June in Yoho National Park

// June 25th, 2012 // Guests, Travel Tips

Here at Cathedral Mountain Lodge, the ground squirrels are busy, the snow high in the mountains is melting, and our staff are settling into a routine. We are welcoming many visitors to our mountain hideaway and the season is beginning to take shape. The mild June weather has provided great opportunities for hiking and the spring rain has made river rafting very exciting! In fact, last week there was a huge rainstorm that brought more rain than this area has seen in forty years! The normally pristine turquoise Kicking Horse River was high and flowing fast with the murky brown mountain runoff:

With the melting of the snow comes the opening of many roads and trail systems in the area as the risk of avalanche finally subsides. The famous Takakkaw Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in Canada, is now accessible by car, offering guests a great chance to see and explore this breathtaking glacier-fed waterfall just 13 km from our doorstep.

Another great area to explore while visiting us at Cathedral Mountain Lodge is Lake O’Hara, just a ten minute drive from us along the Trans Canada Highway. This protected area has restricted access by bus only, and reservations are required. After a long winter, we are excited to announce that the bus is now running and people can now visit this beautiful lake and its surrounding trails. If you cannot make reservations but have a full day to commit and are up for a challenge, there is no restriction on walking to Lake O’Hara via the 11 km access road.

If you are here to see wildlife, you don’t have to wander very far. In fact, just the other day I was sitting by the river and this beautiful elk decided to cross right in front of me:

There are endless opportunities to see mountain goats, bears, birds, elk, and of course, ground squirrels while you are here. Come and see for yourself!

Alana Hyatt

Adventure Specialist

Cathedral Mountain Blog