This is a much visited tourist spot in Yoho National Park. It is a short drive along a paved road off the Trans Canada Highway.
Our first stop was at the Natural Bridge for the waterfalls. The water was still a pale aqua colour from the spring melt. Some of the trees along the river were infested with pine beetle which kills the trees and turns the leaves bright red before they turn grey and fall off. It seemed strange to see bright scarlet trees in June.
There is a huge car park at the lake and accommodation and meals at the exclusive Emerald Lake Lodge.
The lake really is green in colour and is surrounded by mountains. The famous Burgess shale fossil beds can be seen on the scree high above the tree line.
There is circular walk around the lake. We decided to do the walk clockwise. It was a pleasant walk through the trees along the edge of the lake with good views. There were many wild flowers including a wide variety of orchids.
The walk was busy at first but we began to lose the crowds as we walked further. Most of the walk is wheel chair friendly although the last bit back to the Lodge is not.
It was a bright sunny day when we set out but as we reached the inlet stream at the end of the lake, about a third of the way round, the skies began to cloud over. We decided it would be prudent to turn back – a wise decision as the rain began as we got back to the car.
This is a lovely spot. It is busy but not busy like Lake Louise. Scenically we thought it much better.
There is more information about Emerald Lake here.
Our pictures begin here.
We visited during a five week trip to Canada. There is an overall report of the trip here.
I have written a series of detailed reports for some of the places visited for Silver Travel.
