How to Visit: Yoho, Glacier, and Mt. Revelstoke National Parks
How to Visit: Yoho, Glacier, and Mt. Revelstoke National Parks
Ani Danelz | National Park Guide
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This budget-friendly guide will walk you through Yoho, Glacier, and Mt. Revelstoke National Parks. This guide is meant for you to pick and choose which areas you explore, depending on how much time you have in the area.
Make sure to check out my free Banff + Jasper National Park guides, for a complete trip to the National Parks in the Canadian Rockies!
Total trip time: 4-7 days
Nearest major city: Calgary or Edmonton
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Yoho National Park
Yoho National Park of Canada
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Yoho National Park is a spectacular national park located in the Canadian Rockies of British Columbia, Canada. The park was established in 1886 and is part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. "Yoho" is a Cree expression of awe and wonder, a fitting name for a park that boasts stunning landscapes and diverse ecosystems.
It is bordered by Banff National Park to the east and Kootenay National Park to the south. The Trans-Canada Highway passes through the park, providing easy access.
The park features a diverse and dramatic landscape, including towering mountain peaks, deep canyons, waterfalls, alpine meadows, and dense forests. Yoho is known for its dramatic rock formations, including the iconic Burgess Shale, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its fossil deposits.
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Note: Yoho and Banff National Park are in close proximity to one another, so recommend checking out my Banff travel guide for additional hikes, things to do, and places to stay.
Trails
Easy/Moderate
Laughing Falls Trail
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Laughing Falls via Yoho Valley Trail: 5.4 miles (moderate)
This is a great trail to go see the Laughing Falls.
Recommend adding a combination with Takkakaw Falls, Lace Falls, Angel Staircase Falls and/or Duschesny Lake, which are all side routes from the main out and back trail.
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Takakkaw Falls
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Takakkaw Falls Trail: 1.1 miles (moderate)
Takakkaw Falls is one of the most powerful and amazing waterfalls in British Columbia and is very famous in Yoho National Park. It's even known for being the second-tallest waterfall in Canada.
The parking lot is small and mostly full all year unless arriving early in the morning for sunrise.
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Emerald Lake Trail
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Emerald Lake Loop: 3.2 miles (easy)
Emerald Lake and Emerald Glacier Trail: 6.7 miles (moderate)
Emerald Lake is a spectacular and serene turquoise glacial lake surrounded by mountains in Yoho National Park.
The lake is surrounded by snow-peaked mountains on all sides and it is quite an inspiring landscape. The hike starts off along a paved trail through the beautiful forest with many openings through the trees along the way to provide stunning views of the lake and mountains. The beginning of the trail passes through an avalanche path along the slope of the mountain which is filled with lush grasses and colorful flowers.
This is a very popular area, so plan to arrive early to beat the crowds.
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Wapta Falls
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Wapta Falls Trail: 3.0 miles (easy)
The Wapta Falls hike is a great nature walk along a well-maintained trail which leads to the left side of the falls, facing the falls directly with the water coming down. This is a great, family-friendly hike to some beautiful falls!
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Hard
Hamilton Lake Trail
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Hamilton Lake Trail: 5.9 miles (hard)
Sharing a trailhead with Emerald Lake, make sure you start this hike early to avoid the crowds.
The Hamilton Lake trail is a constant way up with high elevation gains. The lake is very nice, perfect spot to eat lunch and appreciate the view of the surroundings. It is much less crowded than Emerald Lake - we had it to ourselves!
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Places to Stay
Hotel Options
Cathedral Mountain Lodge
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Located in the Kicking Horse River Valley surrounded by the Canadian Rocky Mountains, these cabins offer stone fireplaces and antique furniture. The property features guided hiking tours and canoe rentals. Free WiFi is available in the main lodge and most rooms.
The cabins at Cathedral Mountain Lodge are furnished with balconies with views of the surrounding mountains. The bathrooms are spacious and include a soaker tub. A coffee maker is provided.
The Great Room Restaurant at this property serves regional cuisine created with organic and free-range ingredients. The extensive wine list includes Canadian wines as well as several other selections. The restaurant is open for dinner and reservations are recommended.
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Emerald Lake Lodge
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Located in the Yoho National Park surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, Emerald Lake Lodge features rooms with wood burning fireplaces. We offer our guests 3 onsite restaurants and a lounge.
Emerald Lake Lodge rooms include a private bathroom and balcony. The rooms are equipped with a coffee maker. All guest room are located with cabin style buildings and enjoy a private entrance.
The Emerald Lake guests can dine at the Mount Burgess Dining Room, which features Rocky Mountain cuisine. The Kicking Horse Lounge offers dinner, lunch and cocktails. The Cilantro on the Lake is open seasonally.
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Campgrounds
Monarch Campground
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Monarch Campground is nestled below the historic Kicking Horse mineshafts, and across the valley from the massive summits of Mount Stephen and Cathedral Mountain. The nearby Kicking Horse river flatlands provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. This location is ideally situated for those looking to explore the dense natural and human history in the area, and the mountain village of Field nearby.
This is a first come, first served campground with 44 sites. There are a few walk-ins sites, so we never had trouble finding a spot. However, this is a near a train line, so you will hear the train in the middle of the night.
Campsites are unserviced and best suited for tents, or motorhomes and trailers up to 27 feet.
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Kicking Horse Campground
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Kicking Horse Campground is at the base of the Yoho Valley Road offering easy access to the Village of Field, the Spiral Tunnels National Historic Site, and the spectacular Takakkaw Falls. This scenic site is nestled in the forest alongside the Kicking Horse River, with stunning views of Cathedral Mountain. A series of short trails lead from the campground.
Campsites are unserviced and best suited for tents, or motorhomes and trailers up to 50 feet. Note that some loops are not suitable for motorhomes or trailers over 25 feet.
Reservations are recommended at this location.
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Glacier National Park
Glacier National Park
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Glacier National Park in Canada, often referred to as the Canadian Glacier National Park, was established in 1886 and is located in the province of British Columbia. It's a historic park known for its dramatic landscapes, majestic mountains, and diverse ecosystems.
The park is characterized by rugged mountains, including snow-capped peaks, alpine meadows, glaciers, and deep valleys. Mount Sir Donald, one of the iconic peaks, is a notable feature of the park's skyline.
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Trails
Easy/Moderate
Meeting of the Waters Trail
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Meeting of the Waters Trail: 0.8 miles (easy)
This loop trail is a beautiful, short, easy walk through moist forest and fresh air in a perfect mountain setting.
There are beautiful and relaxing views all around, with the sounds of the roaring water in the background.
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Bear Creek Falls
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Bear Creek Falls Trail: 0.8 miles (moderate)
This is a nice trail for a short stop and a quick hike. It's a steep 95 meters of downhill elevation loss from the parking area to the falls, mostly accessible to all levels of hikers.
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Hard
Abbott Ridge Trailhead
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Abbott Ridge: 10.8 miles (hard)
Abbott Ridge is a difficult but wonderful day-hike with a lot of elevation gain.
The trail starts in the trees with a steep incline, but the elevation gain becomes less intense after the lake. The lake offers a nice view of the mountain reflected on the surface of the water.
The trail climbs up to a beautiful meadow with a great view of the mountains behind.
Hike up the ridge, and you'll be met with a gorgeous panoramic view - with amazing mountains, snow fields, and glaciers.
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Hermit Trailhead
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Hermit Trail: 3.6 miles (hard)
This is a short hike with a lot of incline and very steep so be prepared (we are talking 2,667 ft in the first half).
The views are incredible and only keep getting better the further you go. The efforts are well worth it when you get to the top and see the views.
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Perley Rock
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Perley Rock Trail: 7.4 miles (hard)
Overall, this challenging adventure offers lots of elevation with some incredible views and the glacier at the top. The incline is relentless, with some sketchy scrambles, loose rocks and slippery patches of snow.
The trail is great with the beautiful glacier at the top and bright blue water lake. The views are surreal all the way up, and there are so many cool waterfalls to see from a distance.
Hikers should beware that glaciers are constantly moving and changing. For your safety, do not walk under or on overhanging ice.
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Asulkan Valley Trail
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Asulkan Valley Trail: 8.5 miles (hard)
The trail starts off easy but the last two kilometers to Asulkan Cabin is a fairly steep climb that is quite fully exposed. The views all the way up are definitely worth the effort. There are multiple waterfalls through a lush green alpine forest along the way, with views of glaciers and countless wildflowers.
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Things to Do
Rogers Pass Discovery Centre
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Rogers Pass, a historic transportation corridor through the Selkirk Mountains, was a significant route for the Canadian Pacific Railway. Visitors can explore the Rogers Pass Discovery Centre to learn about the area's history and railway construction.
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Unlike many other national parks, Glacier National Park does not have a downtown area for shopping, restaurants, or walking around. This park is paradise for those looking for rugged mountains and outdoor adventures.
In addition to hiking, Glacier provides opportunities for backcountry skiing, mountaineering, and snowshoeing in the winter months. Check out the link below to learn more:
Places to Stay
Hotel Options
Comfort
Ramada Limited Golden
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Situated in Golden, British Columbia, this hotel is an 8-minute drive from Golden Golf & Country Club. An indoor pool with hot tub and simple rooms with a flat-screen cable TV are offered.
A microwave, refrigerator and coffee facilities are in every bright room at Ramada Limited Golden. Free Wi-Fi is available in all rooms.
A well equipped gym is on site at Golden Ramada Limited. Guests can use the business center with fax and photocopying services. For added convenience a cash machine and laundry facilities are available.
Guests are nearby Kicking Horse River with whitewater rafting adventures available. Wetland Safaris are offered in the Columbia Wetlands. Guided tours and snowmobile rental equipment can be found in the area.
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Budget
Winston Lodge
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This lodge is just a 5 minutes' walk from the base of Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Rooms include free WiFi.
The rooms feature wood furnishings with private balconies, and a bathroom with bathrobes.
This self-catering lodge offers a modern mountain escape.
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Campgrounds
Illecillewaet Campground
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Illecillewaet Campground is the main basecamp in the park and doubles as a major trailhead. The name Illecillewaet comes from a Sinixt word meaning "big water". It is pronounced ill ah SIL-ah-wet (or ill a silhouette).
This is a first come, first served campground with 60 available sites.
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Loop Brook Campground
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Loop Brook Campground is known for the old stone railway pillars that guard its entrance. A smaller, more intimate campground, Loop Brook is steps away from self-guided interpretive trails that delve into the area’s rich railway history.
This is a reservable campground with 20 available sites.
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Mt. Revelstoke National Park
Mount Revelstoke National Park
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Mount Revelstoke National Park is located in the interior of British Columbia, Canada. The town of Revelstoke serves as the gateway to the park.
The park is characterized by mountainous terrain, with Mount Revelstoke being a prominent feature. The landscape includes alpine meadows, old-growth forests, and rugged peaks.
In the winter, the park offers opportunities for activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. The landscapes transform into a winter wonderland, and the park provides a serene setting for winter recreation.
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Trails
Eva Lake and Miller Lake
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Eva Lake and Miller Lake Trail: 10.0 miles (hard)
Eva Lake is known to be the prettier of the two, but Miller Lake is worth the 900-metres that it adds to the round trip. Thanks to the lower lake being the more popular, visitors enjoy the full hike to the second lake, being less busy and more private. At higher elevations, folks absolutely love the sweepingly beautiful views of Lake Revelstoke north of the dam. At the summit, there are more beautiful views on the opposite side of Eva Lake.
The best time to be on this trail is absolutely during summer when there is a huge amount of wildflowers on this that turn the green landscape to a vibrant red, with meadows of monkey tails and a plethora of other gorgeous flora making up the floor of this area.
You can continue on this trail to Jade Lakes, which would make it a 15.1 mile round-trip.
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Things to Do
Revelstoke
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Revelstoke is a charming town located in the interior of British Columbia, Canada. Nestled between the Selkirk and Monashee mountain ranges, Revelstoke is known for its stunning natural surroundings, outdoor recreation opportunities, and a rich history.
The town's historic downtown area exudes charm with its well-preserved heritage buildings, boutique shops, galleries, and a variety of restaurants and cafes. Strolling through the downtown area provides a glimpse into Revelstoke's past.
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Meadows in the Sky Parkway
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Meadows in the Sky Parkway is a scenic mountain road located in Mount Revelstoke National Park in British Columbia, Canada. The parkway is a highlight of the park and provides visitors with breathtaking views, diverse ecosystems, and access to alpine meadows.
The parkway is a well-maintained road that allows visitors to enjoy a picturesque drive through various vegetation zones. As you ascend, you'll pass through dense forests, subalpine ecosystems, and eventually reach alpine meadows.
Meadows in the Sky Parkway gains significant elevation, taking visitors from the lower elevations near the base of the mountain to the higher alpine environments. The road provides access to areas that might be difficult to reach on foot.
Make sure you stop at the Upper Summit, which is an easy, 1.9-mile paved trail that takes you to the summit of Mount Revelstoke.
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Places to Stay
Hotel Options
Comfort
Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort
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Featuring an outdoor pool, this resort is located at the base of the Revelstoke Mountain Resort. The hotel features ski in/ski out suites with private balconies. The property offers ski storage, ski rentals, and a ski pass vendor on-site. Freee WiFi and parking are included in the resort fee.
With flat-screen TVs and iPod docking stations, every suite at Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort is furnished with a gas fireplace, washer, dryer and a formal living room. A full kitchen is also provided.
Guests at the Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke can relax in the outdoor hot tub which overlooks the mountains. A coffee bar is offered in the lobby. Local shuttle services are available.
The Revelstoke Railway Museum is only a 10 minute drive from the Sutton Place Hotel Revelstoke Mountain Resort. Outdoor activities include skiing, snowboarding and hiking.
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Budget
Stoke Hotel, SureStay Collection By Best Western
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Located just off the highway in Revelstoke, this hotel features free in-room WiFi. Mt Revelstoke National Park is only 1.4 mi away. The Columbia River is only 3 minutes walk from the hotel.
The traditional guest rooms at the Stoke Hotel SureStay Collection by Best Western include a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee-making facilities. Cable TV and a work desk are provided.
The front desk is available 24 hours a day. Complimentary continental breakfast is served daily and includes items such as cereal, yogurt, pastries, fruit, coffee and tea.
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Campgrounds
Snowforest Campground
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Located near the start of the Meadows in the Sky Parkway in Mount Revelstoke National Park, Snowforest is a short 5 km drive from downtown Revelstoke.
The campground is situated in a cedar-hemlock forest and offers a variety of options, from walk-in tent sites to large pull-through RV campsites with electricity. The campground is an excellent basecamp for exploring Mount Revelstoke’s many scenic vistas and trails. Nearby, the culturally significant Nels’ Knickers Interpretive Trail showcases the only place in Canada where world records in ski-jumping have ever been set.
This is a reservable campground with 62 available sites.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Ani Danelz | National Park Guide
Available for hire
Welcome to my (and hopefully our) adventures! I have lived all over the United States, and I have a passion for the outdoors and budget-travel. My style of travel is easy-going, yet filled with adventure and excitement. I focus on connecting with people and community, as well as immersing myself in the outdoors as much as possible. Finding a balance between these two have led to some amazing memories, and I cannot wait to share them with you.
Most recently, I lived in my car for over seven months, while I visited every National Park in the lower 48. I hiked, camped, met amazing people, and hiked some more. I got to experience the parks like a local, because I had no timetable, no flights to catch, no rental car to return, etc. Some parks I stayed only for a few hours, and others for over a week. I chatted with park rangers, stayed with people that lived nearby, and camped with others at some amazing campsites. The travel guides I share give you an "insider" look at the national park, with tips for the best hikes, tricks for finding campsites (but I always include hotel options too), as well as information about the various aspects of the parks. I hope that you will use these guides as tools to fuel your next national park adventure!
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