Odaray Mountain

Overview

An impressive Mountain as viewed from the Lawrence Grassi trail to Abbot's pass. Odaray is on the west side the lake O'Hara valley. The south-east ridge or normal route is very popular but is subject to certain restrictions. There is some (a little) glacier travel, some rock and snow depending on the weather conditions. the views from the summit are worthwhile especially if there is not much smoke in the air from nearby forestfires like in August 2003.

Getting There

You will have to get yourself to Lake O'Hara. From Calgary take the Trans Canada (1) west through Canmore, Banff to Lake Louise. For Lake O'Hara you must continue for another 20 minutes on the TransCanada.

Usually the Elisabeth Parker Hut is the point of departure for Odaray Mountain. Depending on which route you wish to climb you can chose your starting point.

Red Tape

You will have to purchase a parks pass upon entry to the park at Banff. Ascents are restricted and only to groups of I believe seven per day (I will try and confirm). You should check in and out with the rangers at Lake O'Hara.

Backcountry wilderness permits can be purchased in Banff or Lake Louise.
Park Passes are also required for your vehicle and can be bought at the east gates while entering the park via Calgary or at the Info Centers.

Rates for Parks Canada as of July 1, 2005:
Wilderness Backcountry: $9/night
Wilderness Pass: $63/year
Reservation Fee: $12/group

Park Entry:
$16/group/day
$109/year

Also be advised that there have been Bear closures in the area. There are also areas the Lake O'Hara area that have restricted access. Contact the Info Centers for more information.

When To Climb

The summer season is the best time to climb the peak. June can be a bit early depending on the weather conditions, but still possible. Sept is a nice time to climb. If you are going to be using the Elisabeth Parker Hut, be sure to reserve your spot at the Hut as it can fill up fast during peak climbing periods.

Camping

Camping is allowed at the Lake O'Hara campsite. Please camp in designated areas only (approx$14/night).

One place that is recommended is the ACC/Hostel in Lake Louise. This place has a small cosy restaurent with good food as well as kitchen facilities and lots of room for approx 36$ Canadian a night. While this is twice as much as the ACC lodge in Canmore it is still a bargin when compaired to the cost of hotels in the area.

Elizabeth Parker hut
From Sharon for Mt. Huber but it applies here as well
Another "camping" option near Lake O'Hara is the Elizabeth Parker hut, owned & maintained by the Alpine Club of Canada. Reservations can be made through the AAC: (403) 678-5855. The hut is locked; make certain you get the lock combination when making reservations.

Picturesque, the log hut lies on the far side of a meadow and is adjacent to a tarn. The 0.7 km trail is across the road from the warden's cabin & is obvious.

The EP hut offers a cooking annex, complete with pots, pans, and utensils. Please bring your own stove / gas.

A spacious sleeping /commons area adjoins the cooking annex. It includes sleeping platforms, foamies (mattresses), and a toasty stove.

Mountain Conditions

Try this for activities in the area
Banff Lake Louise Tourist Bureau

Joining a club such as The Alpine Club of Canada is recommended when climbing in Canada. While it is not obligatory, useful information can be had at any of their main Clubhouse in Canmore, in Lake Louise or at their website which is open to everyone.

http://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/

Staying at the club in Canmore is 15$ Canadian for members and 19$ for non-members. It can get quite crowded in the summer so a reservation is recommended. Staying at the hostel in Lake Louise is more at 36$ Canadian but is good value for the money.

Weather forecasts are available, on the web weather office or (403) 762-2088

If your seeking information on route conditions call the Lake Louise Warden office 403-522-1220. Banff or Lake Louise Public Safety Wardens 403-762-4506 or Mtn Magic Equipment 403-762-2591

Images

View Odaray Mountain Image Gallery - 10 Images