The Ultimate Guide to Things To Do at Emerald Lake Lodge 2025

Discovering the absolute best things to do at Emerald Lake Lodge is more than just planning a trip; it’s about unlocking an iconic Canadian Rockies experience that stays with you long after you’ve left. This secluded gem, nestled deep within Yoho National Park, offers a genuine escape from the hustle of modern life, replacing screen time with breathtaking scenery and Wi-Fi signals with the whisper of pine trees. From gliding across impossibly turquoise waters in a canoe to cosying up by a crackling fire in your private cabin, the lodge is a sanctuary for both adventure and relaxation. The activities here are woven into the very fabric of the landscape, whether you’re exploring pristine hiking trails, marvelling at the area’s transformation into a winter wonderland, or indulging in world-class Rocky Mountain cuisine. It’s a place where every moment feels significant.

What Guests Really Think: A Glimpse into the Visitor Experience

Before diving into the specifics, it’s worth noting what fellow travellers consistently rave about. The overwhelming consensus points to the lodge’s unparalleled location as its greatest asset. Visitors frequently describe the feeling of being completely immersed in nature, with the stunning emerald-hued lake and surrounding peaks creating a postcard-perfect backdrop from every angle. The rustic, cosy cabins, each with its own wood-burning fireplace, receive high praise for their charm and comfort, offering a perfect retreat after a day of exploration. While the lack of in-room Wi-Fi and cell service is mentioned, most guests frame it as a positive, calling it a “forced digital detox” that allows for genuine connection with both their companions and the pristine environment. The quality of the dining, particularly at the Mount Burgess Dining Room, is another highlight that often exceeds expectations, solidifying the lodge’s reputation as a complete and immersive mountain getaway.

Embrace the Water: Canoeing and Kayaking on Emerald Lake

There is perhaps no activity more synonymous with this location than paddling its namesake lake. The moment you push off from the dock, you become part of the iconic scene. Dipping your paddle into the glacial-fed water, which owes its vibrant colour to suspended rock flour, feels almost surreal. Renting one of the lodge’s bright red canoes is a rite of passage, creating a stunning visual contrast against the deep green and blue tones of the water and forest. As you paddle away from the lodge, the sounds of the shore fade, replaced by the gentle lapping of water against the boat and the distant call of a loon. This serene journey allows you to appreciate the scale of the surrounding mountains—the President Range, Mount Burgess, and Wapta Mountain—from a unique and humbling perspective. It’s an immersive experience that connects you directly to the wild heart of Yoho National Park.

The journey across the lake is not about speed but about absorption. Many guests choose to paddle towards the alluvial fan at the far end of the lake, where the water is shallow and the views open up dramatically. It’s a perfect spot to simply drift, take photos, and soak in the 360-degree panorama. The boathouse on the shore makes the process incredibly simple, offering canoe, kayak, and rowboat rentals by the hour. No prior experience is necessary, making it an accessible adventure for families, couples, and solo travellers alike. This simple act of gliding across the water is often cited as the most memorable part of a stay, a peaceful communion with one of Canada’s most beautiful landscapes.

Explore on Foot: Unforgettable Hiking Trails for All Levels

The area surrounding Emerald Lake Lodge is a hiker’s paradise, offering a network of trails that cater to every fitness level and ambition. You don’t need to be a seasoned mountaineer to enjoy the profound beauty of the Rockies on foot; some of the most rewarding vistas are accessible via gentle, well-maintained paths that begin right outside your cabin door. The key is to choose a trail that matches your energy and available time, allowing you to fully appreciate the journey without feeling rushed. Every path offers a different perspective on the lake, the forests, and the towering peaks that define this incredible corner of the world.

The Emerald Lake Loop: An Easy, Scenic Stroll

For those seeking a beautiful and accessible introduction to the area’s natural splendour, the Emerald Lake Loop is the perfect choice. This relatively flat, 5.2-kilometre trail circumnavigates the entire lake, offering constantly shifting perspectives of the water’s mesmerising colour and the surrounding mountain ranges. The path on the west side of the lake is paved and wheelchair accessible, winding through lush avalanche paths that are often teeming with wildflowers in the spring and summer. As you round the far end of the lake, the trail becomes a more traditional dirt path, taking you through a dense, quiet forest of spruce and fir. This section feels more secluded and offers fantastic opportunities for spotting wildlife, including squirrels, various bird species, and occasionally, a moose grazing in the marshy areas. The entire loop can be completed in under two hours at a leisurely pace, making it an ideal activity for an afternoon or a post-dinner walk.

As our expert guide, David Miller, a seasoned Parks Canada interpretive guide, notes, “The Emerald Lake Loop is deceptively simple. While it’s an easy walk, it tells the entire geological and ecological story of this valley. You see the evidence of avalanches, the work of glaciers, and the diversity of the subalpine forest all in one go. It’s a world-class hike disguised as a simple stroll.”

For the More Adventurous: Hamilton Lake Trail

If you’re looking for a more strenuous challenge that rewards your efforts with breathtaking alpine scenery, the Hamilton Lake Trail is an excellent option. This demanding hike is a significant step up from the lakeside loop, involving a steep ascent of over 850 metres. The trail branches off from the main loop and climbs relentlessly through the forest before breaking out into the alpine zone. Your reward for the hard work is Hamilton Lake itself, a stunning alpine tarn nestled in a high cirque beneath the sheer cliffs of Emerald Peak and Mount Carnarvon. The views looking back down the valley towards Emerald Lake are simply spectacular. This is a full-day commitment, requiring proper hiking boots, plenty of water, snacks, and bear spray. It’s a true mountain adventure that offers solitude and a profound sense of accomplishment, showcasing the rugged, untamed beauty that lies just beyond the more accessible areas.

What Should I Wear for Hiking Near Emerald Lake?

For hiking near Emerald Lake, layering your clothing is absolutely essential, regardless of the season. The weather in the Canadian Rockies can change in an instant, with a sunny afternoon quickly giving way to a chilly wind or a sudden rain shower. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add an insulating mid-layer like a fleece or down vest, and always carry a waterproof and windproof outer shell. Sturdy, comfortable footwear with good grip is non-negotiable. Even for the easy lake loop, you’ll want something more substantial than flip-flops. A hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also crucial, as the sun’s intensity is stronger at higher altitudes.

A Winter Wonderland: The Best Things to Do at Emerald Lake Lodge in the Snow

When a thick blanket of snow covers the landscape, Emerald Lake Lodge transforms into a scene straight out of a fairy tale. The vibrant turquoise of the lake disappears under a layer of pristine white, and the entire valley becomes hushed and peaceful. This seasonal shift doesn’t signal an end to activities; rather, it opens up a whole new world of serene and magical experiences. The silence of the winter forest, broken only by the crunch of snow underfoot, offers a different kind of tranquillity. The lodge becomes a cosy haven, with the warmth of the cabin fireplaces providing the perfect contrast to the crisp, cold air outside. It’s a season that encourages a slower, more deliberate appreciation of the natural world.

Gliding Through Paradise: Cross-Country Skiing

The flat trail that circles the lake in the summer becomes a perfectly groomed cross-country ski track in the winter. Gliding along this path on a pair of skis is an incredible way to experience the frozen landscape. The 5.2-kilometre loop offers a gentle workout with unparalleled scenery. The silence of the snow-covered forest is profound, and the views of the surrounding peaks, draped in white, are magnificent. The lodge offers ski rentals, making it easy for guests to try this classic Canadian winter sport. For those with more experience, nearby trails in Yoho National Park offer more challenging terrain. Skiing across the frozen, snow-covered expanse of the lake itself is another popular option, offering a feeling of immense space and freedom.

A Modern Twist on an Ancient Tradition: Snowshoeing

Snowshoeing is another fantastic way to explore the winter wonderland around the lodge. It allows you to venture off the beaten path and into the deep, powdery snow of the forest, accessing areas that would be unreachable otherwise. The experience of floating over the deep snowpack is both fun and empowering. You can follow established trails or forge your own path through the silent woods, looking for animal tracks and enjoying the solitude. The lodge provides snowshoe rentals for guests, and it’s an activity that requires no prior experience—if you can walk, you can snowshoe. It’s a peaceful and meditative way to connect with the quiet beauty of the Rockies in winter.

David Miller shares a valuable tip for winter visitors: “Winter is when you truly hear the silence of the mountains. On a snowshoe trek, stop for a moment, close your eyes, and just listen. You’ll hear the soft whisper of snow falling from the branches and maybe the distant chatter of a chickadee. It’s a completely different sensory experience from the summer.”

Indulge Your Senses: Culinary Experiences at the Lodge

The culinary offerings at Emerald Lake Lodge are a significant part of the overall experience, providing sophisticated and satisfying meals that reflect the spirit of the mountains. The dining philosophy centres around “Rocky Mountain Cuisine,” a style that highlights regional ingredients like game meats, wild berries, and locally sourced produce. The dining venues themselves are as memorable as the food, with historic settings and stunning views that elevate every meal. Whether you’re enjoying a multi-course dinner or a casual lakeside lunch, the focus is on quality, flavour, and creating a memorable dining event that complements your daily adventures.

Rocky Mountain Cuisine at Mount Burgess Dining Room

The main lodge building, a historic log structure, houses the Mount Burgess Dining Room. This elegant yet rustic space features a grand stone fireplace and expansive windows that look out onto the lake. The menu is a sophisticated celebration of Canadian ingredients, with dishes that might include bison short rib, pan-seared arctic char, or elk striploin. The restaurant’s award-winning wine list is extensive, featuring a carefully curated selection of Canadian and international vintages designed to pair perfectly with the robust flavours of the food. Dining here is a destination experience in itself, perfect for a romantic evening or a special celebration after a day of mountain exploration. It’s a culinary journey that is both comforting and refined.

Casual Lakeside Dining at Cilantro on the Lake

For a more relaxed and casual dining experience, Cilantro on the Lake is the perfect spot, particularly in the summer months. Situated in a charming cabin right on the water’s edge, Cilantro offers a menu with a Mediterranean influence, featuring wood-fired pizzas, fresh salads, and creative pasta dishes. The highlight is the expansive outdoor patio, which provides an idyllic setting for a sunny afternoon lunch or a long, leisurely dinner as the sun sets behind the mountains. The atmosphere is laid-back and social, a place where you can enjoy a craft beer or a glass of wine while recounting the day’s adventures just steps from the beautiful water.

Beyond the Activities: Relaxation and Rejuvenation

While the list of active pursuits is long, one of the most important things to do at Emerald Lake Lodge is simply to relax. The entire property is designed to encourage disconnection and rejuvenation. The absence of televisions, Wi-Fi, and reliable cell service in the cabins is a deliberate choice, nudging guests to put away their devices and be present in the moment. Each cabin is a private sanctuary, featuring comfortable seating, a real wood-burning fireplace (with firewood and kindling replenished daily), and a private balcony. The simple act of building a fire, reading a book by its warm glow, or sitting on the balcony with a cup of coffee while watching the morning mist rise off the lake is a profound luxury.

The outdoor hot tub offers another avenue for relaxation. Soaking in the warm, bubbling water while surrounded by the majestic snow-covered peaks in winter is an unforgettable experience. It’s a place to soothe sore muscles after a long hike or ski, and to socialize with other guests under the vast mountain sky. The lodge encourages a slower pace of life. It’s about taking the time to have a long conversation, play a board game in the main lodge’s quiet reading room, or simply sit by the shore and watch the light change on the mountains. This intentional focus on peace and quiet is what truly sets the lodge apart, allowing you to leave feeling not just rested, but genuinely restored.

Can You See Wildlife Near Emerald Lake Lodge?

Yes, wildlife sightings are a common and exciting part of the experience at Emerald Lake Lodge, but they are never guaranteed. The lodge is situated in the heart of Yoho National Park, a protected wilderness area that is home to a rich diversity of fauna. The most frequent and reliable sightings are often of elk and moose, which can sometimes be seen grazing in the marshy areas at the far end of the lake, especially during the early morning or evening hours. Smaller creatures like squirrels, chipmunks, and a wide variety of bird species, including loons, are almost constant companions.

Grizzly bears and black bears also inhabit the area. While a sighting from a safe distance can be a thrilling highlight of any trip, it’s crucial to be “bear aware” at all times. This means making noise while hiking, carrying bear spray and knowing how to use it, and never leaving food or scented items unattended. The lodge staff are well-versed in wildlife safety and can provide the most current information on recent sightings and trail conditions. Remember that these are wild animals in their natural habitat, and respecting their space is paramount for both their safety and yours.

The beauty of Emerald Lake Lodge lies in its ability to cater to every visitor, offering a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural wonder. Whether you spend your days paddling the serene waters, challenging yourself on a mountain trail, or simply reading by a crackling fire, the experience is bound to be unforgettable. The sheer number of incredible things to do at Emerald Lake Lodge ensures that every trip can be unique, drawing you back time and time again to this magical corner of the Canadian Rockies.

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Comments

Émilie Dubois
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
My husband and I stayed for our anniversary in late September 2023, and it was pure magic. The larches on the Hamilton Lake trail were a stunning golden colour. Canoeing on the lake in the morning with the mist rising was a moment I will never forget. The food at Mount Burgess was exceptional—the bison ribeye was cooked to perfection. A true digital detox that was much needed.

Mark Thompson
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
Fantastic location, you can’t beat the views. The cabin was rustic and cosy, and we loved having a real fireplace. My only minor gripe is that the dining is quite expensive, but the quality is definitely there. We did the hike around the lake and saw a moose with her calf near the alluvial fan, which was the highlight of our trip in July 2024.

Sarah Chen
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
We came for a winter getaway in February 2024 and it exceeded all expectations. Cross-country skiing on the frozen lake was breathtaking. The best part was coming back to our warm cabin and sitting by the fire. The outdoor hot tub in the middle of a snowstorm was an epic experience. Highly recommend a winter visit if you want peace and quiet.

Liam Gallagher
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
As an amateur photographer, this place is heaven on earth. I stayed for three nights in August 2023 and every single sunrise and sunset was spectacular. The staff were friendly and the shuttle service from the parking lot was very efficient. Cilantro on the Lake was great for a more casual dinner with an unbeatable view.

Jessica Wright
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
Brought my two teenagers here in early July 2024. They complained about the lack of Wi-Fi for the first hour, then completely forgot about their phones. We canoed, hiked, and played board games in the main lodge. It was a wonderful way to reconnect as a family. The cabins are beautiful but could use a bit of updating. Still, a 4.5/5 experience for us.

Ben Carter
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
I did a solo trip in June 2023 to focus on hiking. The lodge was the perfect basecamp. I did the full-day trek to the Burgess Shale (booked a guided hike separately) and it was a life-changing experience. Coming back to the comfort of the lodge after a gruelling day on the trail was bliss. The tranquility here is unmatched.

Olivia Martinez
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
Honeymooned here in January 2024. It was the most romantic, cosy place imaginable. We snowshoed around the lake, drank wine by the fire, and felt like we were the only two people in the world. The staff even left a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine in our room. A perfect start to our marriage.

David Kim
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
The natural beauty is a 10/10. The water colour is truly that amazing in person. The lodge itself is charmingly rustic. I would advise booking dinner reservations well in advance, especially for the Mount Burgess Dining Room, as it filled up quickly during our stay in August 2023.

Chloe Wilson
★★★★★ (5/5 stars)
I attended a wedding here in September 2023 and it was the most stunning venue I’ve ever seen. The ceremony by the lake was breathtaking. The staff handled the event flawlessly, and the food was incredible. Even as a guest, I felt so relaxed and welcomed. I am already planning a trip back just for a personal vacation.

Michael Ivanov
★★★★☆ (4/5 stars)
A wonderful stay in October 2023. The lake was still unfrozen but there was a beautiful dusting of snow on the peaks. It was a quiet, in-between season which we loved. The hiking was a bit muddy but still enjoyable. The cabin was clean and the fireplace was a huge plus. The only downside is that Cilantro was closed for the season, which we weren’t aware of when booking.