Emerald Basin guided hike in Yoho: 10 km forest trail with pickup

Cedar and hemlock forests open onto an alpine amphitheater above Emerald Lake.

A guided hike in Yoho National Park that follows a 10 km trail from Emerald Lake through ancient forest to a natural alpine amphitheater. The route takes approximately 4 hours of walking, with morning pickup from your location and return transport included. Park fees are covered, and two guides lead the group at a steady pace with planned stops for rest and interpretation. Minimum age is 15, and a moderate level of fitness is needed for the terrain.

The experience

The day starts with pickup from your designated location before dawn, then a drive to the Emerald Basin trailhead. Once there, the guides go through a gear check, review the route and safety considerations, and share background on the area's natural and cultural history along with wildlife safety specific to the region. The hike itself follows the shoreline of Emerald Lake before climbing into the old-growth forest of cedar and hemlock that covers the basin's lower slopes.

Two guides bracket the group (one at the front, one at the back) to keep the pace steady and everyone together. They stop at planned points along the trail to share details about the landscape and answer questions, giving you time to rest and take in the surroundings. The trail climbs gradually to the alpine amphitheater, a natural bowl of rock and meadow that opens views across the basin. At a designated lunch spot partway through, the group stops to eat and sit before retracing the same route back down to the trailhead.

The full day runs about 8 hours from pickup to drop-off, though timing varies with the group's pace and fitness. Hiking poles are available to rent if you want them. Once back at the trailhead, the van takes you to your original pickup location, ending the experience.

What’s included

• Morning pickup from your location and return transport to the same spot.
• park fees for Yoho National Park.
• two guides leading the group throughout the hike.
• planned stops for rest, interpretation and lunch.
• hiking pole rental available upon request.

Before you book

Days and timesNext departure: 20 Apr 2027

Book up to1d before

AgesAdult (15 to 80 years) · Under 15: can't be booked

GroupUp to 11

Live guideEnglish

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.You can choose from 3 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 2 days ago

Good to know

Moderate physical effortPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot recommended during pregnancyNot recommended with heart problemsNot recommended with back problems

Operated by Tait's Trails

Is this one for you?Pickup from your accommodation means you don't need a car or your own transport to the trailhead. The van collects you in the morning and brings you back after the hike, so the day works whether you're staying in the area without a vehicle or prefer not to drive.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

What's the Emerald Basin trail actually like to walk?

The 10 km route is easy-to-moderate terrain that follows Emerald Lake's shoreline before climbing through old-growth forest to a natural alpine amphitheater. The ascent is gradual, and the guides pace the group to match everyone's fitness level, with rest stops built into the day.

Do I need to arrange my own way to the trailhead?

No. Pickup from your designated location is included, and the company van takes you to the Emerald Basin trailhead in the morning and returns you to your original drop-off point after the hike.

What does the guide actually do during the hike?

Two guides lead the group (one at the front and one at the back) to keep a steady pace and maintain supervision. They stop at planned points to share interpretive information about the area's natural and cultural history, answer questions, and allow time to rest and enjoy the scenery.

Are park fees included in the price?

Yes. Yoho National Park fees are covered by the company, so there's no separate entrance charge.

Can I rent hiking poles?

Hiking poles are available to rent upon request, so you can arrange them when you book if you want the extra support on the climb.