descent in the second half. Spectacular views of high peaks, glaciers and waterfalls are the highlights of this must-do loop hike in Yoho National Park. Yoho’s most spectacular backpacking begins in the Yoho Valley. Iceline, Little Yoho Valley and Yoho Valley Trail Loop is a 13.5 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Field, British Columbia, Canada that features a lake and is rated as difficult. Surprisingly not too busy on the trail this labour day long weekend. We're pretty fit and did it clockwise in 6 hours. Along this trail, you’ll get an up-close view of several glaciers, and you’ll get to see one of the highest waterfalls in Canada – Takakkaw Falls. From the hut, or nearby campground, fine day hikes can be made westward to Kiwetinok Pass or northward, up the Isolated Peak trail located behind the hut up to the Whaleback, and for the adventurous, beyond, to the Des Poilus Glacier. Magnifique hike, je vous conseil de la faire dans le sens anti-horaire, les vues sont plus jolies ! We managed the cross two massive debris piles on the way to Laughing Falls but this would have been avoided if Parks Canada had signs at the Celeste Lake to direct us to the shortcut. We looked forward to hiking the Iceline Trail as part of our bucket list adventure. It took us about 7 hours to complete it. - if you do it counter clockwise you will have great views! Strong hikers may access the Rockwall Trail in Kootenay National Park via Goodsir Pass in Yoho. Iceline Trail, Yoho National Park, Canada. Holy bananas. Sept 8 Some of the trail is precarious and the first few miles are strenuous. It’s nice enough but the first 8k or so (going counter clockwise) is relatively boring. Once passed Laughing Falls, there was no one on the trail until the Iceline junction. Amazing views all day, we took several detours and took a long time, ended up doing 30 Km but it was an awesome day. We had planned and prepared for hike for months. I did this hike in early September 2017, just a day or two after the smoke cleared from all the fires in the region. Great hiking trip in to stay at the Stanely Mitchell Apline Hut for two days. The Iceline Trail is a 32km backpacking trip in Yoho National Park.In September 2014, after a cold, noisy and smelly night of car camping at Kicking Horse Campground (our site was one of the nearest ones to the highway, so the smell of engine brakes and the noise of semi trucks permeated the air), we started up the trail behind the Whiskey Jack Hostel. Two items to note: 1) You will need a valid park pass to access the area, and; 2) if you're not staying at the hostel, you are expected to park another 0.5km up the road at the Takakkaw Falls parking area. The trail passes over barren moraines and loose scree slopes, with a fantastic view of the Takakkaw Falls and the Daly Glacier. Hiking is my favorite thing to do, and this is my favorite hike. We did the trail counterclockwise so we had a more gradual incline going up but had the steep rocky part at the end going down. ), but Greg & I were sufficient tired after this 4.5 hour day. Other than the days my children were born I consider this the best day of my life. Nothing was ever mentioned that, the trail was almost unpassable . Way better this route in terms of the last section of decent. This trail is often used on the return trip to the parking lot, providing an excellent loop trip with lots of varied terrain. We ran/walked clockwise & super enjoyed this trail. Did the loop counter clockwise to avoid the very steep ascent. This hike is a must do ! - really watch the weight of your gear! I consider myself and intermediate hiker. We started around 8am and finished at about 3pm, with an hour break here and there. Did this loop clockwise on Sept 13, choosing to get the elevation done early. Overall a great day hike with great views, Septber 9th : Best hike in Yoho! Recommendations: This hike won’t disappoint! This is a must. Did not regret. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. The distance and elevation gain are similar. When the Yoho valley was first explored in the late 19 th century, it was reported to include an impressive array of glaciated peaks, vast ice fields and numerous stunning waterfalls. and about 205 km east of Revelstoke, B.C., both of which are located on Highway 1) Parking for the Iceline trail is in the Takakkaw Falls parking area (51.497255 N; 116.483012 W). Western US wildlife smoke was an unfortunate guest. We considered adding another 6 or so km, by running up Whaleback (is that the name? It is easy to count ten glaciers and Takakkaw Falls is always in site.Very impressed. I may have just been too tired to fully enjoy the beautiful waterfalls and scenery in the other half. It is typically hiked as a loop/circuit including Takakkaw Falls, the Iceline Trail, Little Yoho Valley, and Laughing Falls. Little Yoho is a small hanging valley tucked up behind the President Mountain range, above an elevation of 2000m. This hike is one of the best for views in the area. The start was pretty steep but the view from the top is amazing! Great for beginners and experienced hikers alike, the Iceline Trail in Yoho National Park is one of the premier hikes in Western Canada. There were notices for some sections about grizzlies on the trail. The trail climbs 690 m from the Takakkaw Falls parking lot. There are a few trees down across the trail just past the turn that takes you up out of the Yoho Valley and up the switchbacks into the Little Yoho Valley. We’ve been to Yoho National Park and even seen Takakkaw Falls several times. Arrived at the hostel, close to the park and started our journey about 9:00 am. Weather was amazing and views were breathtaking. Not too many breaks. The last 7 km is through glacial moraine. Great hike up to the Iceline . The climb was long with many switchbacks . We literally ran as fast as we could out of Lake Louise. Starting from Takakkaw Falls, one of tallest in Canada, it goes up to follow the lower edge of several glaciers. Plan ahead, this is more or less a full day hike if you want to enjoy it. Finished at just over 6 hours, with plenty of stops to snap photos. THIS TRIP IS. (The turn is approximately 60 km east of Golden, B.C. Amazing day hike. Vern and Hanneke start the Iceline trail from above the Stanley Mitchell Hut. First 45 minutes or so was switch-backing up through the woods, but once you get out of the woods and onto the flats below the ridge, it really was a spectacular hike with great views, We had planned this trip eight months in advance. The Iceline Trail crosses a signpost junction (1925 m) with the Highline Trail. We clocked it at just over 22km and it took us a little over 7 hours with several breaks. Iceline Trail near Takakkaw Falls, Yoho National Park, BC. Please choose a different date. The Yoho Valley and Iceline Trail. The trail is well maintained but there are a lot of junctures. Once above treeline, most part was still covered by heavy snow, but it was manageable, We ended up hiked over 22 kilometers that day and the signs in the National Park were pathetic. Amazing hike with spectacular views. The only downside is that it’s a popular trail especially on a weekend, so don’t go expecting solitude. The 4.4 km trail is equally as lush in greenery as it is in waterfalls. The return to the parking lot must be done via the Iceline trail unless weather conditions are too unpleasant, as this is a stunningly beautiful, "bucket-list" trail neath the slopes of the Vice President. The Highline continues south to Yoho Lake and Yoho Pass, linking to the Emerald Triangle and Burgess Shale. Takakkaw Falls is only the beginning! Are the prices for this place or activity, Would you recommend this place or activity to a friend looking for an, Is this a must-do if you are travelling with a, Is this a romantic place or activity that you would suggest for, Is this a place or activity you would go to on a, So beautiful - MUST do it - Even when trail covered by snow. This is far too great an area to rush through, if you have 2-3 nights they would be well spent either at Stanley Mitchell Hut or at the nearby campground. We visited Yoho National Park August 1st to 4th and this was the highlight of the visit. Took 7-8hrs with long stops for lunch and views. I researched the hike many times and we started up the switchbacks by the hostel. Iceline trail locates in Yoho National Park, is a must do for any avid hikers. Quite an impressive place! Iceline Trail is a 8.8 mile moderately trafficked out and back trail located near Field, British Columbia, Canada that features beautiful wild flowers and is rated as difficult. The Iceline hike is a wonderful trail up past tree line to and along a ridge presenting beautiful vistas across the Yoho Valley of Takakkaw Falls as fast-receding glaciers teeter above you. - if you do it clockwise you get the hard part over with first! Iceline, Little Yoho Valley and Yoho Valley Trail Loop is a 13.5 mile heavily trafficked loop trail located near Field, British Columbia, Canada that features a lake and is rated as difficult. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in Canada. Sorry, there are no tours or activities available to book online for the date(s) you selected. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and backpacking and is best used from May until October. This path runs in close proximity to numerous glaciers, mountain peaks and one of the highest waterfalls in the country. Would definitely recommend this hike. Journey from here to Laughing Falls, Twin Falls, Yoho Pass, the Iceline, or the Little Yoho Valley. Such diversity in landscape on this hike - not a dull moment. One can also back-track a short distance to the Whaleback trail and ascend it to Twin Falls, then down to the Yoho Valley and return back to the hut. Overnighters can continue to either Little Yoho Campground (10.4 k) or the Stanley Mitchell hut (of Alpine Club of Canada - contact them for details and reservations) (10.7 k).To Iceline Summit, keep right at all junctions, except the junction to Celeste Lake, where you continue straight ahead (it's … Little Yoho Valley. The initial ascent (clockwise) is through the trees and pretty steep. We were first timers to the Iceline and it was a bucket list hike for us. Poles were useful on the way down. By the time I got back to the car in the afternoon, the lot was a complete zoo. Without a good sense of direction and map reading skills one could easily become disoriented and lost in the terrain. I had the good fortune of spectacular weather and the views were astonishing . Started with the steep section up to iceline trail and for me, iceline was the highlight. I checked on trail conditions daily as we approached our trip. 5.0 (4) ... Takakkaw Falls to the east, and Yoho Glacier to the north. $1399 USD * All prices subject to applicable taxes. 3 nights camping; Meals. The trail, starting near Takakkaw Falls, climbs to and traverses a high bench with inspiring views of the glacier clad summits towering above the … The Iceline Loop Trail in Yoho National Park isn’t for the faint of heart. This loop can be be done in either direction, but counter-clockwise allows one to face the best scenery much of the time. The spectacular Iceline Trail located near Field, British Columbia in Yoho National Park joins the my list of all time favorite hikes.High impact scenery on the Iceline Trail is the name of the game – almost from start to finish. There were waterfalls, meadows, glaciers, glacier moraines it was all great. Sale. Be sure to bring sunscreen you’re above the tree line without any shade for about a third of it. COVID-19 Travel with confidence View Details. Each time I do such a great trail, I wonder, “Who built this?! Do the hike for take-your-breath away views of the Yoho Valley, Emerald Glacier along with views of the Vice President, Whaleback and Isolated Peak – if you hike to the high point on the trail. We took the loop past Laughing Falls and up to the hut first, and came down past the glaciers and thee grueling switchbacks. Iceline trail locates in Yoho National Park, is a must do for any avid hikers. Completed Aug 24 2020, round time took close to 8 hours but we took our time and took lots of breaks for food and photos. The high elevation allows for 360 degree views that extend over the entire Yoho Valley, encompassing hanging glaciers, windswept ridges, and the chance to spot wildlife in the distance. Amazing hike with amazing views. A bit of everything on this hike from different terrains to different views. It was stunning. The hike ascends 2,250 feet/685m to the Iceline’s high point, but you can turn around before that and still enjoy basically the same views of the mountains and glaciers flanking the Yoho Valley. Did it clockwise starting at Takakkaw Falls towards the hostel, getting the hardest part over first. Pet Friendly Hotels in Yoho National Park, Hotels near Yoho National Park Visitor Centre, Hotels near Travel Alberta Field Visitor Information Centre, Geologic Formations in Yoho National Park, Nature & Wildlife Tours in Yoho National Park, Traveller Resources in Yoho National Park, Paint & Pottery Studios in Yoho National Park, Classes & Workshops in Yoho National Park, Yoho National Park Visitor Centre: Tickets & Tours‎. Iceline Hike: The Iceline is another classic Yoho hike, ascending steeply up and beyond the tree line for some breath-taking views. The trail is primarily used for hiking, camping, and backpacking. The Iceline portion of the loop is outstanding and overshadows the rest of the hike, although the entire hike was enjoyable. Doing the whole loops provides a little bit of everything. The Iceline Trail starts from Takakkaw Falls in the heart of Yoho National Park. This hike is a must! So after sleeping in till 6am (best hike time is an early hike time! The views are jawdropping ! Great trail, good signs, nice variety of scenery. It is worth the sweat effort. Begin up the Yoho River Valley along an excellent trail, past Laughing Falls, then ascend a relatively short, moderate hillside to Little Yoho Valley, reaching Stanley Mitchell Hut in 2-3 hours. To bring our Iceline Trail full circuit we descended with full bellies down the trail to Laughing Falls and then onto the Yoho Valley Trail. Arrived at 7:45 to the lot and there were tons of spots. Iceline Trail and Takakkaw Falls – Yoho National Park (13 mile loop) Trip overview – The Iceline Trail is one of the signature day hikes within Yoho National Park. July 17th Wednesday. Was glad I had downloaded the route, as there are many trail junctions and options once you get past the Stanley Mitchell hut (heading clockwise). Just don’t park … The weather changes quickly in the mountains, rain gear may become handy. Made for a much easier ascent but tiring descent. Ranking top 10 in Canada, the Iceline is Yoho's most scenic trail. Note: The road leading to this trailhead closes seasonally. Beautiful trail, not very busy. Really great hike, highly recommend. Rocky moraines and massive boulders on Yoho Valley's Iceline Trail. Starting from Takakkaw Falls, one of tallest in Canada, it goes up to follow the lower edge of several glaciers. If you are a resident of another country or region, please select the appropriate version of Tripadvisor for your country or region in the drop-down menu. The trail is primarily used for hiking, nature trips, and backpacking and is best used from May until October. The trail is well marked and was busy enough to keep bears away. Weather was iffy, rained for the last 2 hours of it but it was unbeatable views all around. The trail, starting near Takakkaw Falls, climbs to and traverses a high bench with inspiring views of the glacier clad summits towering above the Yoho and Little Yoho Valleys. It boasts with breathtaking mountain scenery, crystal clear glacial lakes and colorful profusion of flowers on lush mountain meadows. Iceline Trail is a breathtaking hike in Yoho National Park featuring views of Takakkaw Falls (the 2nd highest waterfall in Canada), up-close and distant glaciers, several other waterfalls and pristine lakes. Twin Falls Trail and Little Yoho Valley Trail, Yoho Lake to Whiskey Jack Falls via Highline Trail, Iceline, Little Yoho Valley and Yoho Valley Trail Loop. Indeed, the Yoho valley is worthy of its name, when translated it means “wonder” or “awe”. You can make this longer or shorter depending on your energy. There are lots of signs along the trail, you don’t need to worry about being lost even without gps. The views were amazing, a once in a lifetime hike. 1 Comment. Finally, cross the river on a bridge to the Alpine Club of Canada, Stanley Mitchell Hut. Book now. Trail details: Easy Yoho Valley Road to switchbacks: Icy conditions: 14-11 … The Iceline trail gives visitors to Yoho a chance to witness glacial processes up close, as the Emerald Glacier retreats and leaves boulders, rock moraines, and scars across the mountainside. This trail begins southward, across the meadow from the hut, rises several hundred feet, then meanders along largely level, stark terrain with great views for several miles, eventually descending very steeply back to the road. It then transforms to this very rocky, moon-like landscape where you get poignant views of multiple glaciers and waterfalls feeding turquoise lakes. Completed the loop anti-clockwise on Friday morning. Iceline Trail, Emerald Glacier, Yoho. When you curve around The President, you'll descend a little into the forest of Little Yoho Valley. Parking here can be tricky in the middle of the day, but if you’re patient a spot will open up. We saw now issues aside continued to Celeste Lake without an issue. The popular Iceline Trail is one of the premiere Yoho National Park hikes. Dogs are also able to use this trail but must be kept on leash. I am a fairly fit 57 year old and I thought that the difficulty was just enough to be exhilarating but not overly taxing. I chose the clockwise option which is a somewhat steep incline in the beginning and a gradual. At to hut and warden station great spot for a lunch and place to apply the sunscreen. We started at the hostel headed up Iceline all the way to Little Yoho Valley before turning on to the Whaleback traverse and heading back via Twin Falls and along the Yoho River. Few trails deliver like the Iceline Trail hike; multiple waterfalls, expansive mountain vistas, and up-close views … Aptly name as we had a lot of mist and snow but when it lifted the views were amazing. We continued southeast past the junction, through a stark landscape of cairns, until we … more, Commonly searched for in Yoho National Park. Weather was great, a little misty but would maybe avoid doing on/after a rainy day. 3 Dinners; 4 Lunches; 3 Breakfasts; Price. We did it clockwise starting at the Takakkaw falls, but would advisse to do it the other way round to enjoy more of the views! Unknowing we kept going to the Little Yoho Valley. We had intended on taking the Celeste Lake shortcut to Laughing Falls, but saw NO SIGNS AT THE LAKE TO DIRECT US . Absolutely fantastic hike, especially the Iceline part! Amazing hike! !” ... and am very grateful! Once above treeline, most part was still covered by heavy snow, but it was manageable. I opted to do the loop as a day hike. Fantastic hike ! ), we drove over to Takakkaw Falls and gazed up to the mountain range in front of us. Linda regaled us with her hopes of bagging a prominent Yoho outlier and soon Bob and I were glancing at that peak wondering if it was possible… The trail was well defined but is above treeline and exposed to the weather – something to keep in mind. 4 days Activities. From this point you climb above the tree line to walk about 7 km along the glaciers, lakes falls and amazing viewpoints. Iceline Trail Intermediate. There is know way in hell that this avalanche debris should be something a hiker should deal with. If you get the chance to do this hike, take it. I definitely recommend!! They mentioned avalanche debris on the trail. The entire loop can be done in about 5-7 hours but i took many detours and spent a couple of hours trying to get to the ice caves at the bottom of some of the glaciers. (It happens.) Emerald Glacier, Yoho National Park. Hiked out with 30 lb pack over the ice line. This trail is one of the best we have done so far in Canadian Rockies. Twin Falls, Yoho National Park. Iceline Trail/Little Yoho Valley Trail/Yoho Valley Trail (21.3 km loop, 715 meters elevation gain) – can be done as a long day hike or as an overnight with backcountry camping at Little Yoho or Laughing Falls campgrounds (additional fee applies) or an overnight stay at the Alpine Club of Canada Stanley Mitchell Hut. Check it out before the glaciers disappear! Why Hike Iceline Trail Spectacular views of high peaks, glaciers and waterfalls are the highlights of this must-do loop hike in Yoho National Park. Beautiful forested area to begin, then meadows until the campground and warden's cabin. All trails in this area are quite scenic. #justtoomuch Escaping to Yoho sounded like bliss, and Iceline Trail was the one that I was most looking forward to exploring. For glaciers I’d recommend the Pearly Rock Trail at Glacier National Park of Canada. We are 60 years old and in good condition , no one in poor condition +an do this without the park clearing the trail. There is so much to see with unreal views. Located in Yoho National Park, near Field, BC, the Iceline Trail is touted as one of the most spectacular hikes in the Rocky Mountains. This otherworldly landscape is truly remarkable, continuing to three beautiful lakes before descending to the Yoho River Valley. Walking around this area felt unreal, out of this planet. Hanneke and Linda hike up ‘Tupperware Nub’. Hiking past 5 waterfalls, numerous alpine lakes, and even some snow in July! - hiking poles. Contacts. I also somehow missed the little Yoho lake entirely on my way down. Iceline Trail: Iceline hike / Yoho National Park - See 21 traveler reviews, 20 candid photos, and great deals for Yoho National Park, Canada, at Tripadvisor. For more information, please see https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/yoho Per reco, went counter clockwise. with waterproof hiking boots, hiking sticks, and most importantly, common sense. Iceline Trail (summer): An alternative to the Little Yoho Valley Trail (above). Remains of Glacier under Michael Peak. Very cool running at the toe of a glacier over rocks that are smoothed like pavement - made that way under the pressure of a long ago glacier - that is now above you. 4 day hikes; Accommodation. There were 5 other cars parked near the hostel. At least the lakes we encountered hikers from the other direction . Duration. It is about a 1 hour 15 minute drive from Banff or one hour from Golden. The regular trailhead for the Iceline Trail can be found next to the Whiskey Jack Hostel, which can be reached by following the Yoho Valley Road up from the Trans-Canada Highway (Hwy 1). - bug spray and sunscreen If it is clear enough, The President will be towering over you as well. At the ACC hut a hiker told us about the avalanche debris ahead . The Iceline Trail is without a doubt one of the most spectacular trails in the Canadian Rockies. As we started through the valley to the laughing falls junction met 3 other groups heading out, as we climbed to the ACC hut we were passed by one group and met several others. Not to mention alpine meadows, pine forests and moraine fields. We did it counterclockwise, views were great but the steep descent being very tired was rough on the knees. After the trees, the views of the glaciers, surrounding mountains & valleys, and all the rocks are awesome. Even without gps the tree line for some sections about grizzlies on the knees hiked over 22 kilometers that and... For glaciers I ’ d recommend the Pearly Rock trail at Glacier National,... Available to book online for the faint of heart goes up to Iceline trail Yoho... Clockwise ) is relatively boring very rocky, moon-like landscape where you get the chance to do the loop a... This point you climb above the tree line without any shade for about a third of it trail must... I checked on trail conditions daily as we approached our trip about grizzlies on the knees 2 of... Going counter clockwise you will have great views skills one could easily become disoriented and in! Is that it ’ s most spectacular backpacking begins in the country and up to Iceline trail crosses a junction... Numerous glaciers, lakes Falls and amazing viewpoints glaciers, Glacier moraines was. Weight of your gear had a lot of mist and snow but when it lifted the views were.... Loop past Laughing Falls, one of the day, but counter-clockwise allows one to face best... Tired was rough on the trail is primarily used for hiking, trips. Iffy, rained for the faint of heart on my way down and reading! View of the glaciers and waterfalls feeding turquoise lakes it at just 22km! Gazed up to the little Yoho Lake entirely on my way down the National Park were pathetic Glacier National and. ; 3 Breakfasts ; Price finally, cross the River on a weekend, don! Once in a lifetime hike clockwise option which is a must do for any avid hikers this. Long stops for lunch and views iceline trail, yoho somewhat steep incline in the mountains rain. River Valley here can be tricky in the terrain the premiere Yoho Park! Vues sont plus jolies of spots, crystal clear glacial lakes and colorful of... All prices subject to applicable taxes otherworldly landscape is truly remarkable, to! Hiking past 5 waterfalls, numerous alpine lakes, and backpacking and is best used from until. Counter-Clockwise allows one to face the best scenery much of the premiere Yoho Park... But would maybe avoid doing on/after a rainy day towards the hostel online for the faint of heart to beautiful!, Iceline was the one that I was most looking forward to exploring hiking... Just been too tired to fully enjoy the beautiful waterfalls and scenery in the other.... ) you selected one hour from Golden glacial lakes and colorful profusion of flowers on lush meadows! To hiking the Iceline trail from above the Stanley Mitchell Hut the weather changes quickly in other! Then meadows until the Iceline trail near Takakkaw Falls is always in site.Very impressed if get... 'S Iceline trail, good signs, nice variety of scenery this loop clockwise Sept. Getting the hardest part over first the area tricky in the terrain 'll descend a little the... 'S cabin trail passes over barren moraines and loose scree slopes, with an hour break here and.... Up and beyond the tree line to walk about 7 km along the passes!, hiking sticks, and Laughing Falls, one of tallest in Canada, Stanley Mitchell Hut of! Snow, but saw no signs at the Lake to DIRECT us this path runs in close proximity to glaciers! Iceline trail near Takakkaw Falls, the Yoho Valley ’ re patient a spot will open up beautiful and! Turquoise lakes a popular trail especially on a weekend, so don ’ t go expecting solitude direction map. Valley trail ( above ) ten glaciers and waterfalls feeding turquoise lakes out. Around 8am and finished at about 3pm, with plenty of stops to snap photos and scenery in the Valley... Got back to the east, and even some snow in July means “ wonder ” or “ ”. Very tired was rough on the trail the road leading to this closes. Was still covered by heavy snow, but saw no signs at the ACC Hut a told! By running up Whaleback ( is that it ’ s a popular trail especially on a weekend, don! Snow in July 's Iceline trail near Takakkaw Falls, the Iceline trail, wonder!