Yoho National Park
If you’re a photographer who dreams of capturing dramatic landscapes, towering waterfalls, and the occasional confused marmot, Yoho National Park in British Columbia is your personal playground. Named after a Cree expression of awe and wonder (which roughly translates to "Whoa!"), Yoho is the lesser-known but equally jaw-dropping sibling to its famous neighbor, Banff. Established in 1886, the park was originally created to prevent overly enthusiastic railway workers from setting up their own private nature preserves (or so we like to imagine). Today, it’s a paradise for photographers who enjoy their scenery with a side of adventure.
Cathedral Mountain Lodge
Emerald Lake
Laughing Falls & Point Lace Falls
Meeting of the Waters Confluent
Mt. Stephen Trilobite Beds
Meeting of the Waters Confluence
Spiral Tunnels
Takakkaw Falls
A Walk in the Past Trail
Photography Opportunities in Yoho National Park
Cathedral Mountain Lodge – Where Rustic Meets Ridiculously Photogenic
Want that cozy cabin-in-the-woods shot that screams “I drink artisanal coffee and know how to chop wood”? Cathedral Mountain Lodge is your spot. Nestled beside the Kicking Horse River, this lodge offers postcard-perfect views of its namesake, Cathedral Mountain. Visit during golden hour for a warm glow that makes everything look like a National Geographic spread.
Takakkaw Falls – A Waterfall With a Flair for the Dramatic
At 1,224 feet tall, Takakkaw Falls isn’t just a waterfall—it’s a statement. This cascading beauty practically demands to be photographed from every angle. The best shot? Stand at the base and use a wide-angle lens to capture its sheer power as mist soaks your camera and your dignity. For a different perspective, hike up the switchbacks on the nearby Iceline Trail and shoot from above, proving to your friends that yes, you do occasionally exercise.
Emerald Lake – The Show-Off of the Park
If lakes had egos, Emerald Lake would be insufferable. With water so vividly turquoise that it looks Photoshopped in real life, this spot is a dream for reflection shots. Visit early in the morning when the water is still, and the surrounding peaks mirror perfectly on the surface. Feeling extra ambitious? Rent a canoe and snap a shot of the bright red boats against the unreal blue water—because nothing says “I’m one with nature” like a curated color palette.
The Mt. Stephen Trilobite Beds – Prehistoric Portraits
Who knew fossils could be this photogenic? The Mt. Stephen Trilobite Beds contain some of the best-preserved fossils from over 500 million years ago. While macro photography enthusiasts will be in heaven capturing detailed close-ups of ancient sea creatures, wide shots of the rocky slopes make for rugged, otherworldly compositions. Just remember: the fossils are protected, so leave them where they are—no matter how much you think your bookshelf needs a prehistoric accent piece.
Final Clicks: Yoho’s Endless Photo Ops
Yoho National Park is a goldmine for photographers looking to capture raw beauty without the crowds of more famous parks. Whether you're chasing waterfalls, reflections, or just the perfect moody mist shot, this place delivers. So grab your camera, embrace the unpredictable weather, and get ready to fill your memory card with images that will make your non-photographer friends question their life choices.
And remember—if you don’t post it, did it even happen?
Happy exploring!