With its beautiful jewel coloured water and its stunning backdrop of Mount Burgess and Wapta Mountain, Emerald lake is a must visit on your trip to the Rocky Mountains. There is a reason why Emerald Lake was given its name, and you will most definitely want to spend some time guiding a canoe across the picture perfect emerald waters. This post will share everything you need to know before renting a canoe at Emerald Lake.
Where is Emerald Lake?
Emerald Lake is located in Yoho National Park, British Columbia. It is about a 30 minute drive from Lake Louise and about an hour drive from the town of Banff.
The closest town to Emerald Lake is Field, BC. With a population of less than 200 people, there isn’t much in Field except a few places to stay and a few places to eat.
Where to Stay?
If you are wanting to experience the magic of Emerald Lake, I would suggest staying at Emerald Lake Lodge.
This resort has 24 cabin-style buildings that accommodate up to 200 people.
With wifi only located in the main lodge, and no cell service around Emerald Lake, the lodge allows you to really unplug and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.
Emerald Lake Lodge | Book Here
Other Hotel Options | Booking.com
Parking at Emerald Lake
There is a public parking lot at Emerald Lake. Although the parking is not nearly as bad as Lake Louise of Moraine Lake, the parking lot can definitely fill up during peak months.
Parking is currently free.
Best time to Visit?
If you are planning to rent a canoe at Emerald Lake, you will have to go between late May and mid October as this is when the lake is thawed and canoe rentals are open.
Your best bet is to go between July and September as the waters are typically the most blue during this time. If you are going in July and August, there may be wait to rent a canoe as there are no reservations and it is a first come first serve.
The lake can be really beautiful in October and November when there is a light snowfall but the waters are still blue (see picture below). However you will not be able to rent a canoe and it is a riskier time to visit as the weather can be different every year.
Renting Canoes at Emerald Lake
If you are looking for something to do, renting a canoe at Emerald Lake is the perfect way to explore the stunning landscape.
You can rent canoes from the Boathouse Trading Co., you will not miss the boathouse as you will see it as soon as you arrive to the lake. It is located near the bridge to Emerald Lake Lodge.
Canoe rentals are $90/hr per canoe. Up to 3 adults are allowed in one canoe.
Canoe rentals are on a first come first serve basis. When I went in September, we did not have to wait for a canoe. However, the lake is busiest in July and August so plan accordingly.
One person in the canoe must be at least 19 years of age.
One dog per canoe is allowed, up to a maximum of 23kg or 50lbs. If you are bringing a dog, you are then only allowed 2 adults in the canoe. Staff do get final say based on the temperament of the dog.
Only canoes are available to rent, no kayaks of stand up paddleboards.
There is no place at the Boathouse to leave valuables when you are canoeing, so if there is anything you don’t want to bring with you on the canoe leave it in your vehicle.
Details
Cost | $90 CAD / hour per canoe
Hours of Operation | 10:00 am – 4:45 pm MT (las canoe goes out at 4:45pm)
Time of Year | late May to mid October.
Canoe Size | The canoe can hold three adults, two adults and two children, or two adults and one dog
Important points | There is no cell reception at the lake
More details | The Boathouse Trading Co.
A National Park pass must be purchased before parking at Emerald Lake, a pass cannot be purchased at the lake so be prepared to purchase one at either:
- Entrance to the park either near Canmore
- Entrance to the park between Field & Golden
- At the information center in the town of Field
The boathouse also has a shop, which I would recommend visiting regardless of if you are planning to rent a canoe or not. The shop has souvenirs and locally made goods.
Shop Hours | 10am – 6pm MT.
Using your own boat on Emerald Lake?
If you are not wanting to rent a canoe, you are allowed to bring your own non-motorized boat. I have seen people bring their own kayaks or canoes and use them instead of renting.
Launching your own canoe or kayak is easy as there is a beach area about 100m past the boathouse.
If you are going to use your own boat, you must complete a registration permit through Parks Canada before you bring your own boat to the lake.
Did you know?
You may be wondering how Emerald Lake (and Lake Louise) have such blue waters. Well, silt-like rock flour is carried down to the lake by melt-water from the glaciers around. Once in the water, these small particles refract blue and green wavelengths of light bringing about the stunning blue colour.
Other popular lakes to rent a canoe include:
Lake Louise | Banff National Park
Moraine Lake | Banff National Park
See my post here about canoeing at Lake Louise.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Emerald Lake. Renting a canoe at the lake is definitely a highlight of my travels through the Rocky Mountains. I would highly recommend experiencing the magic of Emerald Lake from the jewel coloured waters.
xoxo
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