One of the premier places to photograph landscapes in the Canadian Rockies is in the spectacular alpine environs of Lake O’Hara in Yoho National Park, half an hour’s drive from world renowned Lake Louise in Banff National Park.  Access to this natural wonderland of emerald lakes, snow-capped peaks and stunning vistas is via bus with Parks Canada, at which point you can either stay in the lodge, the Alpine Club of Canada hut, or the campground.

Lake O’Hara is a favourite fall photography spot of mine because of the beautiful forests of larch trees that turn gold each autumn, lighting up the landscape even further for nature photography buffs.  A short hour-long hike from the lake can get a photographer up on to the Opabin Plateau in time for sunrise amid the larches, a truly magical experience for a landscape photographer!

Opabin Plateau in Lake O’Hara, Yoho National Park

Expect to book this trip at least a few weeks in advance, so if you have missed this year’s prime time (late September to early October — see our post from last fall about autumn photography in the Canadian Rockies), then aim for 2013.

Happy shooting!

John