Yoho Day Tour: Wapta Falls and Takakkaw Falls in Summer, Marble Canyon in Winter

Two waterfalls in summer, a frozen canyon in winter: this Yoho National Park day changes its second half with the season. Pickup and drop-off are offered in Calgary, Canmore and Banff, and the group is small. The year-round stops are Emerald Lake, whose green colour comes from fine glacial particles called rock flour, and the Natural Bridge on the Kicking Horse River. In winter the Natural Bridge can be even better: when the falls freeze, ice spikes make it possible to walk onto the frozen river and see the formation from below. Lunch in Field lasts one hour. In summer the route continues to Wapta Falls, the largest waterfall on the Kicking Horse River, 18 metres high and 107 metres wide. Reaching it is a hike of 4 km round trip. The last summer stop is Takakkaw Falls, a 373-metre single drop and a short 10 to 15 minute walk from the car park, which makes it easy for families. In winter Lake Louise (or Lake Louise Ski Resort) replaces Wapta Falls, and Marble Canyon replaces Takakkaw Falls. At Marble Canyon bridges connect short loops, the deep blue river stays unfrozen below snow-covered rock, and crampons are used on the ice walk. Hot drinks and crampons are included in winter.