Yoho National Park
British Columbia
•Est. 10 October 1886
Area
1,313 km² (507 sq mi)
Natural Region
Rocky Mountains
Annual Visitors
663,878
Established
10 October 1886
About the Park
Yoho National Park, located in the southeastern corner of British Columbia, is a jewel of the Canadian Rockies. The park features towering peaks, roaring waterfalls, serene alpine lakes, and rich fossil beds, offering a unique blend of geological wonders and natural beauty. It's a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and those seeking awe-inspiring scenery in every direction.
Park Location
History
Established in 1886, Yoho National Park was one of Canada’s first national parks, created shortly after Banff. Its name comes from a Cree expression of awe and wonder—'Yoho'—which reflects the breathtaking landscapes found within its boundaries. Over time, the park has become an integral part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Landscapes
Yoho’s diverse landscape includes rugged mountains, glacial-fed lakes like Emerald Lake, thundering waterfalls such as Takakkaw Falls, and deep valleys carved by ice and water. The park also hosts the famous Burgess Shale fossil beds, which contain some of the most significant fossil discoveries in the world, offering a rare window into early marine life.
Wildlife
Home to a variety of wildlife, Yoho National Park supports species such as grizzly bears, black bears, moose, mountain goats, bighorn sheep, and marmots. Birdwatchers can spot a variety of alpine and forest birds, while quiet exploration may reward visitors with sightings of elusive animals in their natural habitat.
Activities
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy hiking, backcountry camping, wildlife viewing, and paddling on glacial lakes in the warmer months, while winter brings snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. Popular spots like Emerald Lake, Wapta Falls, and the Iceline Trail offer unforgettable experiences for both casual visitors and seasoned adventurers.
Park Features
Natural Beauty
Pristine Wilderness
Wildlife
Native Species
Activities
Outdoor Adventures
Scenic Views
Photo Opportunities
Similar National Parks You Might Enjoy
Discover more natural wonders like Yoho National Park. These parks share similar features, landscapes, or geographical locations that you might find interesting.
Kootenay National Park
Location
British Columbia
Established
21 April 1920
Area
1,406 km² (543 sq mi)
Annual Visitors
574,126
Part of the Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site, Kootenay features diverse landscapes including the Radium Hot Springs, Marble Canyon, and the Paint Pots.
Glacier National Park (Canada)
Location
British Columbia
Established
1886
Area
1,349 km² (521 sq mi)
Annual Visitors
775,190
Glacier National Park, located in British Columbia, is renowned for its rugged mountains, deep valleys, and active glaciers. The park offers a range of outdoor activities and is a haven for mountaineers and hikers.
Waterton Lakes National Park
Location
Alberta
Established
30 May 1895
Area
505 km² (195 sq mi)
Annual Visitors
475,842
Waterton Lakes National Park, where the prairies of Alberta meet the peaks of the Rocky Mountains, offers a diverse range of landscapes, including clear lakes, thundering waterfalls, colorful streams, and mountain vistas. The park is part of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the world's first transboundary protected area.