Discover nature at one of Canada's hidden gems

Emerald Lake lodge is the getaway you've dreamed of

Hidden away in the heart of Yoho National Park, is the perfect wilderness escape that seamlessly fuses rustic charm with natural beauty. The historic lodge dating back to 1902, radiates elegance with it's log cabin architecture and stone fireplaces. Emerald lake surpasses expectations, with its emerald waters, surrounding gorgeous mountains, and luscious forest. Outdoor enthusiasts and romantics will be speechless in amazement by Emerald Lake. This venue provides a great wedding atmosphere. Whether you're hiking the nearby glacial trail, or paddling on the lake, the Lodge offers the perfect getaway from everyday life, making it a sanctuary for those seeking sanctuary.

The lodge is complimented by Cilantro Café: A must-visit stop for a cup of coffee or a lunch. Next to the bridge with it’s yellow umbrella tables, you can enjoy a burger or wild game chili while you embrace the stunning views of the lake. The interior is equally exquisite with sweeping cathedral ceilings and wood accents. The grand river-stone fireplace adds the final touches to the natural ambience.

Paddling on Yoho's water

Paddling on the lake is beginner friendly. Since motorboats are not permitted, the water is calm and there is plenty of space to paddle. Near the lodge is a 1-hour canoe rental service to get you started. The workers are knowledgeable and will ask about your paddling skill level. It is recommended to be aware of weather conditions as the rental service will close during unsafe weather. Got your own canoe, kayak or paddleboard? Bring it to Emerald Lake to save money instead of purchasing a rental. Parking can be limited, so it is suggested that you arrive early to launch your canoe. Whether you are soaking in the lake vibes, taking photos or learning to paddle, this will be a memory for a lifetime.

To paddle the route of the entire lake is approximately 4.2 km. Even if the lake area does get crowded, you can easily escape in the vast space of the lake. Given the busy hours of the lake, it is highly recommended to arrive before 8:00 AM or after 6:00 PM to find a spot in the limited parking.

Embrace the adventure of Yoho's glacial trails

Hiking on the Glacial Trail is a journey into the heart of Canadian wilderness. The nearby trail to Emerald Lake provides one of the best examples of a glacial runoff lake in the Rocky Mountains. The route creates a trail of green glacial lakes and towering mountains the perfect scene of what Yoho National Park has to offer. Whether it is a casual stroll along the lakeshore or you are challenging yourself with a difficult ascent to the surrounding peaks, the stunning scenes will make every step worthwhile. With its natural beauty and unreal environment of the Canadian Rockies, hiking the trail allows you to connect with the breathtaking experience of the great outdoors.

The Glacial Trail hike is 10.8km and will take on average about 3 hours to complete. Being opened year-round, it is a prime location for birding, hiking and even snowshoeing. The trail begins at the northern end of the parking lot near the outhouses. The trail, initially paved, leads you through the forest along the shore where it opens to an avalanche slope, giving you an incredible view of the Lodge. Continuing along the lake, the glacial outwash where streams feed into the lake. To the left at a junction, you will be challenged with a steep ascent alongside the Emerald River canyon. As the trail flattens, you’ll enter a shrub dense area revealing the President peak in Emerald Basin. Passing through the avalanche-cleared meadows, you’ll reach the basin where you’ll unveil waterfalls, receding glaciers, and alpine vegetation. The return journey retraces the same path, bringing you back to the shores of the lake. If you have a furry friend, be excited to know that dogs are welcomed but must be leashed.

The perfect wedding location

Weddings at Emerald Lake are a fairy tale brought to life. This breathtaking location offers a romantic backdrop like no other. The iconic Emerald Lake Lodge sets the stage for unforgettable ceremonies. Imagine exchanging vows against the backdrop of emerald-green waters, surrounded by towering mountains and lush forests. Whether you're planning an intimate or grand event, the natural beauty of the water provides the perfect setting for love to bloom. With attentive staff, appetizing cuisine, and the stunning Rockies as witnesses, weddings at Emerald Lake promise a magical and cherished beginning to a lifetime of happiness. You can rent your own island and enjoy everything the lake lodge has to offer. Every room and amenity is of service to you, providing complete privacy and comfort. Your whole wedding party can party up and tackle Yoho's glacial trails, or enjoh paddling on the lake giving amazing moments for photography and memories. Check out this link to book your wedding at the lodge Emerald Lake Wedding

Recent Discovery: Preparation

In a recent news article dated September 22, 2023, the discovery of a suspected case of whirling disease in British Columbia's Emerald Lake has raised significant concerns among researchers and environmental authorities. The article reports that Parks Canada is actively investigating this potential outbreak, marking the first time the parasite responsible for whirling disease has been detected in the province. The disease, caused by a microscopic parasite affecting trout and salmon, has prompted the closure of Emerald Lake and its connected waters to swimming and boating activities.

According to Shelley Humphries, an aquatic ecologist with Parks Canada, the agency is on high alert, with the current round of testing initiated following the discovery of a deformed brook trout in August. Humphries emphasizes the need for further sampling to confirm the presence of whirling disease, stating, "We want to make sure that if this is a true positive...visitors to the park don't accidentally spread [the disease] somewhere else." The potential impact of the disease on young fish, with a mortality rate of about 90 percent, adds urgency to the situation.

Biologist Juan José Alava suggests a challenging but necessary course of action if whirling disease is confirmed: "The best thing they can do is collect all the fish and basically sacrifice them." This echoes a similar situation in Banff National Park in 2016, where officials had to remove and kill all fish in Johnson Lake to prevent the spread of the parasite.

The article provides a comprehensive overview of the current situation, highlighting the potential consequences for local ecosystems, fishers, and Indigenous groups. Given the difficulty of eradicating whirling disease once established, the decisions made in the coming weeks will have far-reaching implications.

Read the full article: "Every fish in B.C.'s Emerald Lake may have to be killed..."