How to Book Emerald Lake Lodge

Emerald Lake Lodge Wedding Guide

YOHO National Park, BC

Emerald Lake Lodge is a secluded wedding destination situated on an island in one of the most stunning bodies of water in the Canadian Rockies. Originally built in 1902 by the Canadian Pacific Railway, this historic property has been carefully restored to maintain its rustic charm while offering modern comforts.

Why Emerald Lake Lodge is the Perfect Elopement Destination

Emerald Lake is a breathtaking setting surrounded by towering peaks, lush forests, and crystal-clear waters. Its serene and secluded environment makes it a truly intimate spot for your wedding day. Imagine exchanging vows with the stunning mountain backdrop reflected in the pristine turquoise water, or sharing a quiet moment by the lake surrounded by nature’s beauty. Whether you choose a lakeside ceremony or an indoor venue, Emerald Lake offers endless opportunities for unforgettable photos, making it the ideal destination for couples who want to elope in an extraordinary and tranquil setting.

Getting Married at Emerald Lake vs. Emerald Lake Lodge

If you want to get married at Emerald Lake (the lake itself) rather than Emerald Lake Lodge, you will need a Parks Canada permit because it falls within Yoho National Park. Here’s a comparison:

Emerald Lake Lodge: For couples seeking a private, more traditional wedding setting, the lodge offers exclusive use of the venue and doesn’t require the Parks Canada permit. A BC marriage license is still required.

Emerald Lake: A stunning, natural location perfect for those who want an adventurous and intimate ceremony. However, you’ll need to obtain a Parks Canada permit, fill out a registration form 2-4 weeks in advance, and adhere to national park regulations. This option offers up to 20 guests but requires everyone (including vendors) to have a Parks Canada pass.

Parks Canada Permit Requirements

You must fill out a Parks Canada registration form at least 2-4 weeks in advance.
Your ceremony must comply with national park regulations (e.g., no exclusive rights to an area, respecting the environment).
You can have up to 20 guests.
Everyone attending (including vendors) must purchase a valid Parks Canada pass.

For a wedding at Emerald Lake Lodge, you don’t need a Parks Canada permit because it’s a private venue. However, a BC marriage license is still required for both locations.

Why Choose Emerald Lake for an Elopement?

If you’re dreaming of an intimate elopement without a structured venue, Emerald Lake’s natural beauty offers a perfect setting. Imagine saying your vows with the mountains reflected in the lake, followed by an adventure-filled photo session exploring hidden spots around Yoho National Park.

You can start your day with a lakeside ceremony, then hike, canoe, or even chase waterfalls for truly breathtaking wedding portraits.

Ceremony Locations at Emerald Lake Lodge

Viewpoint Ceremony Location

Positioned along the edge of the island nestled between two cabins
Not wheelchair accessible
Offers breathtaking panoramic views of the mountains and turquoise waters of Emerald Lake
Maximum of 20 chairs provided by the lodge
No charge if you are using a function room for your reception or dinner (otherwise, a fee applies)

Cilantro on the Lake Patio

Features a partial mountain and tree-filled backdrop
wheelchair accessible
Stunning lake view, perfect for smaller wedding ceremonies

Elopement Package at Emerald Lake Lodge

Emerald Lake Lodge offers their own elopement package for couples seeking a private and intimate wedding experience.

What’s Included:

Two nights’ accommodation
A three-course à la carte dinner for two
Two breakfasts for two
Bottle of sparkling wine
Fruit & cheese or chocolate plate
etc…

The elopement package is exclusive to the couple getting married, with a maximum of two people.

Reception & Function Spaces

Emerald Lake Lodge has multiple reception spaces that can accommodate weddings of varying sizes.

Vice President’s Room

Surrounded by a sundeck with stunning views of Emerald Lake
Accommodates up to 88 guests
Dimensions: 40’ x 25’
Located on the second floor

President’s Room

A formal setting with views of President’s Mountain
Accommodates up to 22 guests
Dimensions: 18’ x 25’
Located on the second floor

Cilantro on the Lake Restaurant

A free-standing restaurant with large windows overlooking the lake
The only venue on the property that allows a DJ and dancing
Accommodates up to 64 guests
Dimensions: 30’ x 30’

Yoho Lounge

Located on the upper level of the main lodge
Offers a cozy, historical setting for intimate gatherings and cocktail receptions
Can serve as an optional indoor ceremony space for small weddings
Dimensions: 25’ x 25’

Rent Your Own Island

For couples seeking complete privacy, Emerald Lake Lodge offers the option to rent the entire island for a wedding celebration.

What’s Included:

Exclusive use of all facilities, function spaces, and accommodations
Accommodates 100 to 150 guests
Available from October to May
All 85 guest rooms must be booked

Best Wedding Photo Locations at Emerald Lake

Emerald Lake and its surrounding landscapes offer breathtaking backdrops for wedding photography.

Emerald Lake Shoreline & Trail

A loop trail around the lake provides diverse scenery, from forested areas to open water views

Canoeing on Emerald Lake

Canoe rentals available, offering a stunning perspective of the turquoise water

Natural Bridge

A short drive from Emerald Lake
Features a powerful waterfall that transforms into an ice cave in winter

Nearby Scenic Locations

Waterfalls, alpine lakes, and short hiking trails nearby provide additional portrait locations. Custom location list provided as part of our elopement photography and wedding photography packages! Yes, we have some hidden gems!

How to Get Married at Emerald Lake Without Booking Emerald Lake Lodge

If you prefer a more private or adventurous ceremony outside of the lodge, you can marry around the lake or in the open field at the lake’s end. You will need to obtain a Parks Canada wedding permit for ceremonies outside the lodge.

We now offer planning assistance to help you create a seamless and stress-free wedding experience outside the lodge.

Find out more about our planning service here.

How to Get to Emerald Lake Lodge

Emerald Lake Lodge is located in Yoho National Park, approximately 230 km (143 miles) from Calgary.

Directions from Calgary:

Take the Trans-Canada Highway #1 west towards Field, BC.
2 km past Field, turn left at the Emerald Lake exit.
Follow the road for 8 km to the ‘Overnight Guest Parking’ lot.
Use the phone in the parking lot cabin to call the front desk for shuttle service.

Directions from Vancouver:

Follow the Trans-Canada Highway #1 east towards Golden, BC.
55 km past Golden, take the left-hand turnoff for Emerald Lake.
If you reach the town of Field, you’ve gone too far.

Ensuring a Smooth Arrival for Guests & Vendors

No personal vehicles are permitted on the island unless pre-arranged.
Guests must park in the overnight parking lot and take the shuttle to the lodge.
Vendors requiring vehicle access must contact the lodge in advance to make arrangements.

Marriage Commissioner Contacts

For legal wedding ceremonies, you will need to arrange a marriage commissioner.

Lorraine Zirke | 250-343-6439 | LorraineZirke@gmail.com

Michale Lang | 403-760-1880 | michale.lang@gmail.com

Find out more about BC marriage license requirements here.

Ready to Say “I Do” at Emerald Lake Lodge?

Emerald Lake Lodge offers an unforgettable, intimate setting for your elopement or wedding, surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of Yoho National Park. Whether you’re seeking a private ceremony by the lake or exploring the stunning landscapes for your photos, this location promises an experience you will cherish forever.

If you’re ready to book your wedding or elopement at Emerald Lake Lodge, I’m here to help make your dream day come true. With years of experience, I specialize in capturing intimate moments in nature and will guide you every step of the way.

Here are some important links to help you plan your wedding: