Worth a Journey

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The World’s 100 Best Hikes

Lake O'Hara Alpine Circuit

Yoho National Park, Canada

  1. THE WORLD’S BEST HIKES WORTH A JOURNEY · 2026 ✦ ✦ N° 85 2026
Lake O'Hara Alpine Circuit

An alpine trail network around a turquoise lake in Yoho National Park, reached by an 11 km fire road or a reserved shuttle bus. Visitor quotas keep the trails quiet, and loops climb past chains of smaller lakes in different colours.

Highlights

  • Opabin Prospect three-lake view
  • Wiwaxy Gap ridge
  • Rocky alpine circuit terrain

Good to know

  • Fire road 11 km one way, 2–4 hours
  • Shuttle by lottery; cash fare down if seats
  • Exposed, rocky circuit; sudden snow and rain

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