Emerald Lake is one of the most admired destinations in Yoho National Park,

 with an unmatched diversity of both activities and landscapes suited to the enthusiastic traveler. It was discovered in 1882,

when famed mountain guide Tom Wilson was led lakeside

 while rounding up a group of horses that had gone astray,

and was immediately taken by the vivid Emerald-coloured waters.
 

Here the vegetation is quite stunning, with several

different microclimates suiting a new collection of sensitive plant species,

 making for some impressively delicate floral displays.

The moist, shady enclaves common to the Emerald Lake

 region make it one of the best places to spot a variety of tiny,

 fragile wild orchids that survive only in finely balanced conditions.

 If you're paying attention,

you may be rewarded with a Yellow Lady Slipper, Spotted Orchid,

or Calypso sighting.

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake~

Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake is easily accessible from Field by a 10-minute car ride,

 or by biking or cross-country skiing along the Tally Ho trail,

depending on the season. Be sure to make a stop

 at the Natural Bridge viewpoint on the way!

Emerald Lake

2013 06 29