An Alpine Adventure Extravaganza
Photos and story by Eva Boehringer
In the summer of 2022, after two years of COVID-19-induced isolation, a group of adventurous souls gathered at stunning Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park for the Southern Alberta Section’s first summer camp since 2019. Based out of the charming Elizabeth Parker Hut and Wiwaxy Cabin, this self-guided, self-catered escapade turned out to be an unforgettable blend of camaraderie, technical training, and breathtaking natural beauty.
Our journey began with a bus ride from the parking lot to the drop-off point, followed by a 10-minute walk to haul our gear to the huts. The anticipation was palpable as we approached our accommodations, ready to immerse ourselves in six days of alpine magic.
The EP Hut became our cozy haven for the week, equipped with a propane stove and oven. While we brought our own camp stoves and pot sets to avoid kitchen congestion, there were plenty of dishes for everyone. With everyone responsible for their own meals, the hut buzzed with the delightful aromas of various culinary creations.
To make sure everyone was well-prepared for the challenges, we had hired two ACMG guides from Cloud Nine Guiding to provide a refresher on essential alpine skills. Over two days, some of our team practiced rope rescue, others focused on movement through alpine terrain, while yet another group navigated steep snow terrain. This hands-on training proved invaluable, boosting our confidence for the self-guided trips we would do for the remainder of the trip.
Each day presented a smorgasbord of adventure options, from serene hikes to exhilarating scrambles and technical climbs. Despite the high snow levels that were left over after a cold, wet spring, our volunteer leaders crafted a variety of trips catering to different skill levels and interests.
Among the notable alpine climbs the team attempted was Wiwaxy Peak, a challenging climb that tested the participants mettle and ultimately led them to turn around before reaching the top. A summit that was climbed successfully despite the difficult conditions was Yukness Peak, which provided breathtaking views of the surrounding terrain. Scramblers also took on Mt. Schaffer and Park Mountain, both of which offered a blend of excitement and triumph, navigating their exposed rocky sections and steep snow ascents. The scrambles demanded a mix of agility and grit, but the views from the summits made every effort worthwhile.
For those who preferred less technical routes, the hiking options were no less spectacular. Yukness Ledges, and the Lake Oesa, McArthur Lake, and Linda Lake trails provided a kaleidoscope of landscapes.
Snow was a constant companion on our adventures, although not as much as we had originally feared. The guided instruction on the first days of camp, and the volunteer-led trips were instrumental in helping participants get comfortable with various skills, turning the snowy conditions into an exhilarating feature rather than a hindrance.
With 20 participants attending, our camp was a sold-out success. The huts echoed with laughter as we recounted our daily adventures. In the end, the 2022 Summer Camp at Lake O’Hara was more than just a trip—it was a celebration of nature, skill, and friendship. Here’s to more mountain escapades and the enduring magic of the great outdoors!
