TravelinVic

My husband and I will be visiting Banff, Lake Louise and Jasper area (7 nights total) in August. Two of the days are in Lake Louise. We were considering taking the bus to Lake O'hara (and do realize we have to book exactly 3 months ahead). We are in our 60's and could only hike about 2 or so miles. Is it worth it to do this, or do we need to be more avid hikers to do it justice and see the best of it? When I talked on the phone to a Yoho Park person, it sounded like the Lodge wasn't the type place where people hang out before or after hiking, since the bus schedule will have us there for 3 hours. If we added on lunch at the Lodge, is it expensive and if not, I guess it requires a reservation? We are only in the Lake Louise area 2 days and perhaps we will have plenty to see as it is??? Thanks for any insight!

irecommend

It is definitely worth it. I dont know what the lunch price is and reservations might be required but they do have a hut where you can buy a sandwich Im pretty sure. My daughter worked there for two summers and met her husband also working there. It is a place like no other.
I will send cmcfong over as I consider her an expert.

cmcfong

I am sixty seven and I love to hike in the Lake O'Hara area. The hike to Lake McArthur is gorgeous and you can turn around any time it gets to be too much.
http://www.lakeohara.com/category/hiking/
There are also lake circuits which are very easy and offer some beautiful views.
Lake O'Hara is an incredibly special place and, in my view, well worth the effort it takes to get there. On my last visit we had some terrible weather (hail, snow, sleet, wind, rain, lightening) and it was mid July! That is the risk you take and part of the balance you have to appreciate when deciding if you want to go.
The food at the Lodge is exceptionally good and I have never had a bad meal there. That said, I don't go to Lake O'Hara for the food. I go for the incredible peace and beauty of the place. It is truly one of the jewels of Canada.
there is a small hut which offers some soups, cookies, etc if you need a "pick me up" or shelter from the elements.

JonnyG

We are heading to Field in August and very keen on a day trip to Lake O'Hara. Not sure we can afford the lodge there and we won't have a tent with us. As we have a 20 month old toddler with us we won't be hiking far but but I'm sure we can explore a bit.

My question is can we book a day trip on the bus without calling up the National Park office as we live in England. Can you do it on-line?

cmcfong

I don't believe you can book it on line. I tried to find an answer to that, but was unable to do so. One thing you might consider since you are staying in Field is to check into the Park Service office as soon as you arrive and ask if there are any spaces available on the buses during your stay. You might luck out! Have fun, it is a beautiful place.