Emerald Triangle: Emerald Lake Lodge/Yoho Pass/Burgess Pass

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Features Geological Significance · Historical Significance · Lake · Views · Waterfall

A more challenging day hike than the Emerald Lake Trail for those wanting higher elevation views and to traverse the bottom portion of the Burgess Shale (entrance prohibited). The route begins on the Yoho Pass Trail then connects to the Burgess Pass Trail where it passes the Burgess Shale (entrance prohibited) before finally descending steeply back to the Emerald Lake parking and lodge.

Do not enter the Burgess Shale quarries above the trail without authorization or a Parks Canada guide. It is a criminal offense.

Park at the Emerald Lake parking (park pass required). One can proceed clockwise or counter-clockwise but clockwise is probably better as the trail rises gradually to Yoho Pass. After crossing the alluvial fan at the end of Emerald Lake, climb to Yoho Pass and then proceed on the signed route towards Burgess Pass.

You'll encounter signs indicating that entering the Burgess Shale quarries is forbidden at all times unless accompanied by a Parks Canada guide. The trail passes below the quarries but climbing above the trail is completely closed and off limits. At Burgess Pass, follow the signed route back to Emerald Lake. The other trail descends to the town of Field, very far from where you left your car at Emerald Lake!

Watch for bears, as always.

The Burgess Shale quarries are off limits to unguided hikers but hiking on trails that pass below the fossil quarries is permitted.