Yoho Lake Trail
A steep climb from Takakkaw Falls to a quiet backcountry lake beneath Wapta Mountain.
Route overview
Climb the signed Yoho Lake Trail from Takakkaw Falls, visit the lakeshore and return.
The route rises quickly from the Yoho Valley toward Yoho Lake, where Parks Canada's red chairs face Wapta Mountain. The short official time reflects a direct but steep trail, and the return includes meaningful re-climbing because the one-way profile is not purely uphill. Seasonal road access and mountain weather remain central planning constraints.
Trail facts
- Country
- Canada
- Region
- Yoho National Park, British Columbia
- Distance
- 9.8 km round trip
- Typical duration
- 3 hours
- Difficulty
- Hard
- Elevation gain
- official one-way profile 435 m gain and 130 m loss
- Best season
- Mid-summer through early autumn while Yoho Valley Road is open
- Trail type
- Out and back
Access and logistics
- Permits and access
- No day-hiking permit; overnight campground use requires reservation
Safety context
Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure. Check current official conditions, closures, weather and access rules before departure.
Steep climb, snow, mud, bears, sudden weather, limited parking and seasonal road closure
Highlights
Yoho Lake, Wapta Mountain reflections, red chairs and Yoho Valley views
Why find a buddy
Strong value for pacing, wildlife awareness and weather-based turnaround decisions.
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.