This is the flagship of the fleet! For overall comfort and straightforward access this is the place to be! Wheeler Hut is easier to reach but "EP" has a charm and feeling of warmth that is hard to beat.
As much as any single person, Elizabeth Parker was largely responsible for the formation of the Alpine Club of Canada, and this hut sits as a wonderful tribute to her efforts. The Lake O'Hara region is a stunning masterpiece of mountain architecture which has to be seen to be believed and appreciated.
In summer the opportunities for doing fantastic hikes are endless. There are so many classic trails here that many seasons would be required to complete them all. Climbing is excellent in the area as well, with a mixture of rock and alpine routes which will keep most alpinists happy.
The hut is also one of the most popular in winter - one of the few ACC huts which can be reasonably reached with cross country skis. Ski touring in the area varies from easy, flat tours to serious backcountry skiing on avalanche prone slopes and glaciers. Please check the latest Avalanche Bulletins.
The main cabin is spacious and has a propane system which provides the cooking and lighting. An efficient woodstove will have the place toasty warm in no time. There is even an oven in the kitchen, a feature which the ACC has provided in many of its Class A huts. A well-equipped kitchen and covered foamies help complete the picture of pure comfort! The hut sleeps 24 in summer and 20 in winter.
Approach in summer is by bus to the Le Relais Day Shelter then a quick 1 km hike to the hut.
In winter the road is not plowed so the total distance is 12 km to the hut from the trailhead, but it is very straightforward skiing. Allow 3 to 4 hours for the trip in winter. In winter please check the Avaluator(Online Trip Planner) rating is: Simple, and route info.
The hut is also used as a base for mountaineering and a starting point for trips to the Abbot Pass Hut.
Alpine Club of Canada
