Best Things to Do in Yoho National Park – Ultimate Guide to Canada

Exploring Yoho National Park (British Columbia, Canada) allows discovering all the natural wonders of the Rocky Mountains. Deep azure rivers, thundering cascades, and pine forests surrounding the lakes – those landscapes await you

Pardon me if I sound biased while discussing Yoho, but this park offered us so much – unexpectedly, it fulfilled our dream of seeing the Northern Lights in Canada.

We wrote about how to capture photographs of the Northern Lights in a separate post. In this post, you will find a travel guide of essential things to do in Yoho Canada.

Visiting YOHO NATIONAL PARK – TOURISM IN YOHO

Yoho National Park stands as the smallest reserve in the Canadian Rockies. However, recommended for all engaging activities available here.

Yoho lies within British Columbia Province, bordering Banff National Park to its east and Kootenay National Park to its south.

The main sense one feels when visiting Yoho National Park is amazement and admiration in alignment with the First Nations meaning of its name. Scenic landscapes featuring waterfalls, lakes with turquoise waters, rivers carrying glacial salts, and trails amidst stunning backdrops await exploration.

BEST THINGS TO SEE IN YOHO NATIONAL PARK

Throughout the article, we will examine in depth all the noteworthy places one can visit in Yoho. Briefly recapping, these are the prime attractions to see in Yoho National Park:

• Emerald Lake: One of the most spectacular lakes in the Canadian Rockies renowned for the unique turquoise hue of its waters.
• Takakkaw Falls: The second highest waterfall found in Western Canada is worth visiting simply to see and hear the powerful roar of its waters.
• Lake O’Hara: The gem of Yoho National Park. This area is crucial if you visit this park during the summer.
• Burgess Shale: Yoho’s most famed geological structure known for dinosaur fossils.
• Location: The town of Location is the largest town situated in Yoho. In addition to the Yoho National Park Visitor Center, nearby we can find the historic “Spiral Tunnel”, one of the most historically important railway constructions in the world due to its engineering.
• Natural formation: The flowing waters of the Kicking horse River have sculpted an impressive naturally formed bridge featuring varied waterfalls.
• Wapta Falls: Hidden in the mountains, the roar of the Wapta waterfall carries even from a great remove.
• Meeting of various waterways: The union of the Kicking horse, the Amiskwi, and the Emerald rivers, demonstrates an awe-inspiring natural vista where the blending of colors from the three rivers can be seen.

We traveled to the Canadian Rockies for 15 days, and spent 2 of them in this park. As it was May, some of the most important things to do in Yoho National Park were closed due to snow. However, considering all the trails and attractions that will be open during your trip, three days seems more suitable for a visit to Yoho.

HOW TO GET TO YOHO

There are different ways to access Yoho, and you will discover some of them in this section.

HOW TO GET TO YOHO FROM CALGARY

One of the more convenient ways to access the Rocky Mountains is via air travel to the Calgary airport. To reach Yoho from Calgary, we`ll first need to cross Banff National Park which takes a total of 2 hours. A typical plan involves flying into Calgary and then renting a car or campervan to explore the Canadian Rockies region.

HOW TO GET TO YOHO FROM VANCOUVER

To fully capture with your camera all the details of the expansive Grand Canyon landscape, I advise hiring an aerial tour. The photographs achievable from higher elevations surpass in originality and finer details anything achievable from the most scenic viewpoints on the ground.

It takes 8 hours by car from Vancouver to Yoho. Since we did not have much time available, we took an internal flight between Vancouver and Calgary to abbreviate travel time.

HOW TO Get TO YOHO FROM BANFF

Yoho and Banffare situated quite closely, with the Lake Louise area situated centrally between them, so you could even stay in one park on days visiting the other. The largest town in Yoho, Field, is just 20 minutes from Lake Louise in Banff. To give you an idea, we stayed in a Yoho campsite while touring Lake Louise, since there was still too much snow to camp in that area and the campgrounds were still closed.

TOP THINGS TO DO IN YOHO NATIONAL PARK

The activities accessible in Yoho National Park will vary depending on when you travel within the year.

Many of the primary attractions in Yoho National Park may be unavailable throughout the winter. Furthermore, these often open later than those situated in Banff National Park. Briefly stated, if travel is planned for springtime, reserve Yoho National Park for the conclusion of the journey.

We traveled towards the end of May, and regrettably, some options were not accessible during our time there.

Nonetheless, you will discover all the essential places that cannot be missed in Yoho National Park detailed within this travel guide.

We will especially emphasize on hiking routes that will leave you speechless, and the most photogenic corners within the park. And of course, we will tell you about the places of interest and excursions that you have to do in Yoho National Park.

♦ GUIDE TO YOHO NATIONAL PARK

To structure the information, we will divide the post into four primary areas:

• Field:Primary town of Yoho National Park, highly recommend stopping by at the beginning of your route.

• A lake highlighted:Yoho’s most magnificent lake that you must see.

• Lake O’Hara:A visit to this lake cannot be missed if traveling to Yoho in the summer.

• Other sights in Yoho: Kicking Horse River, Wapta Falls, and much more.

We will also discuss all the lodging we stayed in at Yoho National Park.

To wrap up, we will offer some tips, some of which are covered in the Canadian Rockies post, which I suggest reading before this article.

FIELD

Field is the lone major population center found within the entire park. It has a gas station, ATM machine, some dining establishments, and most importantly, the key Yoho National Park Visitor Center.

Even if you have the information in advance, it is always helpful to obtain a map to plan your excursions and day hikes. In this information center, they circulate Hiking Guides in Yoho National Park. You can find it connected here.

EMERALD LAKE

Emerald Lake is the most visited attraction in Yoho National Park, and it is easy to understand why. The emerald shade of its water is unique worldwide.

It also features a wooden lodge resort fully encompassed within the natural landscape. We will discuss the Emerald Lake Lodge accommodation options later in this article.

One essential activity to do in Yoho National Park is paddling in Emerald Lake. You can borrow a canoe in the small souvenir shop at the entrance of the resort.

We found the price to be rather steep – a canoe for two at 60 CAD per hour. However, having the chance to further discover is priceless. Of course, canoeing is one of the most important activities to partake in at Yoho.

Furthermore, walk through tranquil parkland along the pond through a straightforward 3.1-mile pathway that takes around two hours. If you travel early during summer, it is highly likely that snow avalanches regularly occur each year on the left shore, which would then impede the trail. Throughout winter, this region can be dangerous to pass.

While we may not remain entirely impartial in stating that Emerald Lake holds the most beautiful scenery of any lake, our once-in-a-lifetime experience viewing the Northern Lights here for the initial time helps support this perspective.

Did you know that the aurora borealis can be seen within the mountainous region of Canada? It`s understandable if you were previously unaware, as this is not common knowledge. We`ve created another post providing information about how to witness the Northern Lights in Canada. We also offer a guide teaching methods for photographing them.

In the subsequent sections, we will discuss other exciting hikes in Yoho that begin from this lake.

YOHO LAKE

Yoho Pass, leading to Yoho Lake, is one of the most visited trails beginning from Emerald Lake.

The route begins along the left bank of Emerald Lake, crossing the glacier tongue of the avalanche.

Upon reaching the opposite side of the lake, the path, known as Yoho Pass, branches off and passes through a plain where small streams and creeks can be found that will flow into the lake. After crossing them, a gentle incline starts and leads you to a small waterfall.

And we leave the Emerald Lake behind us, shining blue among the green pines and beautiful mountains.

From that moment onwards, the path became rather complex for us, not due to difficulty along the trail, but because of the 30+ inch layer of snow covering the field. Crampons proved very useful for this activity.

And upon completing the lengthy 3-hour hike, we ultimately arrived at Yoho Lake, entirely frozen.

TAKAKKAW FALLS

From Yoho Lake, you can continue on the trail until you reach the Takakkaw falls. The journey only spans 2 miles, however, with the accumulation of snow averaging forty inches thick, hiking over such terrain became quite exhausting.

Since we initiated the hike in the afternoon hours, we wouldn’t have time to return to Emerald Lake preceding darkness if we had continued to the Takakkaw falls. I confess that we were a bit anxious of an encounter with a Grizzly bear, which are quite abundant in Yoho National Park.

Do not miss our guide to avoiding bear encounters and attacks in Canada.

Whatever trail you hike, I recommend always traveling with the most suitable international medical coverage. As we frequently travel, we have obtained annual travel insurance.

The most straightforward route to access these falls is via the Yoho Valley Road. However, snowfall also blocked this path during the latter spring season. It usually opens from the midway point of June onwards.

It is unfortunate we were unable to visit this splendid waterfall given its prominence among points of interest within Yoho National Park. For now, catching glimpses of its majesty remains motivation for aiming to return before too long.

BURGESS SHALE

Another interesting activity that can be done in Yoho during summer involves visiting the Burgess Shale, one of the most crucial fossil discoveries on the planet. Not only skeletons were preserved here, but also soft parts of numerous distinct creatures.

It is obligatory to visit with organized groups led by guides, which operate from mid-July to September.

There are two principal guided routes available. The more popular option involves the Walcott Quarry for $70 CAD. This trail starts at Takakkaw Falls and shares part of the path to Emerald Lake, going past Yoho Lake but then branches left. Considered high-intensity, hikers can expect a total distance of 13 miles completed over 11 hours whilst gaining an elevation of 2625 feet.

Another route is Mount Stephen, costing 55 CAD. Departing from Field, it is also deemed high-intensity, requiring 7.5 hours to hike over 5 miles with an ascent exceeding 2600 feet.

These two hikes are not appropriate for children under eight years old, although there are some other activities for families. On the Canada Parks official website, you can obtain more information and book your guided excursions, since only 12 people are accepted per outing.

For more information on activities available at Emerald Lake, check out our dedicated article on EmeraldLake.

LAKE O’HARA

Lake O`Hara is a gem only accessible during the summer months. It can only be reached by bus, which must be booked in advance here. The reservation will be processed based on the day and time (4 times daily), to return, you can take any of the buses going down (4 drop-off times) free of charge.

You can also reach this lake by traversing the same route taken by the bus. It takes approximately three and a half hours to cover the 7.5 miles from the parking area. A positive aspect is that the return journey can be made for free on any of the buses when there is an open spot.

If you travel during summer, Lake O’Hara is one of the most important places to visit in Yoho National Park.

Multiple hiking routes start at Lake O`Hara. It also features two hotels and a campsite allowing guests to stay for up to three nights. You can book accommodation here.

Other things to do in YOHO

In addition to all the hiking opportunities in Yoho National Park, there are numerous other interesting brief stops that I recommend incorporating during your stay.

NATURAL BRIDGE

The Natural Bridge of the Kicking Horse River is a unique rock formation shaped by the strength of flowing water from an old waterfall that has carved a void into the rock, molding a natural bridge.

Reaching this viewpoint requires very little effort since vehicles can park directly at the location. Although crowded with tourists typically, a visit remains highly advised to observe the Natural Bridge and also enjoy the blue-tinted waters of the Kicking Horse River. Like other rivers seen in the Canadian Rockies, its hue originates from minerals dissolved in melting glacial ice.

MEETING OF THE WATERS

Meeting of the Waters is another intriguing spot to see in Yoho, located north of the confluence of the Kicking Horse river. This location is where the Kicking Horse river joins with the Amiskwi and Emerald River.

One could also arrive at this location by automobile without difficulty. From the viewpoint where two types of water converge, it is very fascinating to observe the different forms of H2O combining into a solitary river.

The Yoho Valley Road that goes to Takkakkaw Falls starts here, but it is usually closed until the beginning of June.

Spiral Tunnel

Another alternative route is to reach Yoho National Park from Vancouver. With this option, you can join a Vancouver Island whale observing excursion in addition to exploring Vancouver`s many attractions.

Spiral Tunnel is a section of the railway line where the train must turn back on itself, representing a solution to the steep gradients of the terrain.

There are two viewing areas, one situated on the Trans-Canada Highway itself, known as the Lower Spiral Tunnel view, and another on the Yoho Valley Road, known as the Upper Spiral Tunnel view.

WAPTA FALLS

A bit more distant from Field, we came across the Wapta Falls. These falls possess a relatively small height (100 feet) but quite a wide expanse (490 feet) and are readily accessible. The trail extends only 1.24 miles from the parking area.

Reaching the base of the waterfall demands descending between trees and roots on a rather steep road. I must say this waterfall is one of the most unusual we have ever seen. The water flows to the bottom of a small sand dune that I’m uncertain whether is a product of sediments or a small hill that has been eroded by moving water and will someday cease to exist.

Following this fall, the water splits into two distinct streams, where a small isle can be found in the center of the riverbed.

Although it is quite fascinating, it is somewhat distant from other points of interest, so visiting it is not something essential to do in Yoho.

where to stay IN YOHO NATIONAL PARK

As we commented in the Canadian Rockies post, there is no better accommodation than remaining in the various campsites of the National Parks. However, one of the most well-known resorts in Canada, the Emerald Lake Lodge, is situated in Yoho National Park, so we opted to spend an evening there while we pitched tents for the rest of the nights. Besides, it is one of the top Northern Lights hotels in Canadá.

Concerning campsites, you should bear in mind that they are not accessible year-round, so if you want to camp, you should verify which ones will be operational when you travel to the Yoho National Park. You can find all the data about the campsites that are in Yoho and operational dates here.

Accommodations in Yoho may not be reserved ahead of time. They operate on the principle of first arrived, first served upon arrival. At that point, you will need to fill out a form and leave it in a mailbox along with campsite fees paid in cash or credit card information.

KICKING HORSE CAMPGROUND

Similar to most campsites in Canada, each spot at Kicking Horse campground includes a table with attached benches, a firepit, and sufficient space to park a vehicle and pitch a tent. Using the supplied firewood, campers can have a bonfire but must pay a separate fee to do so.

The Kicking Horse is a rather sizable campground. We found a spot at the end of the campground that was also ideal for an RV or trailer while still having plenty of space for yourself.

We especially liked it because you can see a glacier from here.

EMERALD LAKE LODGE

We generally do not prefer luxurious hotels and resorts very much, but if you travel to National Park Y, it is essential to spend at least one night at the highest regarded hotel in Area Z. It’s the best hotel in Location 1, Country 2.

The Emerald Lake Lodge, situated on the small island within Emerald Lake, includes a complex of wooden cottages that are connected to the shore by a walkway.

HOW TO GET TO EMERALD LAKE LODGE

To visit Emerald lake, you can park your car right in the nearest parking area from the lake. However, if you are staying at Emerald Lake Lodge, you have to park your car in a parking area further away and wait for a shuttle to come and pick you up.

The indicators pointing to Emerald Lake will notify you of which exit leads to the guest parking area. Here is a cabin where you can wait and a phone to contact the reception desk and ask for the shuttle service.

THE HOTEL

We were left at the reception at the hotel upon our arrival. We really liked the room but noticed the peculiar style. Our cabin appeared to have kept its original decor from more than 50 years ago. Regardless, it was very clean and transported us back in time for the evening. The fireplace next to the bed was ready for us and the windows revealed the turquoise blue of Lake Emerald through the pines when opened.

Emerald Lake Lodge also provided common amenities like a sauna and hot tub that we did not have the time to use. What I appreciated most was the bonfire area where guests could share conversations. Also, the hotel offered marshmallows and chocolates for guests to enjoy.

The primary dining establishment at the lodge is another element you must not miss. While the cost is high, the day we spent at Emerald Lake Lodge was our revival after investing so many days camping and eating meals needing no cooking. We dined at the restaurant located right behind the reception, the lone area of the resort with a Wi-Fi connection.

We also ended up enjoying two breakfast meals here, as they offered the finest brunch cuisine throughout the entire excursion.

PRICE

While the hotel rate was elevated, we received a sizeable discount due to it being outside of the high season. As a result, we paid €200 for one night`s accommodations.

In my view, it was undoubtedly worth it, and without question, this was an incredible once-in-a-lifetime experience.

THE MOST EXCITING NIGHT OF OUR LIFE

And we may be partial when speaking of this resort, but here, we experienced one of life`s most thrilling moments. After hiking to Yoho Lake, we opted against booking lodging, instead choosing to remain near Emerald Lake to engage in night photography and witness sunrise.

While it was dark, we opted to pass through the Lodge’s reception for some wireless internet access. Then, astonishingly: Dani had his cellular phone in hand, I had mine, we looked at our screens, then to each other. KP7 alert and increasing. The subsequent 5 minutes were incredible. We were screaming, jumping, hurrying out of the resort to experience the most thrilling night of our lives.

I’m sure you can understand why we struggled to sleep at all that night.

Other tips WHEN YOU VISIT YOHO NATIONAL PARK

To wrap up this section, we`ll give you some additional tips for visiting Yoho National Park. There are general recommendations that were covered in the Canadian Rockies post – we discussed visas, currency, park entrance fees, necessary luggage, etc. If you haven`t read it yet, I strongly advise doing so before continuing with this article.

Best TIME TO TRAVEL TO YOHO NATIONAL PARK

Takakkaw Falls and Lake O’Hara, two of the essential attractions to experience in Yoho National Park, open between mid and late June. If you arrive earlier, it is highly probable you won’t be able to enjoy these destinations.

However, July and August usually see large numbers of visitors, risking accommodation scarcity. Thus I find September preferable for experiencing Yoho National Park.

HOW MUCH TIME for your VISIT to YOHO NATIONAL PARK

If all the places of interest are open when you visit Yoho National Park, 3 – 4 days should be sufficient, counting a night camping in the Lake O’Hara campground.

However, if like us you travel when some places of interest are still closed, two days will suffice.

WHERE TO TAKE THE 5 BEST PHOTOS OF YOHO NATIONAL PARK

To end this section, you will find our top five images of Yoho National Park below.

• Natural Bridge
• Emerald Lodge at sunrise
• Symmetry on the walkway leading towards Emerald Lake Lodge retained the core meaning.
• Wapta Falls
• Canoe in the middle of Emerald Lake

YOHO NATIONAL PARK MAP

And to finish this guide concerning activities to do in Yoho National Park, below you can find a map containing all the places of interest mentioned.

If you want to use this map of Yoho National Park on your mobile offline:

• Download the Mapswithme app on your mobile device.
• Access and save the subsequent KML file in your Dropbox.

• Access the file via Dropbox from your mobile device, prompting filter selection to open in Maps.me for viewing.

Now, you have everything required to begin your trip across Yoho National Park!