Emerald Lake (British Columbia)
Lake Alpine lake in Yoho National Park with turquoise waters
Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park features turquoise glacial water, shoreline trails and canoe rentals; hikers and photographers use it as a base for alpine walks and wildlife spotting.
Emerald Lake is a glacial lake in Yoho National Park, British Columbia, known for its intense turquoise colour. It is one of the park’s most visited natural features and has a lakeside lodge and visitor facilities.
Recreational opportunities around the lake include short walks, longer trails that connect to the park network, and canoeing on the water during the summer months. The vivid water colour is a characteristic attraction for photographers and outdoor visitors.
The lake formed in a glacial basin and receives meltwater that carries fine suspended sediments, producing the distinctive hue. Facilities on the shore support day visits and overnight stays at the nearby lodge.
Geographically the lake lies near the village of Field and is accessed from the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) in Yoho National Park, within British Columbia’s Rocky Mountains.
- Colour cause: The lake is noted for its vivid turquoise colour, produced by suspended glacial rock flour that refracts light.
- Access: Located within Yoho National Park, the lake is accessible from the Trans-Canada Highway and is a common starting point for local hikes and canoeing in summer.
What to See #
- Emerald Lake Lodge: A historic lodge and guest facilities located on the lake shore that provide accommodation and boat rentals for visitors during the summer season.
How to Get to Emerald Lake (British Columbia) #
From Field, BC (Trans-Canada Highway/Highway 1), follow the signed spur road to Emerald Lake (about 7 km). The lake is about 25 km west of Lake Louise and 30 km east of Golden. Parking is available at the main lot, and shuttles or local tours operate in summer.
Tips for Visiting Emerald Lake (British Columbia) #
- Arrive early in summer to find parking at the Emerald Lake parking lot before the lodge's day visitors arrive.
- Walk the 5.2 km loop around the lake for different perspectives and to find quieter bays away from the lodge.
- In autumn the larch trees turn bright gold for a short window - check mid-September to early October for best color.
Best Time to Visit Emerald Lake (British Columbia) #
Late June through early September offers the fullest access; mid-September brings larch color and smaller crowds.
Weather & Climate near Emerald Lake (British Columbia) #
Emerald Lake (British Columbia)'s climate is classified as Subarctic - Subarctic climate with cool summers (peaking in August) and freezing winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from -18°C to 22°C. Moderate rainfall (683 mm/year).
January
January is the coldest month with highs of -7°C and lows of -18°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm).
Comfort
Weather
February
February is freezing with highs of -2°C and lows of -15°C. Moderate rainfall (34 mm).
Comfort
Weather
March
March is freezing with highs of 4°C and lows of -10°C. The driest month with just 29 mm.
Comfort
Weather
April
April is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -4°C. Moderate rainfall (41 mm).
Comfort
Weather
May
May is cold with highs of 14°C and lows of 0°C. Moderate rainfall (58 mm).
Comfort
Weather
June
June is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (79 mm).
Comfort
Weather
July
July is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 6°C. The wettest month with 87 mm of rain.
Comfort
Weather
August
August is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 6°C. Moderate rainfall (72 mm).
Comfort
Weather
September
September is cold with highs of 16°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
Comfort
Weather
October
October is cold with highs of 9°C and lows of -3°C. Moderate rainfall (48 mm).
Comfort
Weather
November
November is freezing with highs of 0°C and lows of -10°C. Moderate rainfall (61 mm).
Comfort
Weather
December
December is freezing with highs of -6°C and lows of -16°C. Moderate rainfall (60 mm).
&_Mt_Chephren_(3307m)_(7897964306).jpg?width=600)
