An Adventurer's Guide to Yoho National Park, British Columbia, Canada

Adventures | British Columbia | Canada | National Parks

Skyblue Overland may earn a small commission from affiliate links in this article.

Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Established 1886

Nestled in the heart of the Canadian Rockies, Yoho National Park offers breathtaking vistas, cascading waterfalls, and serene lakes, inviting adventurers to explore its natural wonders and experience the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.

Overview

Nestled in the Canadian Rockies, Yoho National Park is a stunning blend of dramatic landscapes, vibrant wildlife, and rich history. Spanning 1,313 square kilometers, this park is a paradise for adventurers and nature lovers alike. From towering waterfalls and crystal-clear lakes to lush forests and ancient fossils, Yoho offers an array of natural wonders. Established in 1886, the park is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, highlighting its global significance.

Yoho, derived from a Cree expression of awe and wonder, truly lives up to its name. The park is home to some of the most spectacular sights in Canada, including the iconic Emerald Lake, the towering Takakkaw Falls, and the fascinating Burgess Shale fossil beds. Visitors can indulge in a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and camping to wildlife watching and canoeing.

The park’s unique geological features, including the famous Spiral Tunnels and the Natural Bridge, provide insight into the Earth’s ancient history and showcase the powerful forces of nature. With its pristine wilderness and diverse ecosystems, Yoho National Park is a haven for those seeking adventure, serenity, and a deeper connection with the natural world.

Getting to Yoho

Yoho National Park is easily accessible from various points in British Columbia and Alberta, making it a convenient destination for travelers. The park is located in the southeastern part of British Columbia, near the Alberta border, and is part of the larger Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site.

By Car: The most common way to reach Yoho is by car. The Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) runs through the park, providing a direct and scenic route. If you’re coming from Calgary, Alberta, it’s about a 210-kilometer drive west, which takes approximately 2.5 hours. From Vancouver, British Columbia, the drive is around 800 kilometers east, taking roughly 9 hours. The nearest major town is Golden, BC, just 27 kilometers west of the park.

By Air: The closest major airport is Calgary International Airport (YYC), which offers numerous domestic and international flights. From the airport, you can rent a car and drive to Yoho, or you can take a shuttle service to Banff and then continue to Yoho.

By Bus: Several bus services operate routes to the nearby town of Field, BC, within Yoho National Park. From Field, you can access various park attractions by car or through guided tours.

By Train: The Rocky Mountaineer, a luxury train service, offers a route that passes through Yoho National Park, providing a unique and scenic way to reach the park. The train stops in Banff and Lake Louise, from where you can continue to Yoho by car or shuttle.

Local Transportation: Once in the park, the best way to get around is by car, allowing you the flexibility to explore at your own pace. Some areas of the park, such as the Yoho Valley and the Iceline Trail, are best accessed on foot or by bicycle. During the summer months, Parks Canada operates a shuttle service to popular destinations like Takakkaw Falls to help manage traffic and reduce environmental impact.

Human History

Yoho National Park’s human history is as rich and varied as its natural landscape. Indigenous peoples have lived in the region for thousands of years, followed by European explorers, fur traders, and railway builders, each leaving their mark on the area.

Indigenous Peoples

The Ktunaxa (Kootenay) and Secwepemc (Shuswap) First Nations were among the first inhabitants of the Yoho region. They lived a semi-nomadic lifestyle, relying on the land for sustenance and using the natural features for navigation and spiritual practices. The Ktunaxa people, in particular, have deep cultural ties to the area, with a history that spans over 10,000 years. They used the mountain passes and river valleys as travel routes and traded goods such as obsidian and copper with neighboring tribes.

European Exploration

The first recorded European exploration of the Yoho region occurred in the early 1800s. Explorers and fur traders, including David Thompson, ventured into the area seeking new trade routes and resources. Thompson’s detailed maps and journals provided valuable information about the region’s geography and natural resources.

The Canadian Pacific Railway

The construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) in the 1880s played a pivotal role in Yoho’s development. The railway, designed to connect the eastern and western parts of Canada, passed through the rugged terrain of the Canadian Rockies, including Yoho. The CPR’s completion in 1885 opened up the area to tourism and settlement, and the railway company played a significant role in promoting the natural beauty of Yoho.

Establishment of Yoho National Park

In 1886, Yoho National Park was established as Canada’s second national park, following Banff. The creation of the park was largely driven by the desire to protect the region’s natural beauty and to attract tourists. The CPR played a significant role in this effort, building grand hotels such as the Emerald Lake Lodge and the Chateau Lake Louise to accommodate visitors.

The Burgess Shale

One of the most significant historical discoveries in Yoho National Park is the Burgess Shale fossil beds. Discovered in 1909 by Charles Doolittle Walcott, the Burgess Shale contains some of the world’s best-preserved and most diverse fossils from the Cambrian period, around 508 million years ago. These fossils provide invaluable insight into early marine life and the evolution of complex organisms. The discovery of the Burgess Shale cemented Yoho’s place in the scientific community and drew researchers and visitors from around the world.

Modern Conservation Efforts

Today, Yoho National Park is managed by Parks Canada, which is dedicated to preserving its natural and cultural heritage. Efforts to protect the park’s ecosystems, wildlife, and historical sites are ongoing, ensuring that future generations can continue to enjoy its beauty and learn from its history. Indigenous partnerships and collaborations are also being strengthened to honor and incorporate traditional knowledge and practices into park management.

Ecology

Yoho National Park boasts a diverse and thriving ecosystem, characterized by its dramatic elevation changes and varied landscapes. The park’s ecology is shaped by its rugged terrain, which ranges from valley bottoms to alpine meadows, creating distinct habitats for a wide range of plant and animal species.

Flora

The park’s vegetation is divided into three primary zones: montane, subalpine, and alpine. Each zone hosts a unique array of plant species adapted to the specific conditions of their environment.

Montane Zone: Found at lower elevations (up to 1,500 meters), this zone is characterized by dense forests of lodgepole pine, Douglas fir, and trembling aspen. The understory is rich with shrubs like buffaloberry, Saskatoon berry, and various wildflowers.

Subalpine Zone: Ranging from 1,500 to 2,200 meters, the subalpine zone features a mix of Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir, and larch trees. This zone is known for its vibrant wildflower meadows, which bloom in late summer, creating a stunning tapestry of colors.

Alpine Zone: Above 2,200 meters, the alpine zone is a harsh environment with sparse vegetation. Here, you’ll find hardy alpine plants such as moss campion, glacier lilies, and various sedges and grasses. This zone is also home to delicate wildflowers that can survive the short growing season and extreme conditions.

Fauna

Yoho National Park is home to a rich diversity of wildlife, including many species that are emblematic of the Canadian Rockies.

Mammals: The park supports a healthy population of large mammals, including grizzly bears, black bears, elk, moose, mountain goats, and bighorn sheep. Predators like wolves, cougars, and lynx also roam the park, maintaining the balance of the ecosystem.

Birds: Birdwatchers will delight in the park’s avian diversity. Over 200 bird species have been recorded in Yoho, including golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and ospreys. The park’s rivers and lakes attract waterfowl such as loons, mergansers, and harlequin ducks.

Reptiles and Amphibians: Though less commonly seen, the park is home to several species of reptiles and amphibians, including the western toad, Columbia spotted frog, and garter snake. These species play a crucial role in the park’s food web.

Invertebrates: Invertebrates, including insects and spiders, are abundant in Yoho. They play vital roles in pollination, decomposition, and as a food source for other animals. Notable species include butterflies, dragonflies, and various beetles.

Aquatic Ecosystems

Yoho’s rivers, lakes, and wetlands are essential components of its ecology. The Kicking Horse River, fed by glaciers and snowmelt, is a vital waterway that supports a variety of fish species, including bull trout and mountain whitefish. Wetlands and marshes provide crucial habitat for amphibians, waterfowl, and other wildlife.

Conservation Efforts

Parks Canada is committed to preserving Yoho’s ecological integrity through various conservation initiatives. These efforts include monitoring wildlife populations, managing invasive species, and conducting research to understand the impacts of climate change. Visitor education programs and guidelines help minimize human impact on the park’s delicate ecosystems.

Challenges

Yoho National Park faces several ecological challenges, including climate change, habitat fragmentation, and human-wildlife conflicts. Rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns affect the park’s glaciers, rivers, and plant communities. Efforts to mitigate these impacts and adapt to changing conditions are crucial for the long-term health of the park’s ecosystems.

Geology

Yoho National Park’s geology is a testament to the Earth’s dynamic processes, showcasing a remarkable history that spans hundreds of millions of years. The park’s dramatic landscapes are shaped by tectonic activity, glaciation, and erosion, creating a geological wonderland for scientists and visitors alike.

Tectonic Activity and Mountain Building

The Canadian Rockies, including Yoho National Park, were formed through the collision of tectonic plates. Around 175 million years ago, the North American plate began colliding with smaller oceanic plates, causing the Earth’s crust to buckle and fold. This process, known as orogeny, resulted in the uplift of the Rocky Mountains. The rock layers in Yoho provide a record of these tectonic forces, with visible folds, faults, and thrust sheets.

Sedimentary Rocks

Yoho’s geology is dominated by sedimentary rocks, which were deposited in ancient marine environments. The park’s rock layers include limestone, shale, and sandstone, each telling a story of past environments and life forms.

Limestone: Formed from the accumulation of marine organisms’ shells and skeletons, limestone is prevalent in Yoho. The Cathedral Formation, a prominent limestone layer, dates back to the Cambrian period and is rich in marine fossils.

Shale: Shale, a fine-grained sedimentary rock, is abundant in the park and holds significant paleontological value. The Burgess Shale, one of the most famous fossil sites in the world, is composed of this rock type. Discovered in 1909, the Burgess Shale contains exceptionally well-preserved fossils of soft-bodied organisms from the Cambrian period, providing insights into early marine life.

Sandstone: Sandstone, formed from compacted sand grains, is also found in Yoho. The Mount Stephen and Ottertail Formations are notable sandstone units, showcasing cross-bedding and ripple marks that indicate ancient river and delta environments.

Glaciation

Glaciation has played a crucial role in shaping Yoho’s landscapes. During the last ice age, glaciers carved deep valleys, sharp peaks, and U-shaped troughs. As the glaciers retreated, they left behind a landscape characterized by moraines, cirques, and hanging valleys.

Glacial Valleys: The Yoho Valley, with its towering walls and waterfalls, is a classic example of a glacially-carved valley. Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada’s highest waterfalls, cascades down a cliff face carved by ice.

Moraines: Glacial moraines, composed of debris left by retreating glaciers, are scattered throughout the park. These ridges of rock and soil provide evidence of past glacial movement and serve as important ecological habitats.

Cirques and Tarns: Cirques, bowl-shaped depressions formed by glacial erosion, are common in Yoho. Many of these cirques contain tarns, small mountain lakes that add to the park’s scenic beauty. Emerald Lake, one of Yoho’s most famous attractions, is a stunning example of a glacial tarn.

Fossils and the Burgess Shale

The Burgess Shale fossil beds are one of Yoho National Park’s most significant geological features. Discovered by Charles Doolittle Walcott in 1909, the Burgess Shale is renowned for its exceptional preservation of soft-bodied organisms from the Cambrian period, around 508 million years ago.

The fossils found in the Burgess Shale provide a unique snapshot of early marine life, showcasing a diverse array of creatures, including arthropods, sponges, and mollusks. These fossils offer valuable insights into the evolution of complex life forms and the conditions of ancient marine environments.

The Spiral Tunnels

The Spiral Tunnels, a marvel of engineering, are an integral part of Yoho’s geological history. Built by the Canadian Pacific Railway to navigate the steep grades of the Kicking Horse Pass, the tunnels consist of two spiral loops carved into the mountains. This ingenious solution allowed trains to safely ascend and descend the pass, reducing the risk of accidents on the steep slopes.

Natural Bridge

The Natural Bridge, a striking rock formation over the Kicking Horse River, is another geological wonder in Yoho. Formed by the erosive forces of the river, the bridge showcases the power of water in shaping the landscape. Visitors can observe the river rushing beneath the bridge, providing a dynamic example of ongoing geological processes.

Best Places to Stay

Yoho National Park offers a range of accommodation options, catering to different tastes and budgets. Whether you prefer a cozy lodge, a rustic cabin, or a backcountry campsite, you’ll find a place to stay that enhances your park experience.

Emerald Lake Lodge: Located on the shores of the stunning Emerald Lake, the Emerald Lake Lodge offers a serene and luxurious retreat. The lodge features charming log cabins with fireplaces, private balconies, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy fine dining at the lodge’s restaurant, which serves regional cuisine made with fresh, local ingredients. The lodge’s picturesque setting and proximity to hiking trails and canoeing opportunities make it an ideal base for exploring Yoho.

Lake O’Hara Lodge: For a truly unique and secluded experience, consider staying at Lake O’Hara Lodge. Nestled in the pristine Lake O’Hara region, the lodge offers a range of accommodation options, including lodge rooms, cabins, and the Elizabeth Parker Hut. Access to Lake O’Hara is limited to protect the delicate environment, and visitors must make reservations well in advance. The lodge provides a cozy and intimate setting, with opportunities for guided hikes and gourmet meals.

Field, BC

The small town of Field, located within the park, offers several accommodation options, including bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and motels. Staying in Field provides convenient access to many of Yoho’s attractions and a chance to experience the local community. Notable options include the Truffle Pigs Bistro & Lodge and the Canadian Rockies Inn.

Camping

Yoho National Park boasts several campgrounds, providing a range of camping experiences from frontcountry sites to remote backcountry locations.

Kicking Horse Campground: Located near the town of Field, this campground offers both tent and RV sites. Amenities include flush toilets, showers, and a sani-dump station. The campground’s central location makes it a great base for exploring the park.

Monarch Campground: A quieter alternative to Kicking Horse, Monarch Campground is situated along the Kicking Horse River. It offers basic facilities, including pit toilets and potable water. The campground’s scenic setting and proximity to hiking trails make it a popular choice for nature lovers.

Takakkaw Falls Campground: This walk-in campground is located near the base of the spectacular Takakkaw Falls. Accessible via a short walk from the parking area, the campground offers a more rustic experience with pit toilets and picnic tables. The proximity to the falls and nearby hiking trails makes it a favorite among adventurers.

Backcountry Camping: For those seeking a more remote experience, Yoho offers several backcountry campsites accessible via hiking trails. Popular backcountry areas include the Iceline Trail, the Yoho Valley, and the Little Yoho Valley. Backcountry campers must obtain a permit and be prepared for self-sufficient wilderness travel.

Hostels and Alpine Club of Canada Huts

Budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a communal atmosphere can stay at one of Yoho’s hostels or Alpine Club of Canada huts.

Whiskey Jack Hostel: Located near Takakkaw Falls, this rustic hostel offers dormitory-style accommodation and basic amenities. It’s an excellent option for solo travelers and groups looking for an affordable place to stay.

Stanley Mitchell Hut: Operated by the Alpine Club of Canada, this backcountry hut is located in the Little Yoho Valley. It offers a cozy shelter for hikers and mountaineers, with basic facilities such as bunks, a wood stove, and a kitchen area. The hut’s remote location provides stunning views and access to excellent hiking and climbing routes.

Enjoying the Park

Yoho National Park offers a wealth of activities and experiences for adventurers of all kinds. Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife watching, canoeing, or simply taking in the breathtaking scenery, there’s something for everyone in this natural paradise.

Hiking

Yoho National Park is a hiker’s dream, with over 400 kilometers of trails ranging from easy walks to challenging backcountry routes. Some of the most popular hikes include:

Emerald Lake Loop: This easy 5.2-kilometer trail circles the stunning Emerald Lake, offering beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and the lake’s vibrant turquoise waters. The trail is accessible and suitable for all ages and skill levels.

Takakkaw Falls and Laughing Falls: A moderate 7.4-kilometer round-trip hike, this trail takes you from the Takakkaw Falls parking area to Laughing Falls. Along the way, you’ll enjoy views of the Yoho Valley and the impressive Takakkaw Falls, one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada.

Iceline Trail: For experienced hikers, the Iceline Trail offers a challenging and rewarding adventure. This 20.8-kilometer loop trail takes you above the treeline, providing panoramic views of glaciers, mountain peaks, and the Yoho Valley. The trail can be completed in a day or as part of a multi-day backpacking trip.

Lake O’Hara: The Lake O’Hara region is renowned for its pristine beauty and limited access to protect the delicate environment. Reservations are required to access the area, and the Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit offers a challenging and spectacular 11-kilometer hike with breathtaking views of alpine lakes and rugged peaks.

Wildlife Watching

Yoho National Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, making it an excellent destination for animal enthusiasts. Common sightings include:

Grizzly Bears and Black Bears: Both species of bears inhabit the park, and sightings are most common in the spring and fall when bears are foraging for food. Always keep a safe distance and follow bear safety guidelines.

Mountain Goats and Bighorn Sheep: These agile climbers can often be spotted on rocky slopes and high-altitude meadows. The Burgess Pass area and the Iceline Trail are good places to look for them.

Elk and Moose: These large herbivores are commonly seen in the park’s valleys and wetlands. Keep an eye out for them near rivers and lakes, especially during the early morning and late evening hours.

Birdwatching: Yoho’s diverse habitats attract a wide variety of bird species. Look for golden eagles, peregrine falcons, and ospreys soaring above, and keep an eye out for waterfowl on the park’s lakes and rivers.

Canoeing and Kayaking

The park’s pristine lakes and rivers provide excellent opportunities for canoeing and kayaking. Emerald Lake is a popular spot for paddling, with rental facilities available on-site. The calm, turquoise waters offer a serene paddling experience with stunning mountain views. The Kicking Horse River, known for its thrilling whitewater sections, also offers calmer stretches suitable for canoeing and kayaking.

Climbing and Mountaineering

Yoho National Park’s rugged peaks and challenging terrain attract climbers and mountaineers from around the world. The park offers a range of climbing experiences, from rock climbing and ice climbing to alpine mountaineering.

Rock Climbing: The quartzite cliffs of the Takakkaw Falls area and the limestone walls near Field offer excellent rock climbing opportunities. Routes vary in difficulty, catering to climbers of different skill levels.

Ice Climbing: During the winter months, the park’s frozen waterfalls provide a playground for ice climbers. Takakkaw Falls, with its impressive height and challenging ice formations, is a popular destination for experienced climbers.

Mountaineering: The park’s high peaks, including Mount Stephen and Mount Victoria, offer challenging alpine routes for experienced mountaineers. These climbs require technical skills and proper equipment, and many routes are best attempted with a guide.

Scenic Drives and Sightseeing

For those who prefer a more leisurely way to enjoy the park, several scenic drives and viewpoints offer stunning vistas and photo opportunities.

Takakkaw Falls: A short drive from the Trans-Canada Highway, Takakkaw Falls is one of Yoho’s most iconic sights. The falls drop 373 meters, making them one of the highest waterfalls in Canada. A short walk from the parking area takes you to the base of the falls, where you can feel the mist and marvel at the sheer power of the water.

Natural Bridge: Located near Field, the Natural Bridge is a striking rock formation over the Kicking Horse River. The bridge was formed by the erosive forces of the river, creating a natural arch that spans the rushing water below.

Emerald Lake: The drive to Emerald Lake is one of the most scenic in the park. Once you arrive, take a stroll around the lake or rent a canoe to explore its turquoise waters. The lake is surrounded by lush forests and towering peaks, making it a perfect spot for photography and relaxation.

Spiral Tunnels: The Spiral Tunnels are a marvel of engineering, built to navigate the steep grades of the Kicking Horse Pass. The tunnels are best viewed from the designated viewpoints along the Trans-Canada Highway, where you can watch trains disappear into the mountainside and reappear at a lower elevation.

Winter Activities

Yoho National Park transforms into a winter wonderland during the colder months, offering a range of activities for snow enthusiasts.

Cross-Country Skiing: The park’s network of trails provides excellent cross-country skiing opportunities. Popular routes include the Emerald Lake Loop and the Kicking Horse Trail. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both beginners and experienced skiers.

Snowshoeing: Snowshoeing is a great way to explore the park’s winter landscapes. Trails such as the Yoho Valley Road and the Tally-Ho Trail offer scenic routes through snow-covered forests and along frozen rivers.

Ice Climbing: For those seeking a more adventurous winter activity, ice climbing is available on the park’s frozen waterfalls. Takakkaw Falls is a popular destination for ice climbers, offering challenging routes and stunning ice formations.

Wildlife Viewing: Winter is a great time to spot wildlife in Yoho, as animals often move to lower elevations in search of food. Keep an eye out for elk, deer, and moose, and watch for tracks in the snow that indicate the presence of other animals.

Conclusion

Yoho National Park is a treasure trove of natural beauty, geological wonders, and rich history. Its diverse ecosystems, dramatic landscapes, and abundant wildlife make it a haven for adventurers and nature enthusiasts. Whether you’re hiking through alpine meadows, paddling on turquoise lakes, or exploring ancient fossil beds, Yoho offers an unforgettable experience.

The park’s accessibility and range of accommodation options make it an ideal destination for travelers from all walks of life. From luxurious lodges to rustic campgrounds, there’s a place for everyone to rest and rejuvenate after a day of adventure.

Yoho’s commitment to conservation and preservation ensures that its natural and cultural heritage will continue to inspire and educate future generations. As you explore this remarkable park, take a moment to reflect on the awe and wonder that have captivated visitors for centuries.

Whether you’re a seasoned adventurer or a first-time visitor, Yoho National Park promises a journey of discovery and a deeper connection with the natural world. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to experience the magic of Yoho – a place where nature’s splendor and human history come together to create an extraordinary tapestry of beauty and adventure.

Hike

Camp

Overlanding

An Adventurer’s Guide to Yoho National Park, British Columbia, Canada