Spend Extra Time

You’re going all the way to the Canadian Rockies, you might as well spend some extra time there. There is just so much to see and do - I could spend weeks and not see it all.  Here are some things to do if you have some extra time.

With this workshop, we’ll be spending almost all our time in the field. There is just so much to see and photograph. But there are still many things that we just won’t have time to do or that are not conducive to a group. So, if you’re able to plan some extra time think about these suggestions.

LAKE O’HARA - 

Lake O’Hara is truly a spectacular place. Everyone should try to find the time to visit this area of more than two dozen lakes, rugged peaks and alpine meadows located directly across the continental divide from Lake Louise. 

There is a hiking trail that circles the lake that is appropriate for just about any level of hiker. There are spots that are quite uneven, slippery and wet. But to truly appreciate the Lake O’Hara area you’ll want to take one of the many hiking trails that take you up to areas like Lake Oesa and Opabin Lake - both spectacular scenes close to 900 feet above Lake O’Hara.  With the vertical climb and uneven surface, these trails are a little more challenging.

There is a lodge at Lake O’Hara where you can get a very nice lunch but I’d really recommend that you instead pack something so you can have a picnic along one of the trails.  

Plan a full day. Even if you don’t stay all day, you’ll be tired when you get back but I assure you that Lake O’Hara will be very high on your list of favorite places on earth.

In recognition of the fragile ecosystem around Lake O’Hara, Parks Canada restricts access to the area. Although you are welcome to hike into the area, be warned it is 11 kilometers - uphill. Bus access to lake O’Hara is limited and on a reservation basis through Parks Canada. Access to the area is from Yoho National park near the town of Field. 

To reserve your space on the shuttle bus, call Parks Canada at 250-343-6433.

TEAHOUSES ON LAKE LOUISE

At Lake Louise you’ll find two teahouses; Lake Agnes Teahouse and the Plain of Six Glaciers Teahouse. Now, when I say they’re at Lake Louise, it really means that the trailhead to get to the teahouses is on the shore of Lake Louise. 

The Lake Agnes Teahouse is the most popular and arguably the most picturesque. From the trailhead on the walkway around Lake Louise, you’ll follow a well-marked forested trail 3.5 km. About halfway you’ll find an opening that overlooks Chateau and lake below - worth a stop and photo. At the end of the trial you’ll have gained 1,300 feet before the trail opens to reveal a spectacular hanging valley with a beautiful teahouse sitting on the edge of Mirror Lake. 

By all means, after getting up there, take a load off and relax. The teahouse serves hearty homemade soups and sandwiches on freshly baked bread. 

The other teahouse is the Plain of Six Glaciers. Far fewer people hike to this teahouse but for the outdoor lover, it is worth consideration. The trailhead is located at the far end of Lake Louise and climbs on a trail that runs along the side of the glacier. The views back to Lake Louise and the Chateau are stunning. 

When you arrive at the teahouse take some time to enjoy the scenery but before you turn around and head back down, continue on the trail. After a short distance, you’ll be sitting on a small plain that overlooks six different glaciers. On a clear day, you’ll swear that you’re hearing thunder rolling through the valley below. But what you’re hearing is the sound of larger chunks of a glacier calving. Unforgettable. 

One thing to remember is that the teahouses only accept cash. Also, if a hike with a 1,300-foot vertical climb doesn’t interest you there is a less strenuous option - horses are available for hire at Brewster or Timberline Stables in Lake Louise.

JASPER

For our workshop, we will be visiting sights in Yoho and Banff National Park. There are many wonderful sights in Jasper National Park but there are only so many hours in the day. If you’re able to take some extra time while in Canada, it’s worth a couple of days in Jasper.