Yoho offers a variety of family friendly hikes and activities
Bring your family on a once in a lifetime day trip to explore the Canadian Rockies
Take a Yoho National Park British Columbia Canada Road Trip - the heart of the Canadian Rockies. Traveling westbound along the Trans Canada Highway 1, Yoho is the first park you will pass through when entering British Columbia, Canada. You are welcomed by towering mountains, stunning bodies of water, and educational roadside stops. The park is home to a variety of vegetation, wild and marine life. Ready to explore all year long!
Yoho National Park British Columbia Canada Road Trip Visitor Centre
The first thing you want to do is stop in at the Visitor Center. There you will learn all about the park, you can purchase a pass, and the kids can pick up an Xplorers booklet that helps guide them through the unique attractions Yoho National Park has to offer. After your trip, you can return the completed booklet to the Visitor Center for a collectable souvenir.
Field British Columbia Restaurants and Cafes
The Yoho National Park Visitor Center is located in the historical community of Field, BC. There are two great restaurants to stop and grab a bite to eat - Truffle Pigs Bistro & Lodge and The Siding Café. However, the bistro is more of a sit-down meal and the café is a good option for a meal on-the-go. If you are a history buff, make sure you stop and read the historical markers telling a story of the surrounding railway development.
The Iconic Natural Bridge and Emerald Lake
Just a short drive (4.3km) from the Yoho National Park Visitor Center is the iconic Natural Bridge. Formed in the flow of the Kicking Horse River meeting with the waters from the Field valley flats. Immediately, you will be drawn in by the sheer power the water has in shaping the landscape around us. Make note of the signage describing the process of this natural phenomenon. This is a great place for a quick photo-op!
Yoho Park Adventures and Dining
Your next stop will be a 10 minute drive up the road to Emerald Lake. You will be greeted by the Emerald Sports rental / gift shop where you can purchase a watercraft rental or snowshoes and cross country skis. If you did not stop in Field, you will have another chance to grab a bite to eat at the Cilantro Café or Mount Burgess Dinning Room. Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park also boasts unique lodging if you would like to spend the night gazing at stars.
Emerald Lake Hiking Trail
The Emerald Lake 5.1km loop trail is one of the most leisurely hikes Yoho has to offer, with accessible views that are absolutely breathtaking. Hiking along the Emerald Lake Loop, you may enjoy a cold plunge in the 15ft to 40ft deep turquoise waters. Fishing is also permitted on the lake, home to rainbow and brook trout.
Hiking Wapta Falls near the town of Golden British Columbia
Finally, heading 47.3km west towards Golden, BC is the stunning Wapta Falls. This 4.6km out-and-back trail has a lot to offer, from dense forest to gorgeous waterfall views. This is an easy hike with a spectacular reward meeting you at the base of the falls. Consequently, if you are lucky, you will be greeted by a rainbow. For the adventurers that prefer to pack their own food, this is your spot for a fun picnic.
Taking Yoho National Park British Columbia Canada Road Trip is a rewarding experience for the entire family. If you are planning on camping overnight, you can find a Recreation Site nearby Wapta Falls off Beaverfoot Forest Service Road. Otherwise, wrap up your day by heading into the town of Golden for accommodations.