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Hoodoo Creek Trail

Yoho National Park

Unique geology in an often overlooked corner of Yoho National Park.

Hiking Moderate

Distance
5.2 km
Ascent
335 m
Descent
335 m
Duration
1-2 hrs
Low Point
1.1 km
High Point
1.4 km
Gradient
14˚
Hoodoo Creek Trail Map

The Hoodoos are an interesting geologic formation––conical towers of rock and mud eroding from a mountainside. These are similar to hoodoos that you’d expect in the badlands of the desert, but not in the Canadian Rockies. They occur here due to unique layerings of the sedimentary rock and localized weather patterns.

Description

To see them, park at the Hoodoo Creek Campground. The hike begins on a gravel road through the disused portion of the campground, then crosses a footbridge and takes a trail through the forest. The climb is gradual for a while, but becomes quite steep before reaching the end. Nearing the hoodoos, the trail forks to an upper and a lower viewpoint. The distance is not great to either one, so you can easily check out both of them. Fine gravel on the trail is loose underfoot, so trekking poles can help greatly on this final portion of the hike.

There are several good spots to soak in the view from this open hillside. In addition to the hoodoos, you can see to the stream in the valley bottom and toward the mountains on either side. Simply return the way you came, and views are even better in the reverse direction.

Sources: https://www.pc.gc.ca/en/pn-np/bc/yoho/activ/randonnee-hike/jour-day https://www.field.ca/yohonationalpark/leanchoilhoodoos/

Difficulty

Moderate

Hiking along trails with some uneven terrain and small hills. Small rocks and roots may be present.

Medium Exposure

2 out of 4

The trail contains some obstacles such as outcroppings and rock which could cause injury.

Remoteness

2 out of 4

Away from help but easily accessed.

Best time to visit

between May and October

Features

  • Wildlife
  • Historical
  • Picturesque
  • Dog friendly
  • Wild flowers
  • Water features
  • Family friendly

Guidebooks in this area