Emerald Lake nestled in the heart of Yoho National Park, is one of the most breathtaking lakes to experience canoeing when you are visiting the Canadian Rockies. Known for its stunning turquoise water, astounding mountain views, and peaceful atmosphere, no wonder it’s one of the top places in Yoho. Believe me! If paddling a canoe in the Canadian Rockies is on your bucket list, Emerald Lake is the perfect place.
Paddling across Emerald Lake is a must thing to do & definitely one of the best ways to enjoy the natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies. It is much easier to visit Emerald Lake in comparison to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake. No reservations are required, you only need a Parks Canada national pass.
If canoeing on any of the lakes in the Canadian Rockies is on your bucket list, there are several options to choose from. In comparison to Lake Louise and Moraine Lake canoeing at Emerald Lake is cheaper. Canoe rentals at these lakes are CAD $170 and $160 respectively. Whereas at Emerald Lake rentals are CAD $100 per hour. So, if canoeing on Lake Louise or Moraine Lake isn’t in your budget range then, Emerald Lake is a perfect alternative.
Things to know before visiting Emerald Lake
- During the weekends and in the peak season, parking fills up quickly so, try to be there as early as possible. I still remember when we last visited in the month of july 2025 the parking lot was overloaded, people even parked their cars on the side of the road.
- When visiting Yoho a national parks pass is required to park here before arriving. You can buy one in person at the visitor center in Field or Banff.
- There is no storage room available when you are at the lake. It is advisable to leave all the belongings in your vehicle.
- Don’t forget to pack water, sunscreen, and food. Sunscreen is very important especially when you are canoeing on a sunny day.
- There is a cafe with a small outdoor seating area: Cilantro Cafe, from where you can get food and drinks.
- Alcohol is not permitted on the canoes.
- You must wear a life jacket while canoeing.
How to reach Emerald Lake?
Emerald Lake is situated right in the middle of Yoho National Park. It’s just 45 minutes from the town of Golden. You can easily add it to your Banff itinerary. Guided tours are also available, but if you do a tour like this you may not have time to canoe.
Why Canoeing at Emerald lake so special?
Emerald Lake is a friendly destination for beginners to enjoy canoeing as water almost always remains calm, and rarely affected by the wind. This lake is famous for its vivid green color resembling a gemstone. The glacial waters reflect sunlight off fine rock particles known as glacial silt in the vibrant display of colors.
Gazing at the surrounding President Mountain Range, Mount Burgess and Mount Field feels like a majestic theater. The towering peaks and lush forests paint a surreal backdrop, and will leave you utterly speechless.
Best time to visit Emerald Lake for canoeing
Canoe rentals are open daily from mid of May to October (depending on weather). Canoe rentals are open 7 days a week from 10am – 4:45pm. The closing weekend may fluctuate based on the weather. We visited in mid-July and the weather was beautiful. We had a great time.
Canoe Rentals: what you need to know
Canoe rentals are first come first served and they do not accept reservations. The Boathouse Trading Company is located just at the edge of the lake. Usually people rent a canoe for an 1 hour and the wait time isn’t too bad. The canoes can fit up to 3 adults or 2 adults and 2 children. In order to canoe one person per canoe should be at least 19 years of age. The canoe rental does allow babies, but they must be 20 lbs/9 kgs.
Rentals cost CAD $100 per hour, which includes paddles and life jackets. The boat launch area is a square dock where the canoe attendants will give you the instructions and help ride the canoe. Attendants will help you to ride the boat.
Cost in comparison to other lakes
Canoeing at Emerald Lake may seem expensive, however, it is very reasonable in comparison to other lakes.
| – Moraine Lake Canoe Rentals: CAD $155/hr | |
| – Fairmont Lake Louise Canoe Rentals: CAD $165/hr | |
| – Banff Canoe Club: CAD $65/hr |
Moreover, Moraine lake can only be accessed via shuttles & parking at Lake louise is very limited. Therefore, Emerald Lake seems a cost-effective and accessible option for canoeing.
Can you bring your own canoe to Emerald Lake?
Due to the threat of whirling diseases, visitors are no longer permitted to bring personal watercraft to Emerald Lake and all water bodies in Yoho National Park. Therefore, the only option is to rent canoes at Emerald Lake.
Parking at Emerald Lake
During the peak summer months of July & August, parking at Emerald Lake can be challenging. Therefore, it is recommended to head to the lake as early as possible.
