Emerald Lake
A breathtaking glacial lake in Yoho National Park, famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Emerald Lake
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking glacial lake in Yoho National Park, famous for its vibrant turquoise waters and stunning mountain backdrop.
"This is the place of power. Power of nature. You can come whenever you want. And every time this lake will show you its best."
🎯 Canoe Rental Value
Rent a canoe here; it's cheaper and less crowded than Lake Louise!
🦟 Mosquito Alert!
Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially if you walk far around the lake in summer.
Quick Facts
Rating
4.8 · 1,427 reviews
Type
Lake
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Canoeing on Turquoise Waters
Emerald Lake
Paddle across the mesmerizing, vibrant turquoise waters for an unforgettable perspective of the surrounding mountains.
Lakeside Trail Stroll
Emerald Lake
Enjoy a leisurely walk or hike around the lake, taking in the stunning scenery and giant trees.
Emerald Lake Lodge Dining
Emerald Lake Lodge
Savor a meal with breathtaking views at the Emerald Lake Lodge, especially recommended during the tail end of busy season.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Emerald Lake
Parking and Access Tips
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Canoe Rental Value
Rent a canoe here; it's cheaper and less crowded than Lake Louise! +1
🦟 Mosquito Alert!
Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially if you walk far around the lake in summer.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast. Aim for early morning or late afternoon.
🏞️ National Park Pass Needed
Don't forget your National Park Pass for parking access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Canoe Rental Value
Rent a canoe here; it's cheaper and less crowded than Lake Louise! +1
🦟 Mosquito Alert!
Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially if you walk far around the lake in summer.
🚗 Arrive Early for Parking
Parking fills up fast. Aim for early morning or late afternoon.
🏞️ National Park Pass Needed
Don't forget your National Park Pass for parking access.
🚶♀️ Lakeside Trail Easy
The lakeside trail is accessible and offers stunning views.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Emerald Lake for its unparalleled natural beauty, with many describing its turquoise waters as mesmerizing and the surrounding scenery as breathtaking. The opportunity to canoe on the lake and walk the scenic lakeside trail are frequently highlighted as favorite activities. Some visitors note that mosquitoes can be an issue during summer, and parking can be challenging during peak times.
"This is the place of power.
Power of nature.
You can come whenever you want. And every time this lake will show you its best."
Галина Иванькова
"Amazing place. Very beautiful lake and forest. You can go around this lake by the path."
Serhii
"Beautiful lake, but in the summer if you walk too far around the lake you will be stuck with lots of mosquitoes."
Alina Cernaka
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emerald Lake is about a 1-hour drive from Banff townsite. The scenic drive is part of the experience.
Emerald Lake is actually located in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, but it's a popular day trip from Banff.
The drive from Lake Louise to Emerald Lake is approximately 55 km and is very scenic.
Access to Emerald Lake can be limited in winter due to snow and road conditions. Check Parks Canada for current advisories.
While not as common as driving, some shuttle services may operate seasonally. It's best to check local tour operators for options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, a Parks Canada Discovery Pass is required to park your vehicle at Emerald Lake.
The entrance fee is covered by your Parks Canada Discovery Pass, which is required for all national parks in the area.
Emerald Lake is accessible year-round, but facilities like the lodge and canoe rentals have seasonal operating hours.
Yes, swimming is permitted in Emerald Lake, but be prepared for very cold glacial water!
Dogs are generally allowed on the lakeside trail at Emerald Lake, but must be kept on a leash.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include canoeing, kayaking, hiking the lakeside trail, fishing, and enjoying the views from the lodge.
The full lakeside trail is approximately 5.2 km and takes about an hour to complete.
Emerald Lake is famous for its stunning, vibrant turquoise-green color, caused by glacial silt reflecting sunlight.
Emerald Lake can get very crowded, especially during peak summer months. Arriving early or visiting on a weekday can help.
Yes, mosquitoes can be prevalent, particularly in the summer months and if you venture away from the main areas.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, Emerald Lake Lodge has a restaurant offering dining with beautiful lake views. +1
The lodge typically offers a menu featuring Canadian cuisine, with options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Picnicking is allowed in designated areas, but be mindful of wildlife and pack out all your trash.
While the lodge is the main dining option, there might be seasonal snack services available. It's best to check their website.
The Emerald Lake Lodge is the primary dining facility. For other options, you would need to drive back towards Field or Lake Louise.
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late evening often provides the best light for photography, with softer shadows and vibrant colors.
The viewpoints near the lodge, the canoe docks, and along the lakeside trail offer numerous stunning photo opportunities.
Drone usage is restricted in Canadian National Parks. Always check Parks Canada regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive mountain and lake scenery. A polarizing filter can enhance the water's color.
The area around the Emerald Lake Lodge and the beginning of the lakeside trail offer iconic viewpoints.
Social
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