The Infinis PathwayCoast to Coast, from AlbertaPlan a Trip

Emerald Lake & Yoho Valley

Yoho Valley Rd · Hwy 1

Highlights

  • Emerald Lake's turquoise water, ringed by the President Range
  • The Natural Bridge rock formation on the Kicking Horse River
  • Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada's tallest waterfalls (seasonal road access)
  • Designed as an add-on day for guests already in Banff or Lake Louise

Itinerary

9:00 AM

Pickup in Banff/Lake Louise

Pickup at your Banff or Lake Louise hotel starts the day heading west, crossing the provincial border out of Alberta and into British Columbia's Yoho National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its waterfalls, glacial lakes, and dramatic peaks. The name Yoho comes from a Cree word expressing awe and wonder, a fitting introduction to the scenery ahead. Settle in for the short drive as the Kicking Horse River valley opens up around you, framed by steep forested slopes.

Lake Louise, ABLake Louise, AB
Natural Bridge, Yoho NP, BCNatural Bridge, Yoho NP, BC
Emerald Lake, BCEmerald Lake, BC
10:00 AM

Natural Bridge

Stop at the Natural Bridge, a striking rock formation where the powerful Kicking Horse River has carved straight through a solid slab of limestone, creating a stone arch the water now churns beneath rather than over. Standing on the viewing platforms, feel the spray and rumble of the river as it forces its way through the narrow channel it has spent thousands of years cutting. It's a compact but powerful demonstration of the erosive force of glacial meltwater over time.

Natural Bridge, Yoho NP, BCNatural Bridge, Yoho NP, BC
Takakkaw Falls, BCTakakkaw Falls, BC
Lake Louise, ABLake Louise, AB
11:00 AM

Emerald Lake

Spend time at Emerald Lake, the largest lake in Yoho National Park and famous for its brilliant, otherworldly green colour, created by fine glacial rock flour suspended in the water. Ringed by the President Range and reflected perfectly on calm days, the lake is a highlight of the Canadian Rockies. Canoe rental is available on-site, weather permitting, for those who want to paddle out onto the vivid water themselves, or simply stroll the lakeshore trail and take in the view.

Emerald Lake, BCEmerald Lake, BC
Natural Bridge, Yoho NP, BCNatural Bridge, Yoho NP, BC
Takakkaw Falls, BCTakakkaw Falls, BC
1:00 PM

Takakkaw Falls

Weather and road access permitting, usually from June through September, visit Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada's tallest waterfalls, plunging in a dramatic 254-metre freefall from the Daly Glacier above. The Cree word Takakkaw translates roughly to it is magnificent, and the thundering cascade, framed by sheer cliffs and dense forest, lives up to the name. A short walk from the parking area brings you close enough to feel the mist, a fittingly powerful stop before the drive back begins.

Takakkaw Falls, BCTakakkaw Falls, BC
Lake Louise, ABLake Louise, AB
Natural Bridge, Yoho NP, BCNatural Bridge, Yoho NP, BC
4:00 PM

Return

With Yoho's emerald waters and towering waterfalls behind you, the drive heads back east across the Continental Divide into Alberta, retracing the Kicking Horse River valley one last time. It's a relaxed final leg to take in the scenery and reflect on a day spent among some of the Canadian Rockies' most striking glacial landscapes. Drop-off brings you right back to your Banff or Lake Louise hotel, closing out a full day of exploring Yoho National Park and its wonders.

Lake Louise, ABLake Louise, AB
Emerald Lake, BCEmerald Lake, BC
Takakkaw Falls, BCTakakkaw Falls, BC

Route & Distances

  1. Lake LouiseNatural Bridge≈ 30 km
  2. Natural BridgeEmerald Lake≈ 5 km
  3. Emerald LakeTakakkaw Falls≈ 15 km

Distances are approximate driving distances, for reference only — actual route and mileage on the day may vary.

Check Availability

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Departure dates are temporarily closed. This calendar will reopen here once we are officially operating. In the meantime, contact us to register your interest.

What's Included

Includes

  • Transport from Banff or Lake Louise
  • English-speaking driver-guide (Vietnamese on request, subject to availability)

Excludes

  • Meals and personal expenses
  • Canoe rental
  • Parks Canada day pass
  • Gratuities for your guide

Own Expenses

Optional activities you can add on-site — not included in the tour price.

  • Canoe rental at Emerald Lake≈ $95 CAD / hour
  • Parks Canada day pass≈ $11 CAD / person / day

Cancellation Policy

CancelledRefund
21+ days before departureFull refund
7–20 days before departure50% refund
Less than 7 days before departureNo refund

Good to Know

  • Valid government-issued photo ID is required for every traveler on all departures.
  • Pickup and drop-off times are approximate and may shift by 15–30 minutes depending on traffic and road conditions.
  • Itinerary order and stops may change due to weather, road closures, or park conditions — safety comes first.
  • Comfortable walking shoes are recommended; stops involve short, easy walks rather than technical hiking.
  • Let us know about mobility needs, dietary restrictions, or large group sizes at the time of booking so we can plan accordingly.
  • Multi-day tours are priced based on double-occupancy hotel rooms; single-traveler and triple-occupancy rates are available on request.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a good add-on to the Banff & Lake Louise route?

Yes — many guests book this as a second day while already staying in the area.

Is Takakkaw Falls always accessible?

The access road is seasonal and typically open June through September — we'll let you know if it's closed on your date.

Is canoe rental included?

No, it's optional and paid on-site at Emerald Lake.

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From $130 CADper person, CAD

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