A gem in the Rockies: Discover the three primary colors of Emerald Lake by the lakeside

▲Emerald Lake in the Canadian Rockies.

Reported and photographed by Yu Jiayun, reporter in Canada

When it comes to the most famous lakes in Canada, most people would probably think of the renowned Lake Louise first. But in fact, within the Rockies, which boast diverse and spectacular natural landscapes, there are many lake scenes hidden like treasures. Take Emerald Lake in Yoho National Park, for example—it shimmers with emerald green hues, surrounded by mountains. Whether you’re sipping coffee by the lake or boating on the water, you’ll be enveloped by its serene and tranquil beauty.

▲Emerald Lake under sunlight and shadow.

Edward, a guide from Canada Happy Travel, says that Yoho National Park is the smallest of the Rocky Mountain parks and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site along with Banff and Jasper National Parks. Though small in size, Yoho National Park features diverse terrains, natural environments, and ecological landscapes. Among them, the Emerald Lake—described as a brilliant emerald jewel—and the natural stone bridge, a testament to nature’s craftsmanship, are must-see iconic attractions.

▲Emerald Lake's green shines even brighter in the sunlight.

▲On sunny days, Emerald Lake is only green, white, and blue.

Stepping into Emerald Lake, the sunlight reflecting off the calm waters reveals a fairy-tale-like transparent emerald green. When clouds block the sun, the lake darkens, contrasting beautifully with the rolling peaks and pine trees, creating an even more majestic sight. Here, visitors can sit by the lake and enjoy the breathtaking scenery, or rent a small boat to slowly circle Emerald Lake, letting this green gem captivate your eyes up close.

▲The fast-flowing Kicking Horse River.

Not far from Emerald Lake, the natural stone bridge is another famous attraction in Yoho National Park. Originally a limestone rock in the Kicking Horse River, years of erosion carved out a hole in the rock, forming a natural bridge and accidentally creating a waterfall. The river here is powerful and rapid, with the emerald glacial waters splashing and composing an impassioned symphony. The seemingly endless pine forests on both sides of the bridge and the distant majestic peaks serve as the perfect backdrop for this natural melody.

▲The natural stone cave carved by the river.

▲The scenery on both sides of the stone bridge is quite magnificent.

Flight Information
Canada Airlines operates a daily flight at 15:55 from Taipei to Vancouver, where you can transfer to a Canada Airlines domestic flight to Calgary International Airport—the closest airport to the Rockies.