Twin Falls Trail

Twin Falls Trail is a 16.8 km (10.4 mi) out-and-back from Takakkaw Falls parking, following the Yoho Valley Trail through Laughing Falls to Twin Falls and its historic log tea house. Allow about five to six hours, including a stop at the cascades. This is a moderate hike made demanding by its distance, not a quick waterfall stroll.

Laughing Falls is 4.5 km from the parking lot. It makes a good shorter out-and-back of about 9 km (5.6 mi). For Twin Falls, continue another 3.9 km each way. The last stretch narrows and climbs gradually toward the falls. The 6.4 km figure sometimes listed for the Yoho Valley Trail ends at the north end of the valley; it does not reach Twin Falls. The optional Marpole Lake connector creates a different return route, and the 20.5 km Whaleback is a separate circuit; neither is part of this line.

The lower trail follows the Yoho River along the valley bottom. Parks Canada describes this part as packed gravel with minor elevation change. Point Lace Falls, Angels Staircase Falls viewpoint and Duchesnay Lake are optional short detours along the way, so add time if you want to visit them. Beyond Laughing Falls, the official route continues into a longer, moderate section before reaching Twin Falls.

Twin Falls is a pair of side-by-side cascades, with the rustic log tea house beside them. The Canadian Pacific Railway built it in the early 1900s as part of its network of mountain lodges; the Alpine Club of Canada manages the historic site today. Short local paths bring you to different views of the falls and building. Published information does not confirm day-hiker food service, so treat the tea house as a landmark rather than a meal stop unless you verify otherwise.

Start at Takakkaw Falls parking lot at the end of Yoho Valley Road, about 17 km northeast of Field. The road is seasonal, generally open from mid-June through mid-October, and the lot fills early on summer weekends. Vehicles longer than 7 m must reverse through the tight switchbacks; trailers are not allowed. Dogs may come on the trail but must stay leashed and under control.