Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park | The Ultimate Guide 2024

Having the chance to experience the thrill of visiting breathtaking, glacier-fed lakes should be on your bucket list. If it’s not already, then try adding a visit to the Canadian Rockies and make Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park your first stop.

Why, you ask? Well, beyond being the largest lake in Yoho National Park, it’s without question one of the most beautiful in the entire British Colombia. 

Add to that the surrounding President Mountain Range delivering mind-blowing scenery second to none, and you’ve got some of what makes it so special already in the bag. But there’s so much more to it than that, and you’re in the right place to discover every juicy detail.

Emerald Lake might not be going anywhere soon, but with this guide in hand, you definitely are. So, what are you waiting for?

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, I may receive a small commission (for which I am very grateful for) at no extra cost to you.

The Best Time to Visit Emerald Lake

If you want to see the lake in its full glory – which you really should – the best time to visit Emerald Lake is during the summer months, from June to late August or early September. Ideally, plan your visit for early July or August.

During these two months, the glacial flour floats closest to the lake’s surface, causing the hue the lake is famous for to appear at its most impressive. 

You’ll have near-ethereal views of the vibrant color caused by this reflection and the warmest daytime temperatures for all the other fun things to do around and in the lake. If you want to explore Emerald Lake and go for a dip, keep in mind that the water temperature, even on the hottest days, only reaches roughly 4°C to 5°C (39°F – 41°F). 

How to Get to Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, British Columbia

Luckily, getting to Emerald Lake is easy as it sits right within Yoho National Park, which is in British Colombia (BC). It’s right on the Alberta border with BC, about 39 km (24 miles) west of Lake Louise.

You’ll find Yoho 12 km (7.4 miles) north of Field and just over an hour, or 65 km (40.3 miles), east of Golden. As you pass the tiny town of Field on the Trans Canada Highway, you’ll need to follow the Emerald Lake/Natural Bridge turn. Once you’re on Emerald Lake Road, you’ll reach Emerald Lake in 10 km (6.2 miles).

As you drive along Emerald Lake Road, its winding turns will eventually open up to occasional views of the surrounding mountains. The first sign that you’re getting close to Lake Emerald is Natural Bridge. It’s definitely worth a stop if you appreciate the scene of a bustling waterfall weaving and carving its way through strikingly thick limestone rocks. 

>>>Rent A Car Here<<<

Where to Stay When You Visit Emerald Lake

Where you stay when you visit Emerald Lake depends on where you’re basing yourself, as the best options for accommodation are in the nearby towns. 

Inside Yoho National Park, you only have a choice of the highly sought-after Emerald Lake Lodge or a few campgrounds, but more on that a bit later. So, here are some of the best overnight spots close to Emerald Lake.

Luxury | Cathedral Mountain Lodge

In the nearby town of Field is the picturesque Cathedral Mountain Lodge. Resting along the banks of the Kicking Horse River on Yoho Valley Road, it’s a luxury resort with a traditional but elegant look and feel. Take your pick from the many cabins, with each giving you standout scenes of the surrounding mountains. >>>Check Prices and Availability

Mid-Range | Emerald Lake Lodge

Situated right on the shores of the beautiful lake, the Emerald Lake Lodge it’s as close to the lake as you could get. Aside from its superb location, guest rooms come with fireplaces, and the lodge has a stunning outdoor hot tub, two restaurants, and (obviously) the best views you could imagine. >>>Check Prices and Availability

Budget | Lake Louise Inn

On the more mid-range side of things, you’ll love the charming Lake Louise Inn. After its recent renovations, its rooms are modern and welcoming, while on-site, there’s a fabulous indoor pool, restaurant, and bar. Rooms feature cozy fireplaces and epic mountain views. >>>Check Prices and Availability

Top Tip: If you’re planning a trip to Banff National Park, here is some inspiration for where to stay in Banff NP.

Map of Emerald Lake and Yoho National Park

With all the fun activities to do and incredible sights to see in the Emerald Lake area, it might get a little overwhelming figuring out where everything is. Here’s a handy map to help you find your way.

The Best Things to Do at Emerald Lake

Visiting Emerald Lake without some idea of the many attractions and activities you can do while there would be a crime. The lake is home to many outdoor activities, but the surrounding Yoho National Park holds just as much to see and experience. Let’s dive in.

1. Go Canoeing on the Lake

Emerald Lake and its waters are… let’s just say quite cold, but that doesn’t mean you can’t venture out into, or rather, onto its gorgeous waters. Offering you one of the most spectacular scenes to head out canoeing through, Emerald Lake knows no equal.

Similar to Moraine Lake, the radiant turquoise waters underneath, the imposing mountains, and the thick forests along the shoreline create pure canoeing heaven. 

Prices for a canoe rental at Lake Emerald are also far lower than other nearby spots. You can pick one up from the Emerald Sports Boathouse for just about $70 USD per hour. Canoe rental is only possible from late May to early October, and because you can’t reserve one, it’s best to arrive early to make sure you get one. 

2. Head Out for a Hike Around the Lake

What’s all that natural beauty worth if you can’t get into the thick of it? Still an incredible sight, but luckily, there are two amazing hiking trails you can tackle for a more intimate Emerald Lake excursion.

Emerald Lake Loop Traill

• Distance: 5.1 km (3.2 miles) loop
• Elevation: 44 meters (144 feet)
• Difficulty: Easy
• Trail Guide: Link

The very straightforward and accessible Emerald Lake trail is a great hiking trek that goes right around the shoreline of the lake, and it’s also wheelchair friendly. The trail leads to spots where you’ll have incredible views of the lake, the mountains in the background, and the surrounding glaciers.

Emerald Basin

• Distance: 5.5 km (3.5 miles) out and back
• Elevation: 188 meters (616 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Easy to combine with the Emerald Lake trail, the Emerald Basin trail veers off a bit from the original path and leads out from the northwest corner of the lake. Even though it starts off pretty easy, there is a somewhat steep stretch you’ll need to brave, but it’s worth it. Your reward? A secluded mountain valley with stunning waterfalls.

3. Explore the Hiking Trails Near Emerald Lake

If you’re up for even more hiking fun but want to venture off the shorelines of Emerald Lake, you’ll be happy to know that there are some genuinely amazing hikes nearby. Add one of these to your plans.

Emerald Triangle

• Distance: 19.5 km (12.1 miles) loop
• Elevation: 1,016 meters (3,484 feet)
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail Guide: Link

One of the longer hikes from Emerald Lake is the Emerald Triangle Loop Trail. It’s a reasonably challenging trek that takes you around some of the lake and then up the slopes of Wapta Mountain and Mount Field. The highlight of this hike is definitely the aerial views of the lake, but you’ll need a bit of hiking experience for this part, though.

Emerald Peak

• Distance: 10.4 km (6.5 miles) loop
• Elevation: 1,230 meters (4,038 feet)
• Difficulty: Difficult
• Trail Guide: Link

Definitely a challenging route to trek, the Emerald Peak loop is a favorite, thanks to the unbelievable views you get of Emerald Lake. Starting from the lake’s parking lot, you’ll head through the forest, eventually reaching Hamilton Lake. You’ll need to do some searching for the route up to the peak, which is where most of the challenge for this route lies.

Yoho Pass – Yoho Lake

• Distance: 13.7 km (8.5 miles) loop
• Elevation: 606 meters (1,988 feet)
• Difficulty: Moderate
• Trail Guide: Link

Beyond Emerald Lake, Yoho National Park also has a few stellar other lakes that you can visit, and with this route, you’ll get to see another of its gems – Yoho Lake. It should take you about three hours to complete, but if you have time, add the short trek to Takakkaw Falls for some mesmerizingly striking waterfalls.

4. Try Your Hand at Stand-Up Paddleboarding

There are few things as euphoric as a good stand-up paddleboard (SUP) session, especially when you have the calm waters of Emerald Lake to guide you as you glide over its almost-otherwordly waters. 

While lakes in Banff National Park and the nearby Moraine Lake also offer ideal water conditions, they don’t quite compare to Emerald Lake. The only downside is that you can’t rent SUP boards at the lake, so you’ll need to bring your own or consider renting one from spots like Radventures in Banff.

5. Have Some Fun Fishing

Fishing enthusiasts in British Columbia really have the most gorgeous shorelines to roam, and you can add Emerald Lake to that list. While fishing is allowed, you’ll need to have the appropriate permits.

Aside from the Parks Pass (which you’ll need to enter the park), you’ll also have to get a fishing permit from the Yoho Visitor Center. Day permits cost about $9.80 USD, and annual permits go for $34.30 USD. The great thing is this permit will also allow you to go fishing in Banff, Jasper National Park, and Kootenay National Park.

Technicalities aside, Emerald Lake is a superb place to fish, and you’re very likely to snag a Brook Char or Rainbow Trout without much hassle. Keep in mind that Emerald Lake does not allow for live bait fishing, and park rangers regularly check in to ensure this rule is followed.

6. Treat Yourself to Lunch at Cilantro

Dinner at the Mount Burgess Dining Room might be a great way to end your day, but sitting right on Emerald Lake is the delectable Cilantro. This small cafe serves up quite the spread for breakfast, but lunchtimes are its busiest.

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick cup of coffee or something a bit more sweet, like a slice of their homemade cakes, there’s definitely something for every taste. Their lunch menu items include everything from sandwiches to burgers and pizza. Sure, you are coming for the food, but you’ll stay and return for the unparalleled views across the lake.

7. Support the Boathouse Trading Co.

Easily, one of the things that can throw off a good trip is bad packing, and if you don’t have a packing list, it’s even worse. That’s where the Boathouse Trading Co. comes in at Emerald Lake. 

Opening its doors in November of 1987 as the Kicking Horse Ski Club, today it’s a much-loved spot at the lake for some last-minute shopping or grabbing a souvenir (or two). Considering the seasonal weather of the lake, they stock different items for summer and winter.

You can stop by for gifts and souvenirs, clothing essentials, maps, and canoe rentals during the summer months. The winter months see the store stock items ranging from seasonal gifts to clothing, cross-country skiing packages, and snowshoes. 

8. Have Fun Snowshoeing

Speaking of snowshoes, if you think Emerald Lake is just a summer destination, think again. As autumn starts to fade, the entire Yoho National Park transforms into a winter wonderland, and it becomes quite magical to snowshoe around the lake.

The Emerald Lake Loop trail is open year-round, and if you’re concerned about being able to complete the whole thing, don’t worry, as you can turn back whenever you start feeling tired. Snowshoeing can be tiring, but seeing the lake and the mountains at this time of year is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

You can rent a pair of snowshoes from the Boathouse Trading Co., or if you’re picking up a pair on the way to the lake, Banff has plenty to go around. Ultimate Banff offers daily rentals for $12 USD.

9. Venture out Cross-Country Skiing

Another super fun pastime at Emerald Lake during the winter is backcountry skiing, with some exceptional trails around the lake. Beginners can head out on the 8 km (4.9-mile) Alluvial Fan Loop, while advanced skiers can test their mettle with the stunning Connector Trail that leads to the Natural Bridge.

If you’re not bringing your own pair of cross-country skis, then you can easily rent a pair from the Boathouse or in Banff. They normally go for about $26 USD per day, or you can get all your winter hiking gear for cross-country skiing before you leave. Aside from getting a pair of cross-country skis, the staff at the Boathouse are your go-to for info about the best trails and current weather conditions.

Can You Visit Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park for Free?

While you can visit Emerald Lake without having to pay an admission fee, you will need to get a Parks Canada Pass to get inside Yoho National Park. So, while it’s not technically free after you’ve gotten your pass, you won’t need to pay to visit the lake.

You can get a day pass from any Parks Canada gate within most national parks and en route to some. There are four types available to buy:

• Adult: $11 USD
• Senior: $9.50 USD
• Youth (up to 17): Free
• Family/Group: (7 People): $22 USD

These passes are valid until the day after purchase at 4 pm, and you can also buy one from Parks Canada in advance online. You could also choose to get a Parks Canada Discovery Pass, allowing you entry into all Parks Canada locations for a year.

It is more pricey, but if you plan to visit more than one park for more than one day during a year, then the Discovery Pass may be worth it. Here’s a quick breakdown of the Discovery Pass pricing:

• Adult: $75.25 USD
• Senior: $64.50 USD
• Youth (up to 17): Free
• Family/Group: (7 People): $151.25 USD

Does Emerald Lake Have Parking Available?

Considering that visiting Emerald Lake means getting a rental car, it’s normal to assume that parking would be readily available. The entire lake area only has one parking lot.  Yes… just one, which fills up in the blink of an eye.

Although nearby Lake Louise does a better job of having a worse parking lot setup, Emerald Lake is a close second. It’s not out of the ordinary to see lines of cars that stretch for miles parked next to the roads.

Emerald Lake Lodge has one private parking lot, which you can use if there is a spot open. From the parking lot, you can dial the lodge to request a pickup.

Tours Near Yoho National Park

Can You Camp Near Emerald Lake?

Unfortunately, there are no campgrounds around Emerald Lake itself. There are numerous fantastic front-country and backcountry campgrounds in the surrounding Yoho National Park. 

The first of which is the Kicking Horse Campground. It features hot showers, flush toilets, fire pits, and a sanitation dump. That makes it the nicest in the park, but you’ll need a reservation, which is only possible from the 19th of May till the 9th of October.

Then, you have the overflow site, Monarch Campground, right next to Kicking Horse. It does not require a reservation, but you’ll have limited access to facilities. You’ll also be right next to the highway.

Finally, if you prefer tent camping, you can opt for the campsite at Takakkaw Falls. The site operates on a first-come-first-serve basis. There is a short walk to the site, but luckily they have carts available to carry your gear.

What To Pack For Yoho National Park

1. Sunscreen: Although our time in the Canadian Rockies was overcast, bring some just in case! >Buy some sunscreen, so you don’t accidentally burn!
2. Hiking Boots/Shoes: OMG this was honestly one of the muddiest, wet places I have ever hiked. If you don’t get actual hiking shoes or boots, you will have wet soggy feet. >Don’t have soggy wet feet. Buy my Hiking Shoes
3. Hiking socks: Having the correct socks helps you prevent getting blisters. Smart Wool is probably my favorite brand out there. I also love how they now have pink socks too 🙂 >Buy Hiking Socks
4. Refillable water bottle: I always bring a Hydroflask on all my adventures. They are on the heavier side, but I know they will not break. I have had a few cheap water bottles break on me before. >Check Prices Now
5. Water: Hiking for sure requires water.
6. Sunglasses: Just in case you get lucky and the sun comes out. Also, I usually wear the most fashionable sunglasses when I hike. 🙂 >Check Out These Sunglasses
7. Snacks: The best meals are jerky, nuts, energy bars. >Clif Bars are great for hiking so click HERE.
8. Trekking Poles: This is an optional product, but they help with the knees. The poles I have listed are known to be one of the best in the market. I am not going to lie; I didn’t use trekking poles in Jasper, but I don’t have problems with my knees. Not everyone’s bodies are the same, so if you feel like you need some extra help, then check out my trekking poles. >Buy My Trekking Poles Here
9. Camera: I have linked the camera I used to take pictures of The Canadian Rockies. The Sony A6000 is an excellent camera for people that want to start improving at travel photography.  >Buy Sony Camera Here
10. Crampons: This will help you not slip and fall with the snow and ice. I didn’t see any snow in Jasper when I went, but if you are hiking before the end of June, I highly recommend getting crampons. It sucks walking in the snow without them. >Buy your Crampons Here
11. First Aid Kit: This is one of the first things I bought when I first started backpacking and camping. It is super portable. >Buy This Awesome First Aid Kit Here
12. Day Pack: The REI bag I have linked, I have had for seven years now, and it is still going strong! >Buy This Great Quality Backpack
13. Good hiking pants: These are probably the best hiking pants that I have found. They keep you dry in the crazy weather, and they are durable. I will say that I brought a lot of shorts with me but never wore them. It was a little too cold for me. Your best bet is leggings or hiking pants. >Buy my hiking pants here
14. Breathable sweat-wicking shirts >Check Out This Shirt
15. Sports Bra: For women.
16. Jacket: Yes it was chilly at times in the summer >Buy My Favorite Jacket
17. Base Layers: If you run cold like me I recommend bringing them on the trip (Yes even in the summer). When you start your hike, you can then judge if they are needed or not. >Buy the bottoms here, >Buy the top here
18. Tripod: This is an optional item, but it is excellent for getting the perfect sunset pictures. >Check out this tripod
19. Bear Spray: You can usually buy this in the city of Jasper.
20. Hammock: Hammocks are a great way to lounge around. They are perfect for naps. >Buy A Packable Hammock
21. Poncho or Rain Jacket: We were rained on so many times, so it is best to take a poncho with you at all times. >Buy A Great Rainjacket Here
22. Headlamp: Just in case you get stuck hiking at night! >Buy A Headlamp Now

Should You Be Worried About Bear Safety?

Even though bear encounters around Emerald Lake are rare, they do happen, which is why keeping bear safety in mind is so important. This is bear country, so always carry your bear spray, and if possible, travel in groups.

FAQs About Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park

While this guide does cover everything you need to know about Emerald Lake, these are answers to some commonly asked questions that you’ll also need to know.

Can You Swim in Emerald Lake in Yoho?

Yes, you can swim at the lake. Although the water here is somewhat warmer than Lake Louise or Moraine Lake, it’s still a glacial lake. On a good summer’s day, you can expect the water temperature to peak at about 8°C (46°F).

Why Is Emerald Lake Special?

There are a few reasons why people love Emerald Lake as much as they do. Discovered back in the 19th century, during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, the lake immediately gained popularity courtesy of its green hue.

This distinguishable feature is caused by glacial stilt flown to it from the nearby glaciers high in the mountains. As the glaciers melt, this flour sinks into the lake and causes it to refract light in vibrant shades of green and teal.

How Much Time Is Needed at Emerald Lake?

Lake Emerald has a lot to see and do, so give yourself enough time to explore as much as possible. It’s also a great place to hang out, and while you can explore it at your own pace, if you’re in a time crunch, then three hours should be enough.

Have the Time of Your Life at Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park

That’s a wrap, folks. Emerald Lake in British Columbia is a definite must-visit in the Canadian Rockies. It’s the perfect spot for a weekend getaway or a day trip, and the Instagram-worthy scenery deserves all of your attention.

Read next – If you’re heading to Banff National Park on a hiking adventure, here’s a list of the best hikes in Banff to help you plan. 

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