Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake
4.5
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Peaceful lake nestled in the mountains and surrounded by lush, green forest.
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- Bohemian_me84Calgary, Canada2,020 contributionsFairy taleThis is for sure one of the most beautiful places in the Rockies . That lake is breath taking , little houses from the lodge are adding charm and cute little souvenir shop and canoe rental just add to charm . Water is really cold so try not to fall in , you can buy locally made honey at the canoe rental and amazing chutney at the lodge . You can also buy postcards but no place to send them from :)Visited September 2023Traveled soloWritten October 5, 2023
- Ashlyne NNorth Bay, Canada365 contributionsBeautiful Hiking AreaAbsolutely stuffing place! There was only one other car in the someone lots and we pretty much had the place to ourselves which I hear is a rarity here. We did the hike around the lake and the views were stunning. I’d definitely suggest coming here in the winter when you can take advantage of the small crowds!Visited February 2024Traveled with friendsWritten March 1, 2024
- Lawrence V13 contributionsSecluded & breathtaking scenery!Walk around the Lake was easy and about 45 minute hike. Easy to follow trail. Good to walk around in winter conditions and lake frozen over. Not much wildlife noticed.Visited March 2024Traveled with familyWritten April 7, 2024
- BruinDanFullerton, California3,197 contributionsGet there early and enjoy the beautyLocated in British Columbia near the border with Alberta, Emerald Lake is one of the most popular attractions in Yoho National Park. It is located a little less than 58 mi/94 km from the town of Banff, Alberta. My wife and I visited the lake on a very chilly morning in mid-October 2023. NOTE that most travel guides and websites recommend that you arrive at Emerald Lake early, and I would concur. We arrived a few minutes after 8:00 a.m., and there was plenty of parking available. When we left a couple hours later, the relatively small lot was full. This was despite the fact it was during the off season. Partially due to the low temperatures, there was low-lying fog right on top of the lake, giving it a very eerie and mysterious look as we walked along the bridge toward the resort. As the sun broke through the clouds and the fog dissipated, we took a walk along the paved walkway next to the lake, where you will find a large information kiosk and vault toilets. We were treated to some spectacular views of this gorgeous lake and the surrounding mountains. Ultimately, we were very glad we included a visit to Emerald Lake as part of our Canadian Rockies vacation.Visited October 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten May 13, 2024
- Tony A108 contributionsStunning lake and a great hiking trail.Stunning lake with beautiful colors and a fantastic walking trail. The trail take about 2 hours to go all the way around. Take hiking boots as half of the trail is asphalt and half is dirt and can get muddy. Take a lunch because there was no food available when we were there. You can get coffee is off season. Clean restrooms are available. No cell service but WiFi is available in the lodge. This place is beautiful.Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten May 18, 2024
- FLtrotterSt. Augustine, Florida354 contributionsEmerald lake is a Rockies jewel.Like other reviewers mentioned, can’t cliche enough, this is a beautiful lake. Go see it if you can. It was a sunny cool day mid May when we went. There were people but not crowded. Parking was sufficient. There was a store and several picturesque cabins like a small village. Other than that no massive commercialization like Banff. We walked some of the loop trail and inner trail near the lake but running out of time left early. Just the drive out for the view is worth it. No animals in sight except for the humanoid ones. I think parking was free, can’t believe it!Visited May 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 10, 2024
- Phil L14 contributionsDon’t miss Emerald LakeWe did the hike around the lake. It’s a little over 3 miles. Great scenery a little muddy in some areas but a great hike. It took us over 2 hours. Afterwards we had lunch at the restaurant. I had the shrimp poor boy, it wasn’t that good. I think a smarter move would to bring a sandwich and eat somewhere along the trail. The cabins at the lake look amazing but I’d bet they are high $.Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 17, 2024
- Mickey FBethesda, Maryland57 contributionsOne of the most beautiful lakes in the worldOne of the most beautiful lakes in the world! Absolutely stunning! The stunning emerald colored water sets this lake apart. The backdrop of the snowcapped Rockies and greenery are indescribable. I’m attaching a couple of photos, but they don’t do it justice. Highly recommended!Visited June 2024Traveled with familyWritten June 22, 2024
- Marjolein vPorec, Croatia142 contributionsBeautifulBeautiful lake. Great hikes around the lake. Water is so clear. Go early to bead the crowds. Enjoy the nature. Good to walk for kids aswel. My kids were 1,5 and 4 yo and both walked a lot themselfs.Visited August 2023Traveled with familyWritten July 4, 2024
- texas6006Texas138 contributionsAnother nice lakeWe were told about this lake and the Takakkaw Falls nearby at the Lake Lousie visitor center. These two sights were way better than the over rated touristy areas like Lake Louise and Moraine lake. Parking is tough like all sights in this area during peak season. Suggest going after 4 PM.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 26, 2024
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Srikanth
Toronto, Canada54 contributions
Aug 2021
115 kms from Canmore and in BC territory is YOHO National park.
You can park along the road if lot is full.
Yet another beautiful lake in jade colored serene waters.
We are glad we saved time and money for canoeing here than at lake Louise.
Coz, for $75 we got a 1 hour rental for 3 ppl carrying Canoe and on top of it, this lake I found is more pleasant without the touristy hustle n bustle found at Lake Louise.
You can park along the road if lot is full.
Yet another beautiful lake in jade colored serene waters.
We are glad we saved time and money for canoeing here than at lake Louise.
Coz, for $75 we got a 1 hour rental for 3 ppl carrying Canoe and on top of it, this lake I found is more pleasant without the touristy hustle n bustle found at Lake Louise.
Written August 19, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
rlmptl
Lloydminster, Canada1,232 contributions
Sep 2022
This was a beautiful lake and a nice stop at the natural bridge waterfalls except for the crazy people going over the barriers for photos and selfies with their kids too on the slippery rocks like are you crazy ? you are asking for an accident and then having things closed off because of you!
We arrived at 230 pm OOOMMMGG i have never seen so many people except at lake Louise in July and this is mid September. its crazy crazy packed and cars parked for a mile or more FORGET it no way you can launch a kayak here with the crowds we went back at 630 pm and it was alot better and by the time we launched the kayak at 7 pm mid week too in the smoke haze of the jasper fire we had the lake to ourself. its just the right size for kayaking not to big and we felt safe in the middle although when a wind came up its hard paddling so us old timers stuck close to the shore. you can venture under the bridge but beware do not go to the right there is a current and a sign posted warning you we stuck close to the left side shore by the lodge and restaurant no danger there. The launch is a little ways up so you will need to portage your kayak we have a roller on wheels and its steep down but well worth the effort for this emerald green lake so surreal beautiful
Good hiking and picnic rest stops all around the lake there is a restaurant and beautiful accommodation to rent lake side likely 100's of dollars a night but worth it if you have the cash
this is a must do kayaking lake just DO NOT go during the day
We arrived at 230 pm OOOMMMGG i have never seen so many people except at lake Louise in July and this is mid September. its crazy crazy packed and cars parked for a mile or more FORGET it no way you can launch a kayak here with the crowds we went back at 630 pm and it was alot better and by the time we launched the kayak at 7 pm mid week too in the smoke haze of the jasper fire we had the lake to ourself. its just the right size for kayaking not to big and we felt safe in the middle although when a wind came up its hard paddling so us old timers stuck close to the shore. you can venture under the bridge but beware do not go to the right there is a current and a sign posted warning you we stuck close to the left side shore by the lodge and restaurant no danger there. The launch is a little ways up so you will need to portage your kayak we have a roller on wheels and its steep down but well worth the effort for this emerald green lake so surreal beautiful
Good hiking and picnic rest stops all around the lake there is a restaurant and beautiful accommodation to rent lake side likely 100's of dollars a night but worth it if you have the cash
this is a must do kayaking lake just DO NOT go during the day
Written September 21, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
claire t
Congleton, UK191 contributions
Aug 2022 • Family
We arrived at just before 10am on a weekday and found the car park full but you can park alongside the road. It is a short stroll to the lake. We did the full lakeside trail, which is a pretty, scenic easy trail which took us just less than an hour with photo stops along the way. We then rented a couple of canoes, these are only available to rent by the hour at the moment at $90cad each and can fit 3 adults per canoe. This was great and much cheaper than Lake Louise!! We got on straight away.
Written August 14, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
pianoman88
Calgary, Canada179 contributions
Jul 2020
We arrived at the "overflow parking lot" and called for a shuttle, we were than picked up and transported to the reception area. Check-in was smooth and the staff member was polite, friendly and informative. We got the room we had requested previously!! It was a one bedroom "Emerald suite" # 253 right on the edge of the lake. The suite was very clean, bright , including ample furniture. The room was nicely attired and included a K-pod coffee maker ( which we loved ) One side of the room consisted of a large window's looking out onto the emerald green lake. Outside was a large "wrap around deck" with two comfy chairs. We were close to the main lodge, which included a lounge and two eating areas. We utilized the restaurants daily, great food but pricey!!! The highlight was canoeing, so tranquil and beautiful. Also hiking is a popular attribute !
Written August 2, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
1girl_1passport
Vancouver, Canada1,287 contributions
Oct 2020
If you come to the Yoho National Park this is a must-see on your trip.
If you have ever seen a picture of this lake it is a million times better in person. This lake is gorgeous and one of the most beautiful ones I have been to ever.
The only downside of coming here is that the parking lot is super tiny. The is not enough parking even when we went in the offseason and during Covid, so be prepared.
Also if you were thinking about renting a canoe be aware of the cost. Be prepared to spend at least 100-150 CAD for an hour.
If you have ever seen a picture of this lake it is a million times better in person. This lake is gorgeous and one of the most beautiful ones I have been to ever.
The only downside of coming here is that the parking lot is super tiny. The is not enough parking even when we went in the offseason and during Covid, so be prepared.
Also if you were thinking about renting a canoe be aware of the cost. Be prepared to spend at least 100-150 CAD for an hour.
Written November 16, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Allyala N
Brookline, MA93 contributions
Aug 2022 • Couples
This lake is spectacular. The water is deep green and blue. Very nice hiking trails around the lake. We did not stay at the lodge at the lake. It is a short drive from Lake Louise. Canoeing and paddle boating is popular on the lake. There is a restaurant as well as a small tuck shop where you can get things to eat. Parking is a major issue. We went around 4pm in the afternoon and were able to find parking quite easily and so suggest avoiding the morning rush hour. Interestingly Lake Louise used to be called the emerald lake till such time as it was name after Queen Victoria’s daughter. The views are spectacular with the forests and mountains framing the lake. Do observe the speed limits as there are wild animals around and you don’t want to either disturb or hurt them
Written August 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Naresh Karani
Dubai, United Arab Emirates215 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
The highlight of our visit to the Yoho National Park was the Emerald Lake. You could be sure that you've never seen such an exquisite lake that looks actually green in colour, and hence the name. We just could not resist canoeing in the lake, and it was certainly one of our most memorable experiences of our four-day trip to Banff/Jasper/Yoho National Parks across Alberta and British Columbia provinces of Canada. We would strongly recommend a visit, as Emerald lake has breathtaking, fabulous and serene views. The waters are calm and one could hire a canoe on an hourly basis for CAD 90 per canoe, with three people allowed to be in a canoe.
Written September 3, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stephen & Sue
Canberra, Australia2,652 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
Emerald Lake is one of the lesser known gems in the region, but should be one of its essential stops.
The lake is – emerald! It’s stunning, even on a wet day, and worth much than just a short stop, so leave time for the 2 hour easy, flat hike around the lake.
Canoe hire here is also much cheaper than at Lake Louise or Moraine.
There’s toilets, canoe hire, a café and plenty of picnic tables, but parking is limited so you may have to park down the road and walk a bit.
Crowds here are nothing like those at the nearby main attractions, so it’s relatively peaceful, though the odd tour bus does seem to make it here for a brief stop.
It’s just over half an hour’s drive from Lake Louise Village, so an easy visit on any stay in the region.
Our only regret is we didn’t leave enough time to spend more time at this lovely, quiet spot.
The lake is – emerald! It’s stunning, even on a wet day, and worth much than just a short stop, so leave time for the 2 hour easy, flat hike around the lake.
Canoe hire here is also much cheaper than at Lake Louise or Moraine.
There’s toilets, canoe hire, a café and plenty of picnic tables, but parking is limited so you may have to park down the road and walk a bit.
Crowds here are nothing like those at the nearby main attractions, so it’s relatively peaceful, though the odd tour bus does seem to make it here for a brief stop.
It’s just over half an hour’s drive from Lake Louise Village, so an easy visit on any stay in the region.
Our only regret is we didn’t leave enough time to spend more time at this lovely, quiet spot.
Written August 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rebecca d
Oxfordshire, UK67 contributions
Aug 2024 • Family
Having tried to get the park and ride bus to either Lake Louise or Lake Moraine and discovered a) the cost and b) the number of people trying to do the same thing, we gave up on that and decided to head to Emerald Lake instead.
We were very pleased with our decision. Firstly because we could drive and park near the lake itself. Secondly because we were able to avoid all the people taking photos from the bridge by pretty much walk straight on to the canoe rentals!
With four of us (two adults, two younger teens) we hired two canoes for $100 per boat for an hour. Again, compared to the cost of the shuttle buses to the other lakes and the cost and likelihood of being able to rent a kayak or canoe at either, this was much more favorable and a more economical option.
We had a sunny afternoon, with a potential threat of a thunderstorm. The lady selling us the tickets clearly cautioned us about the weather and explained the safety measures in the event of thunder, and the no- refund rules for weather. And in the event - no rain or thunder ensued and we enjoyed a full sunny hour on the water.
The Lake was very calm and it’s an absolutely brilliant way to enjoy it. You can easily feel as if you’re the only ones on it, despite the other canoes enjoying it too. Highly recommend this experience.
We were very pleased with our decision. Firstly because we could drive and park near the lake itself. Secondly because we were able to avoid all the people taking photos from the bridge by pretty much walk straight on to the canoe rentals!
With four of us (two adults, two younger teens) we hired two canoes for $100 per boat for an hour. Again, compared to the cost of the shuttle buses to the other lakes and the cost and likelihood of being able to rent a kayak or canoe at either, this was much more favorable and a more economical option.
We had a sunny afternoon, with a potential threat of a thunderstorm. The lady selling us the tickets clearly cautioned us about the weather and explained the safety measures in the event of thunder, and the no- refund rules for weather. And in the event - no rain or thunder ensued and we enjoyed a full sunny hour on the water.
The Lake was very calm and it’s an absolutely brilliant way to enjoy it. You can easily feel as if you’re the only ones on it, despite the other canoes enjoying it too. Highly recommend this experience.
Written August 16, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hussain110
Edmonton, Canada283 contributions
Jul 2020 • Family
Beautiful lake, just a few mins walk from the parking lot. This lake lives up to its name. Canoe rental is available but it's about 70$ for 3 people in 1 boat. Hike around the lake, it's an easy and beautiful hike.
Written July 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi, we are planning our first visit to Canada in June/July 2024, form the UK(flying to Calgary). We don't plan to drive/rent a car. We want to visit -Jasper, Banff, Lakes in the area- Emeralde,Moraine,Lake Louise,Peyto Lake,Bow Falls),Golden Skybridge and Athabasca Glacier. Would appreciate help to plan, tour packages information. Mnay thanks
Written December 28, 2023
I agree with hiring a car. That being said, the closer to your holiday date, the more expensive you will find it to be (we booked ours a year in advance). The roads through the Rockies are easy and extremely pleasant to drive in and around. You may even get caught in a bear jam before the Rangers arrive.
Also be aware that Canada Day weekend (falls on 1 July 2024) will be extremely busy in Banff and the surrounding areas (which we found out due to arriving on Monday 3 July 2023). Car parks will fill up very quickly that weekend. And any shuttles you need (especially for Moraine Lake and Lake Louise as no car access) need to be booked in advance too (we missed out on Moraine Lake this time around but we walked to Lake Louise as our accommodation was nearby).
I was expecting it to be busy when we went, but it was very overwhelming at times with the amount of people around, especially at Lake Louise.
If you need any further info, let me know. My hubby and I have been twice through the Rockies and planned everything ourselves.
Written January 12, 2024
Hello, is it permissible to park an RV in the car park when visiting the lake?
Written November 30, 2023
Yes, there are areas along the road on the way in that you could park an RV. I assume you are not planning to park and then stay there (live an RV park)
Written November 30, 2023
Hi!
My husband and I will be travelling with our 8 month old daughter in early September and plan to visit Emerald Lake. Does anyone know whether the canoe rental has an age restriction? And additionally do they offer life jackets? Just wondering whether we will be able to canoe with the little one!
Thanks in advance.
Written August 17, 2022
I think you have to google the web site for any advice n even email their site.
Written August 23, 2022
Hi,
What time is the sunrise in mid July at Emerald Lake?
Thanks!
Written December 27, 2020
Yes it’s early about 5:30 but because of mountains, you can see sunrise actually later then 5:30 am
Written January 18, 2021
When is the best month or months to visit the lake? In terms of colour and scenery
Written May 7, 2020
I went in early July and the lake was a lovely blue / green colour (see my review for more pictures). I would say that it depends on the weather too and which part of the Lake you are standing it. There are so many different perspectives.
Written January 12, 2024
Can you bring an inflatable canoe or kayak? Would it be a far hike to the launch area with a canoe/kayak?
Written February 9, 2020
No, straight off the car park
Written March 7, 2020
What is the closest airport to Emerald Lake?
Written October 1, 2019
The closest airport is in Calgary. The closest larger city is Golden. I don’t know if there is an airport with commercial flights in Golden.
Written October 2, 2019
Hi Everyone.
Me and my boyfriend are visiting emerald lake in 4 weeks and I'm really hoping the lake isn't still frozen? Can anyone advise if they have been mid May and what we can expect?
Written April 14, 2019
Hello we went May 24th it was not frozen not even close. Beautiful however!
Written April 23, 2019
Going this summer to Yoho National Park and want to go to Emerald Lake. How is the drive to get there? I really wanted to do the Yoho Lake and Takakkaw falls but after reading the reviews about the road to get there I am very skeptical. Hoping this drive is easier and how about the parking? Is there lots or is that a problem?
Written January 15, 2019
The drive to Emerald Lake is pretty good, but the parking gets filled up quickly so you need to get there early. We were there around 8am and by the time we finished hiking around 2pm, the parking lot was a zoo with cars and tour buses circling around.
We never made it to Yoho Lake or Takakkaw Falls. I heard the road is only open during the summer months so my guess is it's probably a logging type road and probably need a 4x4 or higher clearance vehicle.
Written March 2, 2019
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