Emerald Lake Lodge

Emerald Lake Lodge evokes a feeling of expeditions past. It was 1882 when legendary guide Tom Wilson stumbled across this spot during the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway. Today the lake with its jade-coloured water remains one of the most beautiful wilderness settings in North America.

The lodge is the only accommodation on Emerald Lake. Built from hand-hewn timber with massive stone fireplaces, it’s an inviting place to enjoy the spectacular scenery. Drink in the mountains from the lodge veranda, hunker down in the reading room or peruse the extensive wine menu in the newly opened Cilantro Café.

In the Mount Burgess dining room, chef Valerie Morrison and her team serve Rocky Mountain cuisine. Ingredients include free-range elk and bison, as well as sustainable seafood, prairie-grown grains and locally harvested vegetables. Over in the Kicking Horse lounge, the bartender pours micro-brewed beers and whiskeys behind an oak bar salvaged from an 1890’s era Yukon saloon.

A short walk from the main lodge is a 24-hour clubhouse with a fitness room and dry sauna. Best of all is the outdoor hot tub. Tiptoe through the snow to soak in steaming water while gazing up at the stars.

Emerald Lake is accessible year-round. In the winter, go skiing, snowboarding or try dog sledging. In warmer months, explore the lake by canoe or tackle the mountains on horseback.