Traveling from Calgary, follow Canadian Highway 1 toward the mountains. The highway takes a northward turn through Banff before crossing Kicking Horse Pass and into Yoho. With the Kicking Horse River seemingly exceeding the speed limit, pull out often to drink in the spectacular glacier peaks defining the valley. Waterfalls trickle at will.
Exiting at the first turnoff, the visitor travels north toward Takakkaw Falls. The second highest drop in Canada and only 170 feet shorter the Yosemite Falls, Takakkaw is quite a sight. The falls start narrowly before a rock precipice splatters water into a freefall. This is a premier destination within the park, so prepare for summer crowds.
Turning northward at Emerald Lake Road, Emerald Glacier soon appears on the horizon. A short foot path extends beyond the parking lot exposing a most awe-inspiring view. A narrow one-lane footbridge crosses an inlet toward a well hidden lodge. A shoreline chalet serves elk quesadillas.