Lake O'Hara
Begin with an alpine hike before camping at Lake O'Hara. Located in Yoho National Park, Lake O'Hara is set against the backdrop of the impressive Ringrose Peak. Though the area has the Lake O'Hara Lodge, the wise will secure a backcountry permit and camp either in the open or in one of the park's mountain huts. Those seeking to camp in the area should note that in the interests of area flora and fauna, no private vehicles are allowed. Visitors can opt to walk on the 11k access road or take a shuttle bus. Plan on making bus reservations at least three months in advance. Lake O'Hara campers will be rewarded for their efforts with summer wildflowers and larch trees as well as abundant wildlife. Winter time is a favorite for backcountry skiers.
Yoho National Park
Lake O'Hara Information
25-7-N Eddy St.
Gatineau, Quebec
Canada
(905) 566-4321
pc.gc.ca
Waterton Lakes NP
Embrace the rugged side of nature while camping in Waterton Lakes National Park. The only major park in Alberta that is not a part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks, Waterton is found just across the border from Glacier National Park in Montana.This park is ideal for campers in that it is devoid of much of the commercialism that is often found in other areas. A unique feature of this park is that during summer months a border crossing is available between parks. A World Biosphere Reserve and World Heritage Site, Waterton offers numerous trails to explore, including the frequently traveled Crypt Lake Trail, which passes near the aptly named Hellroaring Falls. Lastly, there are 22 species of plants that are found only in this area of the province of Alberta.
Waterton Lakes National Park
25-7-N Eddy St.
Gatineau, Quebec
Canada
(905) 566-4321
pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/Waterton
Banff NP
Visit Canada's oldest national park. Banff National Park offers campers the opportunity to pitch a tent under the stars while being surrounded by huge mountains of shale, limestone, quartzite and sandstone. The park is also home to both glaciers and the 80 square kilometer Wapta Icefield. When campers are not staring with their mouth agape at the scenery, they might catch a glimpse of animals such as grizzly and black bear, marmots, cougar, wolverine, elk and bighorn sheep. Keep in mind that this park is quite popular and those looking for less people are better off visiting during the late spring and early fall.
Banff National Park
25-7-N Eddy St.
Gatineau, Quebec
Canada
(905) 566-4321
pc.gc.ca/pn-np/ab/banff
