Yoho National Park is a small national park next to Banff and Kootney. Although Yoho is only 1313 kilometers squared , the park is filled with scenic wonders. One of the highlights in my Yoho trip was Takakkaw Falls. This natural waterfall has a freefall of 254 meters. That makes Takakkaw Falls the third highest waterfall in Canada.
The word Takakkaw comes from the stony native expression, "it is wonderful". The Falls is wonderful. Even more amazing is that visitors are allowed to walk to the bottom of the falls. You can feel the water splashing in your face. You can also feel the cold water from the falls.
Yoho National Park's other highlight is Emerald Lake. Emerald lake is the largest of Yoho's 61 lakes and ponds. This lake has a 5.2 kilometer hiking trail. This lake like many of its brothers and sisters was formed by the damming effect of a eleven thousand year old glacial moraine. This moraine is located where the Emerald Lake Lodge now sits. The trail goes around the lake's perimeter, therefore, there is no real need to hike the whole distance. The first European to discover this lake was Tom Wilson. Tom Wilson discovered another lake which he gave it the same name. However, that lake is now Lake Louise. From a nature observer's point of view , you can enjoy the peaceful beauty of the lake. You will really enjoy the rock-flour colored lake for it evokes a happy memory. The mountains surrounding Emerald Lake are the Presidential Mountains. It is also surrounded by Mount Burgess and Wapta Mountain.
Another popular lake in Yoho is Lake O'Hara. This lake is located directly across the Continental Divide from Lake Louise. However, you will need a reservation in order to be taken up to the Lake. You could also hike up to the lake. It is just a fifteen kilometer hike. It would probably take you a few hours, but if you have a lot of time, then do it.
