Last updated on August 30th, 2024 at 02:12 pm
Wanting a short but rewarding hike, the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho National Park is the perfect option. At least when we completed the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho, it was very peaceful, while the hotspots of the park were packed with people, we were one of only two cars at the trailhead when we started out in the early afternoon, making the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho a fantastic option for those looking for something a little more peaceful than other hikes in the park.
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The Hoodoo Trail In Yoho National Park
Distance: 5.2km return
Elevation: 325m gain
The Hoodoo Trail in Yoho starts nice and easy as it follows the old campground road, which is wide and daily flat, easy hiking but don’t be fooled. As the trail heads through the old campground look to each side, enjoy the forest and marvel at the way nature has reclaimed the site.
A sign for the trail points you to the left, look for the small hiking sign next which directs hikers over the small berm, here the trail was almost invisible for a few metres. Once over the berm, there is a bridge across the river and the Hoodoo Trail is easily visible on the other side.
From the river, the real climb begins on the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho. Up through the forest through a series of steep switchbacks. The sign at the bottom of the climb warns that you are about to gain 300m of elevation in just 1.6km of distance. I can confirm, it feels more like 5 kilometres of grind on the way up.
Enjoy the valley views where the gaps in the trees allow as you gain elevation, this is the perfect distraction for the climb up. Asd the trail turns and heads away from the river the top of the switchbacks you get a short reprieve from climbing. The river rages way below and you get the odd peekaboo view.
Before you know it, you are climbing again through the forest, which unfortunately, not much to see. There are a few downed trees along the entire route to navigate but most are easily climbed over or under. Just as you think the climb will never end, a small bench will come into view which signals the junction for the upper and lower viewpoints on the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho.
We decided to continue the climb and head to the upper viewpoint first. The grind continued! But the views of the hoodoos were incredible. The trail building here helps you gain elevation with a number of steps in place, but regardless there are some seriously steep sections to reach the end of the trail, looking down on the hoodoos.
We headed back down and went to the lower viewpoint afterwards. This is a fairly flat trail that loses a little elevation, there has been some washout to the trail close to the end but it is still easy to cross. We enjoyed a break by the river, looking up at the hoodoos here. Perfect to refuel and rest our legs before the steep descent we knew awaited us.
Along this whole hike we saw maybe three other groups. It really was so peaceful, which was unexpected in such a busy national park. For that reason alone I’d recommend the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho. That being said, it isn’t for the faint hearted with steep climbs and some exposure, which all feels worth it when you reach the hoodoos.
Where Is The Trailhead
The trailhead for the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho is fairly easy to find. It is right off Highway One. A short 24 kilometre drive from the town of Field or 35km from Golden in the other direction.
From Highway One, look for the signs for Hoodoo Creek, take the turn off and follow the single road. As you reach a small junction, there is a sign, directing hikers to continue straight on, while the campground is on the left. You’ll come to a road closure and you can park anywhere at the end of the open road, with the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho being signposted from the end of the road.
What You Need For This Hike
I think I’ve probably mentioned this a few times but this short hike is incredibly steep in parts, a good pair of shoes is a must! I wore my Merrell MQM boots, these offered the perfect amount of grip while still being lightweight.
The distance of this hike made me think I could leave my hiking poles at home, however I would recommend bringing a pair, they’ll help save your knees on the steepest downhill stretches and any loose and slippery sections.
We packed plenty of snacks and stopped by the river on the lower lookout trail to enjoy a rest and a refuel while enjoying the cool breeze in the river valley.
Don’t forget to take bear spray, this hike is in bear country, make sure to have it accessible and know how to use it when you are out.
Places To Stay Nearby
When we completed the Hoodoo Trail in Yoho, we were camping down the road at the Kicking Horse Campground, a sweet spot with all the amenities you might need for a relaxing few days. There is also a first come first serve campground a few minutes from the trail, called the Hoodoo Creek campground, this small campground was empty when we drove round to check it out.
If you are looking for a little more luxury the small town of Field has limited accommodation options, such as Truffle Pigs. Alternatively you could base yourself out of Golden and explore Yoho for a day, check out the Basecamp Lodge in Golden for a cozy mountain retreat spot.
Other Hikes In Yoho
- Emerald Lake Loop
- Iceline Trail
- Lake O’Hara Trails
