Best Backpacking Loops Yoho Has to Offer

Introduction

Yoho National Park, tucked away in the Canadian Rockies of British Columbia, attracts over 500,000 visitors annually—many lured by its pristine alpine trails, glacier-fed lakes, and secluded backcountry routes. The Yoho National Park Backpacking Loops Yoho ptions are among the most scenic and rewarding hiking adventures in all of Canada.
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What makes Yoho so special? Picture towering waterfalls, vibrant turquoise lakes, jagged mountain peaks, and serene meadows bursting with wildflowers. And unlike many tourist-heavy destinations, you’ll often find peaceful trails and remote campsites, especially on the lesser-known loops.

In this guide, we’ll dive into the top 10 Yoho National Park Backpacking Loop routes, with insider tips to help you plan your adventure—whether you’re a seasoned backpacker or exploring multi-day hiking for the first time.

1. Iceline Trail Loop: The Ultimate Yoho National Park Backpacking Loop

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 21 km (13 miles)
• Time: 6–8 hours or 1–2 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Difficult

Key Highlights:
One of the most iconic Yoho National Park backpacking loop routes, the Iceline Trail offers stunning views of the President Range, Takakkaw Falls, and glaciers that seem within arm’s reach.

Accessibility:
Start from the Takakkaw Falls parking lot. Backcountry campsites at Laughing Falls and Little Yoho are available (reservations required).

Pros:

• Glacier views
• Waterfalls
• Varied terrain

Cons:

• Popular trail; can be busy in July and August

SEO Tip: Image alt: “Hikers enjoying glacier views on Iceline Trail Yoho National Park Backpacking Loop”

2. Twin Falls via Yoho Valley Trail

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 17.5 km (10.9 miles) round-trip
• Time: 6–7 hours or overnight
• Difficulty: Moderate

Key Highlights:
This route leads to the impressive Twin Falls, passing Laughing Falls and Angel’s Staircase. Stay overnight at Twin Falls Campground or historic Twin Falls Chalet (book early).

Accessibility:
Begins at Takakkaw Falls lot with clear trail signage.

Pros:

• Waterfall-heavy hike
• Easy navigation
• Ideal overnight backpacking loop

Cons:

• Limited permits for overnight stays

3. Lake O’Hara Alpine Circuit (Multi-day Option)

Trail Overview:

• Distance: Varies (~30 km for full alpine loop)
• Time: 2–3 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Key Highlights:
A coveted trail system due to limited access permits. Combine alpine routes like Wiwaxy Gap, Opabin Plateau, and All Souls Prospect for a challenging Yoho National Park backpacking loop.

Accessibility:
Bus access only (must book well in advance). Alternatively, hike 11 km to Lake O’Hara campground.

Pros:

• Iconic vistas
• Limited crowds
• Top-tier backcountry routes

Cons:

• Highly competitive permit system

Tip: This loop shares planning elements with the Havasupai backpacking permit 2025 system—apply early and plan backup dates.

4. Burgess Pass to Emerald Triangle Loop

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 19.6 km (12.2 miles)
• Time: 1–2 days
• Difficulty: Moderate

Key Highlights:
This scenic loop connects Burgess Pass and the Emerald Triangle, circling around Emerald Lake with jaw-dropping alpine panoramas.

Accessibility:
Park at Emerald Lake. Backcountry camping near Yoho Pass.

Pros:

• Alpine meadows
• Emerald Lake views
• Great wildlife viewing

Cons:

• Bugs in mid-summer
• Some route-finding needed

5. Little Yoho Valley Loop via Whaleback Trail

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 32 km (20 miles)
• Time: 2–3 days
• Difficulty: Moderate

Key Highlights:
This less-traveled loop follows the Yoho River through alpine valleys, past Laughing Falls and back via the Whaleback ridge—ideal for those seeking solitude.

Accessibility:
Start at Takakkaw Falls lot.

Pros:

• Great for intro backpackers
• Minimal crowds
• Water access along the way

Cons:

• Snow lingers into early July

6. Yoho Pass Loop to Emerald Lake

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 12.8 km (8 miles)
• Time: Half-day to full-day
• Difficulty: Easy to Moderate

Key Highlights:
A gentler Yoho National Park backpacking loop, this trail connects Takakkaw Falls to Emerald Lake through Yoho Pass, with great photo ops.

Accessibility:
Shuttle between start/end points can be arranged.

Pros:

• Family-friendly
• Amazing scenery for minimal effort

Cons:

• Limited camping options
• Crowded during summer

7. Daly Glacier View Loop

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 8.5 km (5.3 miles)
• Time: 3–4 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Key Highlights:
This short loop offers unobstructed glacier views from high above the Yoho Valley—a great way to sample the alpine without the commitment of a long trip.

Accessibility:
Begin at the Iceline Trail trailhead.

Pros:

• Great for afternoon hike
• Easy add-on to Iceline route

Cons:

• Not suitable for full backpacking trip unless extended

8. McArthur Pass & Lake Loop

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 15 km (9.3 miles)
• Time: 6–8 hours
• Difficulty: Moderate

Key Highlights:
Part of the Lake O’Hara system, this trail brings you through subalpine meadows to McArthur Lake with towering rock walls all around.

Accessibility:
Lake O’Hara bus or hike-in access required.

Pros:

• Quiet trails
• Big mountain views
• Ideal day 2 loop for multi-day stays

Cons:

• Weather can change quickly

9. Amiskwi Pass Loop

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 37 km (23 miles)
• Time: 2–3 days
• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging

Key Highlights:
One of the lesser-known backpacking loops in Yoho, the Amiskwi route follows old fire roads and secluded valleys.

Accessibility:
Begin near Emerald Lake or Field.

Pros:

• Solitude
• Forested and alpine mix

Cons:

• Less dramatic views than Lake O’Hara or Iceline

10. Field to Ottertail Trail Loop

Trail Overview:

• Distance: 30 km (18.6 miles)
• Time: 2–3 days
• Difficulty: Moderate

Key Highlights:
This scenic route traverses forested valleys and high ridges with views over the Kicking Horse River.

Accessibility:
Start near Field Visitor Centre.

Pros:

• Great wildflower displays
• Easily accessible start point

Cons:

• Limited backcountry campgrounds

Hiker’s Guide: Planning Your Yoho National Park Backpacking Loop

Best Time to Visit

The best time to hike the Yoho National Park backpacking loop routes is from late June through mid-September, depending on snowpack and weather. July and August are ideal for clear trails, wildflowers, and longer days.

Avoid shoulder season unless you’re experienced in snow travel. Think of it like planning for a Havasupai backpacking trip, where timing is everything for water access and trail conditions.

Essential Gear Checklist

• Lightweight tent + sleeping bag
• Bear spray and canister
• Layers for cold alpine nights
• Water filter or purifier
• High-calorie trail snacks
• Trail map or GPS (printed copy advised)

(SEO Tip: Some gear advice also overlaps with what to pack for Havasupai.)

Safety Tips

• Always check Parks Canada trail reports before heading out.
• Be bear aware: hike in groups and make noise.
• Stick to marked trails—weather can shift fast in the Rockies.
• Respect the environment—follow Leave No Trace.

Permit Tips

While the Havasupai permit process is a lottery system, Yoho permits are reserved through Parks Canada for backcountry camping. Book early for summer weekends.

Final Thoughts: Explore Yoho’s Best Kept Secrets

The Yoho National Park backpacking loop trails offer everything from glacier views to wildflower meadows, alpine lakes, and serene valleys. Whether you’re planning a quick overnight trip or a multi-day adventure, there’s a trail here that will leave you breathless—in the best way.

Ready to hit the trails? Bookmark this guide, gather your gear, and experience the Canadian Rockies at their finest. Don’t forget to share your adventures and inspire others to discover Yoho!

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