Hiking to Hamilton Lake and Emerald Peak in Yoho National Park

AllTrail Guides

Jun 15

If you’re looking for a hike that combines a challenging climb with a stunning alpine reward, Hamilton Lake in Yoho National Park. is a must-do. This hidden gem offers turquoise waters, towering peaks, and a sense of solitude that’s hard to find in the busy Rockies. We first hiked to Hamilton Lake in 2020, and despite the long, hot slog up to the lake (and the bugs!), the experience was unforgettable. We even lugged pool floaties, swimsuits, and towels up the trail for a refreshing dip in the lake—because why not?

For those looking for an extra challenge, you can continue beyond the lake to Emerald Peak, which offers jaw-dropping views of both Hamilton Lake and Emerald Lake below. Whether you’re stopping at the lake or pushing on to the peak, this hike is a true Rocky Mountain adventure.

Trail Overview

Hamilton Lake

The trail to Hamilton Lake is a challenging hike that takes you through dense forests, across rocky slopes, and into a stunning alpine cirque. The lake itself is a shimmering turquoise gem, surrounded by towering peaks and wildflower meadows.

Emerald Peak

For those looking to extend their adventure, the route continues beyond Hamilton Lake to the summit of Emerald Peak. This steep and rugged climb rewards you with panoramic views of Hamilton Lake, Emerald Lake, and the surrounding valleys.

The trail from here is more of a route and less defined, have offline maps and knowledge of route-finding before attempting.

Hamilton Lake from Emerald Peak Route, Yoho National Park, BC

Trail Stats

Distance to Hamilton Lake: 12 km round trip
Distance to Emerald Peak: 16 km round trip
Elevation Gain to Lake: 700 meters
Elevation Gain to Peak: 1,100 meters
Difficulty: Challenging
Time Required: 5-7 hours to the lake; 7-9 hours to the peak

Trail Description

The Trail to Hamilton Lake

The hike begins at Emerald Lake, located near the town of Field, BC. After parking head to lakeshore and wrap around the left side of the boat house to find the trailhead. The first section of the trail winds through a dense forest of spruce and fir trees, with the sound of Hamilton Creek accompanying you as you climb.

As you ascend, the trail becomes steeper and rockier, with switchbacks leading you up to the alpine zone. Here, the trees thin out, and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding peaks. The final push to the lake involves a steep climb, but the sight of the turquoise waters and the towering cliffs above will make it all worth it.

Continuing to Emerald Peak

If you’re up for more adventure, the trail continues beyond Hamilton Lake to the summit of Emerald Peak. This section is steep and involves some scrambling, so sturdy footwear and trekking poles are highly recommended.

The effort is well worth it—once you reach the summit, you’ll be rewarded with 360-degree views of the Rockies. To the east, you’ll see Hamilton Lake nestled in its glacial cirque. To the west, you’ll have a bird’s-eye view of Emerald Lake and the surrounding valleys.

Views of Emerald Lake (left) and Hamilton Lake (right) from Emerald Peak, Yoho National Park, BC

Don’t forget to self-permit any watercraft, including floaties, if you plan to use them in the lake. Parks Canada requires permits for all watercraft, even inflatables, to help protect the park’s ecosystems.

Driving Directions

From Golden, BC

Head east on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) toward Yoho National Park.
Drive approximately 25 km to the town of Field, BC.
In Field, turn left onto Emerald Lake Road (just before the train tracks).
Drive approximately 1 km, there’s a small parking area and a trailhead sign near the Emerald Lake Boat House.

Driving Time: Approximately 20 minutes.

From Calgary, AB

Head west on the Trans-Canada Highway (Highway 1) toward Banff and Yoho National Park.
Continue through Banff and Lake Louise, entering Yoho National Park.
Drive approximately 30 km past Lake Louise to the town of Field, BC.
In Field, turn right onto Emerald Lake Road (just after the train tracks).
Drive approximately 1 km, there’s a small parking area and a trailhead sign near the Emerald Lake Boat House.

Driving Time: Approximately 2.5 hours.

Emerald Lake Boat House, Yoho National Park, BC

Park and Permit Information

Park Entry: A Parks Canada Discovery Pass or daily entry fee is required to access Yoho National Park. Passes can be purchased online or at park gates.
Permits: No special permits are required for day hiking to Hamilton Lake or Emerald Peak. However, if you plan to use any watercraft (including floaties) in the lake, you’ll need to self-permit at a Parks Canada office or online.
Parking: The Hamilton Lake Trailhead shares it’s parking with Emerald Lake which has limited parking, so arrive early, especially during peak season.

Hamilton Lake from the Emerald Peak route, Yoho National Park, BC

Gear

Check out my Gear Guide

I’ve put together a Day Hiking Checklist with a complete list of gear recommendations.

Other Nearby Hikes

If you’re looking to explore more of Yoho National Park, here are a few of our other favourite hikes in the area:

Paget Peak and Paget Lookout

Distance: 6 km round trip to the lookout; 8 km round trip to the summit
Elevation Gain: 550 meters to the lookout; 770 meters to the summit
Difficulty: Moderate to challenging
Trail Description: This hike offers stunning views of the Bow, Cataract Brook, and Kicking Horse Valleys. The summit of Paget Peak provides 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and Sherbrooke Lake.

Lake O’Hara Area

The Lake O’Hara region is a hiker’s paradise, with trails ranging from easy lakeside strolls to challenging alpine routes. Some of our favourites include:

Lake O’Hara Shoreline Trail: An easy 2.8 km loop around the lake, perfect for families.
Opabin Plateau Circuit: A moderate 6.8 km loop with incredible views of alpine meadows and glacial lakes.
Wiwaxy Gap and Huber Ledges: A challenging 10 km route with steep climbs and jaw-dropping views.

Note: Access to Lake O’Hara is limited, and reservations for the shuttle bus or camping are required. Check out our dedicated blog on Lake O’Hara for more details!

Opabin Lake, Lake O’Hara, Yoho National Park, BC

Where to Stay

Campgrounds

Monarch Campground

Location: Just off the Trans-Canada Highway, 10 km west of Field, BC.
Amenities: 44 sites, pit toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. No showers or hookups.
Why We Love It: It’s quiet, affordable, and close to many trailheads.

Kicking Horse Campground

Location: Near the town of Field, BC.
Amenities: 88 sites, flush toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. No showers or hookups.
Why We Love It: It’s spacious and well-maintained, with easy access to Yoho’s attractions.

Takakkaw Falls Campground

Location: Near the base of Takakkaw Falls, one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls.
Amenities: 35 walk-in sites, pit toilets, and fire pits. No showers or hookups.
Why We Love It: The proximity to Takakkaw Falls and the stunning views make this a unique camping experience.

Rainbow over Takakkaw Falls, Yoho National Park, BC

Luxury Stay: Emerald Lake Lodge

If you’re looking for a more luxurious option, Emerald Lake Lodge is a fantastic choice. Located on the shores of the stunning Emerald Lake, this lodge offers cozy cabins, fine dining, and easy access to hiking trails. Check out our dedicated blog on Emerald Lake Lodge for more details!

Canoeing on Emerald Lake, Emerald Lake Lodge, Yoho National Park, BC

Why We Love This Hike

Hamilton Lake is a true hidden gem in Yoho National Park. The challenging climb is rewarded with stunning alpine scenery, and the option to continue to Emerald Peak adds an extra layer of adventure. Whether you’re taking a refreshing dip in the lake or soaking in the views from the summit, this hike is a Rocky Mountain experience you won’t soon forget.