Overview
Yoho National Park is Canada's smallest Rocky Mountain park but packs incredible natural diversity: the second-highest waterfall in Canada (Takakkaw Falls at 384m), glacier-fed Emerald Lake, UNESCO-listed Burgess Shale fossil beds with 500-million-year-old specimens, and historic rail engineering at the Spiral Tunnels. The park offers everything from gentle lakeside strolls to challenging multi-day backcountry routes, all within easy reach of the Trans-Canada Highway.
Day Trips · Museums · Nature · Trekking
Before you go
Accommodation
Camping is the budget option ($15.70-$27.40/night). Budget hostel (Whiskey Jack) operates mid-June to mid-September. Lodges like Emerald Lake start at $330/night.
Connectivity
Cell service only near Field village. No service elsewhere in the park. Prepare for digital disconnection, especially on backcountry hikes.
Fees
Parks pass required for all visitors: $11/adult daily (2024), $9.50/senior, free for under 18, $22/family. Annual Discovery Pass available for longer stays.
Safety
Wildlife is common—always carry bear spray, travel in groups, make noise on trails, and store food properly in bear-resistant containers.
Transport
Car is essential for most visitors. Trans-Canada Highway bisects the park with access from Calgary (2 hours east) or Vancouver (10 hours west). No bus or train stops within the park.
Weather
Mountain weather is unpredictable year-round. Summer days reach 20°C but nights drop to 5°C. Snow possible any month above 1,500 m. Winters are harsh, -15°C to -35°C.