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Mountain Hikers

On the west side of the Great Divide in Yoho National Park, weather systems coming from the Pacific Ocean get stuck on the high peaks and dump most of their moisture. Surprisingly the Emerald Basin Trail in Yoho contains trees and plants similar to those of the coastal rainforest in its own micro eco system. On the Lake Louise side of the Divide, drier conditions foster open avalanche paths. No matter where visitors choose to hike in this landscape, it is the geology that leaps out. Glaciers shine in the sun and sedimentary rocks come in an amazing and ever-changing variety of colours. With a little knowledge, it is possible to find alluvial fans, glacial striations, rock glaciers and several kinds of moraine. For the history buff, the high peaks of the area have their share of tales to tell. Stories of first ascents and explorations, the coming of the Swiss Guides and the building of mountaineering huts are all filled with the spirit of adventure.

Despite their high elevation, the area offer trails ranging from flat lakeside strolls, to invigorating workouts that ascend to passes or promontories. This country is home to a few fascinating animals that have adapted to forest or alpine environments. These include pikas, marmots, ptarmigans, ground squirrels, porcupines, pine martens and mountain goats. For much of the summer, the upper elevations are also home to the grizzly bear.

Month by Month:
Mid-May to mid-June has few visitors. Spring wildflowers including orchids and plenty of wildlife grow right by the road. Birds are easiest to hear and see at this time. The rainy and cool weather can be distracting, but warm weather can and does break through on occasion. Higher trails are still snow-bound or wet and muddy.

Mid June to early July brings wildflowers, various flying insects and moderate numbers of people. The weather can be unpredictable, but temperatures are warmer, and the days are longer.

Alpine Flowers

Late July to early August usually brings good weather and fabulous wildflowers at high elevations. The insects are starting to disappear but they are replaced by large numbers of people.

Mid to late August is a time when good weather is still the norm. The wildflowers, however, are past their prime.

In September, visitors start to thin out. The weather is often fabulous with cool nights and mild days. Purple and gold wildflowers continue to show their beauty and lovely fall colours can be expected in the second half of the month. Birds of prey begin to migrate and become more visible.

In early October, the area is very quiet. The last wildflowers are hanging on and sometimes the weather is good, but snow is a definite possibility. Hiking is generally not possible after October 15th - or even earlier in some years.

Lake Louise

For hikers and sightseers, Lake Louise is a good base for a visit to the Great Divide. It is also central to two other main hiking areas in the Canadian Rockies: the Lake Louise area itself, and the first 50 kilometers (30 miles) of the Icefields Parkway.