Yoho National Park in Canada, in the Rocky Mountains of British Columbia, perfectly captures its Cree name, which means “awe and wonder.” This park offers an unforgettable experience for adventurers of all ages—and those views! With waterfalls, turquoise lakes, and geological features, there's something here for every nature lover. Yoho promises endless opportunities for adventure and discovery, and we walk you through the park, sharing the things to do and see.
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Getting Started: The Parks Canada Discovery Pass
Before you set out on your adventure to Yoho National Park in Canada, consider getting the Parks Canada Discovery Pass. This pass grants access to over 80 parks across Canada, including Yoho. Here's a quick breakdown of the cost:
- Family: $151.25
- Adult: $75.25
- Senior: $64.50
- Daily Admission: Adult – $11.00, Family – $22.00
The pass is an excellent value if you're planning to explore multiple parks, including Yoho National Park in Canada. For the little ones, the Xplorers program is Canada's equivalent of the Junior Ranger program, offering activities and challenges that make the trip even more exciting.
A Glimpse into Yoho's Past
Yoho National Park in Canada was established in 1886 after a visit by Prime Minister John A. Macdonald and his wife. They went through the Rockies on the newly completed Canadian Pacific Railway, and when they returned, he established both Yoho and Glacier. Yoho is now one of Canada's oldest national parks, second only to Banff National Park. The park is well known for the Spiral Tunnels—an engineering marvel designed to safely navigate the steep grades of the Kicking Horse Pass.
The Spiral Tunnels, constructed between 1907 and 1909, reduced the original track's dangerous 4.5% grade to a more manageable 2.2%, making the railway safer for trains. Today, visitors can view these tunnels and marvel at this engineering feat. Imagine being a train engineer 100 years ago, hauling heavy freight through the Rockies of Yoho National Park in Canada and getting to the Big Hill.
Camping in Yoho: Where We Stayed
During our visit, we boondocked near Yoho National Park at O.B. Campground. We stayed here for 14 days. The Blaeberry River flows by the campground, and the girls had fun splashing around on a few hot days. O.B. Campground also has pit toilets and nearby hiking and offroad trails.
Here are some camping options within the park:
- Kicking Horse Campground: Unserviced sites with toilets and showers – $30.50
- Monarch Campground: Walk-in, primitive camping – $19.75
- Hoodoo Creek Campground: Primitive camping with pit privies – $17.50
Reservations can be made online 24/7, and campsites fill up quickly, especially in peak season.
Waitabit Creek Recreation Site is another boondocking that would be cool to stay but was super busy when we were in town.
Visitor Center
The Yoho National Park Visitor Centre is on the Trans-Canada Highway near Field, B.C. Here, you can gather information, pick up your Xplorers booklet, and learn about the park's rich history. The visitor center also has some samples of the famous Burgess Shale fossils. It's cool to see and feel the fossils.
Must-See Natural Wonders
Yoho National Park in Canada has waterfalls, lakes, and rock formations, but it's those mountains that always draw the most attention in our Jeep.
Here are a few highlights:
- Wapta Falls is a waterfall that's easily accessible with a short hike. It's an excellent spot for a picnic or to soak in the views.
- The Natural Bridge is a rock formation shaped by the Kicking Horse River. You can walk down to the water's edge (but swimming is not advised due to strong currents).
- Known for its striking emerald color, Emerald Lake is a must-see. The lake's color comes from sunlight reflecting off rock flour suspended in the water, creating a magical turquoise hue. Be sure to visit early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the crowds.
- Yoho Valley Road is a scenic road that leads to Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Canada. The road has sharp hairpin turns, so take it slow. Nothing over 23 ft / 7m is recommended. Parking can be challenging, so plan your visit in the early morning or late afternoon.
- Don't miss the Meeting of the Waters Viewpoint on Yoho Valley Road. Two rivers merge, creating a mesmerizing display of watercolors.
- Along the Trans-Canada Highway, you can find viewpoints to watch trains navigate the Spiral Tunnel Viewpoints. You get a fascinating glimpse into Canada's railway history. If you're lucky, you might see a train “loop” over itself as it passes through the tunnels.
Tour Tip: Consider using the Guide Along app for an informative audio tour as you drive through Yoho National Park in Canada. It's like having a personal tour guide in your car!
The Wildlife
Yoho National Park in Canada is home to a diverse group of wildlife. Keep an eye out for these creatures:
- Moose: Not common, but can be found in the park's wetlands and river areas.
- Grizzly Bears and Black Bears: Be sure to practice bear safety and keep your distance.
- Elk, Cougars, and Wolves: These are rare to see but are found in the park.
- Hoary Marmots: Listen for their distinctive whistle sound in rocky areas and alpine meadows.
Birdwatchers will also be delighted with the park's avian residents, including the olive-sided flycatcher. Remember to keep your camera ready and always observe wildlife from a safe distance.
The Community of Field
The community of Field started in the 1880s as a settlement for the Canadian Pacific Railway construction workers. With a population of around 200 people, Field is fun to explore. Lexie had a blast exploring the historic buildings as part of her Xplorers book challenge. You can follow in her footsteps with this map of historical sites.
Final Thoughts
Yoho National Park in Canada is a natural beauty, history, and adventure treasure trove. Visitors can view mountains, hear rushing waterfalls, witness engineering marvels like the Spiral Tunnels, and explore historic towns.
Have you visited Yoho National Park in Canada? We'd love to hear about your experiences! Please share your favorite memories or tips in our voicemail. And if you haven't been yet, what part of Yoho National Park in Canada are you most excited to explore?
Happy trails! 🚐🌲🌄
