Le Relais

Overview

Le Relais is the Lake O’Hara day-use hub: a rustic log-cabin shelter where hikers warm up by the woodstove, grab a hot drink, and get the latest on trail conditions and wildlife. It sits at the end of the Lake O’Hara road, steps from the shuttle drop-off and major trail junctions.

What You'll Find

• A welcoming, cabin-style shelter with a woodstove and a cozy vibe.
• Knowledgeable staff sharing current trail, weather, and wildlife updates, plus route suggestions tailored to your day.
• Light snacks and drinks—most famously their “legendary” carrot cake that often sells out early.
• Trail maps for sale, small souvenirs, and info on the Lake O’Hara Trails Club (proceeds support trail maintenance).

Food & Drink

Expect coffee, tea, hot chocolate, cold drinks, and simple snacks. This isn’t a restaurant—think café counter in the backcountry. Sales are cash-only; US dollars are accepted at par.

Getting There

Access to Lake O’Hara is strictly managed. Reach Le Relais by the Parks Canada shuttle (advance reservations required) or by hiking the 11 km access road. Private vehicles aren’t permitted beyond the parking lot.

Wildlife

This basin is rich with alpine life—marmots and pikas are common, mountain goats show up, and bears or elk are occasional. Check in at Le Relais for recent sightings and safety guidance before you head out.

Good to Know

• Open daily mid-June to early October, roughly 8:30 a.m.–6:30 p.m.
• Seating is limited and it can feel packed when a shuttle unloads or weather turns.
• Restrooms aren’t in the shelter; use facilities at the nearby Lake O’Hara Campground.
• Cell service is limited—treat this as your on-the-ground information stop.

Best Time to Visit

Swing by right after you arrive on the first morning shuttle for fresh intel (and a better shot at carrot cake). Midday can be the busiest due to overlapping shuttle arrivals. If it’s raining or cold, it’s a great warm-up stop, but expect a crowd.