Emerald Triangle Hike
Table of contents
The Emerald Triangle Hike is a stunning route in Yoho National Park that will take you around the picturesque shores of Emerald Lake and uphill along the slopes of Wapta Mountain and Mount Field for some breathtaking views of the park. The trail does feature a fair bit of elevation gain and some demanding switchbacks along the mountainside; however, the portion along the ridge is fairly level and pleasant to hike through. Make sure to arrive early, as the parking area can become quite chaotic during peak hours.
Route Description for Emerald Triangle Hike
Although certain aspects of the route will prove to be a bit of a challenge, the Emerald Triangle Hike is an amazing adventure in Yoho National Park that will certainly reward you for your efforts climbing up the steep mountain side. Be sure to pack any gear that may be required for the season, such as gaiters, microspikes, or crampons in the shoulder seasons when ice and snow are likely still on the trail. Additionally, hikers should make sure to arrive early, as the trail begins at the busy parking lot next to Emerald Lake, which services a number of popular routes in the area.
This route can be completed in either direction; however, for the sake of this guide - and your knees - the trail will be followed in a counterclockwise direction. Setting out from the car park, follow the trail along the southern shoreline of Emerald Lake and take in the beautiful views of its calm surface and the surrounding mountain peaks. The trail will begin to climb up the steep mountainside along a series of switchbacks toward Burgess Pass before turning to the north under the summit of Mount Field. From here, you will have a pleasant walk along the elevated position of the trail, enjoying the stunning views of Wapta Mountain on your right and the blue waters of Emerald Lake below you on the left. Make your descent of the mountain towards Yoho Pass and make a sharp left turn along the trail to head further downhill. Here, you will traverse some flat terrain and cross several rivers and streams, eventually wrapping up your adventure with a scenic walk along the western shores of Emerald Lake.
Getting to the Emerald Triangle Hike Trailhead
To get to the parking area for the Emerald Triangle Hike from Field, make your way to the southwest along BC-1W for 1.6 km and turn right onto Emerald Lake Road. Continue on for 9.0 km to arrive at the parking lot.
Route Information
When to do:
February-November
Backcountry Campsites:
Yoho Lake
Pets allowed:
Yes - On Leash
Family friendly:
No
Route Signage:
Average
Crowd Levels:
Moderate
Route Type:
Circuit
Emerald Triangle Hike Elevation Graph
Weather Forecast
Check Area WeatherReviews
WE ARE HERE TO HELP
Let someone else do the hard work, book a custom tour in over 85 countries.
Chat with us on our contact page or fill out the form below!
Nearby Trails
Takakkaw Falls Hike
Yoho National Park
Burgess Shale Hike
Yoho National Park
Mount Stephen Quarry Hike
Yoho National Park
Hidden Lakes Trail
Yoho National Park
Emerald Peak Loop
Yoho National Park
Hamilton Falls
Yoho National Park
Iceline
Yoho National Park
Emerald Lake Circuit
Yoho National Park
Emerald Basin
Yoho National Park
Yoho Valley Circuit
Yoho National Park
Hamilton Lake
Yoho National Park
Yoho Lake Hike
Yoho National Park