Embark on a journey through the stunning Yoho National Park in British Columbia with our travel guide. Discover the park's awe-inspiring natural wonders, from the roaring Takakkaw Falls to the tranquil Emerald Lake. Our guide offers insights into the best hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities, and camping spots, along with tips for making the most of your visit to this majestic part of the Canadian Rockies.
Yoho National Park Travel Guide
Yoho National Park, located in the Canadian Rocky Mountains in British Columbia, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, ranging from towering waterfalls like Takakkaw Falls to the emerald waters of Emerald Lake. The park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a myriad of activities such as hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing amidst its stunning glaciers, deep valleys, and rich biodiversity.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Yoho National Park largely depends on what you're looking to do and the type of experience you prefer.
Summer (June to August): This is the most popular time to visit, as the weather is warm, and all trails, attractions, and visitor services are open. It's ideal for hiking, camping, and enjoying the full beauty of the park's lakes and waterfalls. However, it's also the busiest season, so expect more crowds.
Fall (September to October): The fall offers a quieter experience with fewer tourists. The weather is cooler, and the changing colors of the foliage are beautiful. Most facilities remain open until early October, but it's wise to check in advance as some may start closing after the summer season.
Winter (November to March): Winter transforms the park into a snowy wonderland, perfect for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, and ice climbing. However, many of the park's roads and facilities are closed during this season, so access is limited.
Spring (April to May): This is the least popular time as the weather can be unpredictable, and many trails are still snow-covered or muddy. However, it's a good time for those looking to avoid crowds and witness the early signs of spring.
Getting to Yoho National Park and Getting Around
Getting to Yoho National Park
By Air: The nearest major airports to Yoho National Park are Calgary International Airport (YYC) in Alberta and Kelowna International Airport (YLW) in British Columbia. From either airport, you can rent a car to drive to the park.
By Car: Driving is the most common way to reach Yoho. From Calgary, it’s about a 2.5-hour drive west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) through the scenic Canadian Rockies. From Kelowna, the drive takes approximately 4 hours via Highway 97 and Trans-Canada Highway.
By Bus: There are bus services that run from major cities like Calgary and Vancouver to towns near Yoho, such as Banff or Lake Louise. From these towns, you can use local transportation or taxis to enter the park.
By Train: The Canadian Pacific Railway runs through Yoho, and there are passenger train services provided by VIA Rail and the Rocky Mountaineer. The nearest train stations are in Lake Louise and Banff.
Getting Around Yoho National Park
By Car: The most flexible way to explore Yoho is by car. The park has a well-maintained network of roads that provide access to the main attractions and trailheads.
Shuttle Buses: During the summer months, there are shuttle bus services that operate within the park, providing access to popular locations like Lake O'Hara. These shuttles often require advance reservations.
Hiking and Biking: Many of Yoho’s attractions are accessible via hiking and biking trails. This is a great way to experience the park's natural beauty up close.
Guided Tours: Various companies offer guided tours of Yoho, which can include transportation as part of their packages.
Winter Access: In the winter, some roads and facilities in the park are closed due to snow and ice. However, certain areas are accessible for winter sports like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing.
Top Attractions in Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park, located in the Canadian Rockies of British Columbia, is a stunning natural wonderland with a variety of attractions that cater to nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Here's a list of the top attractions in Yoho National Park:
Takakkaw Falls: One of the highest waterfalls in Canada, Takakkaw Falls is a breathtaking sight, especially in the spring when the snowmelt is at its peak.
Emerald Lake: Known for its vibrant turquoise waters, Emerald Lake is a perfect spot for canoeing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings.
Lake O’Hara: A pristine alpine area accessible by a reservable bus, Lake O'Hara is a hub for some of the best hiking trails in the Rockies.
Natural Bridge: A fascinating natural rock formation over the Kicking Horse River. It showcases the erosive power of water and offers great photo opportunities.
Spiral Tunnels: An engineering marvel, these tunnels are a part of the Canadian Pacific Railway where trains spiral inside the mountains. There are viewpoints to watch this fascinating occurrence.
Yoho Valley Road: This scenic drive offers stunning views and access to several of the park's main attractions, including Takakkaw Falls.
Iceline Trail: A challenging but rewarding hike that offers spectacular views of glaciers, waterfalls, and the Yoho Valley.
Burgess Shale Fossils: Yoho is home to some of the most important fossil beds in the world. Guided hikes to the Burgess Shale are available, offering a glimpse into ancient marine life.
Wapta Falls: A wide and powerful waterfall on the Kicking Horse River, Wapta Falls is accessible via a short hike and is especially impressive in the late spring and early summer.
Field, British Columbia: This charming mountain village in the heart of Yoho offers a base for exploration, with accommodations, dining options, and historical context.
Paget Peak and Lookout: Offering one of the best views in Yoho, the hike to Paget Peak and its fire lookout is a must-do for experienced hikers.
Hoodoos Trail: A trail leading to striking rock formations known as hoodoos, offering unique landscapes and photo opportunities.
Twin Falls: Accessible via a hike through the Yoho Valley, Twin Falls is a stunning double waterfall with a nearby teahouse.
Ross Lake Trail: A less crowded hiking option about 11 mines from the park, this trail leads to a beautiful hidden lake.
Hamilton Falls: A short hike from Emerald Lake, these falls are a quieter alternative to the more popular waterfalls in the park.
Meeting of the Waters: A point where the Yoho and Kicking Horse Rivers meet, offering a peaceful spot for relaxation and contemplation.
Top Activities in Yoho National Park
Exploring Yoho National Park in British Columbia offers a plethora of activities suited for adventure seekers, nature enthusiasts, and those simply looking to unwind in a stunning natural setting. Here's a list of the top activities to do in the park:
Hiking: Embark on a range of hiking trails, from easy walks like the Emerald Lake Loop to challenging treks like the Iceline Trail, each offering unique views of the park's landscapes.
Canoeing and Kayaking: Paddle in the tranquil waters of Emerald Lake or Lake O'Hara, enjoying the serene beauty and mountain reflections.
Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for the park's diverse wildlife, including elk, bears, mountain goats, and eagles, especially at dawn and dusk.
Photography: Capture stunning images of the park's landscapes, from cascading waterfalls to crystal-clear lakes and dramatic mountain peaks.
Camping: Experience the great outdoors by camping in one of the park's designated campgrounds, immersing yourself in the natural beauty.
Guided Tours: Join a guided tour to learn about the park's ecology, geology, and history, including specialized tours to the Burgess Shale fossil beds.
Mountain Biking: Ride on designated biking trails within the park, offering a different perspective and exhilarating experience.
Bird Watching: With a variety of bird species, the park is a haven for birdwatchers, especially near lakes and rivers.
Fishing: Try your hand at fishing in the park's lakes and rivers, abiding by the local fishing regulations and seasonal restrictions.
Picnicking: Enjoy a leisurely picnic by the lakeside or in one of the many scenic spots throughout the park.
Cross-Country Skiing and Snowshoeing: In winter, explore the park's transformed landscapes through cross-country skiing or snowshoeing.
Ice Climbing: For the adventurous, Yoho offers ice climbing opportunities on frozen waterfalls during the winter months.
Star Gazing: Take advantage of the park's dark skies for star gazing, particularly in remote areas away from light pollution.
Backcountry Exploration: Venture into the backcountry for a more secluded and rugged experience, either on a multi-day hike or a guided tour.
Snowmobiling: While restricted to specific areas, snowmobiling can be an exhilarating way to explore the park in winter.
Rock Climbing: Test your skills on the park’s rock faces, suitable for experienced climbers.
Nature Workshops and Talks: Participate in educational workshops and talks often offered by park rangers or local experts.
Scenic Drives: Drive through Yoho’s scenic routes, like the Yoho Valley Road, to enjoy the park's beauty from the comfort of your vehicle.
Strolling through Field, BC: Explore the small town of Field for its quaint charm, local art, and history.
Relaxing by the Lakes: Spend some time unwinding by the shores of the park's numerous lakes, soaking in the tranquility and natural beauty.
Attend Seasonal Festivals and Events: Depending on the time of your visit, partake in local festivals and events that celebrate the region's culture and heritage.
Exploring the Teahouses: Hike to the park's remote teahouses, offering refreshments and rest for hikers amidst stunning scenery.
Horseback Riding: Experience the park’s trails on horseback, a traditional and leisurely way to explore the rugged terrain.
Glacier Viewing: View the park’s impressive glaciers from a safe distance, marveling at their size and beauty.
Where to Stay in Yoho National Park
When visiting Yoho National Park, choosing the right place to stay can enhance your experience. Accommodation options vary from staying within the park for an immersive natural experience to selecting places in nearby towns for more amenities. Here are the best areas to stay both inside and outside Yoho National Park:
Inside Yoho National Park
Field, BC: The primary settlement within Yoho, Field is a charming mountain village offering a range of accommodations, including bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and vacation rentals. It’s an excellent base for exploring the park.
Lake O’Hara: Known for its stunning beauty, Lake O’Hara has a lodge and a campground. The area is accessible by a park-operated bus, and reservations are highly recommended due to limited access.
Campgrounds: Yoho has several campgrounds like Kicking Horse Campground and Takakkaw Falls Campground, offering a classic camping experience amidst spectacular natural surroundings. These are great for those who want to stay close to nature.
Emerald Lake Lodge: Located on the shores of Emerald Lake, this lodge offers luxury in a rustic setting, with cabin-style accommodation and fine dining.
Outside Yoho National Park
Lake Louise, Alberta: Just a short drive east of Yoho, Lake Louise in Banff National Park offers a variety of accommodations, from luxury hotels like the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise to more modest lodges and inns. It's a great option for those looking to explore both Yoho and Banff.
Golden, BC: Located to the west of Yoho, Golden is a larger town with a wider range of lodging options, including hotels, motels, and vacation rentals. It’s a good choice for those who prefer more urban amenities.
Banff, Alberta: Further east of Lake Louise, Banff is a popular tourist town with a wide array of accommodations, dining, and shopping options. It’s ideal for visitors who want a mix of outdoor adventure and town amenities.
Canmore, Alberta: A bit farther from Yoho but still within reasonable driving distance, Canmore offers a variety of lodging options, from hotels and resorts to condos and vacation homes. It's less touristy than Banff but still provides easy access to the parks.
Radium Hot Springs, BC: Located south of Yoho, this small town is famous for its natural hot springs. Accommodations here include hotels, motels, and resorts.
Revelstoke, BC: Further west of Golden, Revelstoke offers an array of accommodations and is known for its outdoor recreation opportunities. It’s a bit of a longer drive to Yoho but a good base for exploring the broader region.
Travel Tips
Visiting Yoho National Park is an unforgettable experience, and a few travel tips can help you make the most of your journey. Here are some key suggestions to consider:
Book Accommodations Early: Especially during the peak summer months, accommodations within and near the park can fill up quickly. It's advisable to book well in advance.
Plan Your Visit: Research the park's main attractions and plan your itinerary accordingly. Some areas, like Lake O'Hara, require reservations due to limited access.
Check Road and Weather Conditions: Weather in the mountains can change rapidly, and some roads may be closed due to weather conditions or wildlife activity. Always check the latest road and weather reports.
Be Prepared for All Weather: Even in summer, temperatures can vary widely, and sudden weather changes are common. Dress in layers and bring waterproof gear.
Understand Park Regulations: Familiarize yourself with park rules, including speed limits, wildlife viewing guidelines, and camping regulations.
Wildlife Safety: Yoho is home to a variety of wildlife, including bears. Carry bear spray, know how to store food properly, and understand what to do in an encounter with wildlife.
Hiking Preparedness: If you're planning to hike, carry a map, compass or GPS, plenty of water, snacks, and a first-aid kit. Always let someone know your route and expected return time.
Leave No Trace: Be mindful of your environmental impact. Stay on designated trails, pack out your trash, and avoid disturbing wildlife or natural features.
Bring a Camera: Yoho's stunning landscapes are incredibly photogenic, so don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture the scenery.
Use Visitor Centers: Stop by the park's visitor centers to get updated information, maps, and advice from park rangers.
Stay Connected: Cell phone service can be limited in the park, so plan accordingly. It might be wise to download maps and information beforehand.
Respect Cultural Sites: Yoho has significant cultural and historical sites. Respect any posted signage and do not disturb these areas.
Fuel Up: Gas stations are few and far between in and around the park. Make sure you have enough fuel for your journey.
Altitude Awareness: Be aware of the effects of high altitude, particularly if you are not accustomed to it. Take it easy the first day or two.
Explore Beyond the Main Attractions: While popular spots like Emerald Lake are a must-see, Yoho also offers many hidden gems that are off the beaten path.
Be Patient with Wildlife Jams: If you encounter a wildlife jam (vehicles stopped to view animals), follow park guidelines for viewing wildlife safely and respectfully.
