Lake O'Hara Trails Club (LOTC) is a non-profit organization managed by a volunteer Board of Directors. LOTC operates at Lake O’Hara in co-operation with Parks Canada and with support and contributions from Lake O’Hara Lodge.
In 1949, LOTC was established by George K. K. (Tommy) Link to bring about co-operation between the National Parks of Canada and those individuals who, moved by a deep love for the beauties of the mountain areas of western Canada, volunteered their efforts to create a system of trails in the Lake O'Hara area. Through the work of volunteers led by Tommy Link and A. Carson Simpson, an extensive network of excellent trails was created for use by hikers, climbers, artists and nature lovers. Many of today’s trails were developed by these early hikers. LOTC was originally dedicated to the making, improving and maintenance of these trails.
In 1980 LOTC was registered as a non-profit organization; this status allows for the issuance of a tax receipt for membership fees and donations. At the time of non-profit registration, LOTC’s stated goals expanded to include the additional duties of providing information to O’Hara area visitors, supplying trail maps and publishing historical material concerning O’Hara and ensuring an enduring interest in the work of its founders in order that their significant contribution may be recognized and their work continued.
Today LOTC continues to be dedicated to the improvement and maintenance of the extensive trail system in the Lake O’Hara area and to the preservation of its history and the stories of its early trail builders and users.
Our Mission
The role of Lake O'Hara Trails Club is to inspire and facilitate
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•the stewardship of the trail system and
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•the appreciation of the cultural and natural history of the Lake O'Hara area.
Our Vision
Lake O’Hara Trails Club, as an independent and respected steward, facilitates an appreciation of the Lake O’Hara area which inspires visitors to contribute to its stewardship and sustainability and ultimately a broader commitment to natural and wild spaces everywhere.
Our Motto
Preservation through Appreciation.
