Banff & Yoho: Grizzly Bear Refuge, Takakkaw Falls & Emerald Lake

Summary

Grizzly bear refuge stories emerald waters skybridge and misty falls

You’ll ride out from Banff with a small group and guide, stand in Takakkaw’s mist, see Emerald Lake’s unreal colors, and meet Boo—the rescued grizzly—at his mountain refuge. Expect laughter on the chairlift and quiet moments by wild water. This day trip leaves you feeling like you’ve brushed up close against something untamed.

What’s the experience like?

I was honestly a little nervous when we set out from Banff that morning—something about heading into grizzly country just does that to you. Our guide, Jamie, had this relaxed way of explaining things as we drove through Yoho, pointing out where the mountains cut sharp against the sky. The first stop was Takakkaw Falls (if the road’s open—Jamie said sometimes it’s not), and you can actually hear the water before you see it. There’s this cool spray in the air even from the parking lot, and I kept thinking how small we looked compared to all that roaring white water. I tried to take a photo but my lens fogged up instantly.

After that, we rolled on to Emerald Lake. The color really is weirdly green—almost fake-looking? But it isn’t. There were a few canoes out, some kids skipping stones near the edge. Jamie told us a bit about how glacial silt makes that color, but honestly I got distracted by a loon calling across the water. We didn’t stay long but I still think about that silence there, broken only by paddles and birds.

The main thing for me was meeting Boo at the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge. You get up there on this open chairlift—my feet dangling over pine trees—and then suddenly you’re looking at this massive bear just doing his thing in his own patch of forest. The local staff talked about Boo like he was family; apparently he likes dandelions more than berries (who knew?). Watching him lumber around with those huge paws made me feel both lucky and kind of… respectful? Like we’re visitors here, not in charge. Lunch at the Skybridge spot (that bridge is high—my knees wobbled) was good too, though honestly I was still thinking about Boo most of the time.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Yoho and Grizzly Bear Refuge

• Visit Takakkaw Falls viewpoint
• Optional short walk to falls base
• Stop at Emerald Lake viewpoint
• Ride open-chairlift to Grizzly Bear Refuge
• Meet Boo and learn about grizzlies
• Descend back down chairlift

Top questions

How do you get to the Grizzly Bear Refuge from Banff?

The tour includes transport from Banff to Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, then an open-air chairlift ride up to the Grizzly Bear Refuge.

Is lunch included on this day trip?

Yes, lunch is included at the Golden Skybridge area during the tour.

Can you visit Takakkaw Falls all year?

No, access to Takakkaw Falls depends on road conditions; typically it opens late June due to snow.

How close do you get to Boo the grizzly bear?

You watch Boo safely from designated viewing areas inside his 20-acre refuge with guidance from local staff.

Is pickup included from my hotel in Banff?

Yes, return transport with pickup from Banff is included in your booking.

What’s special about Emerald Lake on this tour?

You stop briefly at Emerald Lake to see its unique jade-colored water surrounded by Rocky Mountains.

How big are groups on this tour?

The small group size is up to 24 guests per guide for a more personal experience.

What’s included

Your day includes return transport with pickup from Banff, entry to the Kicking Horse Grizzly Bear Refuge with chairlift ride up the mountain, a stop at Takakkaw Falls if accessible or alternative sights if not, time at Emerald Lake’s shore, lunch at Golden Skybridge (when available), and guidance throughout from knowledgeable local staff before heading back in comfort.