Yoho National Park | British Columbia
Yoho National Park is this hidden gem in the Canadian Rockies; you don't hear many people talk about it however it is a must visit! It is located just over the Boarder from Alberta on Hwy 1 the Trans Canada Highway. The Kicking horse river winds through the park and you will find the cute little town of Field.
Please take note that the road to Takakkaw Falls is not open all year around so check with Parks Canada for opening and closing date based on snowfall. Also the road heading up to the falls is a narrow, steep winding switchback road so single vehicle is a must we wouldn't try going up in a large motorhome or trailer. That being said Takakkaw Falls is an absolute must and is the 2nd tallest waterfall in Canada reaching a total height of 373m or 1224 ft. There is a parking lot at the trailhead and you can already see the falls in the distance. The trail is approximately 1.5km and is an easy and beautiful walk. The trial is dog and stroller friendly which makes this an amazing family stop.
Did you know that Takakkaw translates to Wonderful in Cree.
Takakkaw falls is actually 2 falls and the larger one is approximately 254m or 833ft tall. This waterfall is so powerful and you can feel the spray from far away so plan on getting wet; Perfect on a hot summer day! Make sure to pack a lunch and enjoy some time at the falls; take in the view from the riverside at a picnic table and try and mind the Parks Canada Red Chairs, the view is epic. Don't forget to #sharethechair on Instagram.
We decided to check out the walk in tenting sites located down the trail from the parking lot and there happened to be several empty spots, so we grabbed our tent and bags and stayed the weekend. We opted for a spot on higher ground away from the river as it was quite drafty and cold next to the water. We found a perfect spot on the hillside with some tree cover and a firepit. We dropped our money in the bin and set up camp. The campsite is walk in tenting only and has 35 no service spots with firepits and tree cover in most sites. This is the campsite that you will find many backpackers staging to head into the backcountry trails of Yoho. The price does change but it was $17.00 Canadian per night plus a $8.00 fire permit. The campground is also first come first serve however there are other campgrounds in Yoho National Park.
Our plan was to hike the Yoho Valley trail out to Twin falls and around to the Iceline trail the next day however our plans took a turn and the trails closed due to snow and avalanche warnings. So we took the short drive to Lake Louise and hiked Lake Agnes trail instead. The trail is 3.5 km one way and does have elevation but is so worth it; too bad we didn't have clear skies!
Lake Louise is a beautiful turquoise blue and a very popular destination however the weather was cold and wet which kept the tourists away. Bring some cash for this hike because there is a Tea House at the top so you can warm up and enjoy the scenery. This is still one of our favorite popular hikes as it truly is a beautiful place to visit.
We didn't spend too much time in Lake Louise as we have been before and we just wanted to get back to camp but we enjoyed our quick hike and stopped in at Bill Peyto Cafe and Hostel and had a terrific lunch. The menu is simple and some great choices like the Elk Burger. Oh and they serve beer! After Lunch we made our way back to our camping spot at Takakkaw Falls.
The next day we woke up and decided to check out Emerald Lake also located in Yoho National Park. On the way up to Emerald lake we checked out the Natural bridge which was neat to see this formation and it just shows how powerful water can be. Located about 3 km up Emerald Lake Road and it spans the Kicking Horse River. Parking lot located at the bridge.
After taking in the sights of the Natural bridge keep heading up the road until you reach the Emerald Lake Parking lot and you will see the walking bridge with the Emerald Lake Lodge across the way. Wow would this be a beautiful place to stay in the Winter. The lodge has 24 cabins perched along the lakeside with wood burning fireplaces and is open year around. Some cabins are pet friendly so call a nd book early for specific accommodations.
Emerald Lake is Yoho National Parks largest lake and can get touristy but is worth the visit. Check out the small gift shop full of souvenirs. Maybe rent a Canoe for a spectacular paddle in a Glacier Lake or take a hike around the lake and beyond if you come prepared and feel adventurous.
After checking out Emerald lake we were out of time so we made one last stop and drove through the town a field as it is a cute little place to explore before making our way back into Alberta. There are so many places to check out in the amazing Park so do your research and do what fit for you and your family! Thanks for reading along and leave a comment if you have been to Yoho and what your favorite things to see and do! I know we would love to go back again and hike the Iceline trail and drop our canoe in Emerald Lake!
- Alberta Adventurer Family
