Ross Lake Trail
A forested hike from the Great Divide corridor to a quiet lake beneath Narao Peak.
Route overview
Follow Great Divide Trail for 2 km, turn onto Ross Lake Trail, visit the lake and return or use the official road-loop option.
The route initially follows the Great Divide Trail before branching into forest toward Ross Lake at the headwall of Narao Peak. An official option can return via Lake O'Hara Road, but users should understand the longer road connection before choosing it. The forest setting reduces exposure while still requiring bear awareness and navigation at the junction.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Yoho National Park, British Columbia
- Distance
- 5.8 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- official one-way profile 140 m gain and 20 m loss
- Best season
- Late spring through autumn when snow and mud permit
- Trail type
- Out and back, with an optional official loop connection
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No day-hiking permit; park entry required
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Bears, junction error, mud, lingering snow and an unexpectedly long return if the road-loop option is misunderstood
Highlights
Ross Lake, Narao Peak headwall, forest and Continental Divide corridor
Why find a buddy
A partner adds junction confirmation and wildlife awareness on a quieter forest route.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.