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14+ Top Things To Do In Yoho National Park

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated:

Categories Canada, Travel Guides

Yoho National Park is a true gem in British Columbia. It’s a bit quieter than the surrounding National Parks like Banff and Jasper. But it has no shortage of excellent beauty. With pristine blue lakes and enchanting waterfalls, this place is sure to amaze you. So let’s get into our top things to do in Yoho National Park.

Refer to our custom map for help locating our favorite Yoho attractions

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Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is probably the most popular area in Yoho National Park. It’s famous for its stunning green color and unique accommodation, the Emerald Lake Lodge. And the best part is you can drive right to the lake with no advanced permits needed. But it still gets very busy in the summertime, with many cars forced to park along the road.

You can simply take in the views from the lakeshore or the bridge, or you can make a whole day exploring the area.

We hiked the Emerald Lake Loop and it quickly became one of our favorite hikes in the park. We started counter-clockwise, hiking past the lodge on a paved path. It quickly turned to mud, but the views of the mountains between the trees made it worth it from the start.

Once you make it to the other side of the lake, it opens up to a gorgeous meadow. You can also hike further up Emerald Basin or Yoho Pass from here.

Finishing the loop on the west side of the lake, we found that the trail is much better maintained. So I would stick to this side of the lake if you’re not interested in some muddy trails.

Cilantro On The Lake

Cilantro on the Lake is one of the restaurants at Emerald Lake, which might have one of the BEST VIEWS we’ve ever had from a restaurant.

We found mixed reviews on service and food, but we still had to check it out for ourselves. Things were going well, we didn’t have to wait long for a table, the host was friendly, and they had our favorite local beers. But the service was painfully slow.

We found the food to be decent but basic, so nothing to write home about. But when it came to service, we never saw our server again after we ordered, and no one ever came to check on us. And when it came time to pay, not even one worker was in sight to grab their attention. After about 10 patient minutes, we had to go seek the hostess inside to get our bill. It just was an odd experience.

So for the views, I can recommend this place, but I just wouldn’t give this place a 5-star rating. And hopefully, you have better luck when it comes to service!

Hamilton Falls

If you are looking for another short hike around Emerald Lake, Hamilton Falls is a great little adventure. This short 1.8km out-and back (1.1 mi) hike begins right at the Emerald Lake parking lot. This small mysterious waterfall twists its way through a rocky chute. It was kinda a nice way to escape the crowds and see yet another beautiful piece of Yoho.

This trail is a little less maintained than the surrounding trails, but still easy to follow.

Natural Bridge

This is a famous location where the Kicking Horse River has carved out a tunnel in the bedrock.

You actually pass by the parking lot for Natural Bridge on your way up to Emerald Lake. And it’s for sure worth the stop either on your way in or out. There is a lookout attached to the parking area. Or you can explore the area for a few different perspectives of the natural bridge.

We did see a few people standing on the natural bridge, but I’m not sure its worth the risk with the turbulent water below.

Lake O’Hara

This place is truly heaven on earth! It was hands down our favorite hike on our entire summer road trip across Canada, but it’s not the easiest spot to reach.

The lake is accessed via an 11km (6.8mi) fire road where personal vehicles are not allowed. You can either hike in or take the shuttle, but only Parks Canada and Lake O’Hara Shuttle Buses are permitted on this road. Advanced reservations are required.

Whether you’re planning a day trip or a longer stay, there are plenty of options. Lake O’Hara offers day-use shuttle buses, camping, backcountry huts, and luxury accommodations at the Lake O’Hara Lodge.

Shuttle Buses To Lake O’Hara

Day-use shuttles are offered at 8:30am and 10:30am. And departing shuttles are offered 9:30am, 11:30am, 2:30pm, 4:30pm, and 6:30pm.

Day-use shuttle permits are offered by a random-draw lottery. You can apply starting mid-March to the end of the month. There is a non-refundable $10 fee. Winners of the random-draw lottery are announced in April by email from Parks Canada. Check launch date for Lake O’Hara Random-Draw.

Lake O’Hara Campground

The Lake O’Hara Campground is probably the nicest “backcountry” campground you will ever stay at. They have pit toilets, but they are cleaned daily, potable water, cooking shelters, level tent pads, picnic tables, and more. Shuttle reservations are offered with all camping permits. Although inbound buses are 8:30am, 10:30am, 3:30pm, and 5:30pm. (You can put in your bus time preference, but they assign the bus times to each group).

Camping permits are typically available for the campground starting late January for the upcoming summer and fall seasons. You can find the specific dates on the Parks Canada site.

Elizabeth Parker Hut

The Elizabeth Parker Hut is run by the Alpine Club of Canada. Permits are also via a lottery system and typically become available before mid-January. You can find specific dates on the Alpine Club of Canada site.

You don’t need to be part of the Alpine Club of Canada to apply for a hut permit, but if you do get a permit, you willl need to join. Which starts at $38 per person, $58 per family, or $26 for youth (under 17). Learn more about the Alpine Club Memberships here.

Lake O’Hara Lodge

Booking a room or cabin at the Lake O’Hara Lodge is certainly the most expensive way to experience the Lake. Rooms start around $945 CAD for two guests, and all meals are included. Reservations are made by calling the lodge directly.

Hiking The Lake O’Hara Fire Road

Or there is the option to walk the road without a permit, but note it is very long (11km/ 6.8mi one way) and you will likely not have much energy to do other hikes in the area once you get to the lake.

If departure shuttles from Lake O’Hara are not full, hikers can sometimes pay to ride the shuttle back to the parking lot. The cost is $15 one way.

Alpine Circuit

Okay, now onto the most breathtaking hike in the area, the Alpine Circuit. This is a 11.1 km loop with 882 ft elevation (6.9 mi, 2,893 ft), that shows you a grand tour of this whole area.

We suggest starting on the left side of the lake up to the Wiwaxy Gap. It will be the steepest climb of the hike, but I think it is much better going up this way rather than down. The hike starts off with amazing views down valley, with some shade through the trees. Then the trail quickly climbs above tree line as you make you way to the Wiwaxy Gap.

The views simply don’t stop. From the Wiwaxy Gap, you climb along the Huber Ledges toward Lake Oesa. During peak summer, it’s a great place to swim and cool off.

Next, after Lake Oesa, you cross the Yuckness Ledges. Getting a backside view of Lake O’Hara. You’ll climb down to Hungabee Lake, a greenish lake where you need to decide your route. The Alpine Circuit turns back toward Lake O’Hara here, but you have the option to hike up to Opabin Lake. (We personally skipped this one.)

After this section, you are headed to the famous Opabin Pleateau. Take in the views, and bask in the fact that you were one of the people who actually made it here this summer!

Now, the decision for heading back to camp or doing the All Souls Prospect comes in. We were a little short of time, so we headed back to the campground, but if you have time and energy, you should definitely all the All Souls Prospect. It is a challenging, steep and rocky section, but I’m no views in this area will let you down!

Lake McArthur

This lake is often overshadowed by the more famous Lake O’Hara. But if you have the time, it’s definitely worth the visit. This hike is 7km (4.4mi) and once again, just packed with endless amazing views the whole way.

But once again, you will need to book the Lake O’hara Shuttle or hike in on the long fire road. (Additional 11km or 6.8 mi one way).

The trail has a few different routes, but essentially can be done as a loop. Lake McArthur is the biggest and deepest in the park, with mesmerizing glacier views. Besides the Lake itself, our favorite part was the Big Larches Trail section, which during Fall foliage, would be even more impressive!

Find the trail map here.

Takakkaw Falls

This massive waterfall is such an impressive sight! It sends a torrent of water 373 meters (1,224 ft) over the edge.

You can’t miss the falls even as you’re driving up. But a short hike from the parking lot takes you even closer. And you will basically feel the mist as soon as you step onto the trail.

There are many awesome viewpoints along the way, a scenic bridge, and you can walk right up to the base of the falls. But just be prepared to get wet as you walk closer to the falls.

I also want to note, the road getting here has some hairpin switchbacks, so it’s not suitable for large RVs or trailers.

Iceline Trail

This is another famous hike in the park that offer more stunning waterfalls, ancient glaciers, and alpine lakes. The trail is a 20km (12.4mi) loop and climbs 864m (2835ft) in elevation. So I’d only suggest this journey for experienced hikers, or done as an overnight backpacking trip.

We skipped this one because we were lucky enough to get the Lake O’hara backcountry permit, but this could be a great alternative.

Sherbrooke Lake

Following the trend, Sherbrooke Lake is yet another stunning lake you should add to your list. The lake is a greenish blue, and the towering mountains have a very neat texture to them. The hike just to the lake is 2.7km one way (1.7mi).

You can either turn around here, hike along the lake to a waterfall, or hike up to Paget Peak (info below).

Paget Peak (+ Fire Lookout)

Starting from the same trailhead at Sherbrooke Lake is Paget Peak. There are two destinations along this trail. Most people stop at the fire lookout for a stunning view of Wapta Lake, Kicking Horse Pass, and the surrounding mountains. Then you can continue on to the summit of Paget Peak.

We chose to hike up to the fire lookout, which is an additional 2.7km (1.7mi). You only get a tiny glimpse of Sherbrooke Lake on the way up.

So if you want truly unobstructed views of Sherbrooke Lake, you have to reach the summit of Paget Peak. It’s only an additional 1.3km (.8mi) climb, but it’s a challenging incline and the trail turns into a rocky scramble.

Wapta Falls

This waterfall completely blew us away. It’s not as popular as the others on the list, but it certainly should be on everyone’s Yoho bucket List. It’s not really like any waterfall we’ve ever seen. The entire Kicking Horse River plunges over a cliff that’s 107m (352ft) wide and 18 meters tall (59 ft) high. The raw power of this waterfall is something that you just need to experience in person.

The hike starts off pretty flat until you finally climb down to the river floor. But just before descending, there are a few nice lookouts of the falls from above. Once you make it to the bottom you can explore the misty riverbed and enjoy the views of mountains in the background.

If you’re feeling adventurous (and have proper footwear), you can hike up on the rocky ledge that sits in front of the falls. Don’t bring anything that isn’t waterproof with ya, because you will get soaked!

Truffle Pigs Bistro

The tiny yet charming town of Field sits within Park, and one place you gotta visit is Truffle Pigs Bistro. They serve upscale food in an unpretentious atmosphere. The place is just a vibe, with unique decor and artwork.

We got the Korean Ribs and the Pork Belly Nachos, and we honestly can’t rave enough about the beautiful plating and the flavors in both meals. I mean nachos are typically always good, hello, it’s melted cheese, but wow these were above and beyond!

This building also doubles as a lodge, so if you are looking for a place to stay, this can be a great option!

Explore Downtown Golden

While Golden isn’t exactly part of Yoho National Park, it’s 30 minutes away. This area quickly became one of our favorite towns in British Columbia. It’s a great place to stay, dine, or refuel in between adventures in the park.

Here are some fun things to do in Golden:

  • Whitetooth Brewing: We loved this little brewery in town. They have an excellent patio with beautiful views of the ski resort. If you like IPAs, definitely try out their Blower Pow IPA.
  • Reposados: This little taco shop has inventive tacos, burritos, and bocitas. And of course, they have handcrafted margaritas that you gotta pair with your entree.
  • Bear Refuge: This is a super fun way to see a grizzly bear in a safe way. You can see an orphaned grizzly play in its natural habitat.
  • Golden Skybridge: This is Canada’s highest suspension bridge standing 130m (426ft) above the canyon floor. It offers amazing views of the Columbia Valley, Rocky Mountains, and Purcell Mountains.
  • Whitewater Rafting: If you’re looking for a real thriller in the park, then join a guided tour down the Kicking Horse River.

Of course, there are tons of great trails for hiking and mountain biking. The town also has tons of other little shops, restaurants, and a farmers market every Wednesday.

Where To Stay

Accommodations in Yoho National Park are limited, but here are a few great options.

Here are some other hotel and vacation rental options you might find helpful.

Campgrounds in Yoho National Park

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