Easy Hikeeasylake

Emerald Lake Loop

Easy loop around Emerald Lake with turquoise water, forest sections, and mountain views.

Time

Distance

5.2 km

Gain

30m

Trailhead

Emerald Lake parking, Yoho

Directions Trail conditions

Conditions, access, and parking can change quickly. Check before going.

Plan notes

Best for

Easy-to-moderate scenic loop on a Banff day trip.

Pair with

Natural Bridge or Takakkaw Falls.

Access

Road-access lake loop with paid/managed parking periods depending on season.

Season

Usually best in late spring through fall.

Safety

Stay on paths and be prepared for variable weather around the lake.

From town

Longer drive

Similar hikes

Mount Rundle misty lake reflection wide.

Easy Hike

Tunnel Mountain

Banff's backyard climb. 90 minutes, town and valley views almost the entire climb.

LeveleasyTime1.5hCrowdpopular

Best for

Big valley views for modest distance and elevation.

Mountainno-car-friendly+3

4.3 km260m

Short Walk

Johnston Canyon Lower Falls

Catwalks bolted into a canyon. Easy, magical, get there before 9am.

LeveleasyTime1hCrowdpopular

Best for

Fast payoff with waterfalls and dramatic canyon walls.

Forestscenic+2

2.4 km30m

Lake Agnes Tea House above Lake Louise in the forested alpine.

Photo: Wilson Hui / Wikimedia Commons / CC BY 2.0

Moderate Hike

Lake Agnes Tea House

Climb up, drink tea by an alpine lake. Bring cash as backup; payment options can vary season to season.

LevelmoderateTime3hCrowdpopular

Best for

Alpine lake setting and strong views without a full-day commitment.

Lakeno-car-friendly+2

Shuttle recommendedParking fills early

7 km400m