Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake is located in Yoho National Park In British Columbia. It is the largest of Yoho’s lakes and one of the most popular. The lake is enclosed by the mountains of the President Range as well as Mount Burgess and Wapta Mountain. The name of the lake comes from its beautiful green colour.
Emerald Lake is located twenty minutes west of Lake Louise. Take the Trans Canada Highway #1 heading west towards Field and Golden B.C. The turn off to Emerald Lake is located 1km past the town of Field.
An easy 5 km trail goes completely around the lake. It allows you to take in views of the mountains and experience the variety of vegetation in the area. Other trails originate at the lake leading into the surrounding high country area. Canoe and boat rentals are available at the boathouse near the parking lot. A small gift shop is located there as well.
The high end Emerald Lake Lodge is perched along the edge of the lake. Travelers of the past came to this lodge by rail and horse-drawn coach. The lake was first discovered by the legendary guide Tom Wilson in 1882. The Canadian Pacific Railway built the lodge in 1902.
There are rooms available in the main lodge as well as cabins. The whole setting is very tranquil. Even if you are not staying at the lodge the grounds are a nice area for a stroll. There are three dining options on the property featuring Rocky Mountain Cuisine. The Mount Burgess Dining Room, the Kicking Horse Lounge and Cilantro On The Lake.
The historical lodge takes you back in time. It is built of hand-hewn timber. The lounge has an oak bar that was salvaged from an 1890’sYukon saloon. This is truly a place to escape the stress of modern life. Be warned there are no televisions or internet in the rooms.
Natural Bridge
On your way to Emerald Lake be sure to see the Natural Bridge. It is located just off the road to leading to Emerald Lake. Once on the Emerald Lake Road continue another 2 km’s to the junction for the access road to the Natural Bridge parking lot. A short trail leads to the Kicking Horse River where you can get a great view of the bridge.
The Natural Bridge is a limestone rock formation that spans across the Kicking Horse River. Over time the Natural Bridge will erode and collapse.
Other areas we visited in Yoho National Park are Takakkaw Falls and the Spiral Tunnels.
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