Yoho National Park

A little over two hours west of Calgary is the unparalleled beauty of Yoho National Park, part of the world-famous UNESCO Canadian Rocky Mountain Parks World Heritage Site.

Spanning 1,3113 square km, it boasts over 400 km of marked trails, 28 mountain peaks exceeding 3,000 metres in height, the gorgeous Emerald Lake, and its name origin is rooted in a Cree expression meaning of amazement or awe.

If you enjoy driving through mountain roads, deep switchbacks and nature-filled environments, this is the perfect drive. Impressively, the Burgess Shale being one of the world's most crucial fossil finds, is here and contains the fossilized remains of over 120 marine animal species dating back 505 million years.

At the end of all the dazzling twists and turns of the 13 km of Yoho Valley Road, I was brought to one of Canada’s tallest waterfalls, Takakkaw Falls, with Takakkaw meaning “it is magnificent” in Cree. Boasting an impressive free fall of 254 m, it’s a short walk from the parking lot, along the Iceline Trail, across the bridge and emerging at a far-ish base of the falls. The views are stunning and you’ll feel the cool mist dabble through the fresh, mountain air. Fed by the the meltwater from the Daly Glacier, you can admire from afar or be adventurous like me and carefully and sure-footedly climb the rocks to get a closer view of this wondrous waterfall. The panoramic views are unmatched from my climb and I perched on a rock for a good 30 minutes staring into Yoho’s surroundings.

If you do the hike/climb, go slowly and know that the descending path is trickier than the ascension.

There’s a lovely spot for pictures with two oversized Muskoka chairs that provide a postcard-worthy backdrop that you should definitely spend a few minutes at.

If you’re considering going, you absolutely should. I’ll drive you myself.

The exquisite Emerald Lake is a hidden gem that’s multi-use features include walking, paddling, cross country skiing and snowshoeing capabilities. The exclamation point is the Natural Bridge, which gifts you vivacious views of the Kicking Horse River.

After over 15,000 steps and a long yet enjoyable drive, Cathedral Mountain Lodge on Yoho Valley Road in Field was my home for the evening. My cabin was on-point for this part of the world, complete with a wood-burning stone fireplace, a private deck and no phones or televisions. You’re surrounded by mountains and I implore you to walk by the river after dinner and capture truly captivating photographs of this special part of Canada. On-site dining is delicious at their Riverside Dining Room, with delectable offerings in an enchanting atmosphere.

Keep heading west for about an hour and you’ll reach Golden, home of the newly opened Golden Skybridge. Enveloped by the colossal Columbia Valley, Canada’s highest suspension bridges lift you a remarkable 426 feet high across a length of 492 feet with awesome views of the Purcell and Rocky Mountain ranges.

The return bridge, while slightly lower in dimensions but equally as impressive on views, measures 262 feet high and 459 feet long. For safety, only 60 people are allowed on each bridge at a time. Here, it’s fine to wait as the views will keep you happily occupied. Add in a 200 foot waterfall and the answer is “yes, yes, yes!”

Aside from the impressive engineering to create the Skybridge, there’s also a zip line, ropes course and a mountain coaster that runs 3,375 feet in length and a descent of 2,195 feet, to keep you entertained during your visit.

There’s an outdoor space to relax, eat and drink, it’s family friendly and is a wonderful way to spend a few hours.

Keep your nature “high” going and take the short 20 minute drive to the famous Kicking Horse Mountain Resort. Hop in the Kicking Horse Gondola and be whisked up to a sensational 7,700 feet and enjoy views of the iconic Rocky Mountains, Columbia River Wetlands and of course, Golden. Once at the summit, I racked up another 10,000-ish steps by doing a long hike, some moderate climbing and being thankful for plenty of digital storage on my iPhone.

While you’re there, get your paws on the Ranger Assist Program Tour, which provides a unique perspective and safe encounter with resident bear, Boo. There’s a feeding (food is dropped from a chairlift into his area) along with plenty of bear-related information about Boo, the area and its history, including Boo’s 20 years here.

Wrap up with dinner at any one of the local restaurants; I opted for a patio seat at the Rockwater Grill and Bar for a classic burger and fries.

A quaint lunch spot in town is the Bacchus Books & Cafe, which is primarily a bookstore, and the service, food and coffee is oh-so superb!

Rest up at the Rooms at Riveredge, conveniently downtown and backing onto the Kicking Horse River. A comfortable bed, a modern room, a scenic setting and an above average experience make this your ideal lodging choice.

In the morning before you head out, you must, must, must get to Golden Bakery & Deli for breakfast and some road snacks…the fresh croissants are simply perfect!