guaranteed only by payment.

    11. Can children participate?

    This particular hiking day trip is designed for adults, and participants must be 16 years or older. If you're hoping to join with someone under 16, feel free to reach out—we're happy to discuss special considerations or recommend a more suitable adventure.

    12. How can I prepare for the program?
    • Review the provided checklist to ensure you have the right gear and clothing.
    • Beginners may benefit from light fitness exercises to build endurance.
    • Check mountain weather forecasts before heading out and dress accordingly.
    13. Who can I contact for more information?

    For additional questions, feel free to contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or +1 (403) 242 - 8725. We’re happy to help!