1 m away
Hamilton Lake
A strenuous hike to a secluded lake, for those who love solitude.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 9.6 km
- Ascent
- 850 m
- Descent
- 850 m
Hamilton Falls
Yoho National Park
Forest hike to a modest waterfall.
Hiking Moderate
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Ascent
- 99 m
- Descent
- 99 m
- Duration
- 0-1 hrs
- Low Point
- 1.3 km
- High Point
- 1.4 km
- Gradient
- 10˚
In a national park famous for its waterfalls, Hamilton Falls is relatively unimpressive, but it’s a unique little cascade with some history, and it’s easy to reach from Emerald Lake. If you’ve had your fill of other hikes around the lake, or just want something quick but uncrowded, Hamilton Falls makes a pleasant, short outing. The waterfall is best to look at in early summer when it’s flowing strongly. Later in the summer, it reduces to a meager flow.
Description
It’s an uphill stroll through the forest, following signs for Hamilton Lake/Falls. Hamilton Lake is a much more strenuous hike that continues past the waterfall. Look for the side trail to the falls, and you can scramble down to the creek bed for a better look. You’ll find the ribbon of water pouring through a deep groove and into a rock-filled pool. The concrete wall that forms this pool is the remnant of a small-scale hydropower project, and you may find other artifacts if you look around closely.
Sources: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/yoho/activ/randonnee-hike/courte-short https://hikingwithbarry.com/2013/12/10/hamilton-falls-yoho-national-park-hiking-british-columbia
Difficulty
Moderate
Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.
Medium Exposure
The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.
Remoteness
Away from help but easily accessed.
Best time to visit
Features
- Wildlife
- Historical
- Picturesque
- Dog friendly
- Water features
- Family friendly
- Forestry or heavy vegetation
Similar routes nearby
74 m away
Emerald Lake Loop
A peaceful stroll around the shore of a stunning alpine lake.
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 5.2 km
- Ascent
- 98 m
- Descent
- 98 m
138 m away
Emerald Triangle Loop
Hands-down one of Yoho’s best all-day hikes, this loop combines the scenic shore of Emerald Lake with high-elevation vantage on the Wapta Highline.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 18 km
- Ascent
- 1.1 km
- Descent
- 1.1 km
7.7 km away
Takakkaw Falls
Short walk to a better view of Yoho's tallest waterfall.
Easy Hiking
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Ascent
- 15 m
- Descent
- 15 m
7.7 km away
Takakkaw Falls to Emerald Lake
Hike over Yoho Pass to link some of the park’s most iconic sights in half a day.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 11 km
- Ascent
- 426 m
- Descent
- 633 m
7.7 km away
Laughing Falls and Twin Falls via Whaleback
Yoho’s best trek for waterfall viewing, making a challenging one-day or overnight circuit.
Difficult Hiking
- Distance
- 20 km
- Ascent
- 1 km
- Descent
- 1 km
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Guidebooks in this area
4 routes · Hiking
5 Long Day Hikes to Ditch the Crowds in Yoho NP
4 routes · Hiking
The Very Best Hikes in Yoho National Park
7 routes · Hiking
Hikes for the Entire Family in Yoho NP
5 routes · Hiking
Hike and Dine in Yoho National Park
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