Emerald Basin Trail
A forest climb from Emerald Lake into a natural amphitheatre below glaciers and steep peaks.
Route overview
Follow the lakeshore approach, branch onto Emerald Basin Trail, climb into the amphitheatre and return.
The route begins on the Emerald Lakeshore before entering ancient hemlock and cedar forest and climbing toward the basin. The amphitheatre setting concentrates avalanche debris and lingering snow, so conditions can remain wintry after the lakeshore is clear. Current official reporting notes snow-covered sections and avalanche debris.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Yoho National Park, British Columbia
- Distance
- 9.6 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 3.5 hours
- Difficulty
- Moderate
- Elevation gain
- official one-way profile 305 m gain and 100 m loss
- Best season
- Mid-summer through early autumn after snow and avalanche assessment
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No hiking permit; park entry required
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Avalanche debris, snow-covered sections, mud, rockfall potential, bears and limited parking
Highlights
Emerald Lake, old-growth forest, mountain amphitheatre, glacier views and waterfalls
Why find a buddy
A partner helps judge snow, debris and turnaround timing in the enclosed basin.
Primary source
Explore and prepare
Discover hikes by intent, read the hiking guides, review hiking safety, prepare a BuddyPack, or browse hiking plans.
Route conditions, access, services and transport can change. Verify time-sensitive information before departure.