Best Day Trip from Banff if You’re Looking to Venture into BC

One of the best things about Banff National Park is its location. While Banff is in Alberta, just over the mountains is the border with British Columbia. Banff itself is incredible, full of jaw-dropping scenery, mountains, lakes, hikes, and experiences.

The town is built up for tourists, which means it is busy, with plenty of shops, restaurants, cafes, and things to do.

But if you are looking for a quieter escape that offers something a little different, a day trip into Yoho National Park in British Columbia is perfect. It is close enough for a day trip from Banff, and you can hit a few amazing stops while still having time to return to Banff in the evening.

I recommend three main stops in Yoho National Park, though you can add more if you have time. Regardless, I suggest leaving Banff around 8 am so you can grab a quick breakfast and coffee for the road and have plenty of time at each spot.

You can stop at Lake Louise Junction if you really need more snacks or food, but otherwise it is best to be prepared before leaving.

Recommended Itinerary

1. Banff to Emerald Lake
Distance: 120 km
Drive time: 1 hour and 40 minutes

2. Emerald Lake to Takakkaw Falls
Distance: 57 km
Drive time: 50 minutes

3. Takakkaw Falls to Natural Bridge
Distance: 32 km
Drive time: 25 minutes

4. Natural Bridge back to Banff
Distance: 110 km
Drive time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

This route takes you first to the farthest stop, Emerald Lake, where you will likely want to spend the most time. Then the remaining stops naturally bring you back toward Banff, so you are not backtracking too much or adding extra driving.

Food and Gas Tips

Before you leave Banff, make sure to fill up on gas and food. Options in this area of Yoho National Park are very limited. You can stop at Lake Louise Junction if you really need extra snacks or a quick bite. Otherwise, it is best to grab breakfast and coffee in Banff before heading out.

Once you are in Yoho, you will not find much. There is only a small cafe at Emerald Lake with limited options, so it is best to be prepared.

First Stop: Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is the largest lake in Yoho National Park, and it is a stunning turquoise color that is almost unreal. The water is clear and reflective, mirroring the surrounding mountains and forests perfectly and creating postcard-worthy views no matter where you look.

In the summer, the most popular activity is canoeing. Canoes are available for rent right at the lake near the parking lot, and they fit about three people comfortably. Rentals are for one hour, and it is worth arriving early, especially on a busy day, because lines can form quickly.

Paddling across the calm water with towering mountains around you is an unforgettable experience.

If you would rather stay on land, there is a 5.2 km loop trail around the lake offering incredible views from every angle. Along the trail, you will pass lush forests, small streams, and perfect photo spots of the lake and surrounding peaks. Parking is limited, so the earlier you arrive, the better.

There are public bathrooms and a small cafe for hot drinks and snacks, though options are limited. You could easily spend a good portion of your day here, so plan accordingly.

Second Stop: Takakkaw Falls

Takakkaw Falls is one of the tallest waterfalls in Canada, plunging 373 meters 1,224 feet from the top, with the free-falling section alone measuring about 254 meters 833 feet. You will likely spot it from a distance as you drive in. The sheer size and roar of the falls make it impossible to miss.

The falls are fed by the Yoho Glacier, which keeps the water flow strong through the spring and summer. You can get very close to the base with a 10 to 15 minute walk from the parking lot.

As you approach, the mist rises around you, the air gets cooler, and you might even feel droplets from the waterfall on your skin.

There are several viewpoints along the way, each offering unique perspectives from wide panoramic views of the falls cascading down the mountainside to close-up shots showing the sheer power of the water. Takakkaw Falls is more than just a photo stop.

The sound of the water crashing is incredible, almost meditative, and the surrounding scenery is breathtaking with mountains, forest, and rocky terrain. It is a place to linger, take it all in, and maybe snap some photos or just relax for a bit next to the falls.