Emerald Lakeshore Loop
A gentle circuit around turquoise Emerald Lake beneath glacier-cut peaks.
Route overview
Circle Emerald Lake on the signed lakeshore trail and return to the parking area.
The loop follows gravel and forest paths around Emerald Lake, alternating open shoreline views with shaded forest. The east side is commonly muddy and rooty, and current trail work can affect flow. The route is approachable but parking pressure, wet footing and wildlife still demand preparation.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Yoho National Park, British Columbia
- Distance
- 5.2 km loop
- Typical duration
- 2 hours
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Elevation gain
- Minimal
- Best season
- Late spring through autumn; winter only with ice and avalanche-area awareness
- Trail type
- Loop
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.
Wet and muddy east-shore sections, trail work, crowding, winter ice and wildlife encounters
Highlights
Emerald Lake, President Range views, glacier scenery and cedar-hemlock forest
Why find a buddy
Suitable for a first hike together, with easy exit options and enough mixed footing to compare pace.
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.