For many years we vacationed at the Lodge at Lake O'Hara; but, it is now out of our price range. We decided we would do a day hike there. I called the bus reservation line to make a booking and was told I could not book more than three months before the day reserved.

The line opens at 0800. I called at 0900. I got a busy signal for almost twenty minutes. When finally connected I ended up in a queu for another twenty minutes. The reservations specialist told me I was too late it was already sold out for the first four days of our visit. So I called today. Same experience with the wait; but, the good news is I was able to secure a seat for each of my party.

I am not complaining, just reporting. I love Lake O'Hara and heartily endorse any measures to control its use. But, I think unless you are "in the know" you might be more cavalier about making the reservations.

I remember receiving very useful advice from Judy in Calgary. Has she left the forum? I don't see any recent postings.

Good point about the Lake O'Hara bus - I don't think people realize that access to the area is as limited as it is and that seats on the bus sell out quickly, and the importance of phoning at 8 am on the day three months prior to when you want a seat on the bus. The other option is a 14 km hike in, one way.

Judy in Calgary "retired" from posting on travel forums a couple of years ago to take up a new line of work.

Thanks for the update on Judy. She was a great resource.

cmc, how do you coordinate a stay at Lake O'Hara Lodge (I may decide it's too expensive, too, but just curious) with the bus ---- do you reserve the Lodge first and then try to get a reservation on the bus?

Out of curiosity, where does the bus leave from - the lodge itself? I saw a mention of Lake O'Hara on here the other day and thought about trying to include it, but could only find the phone number, not much other logistical information.

Our trip is in the beginning of August, though, so it sounds as though I may be too late anyway!

sf, I call the lodge and they will tell you which dates are open. They have a huge block of repeaters (if you go you will understand completely) and many weeks are sold out to them before being made available to the public. I usually call in the fall and inquire when the first opportunity to book will open in the spring. If you book the lodge, they arrange the bus reservation.
http://www.lakeohara.com/

The bus leaves from a parking lot on the highway. You park your car there. The bus drops you at either the hut (operated by the Alpine club of Canada or the Lodge). Day visitors can arrange a lunch at the lodge.

http://www.pc.gc.ca/eng/pn-np/bc/yoh...activ15/a.aspx

jen,you can certainly call and ask, but I am guessing you are right. However, there are cancellations and you might get lucky! I couldn't rely on cancellations because there will be six of us on this trip. If it is just two you may still have a shot. And I will say this, it is worth the visit. There is a reason the Alpine Club of Canada makes its home there!

Thanks, cmcfong! I'll talk with my brother and probably give them a call. It does look gorgeous, and maybe since there are only two of us we'll get lucky.

Our first visit we went by the Parks Canada office in Field and found there had been a cancellation, so it does happen. The first hike I took there was to Lake McArthur. The hike is a moderate one, with some areas of challenge, but the payoff when you come around the bend and see that lake for teh first time is well worth the effort. Be prepared for awe.

I saw a picture of Lake McArthur -- it's awesome even on a computer screen!

Um, wow. Y'all are right. I think we'll have to at least try!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/efischhofer/3376516197/

When we were in Yoho we could not go to the Lake O'hara as we did not know you had to reserve a place on the bus 3 months in advance. We did however the Iceline trail. It was really worthwhile!!

Wow the picture is breathtaking. What a thrill it must be to see it.
Have a great time cmcfong.

ahhh, Lake Ohara Lodge, a little heaven on earth!
We just passed by and had the dog with us so we could not go to hike there. Its a wonderful spot!

topping for bob.