Emerald Lake is the crown jewel of Yoho National Park and one of the most beautiful lakes in the Canadian Rockies. Its vivid emerald-green water, framed by the President Range, makes it a stunning day trip from Banff. Whether you're paddling a canoe, hiking the shoreline loop, or enjoying lunch at the lakeside lodge, Emerald Lake delivers a world-class mountain experience with slightly fewer crowds than Lake Louise.
Getting There from Banff
Emerald Lake is in Yoho National Park, British Columbia — about 85 km (1 hour 15 minutes) west of Banff town via the Trans-Canada Highway. Turn off at Field, BC, and follow the Emerald Lake Road for 8 km to the lake. Your Banff Parks Canada pass covers entry to Yoho as well.
There's a parking lot at the lake, but it fills early in summer (by 9am on weekends). There's no shuttle service, so arriving early is essential.
Top Things to Do
Canoe on the Lake
Canoeing on Emerald Lake is a quintessential Canadian Rockies experience. The emerald-green water is impossibly vivid — the colour comes from glacial rock flour suspended in the water. Canoe rentals are available at the Emerald Lake Lodge boathouse (approximately $90/hour for a canoe). Early morning, before the wind picks up, offers the calmest water and best reflections.
Emerald Lake Loop Trail
Distance: 5.2 km loop
Elevation Gain: Minimal (flat)
Time: 1.5–2 hours
This easy loop trail circles the entire lake, offering changing perspectives at every turn. The west side features a boardwalk through an alluvial fan, while the far end gives a peaceful, less-trafficked view back toward the lodge. Interpretive signs explain the area's ecology and geology. The trail is suitable for all fitness levels.
Dine at Cilantro on the Lake
The casual dining café at Emerald Lake Lodge serves excellent food right on the waterfront. Enjoy a burger, salad, or the famous smoked trout flatbread with mountain views. In summer, the outdoor patio is unforgettable. The lodge's main dining room, Mount Burgess Dining Room, offers a more upscale experience.
Visit the Natural Bridge
On your drive to Emerald Lake, stop at the Natural Bridge where the Kicking Horse River has carved a hole through a wall of rock. It's right beside the road, takes 10 minutes, and is a great photo opportunity.
Why the Water Is So Green
Emerald Lake's colour comes from sunlight reflecting off the fine glacial rock flour (silt) suspended in the water. The particles are so fine they remain suspended for long periods and scatter green wavelengths of light. The lake is at its most vivid in July and August when glacial melt is highest.
Seasonal Highlights
- Summer (July–August): The lake is at its most vivid green. Canoeing, hiking, and dining all available. Arrive before 9am for parking
- Fall (September–October): Fewer crowds, golden larches on surrounding slopes, cooler temperatures. Lodge restaurants may have limited hours
- Winter (December–March): The lake freezes for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The lodge is open year-round and offers a cozy winter retreat. The drive may require winter tires and caution
- Spring (May–June): Snow melts and the lake begins to colour. Waterfalls in the area are thundering from melt
Combine With Other Yoho Stops
Since you're in Yoho National Park, add these to your day trip:
- Natural Bridge: On the road to Emerald Lake (5 minutes)
- Takakkaw Falls: One of the tallest waterfalls in Canada, a 30-minute drive from Field (seasonal road access)
- The town of Field: Charming tiny mountain town with a few restaurants and the Truffle Pigs bistro
Book your Banff accommodation on Expedia for a perfect base for day trips to Emerald Lake, Lake Louise, and beyond.