For anyone looking for a great ski trip, try cross country skiing at Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park. Emerald Lake is such a peaceful and magical spot in winter and the ski trails around the lake and the alluvial fan behind are mostly flat, making them perfect for beginners or people looking for a relaxing ski with incredible views!
Although the trail is trackset the tracks on the lake can get a lot of sun, especially during spring so they can get a bit slushy on a warm day, as we found out! When we started out across the lake, the tracks were not in excellent shape from both the weather and hikers, however as soon as we got on the cross country ski trail they were great.
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Where To Ski At Emerald Lake
From the main parking lot at Emerald Lake it’s a short walk to the lake. Head down to the lake by walking next to the rentals cabin. There are big Parks Canada signs here which detail the best cross country skiing at Emerald Lake as well as other hiking and multi use trails.
The winter trails don’t immediately follow the lakeshore like the summer hiking trail does, due to an avalanche path. Instead cross country skiing at Emerald Lake starts with a short stretch across the lake before heading up a hill into trees around the lake. As you head up, the lower trail is for hiking while the upper trail is trackset for cross country skiing.
Through the trees the trails gradually goes up and down with some short climbs followed by gradual downhills, perfect for beginners to get some confidence and a nice workout all-round! At the far end of the lake the trail comes out of the trees, down a short hill, into the open, with beautiful views looking back across the lake.
A short distance later there is a trail junction. To continue cross country skiing at Emerald Lake, you can either cut back across the lake or take the Alluvial Fan trail. We chose to do the latter. It was perfectly trackset with no real hiking traffic. To start it very gradually gains elevation with glimpses of the mountains around. As it opens up, the trail crosses a bridge over a creek before opening wide up in a snowy meadow.
Then trail then gradually starts to descend and it was easy cruising. Not to fast but also very little effort. Enjoy the views and the break. There are benches around the trail which offer a nice spot for a break as well.
The Alluvial Fan trail rejoins the lakeshore trail eventually and we headed back along the multiuse trail. When we reached the junction and benches we headed on to the lake to finish cross country skiing at Emerald Lake by skiing the length of the lake. Giving beautiful views of the lodge.
Make sure to wear plenty of layers while out cross country skiing at Emerald Lake, we had hot sun, followed by cold wind and clouds. We needed all our layers at some point. Carrying a backpack was needed to put all the extra layers in when we had to take them off due to getting warm.
Can You Rent Skis?
If you don’t have your own equipment, you can rent equipment at the boat house on Emerald Lake. When we visited in March, it was closed on Tuesday and Wednesdays though. However the rest of the week they are open daily so you can try cross country skiing at Emerald Lake, even if you don’t have equipment.
Places To Stay Near Emerald Lake
Emerald Lake Lodge – The closest spot to stay is at Emerald Lake Lodge, these cozy cabins are located right on the shore of the lake, making it a perfect base to explore the area in the winter.
Truffle Pigs – Located a short drive away is Truffle Pigs in Field, this small cute lodge is a great spot for some peace and quiet while being centrally located to explore Yoho National Park and even Lake Louise.
