Yoho National Park of Canada

Yoho National Park is located in the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia, Canada, and is part of the larger Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site. The park is situated near the town of Field and is accessible from the nearby cities of Banff and Calgary, Alberta. Established in 1886, Yoho National Park is one of Canada’s oldest national parks and was created to protect the spectacular mountain scenery and unique geological formations of the region. The park’s name, “Yoho,” is derived from a Cree expression meaning "awe" or "wonder," reflecting the stunning landscapes that inspired its designation. Parking facilities within Yoho National Park include several designated areas near popular attractions such as Lake Louise, Takakkaw Falls, and Emerald Lake. The main parking areas are located in the vicinity of the park's visitor centers, and parking is typically free, although certain trailheads and scenic viewpoints may have limited spaces, especially during peak tourist seasons. The park is renowned for its diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, black bears, mountain goats, and elk. Birdwatchers can also spot species such as the peregrine falcon and the Clark’s nutcracker. Yoho National Park's flora ranges from lush alpine meadows to dense coniferous forests. Common plant species include the Engelmann spruce, subalpine fir, and various wildflowers like the alpine forget-me-not and glacier lily. Notable features of Yoho National Park include the striking Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Canada, and the picturesque Emerald Lake, known for its vivid turquoise color. The park also boasts the Burgess Shale, a UNESCO World Heritage site with one of the world's most significant fossil deposits. Public transport options to Yoho National Park are limited. Most visitors use private vehicles to access the park, though there are shuttle services from nearby towns and regional bus services that connect to the area. Visitors can also use the Trans-Canada Highway, which runs through the park, to reach key destinations.