Emerald Lake Lodge - A Wintery Weekend Getaway

View of cabin 18 at Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC. Ours was just out of shot, tucked behind the snow-bank.

Valentine’s Day. Over the course of our marriage, Adam and I have typically been the sort to stay in and binge-watch Netflix, however the last two years we’ve done things differently. Two years ago we went all out, flew to Montréal, binge-ate several multi-course meals over several more days, complete with amuse-bouches et les digestifs (what a terrible descriptor for such a lovely concept—I mean, who wants to be reminded they digest?). Last year we decided to cozy up with a ‘winter wonderland’-esque trip to a cabin in the woods, but what cabin and where? I had envisioned rosy-cheeked fun followed by hot chocolate and some well-earned toasting by the fire, but didn’t want to ditch luxuriating. And I wanted to take the dog because, as any travelling dog-owner will tell you, dumping pooch in a kennel gets tiring. Or being relegated to the one non-renovated, formerly-smoking, tin can-of-a-room by the elevator. Le Sigh.

We managed to tick all our boxes at Emerald Lake Lodge, located in Yoho National Park near Field, BC, though we didn’t necessarily know it when booking. I’d literally seen one suitably-snowy pic of the oft-photographed natural bridge leading to the main lodge on Instagram before entering my credit card info. “Pets-allowed?” “Yes.” “Free-parking?” “Yes.” “Restaurant on-site?” “Yes!” That was the extent of my research.

Cilantro on the Lake, one of three eateries at Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC. — *Cilantro on the Lake*, one of three eateries at Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

Boy were we in for a surprise! We drove in at night down a road seemingly headed to nowhere if it weren’t so well-groomed and hit an isolated parking lot filled with snow-covered vehicles. A quick skim of a sign assured us a shuttle would be by shortly. With the three of us plus luggage aboard, we headed for home for the weekend.

The Lodge did not disappoint! Twinkling lights lined paths carved in chest-height snow leading to and from buildings. Parka clad patrons stomped the ‘fluffy stuff’ from their boots on their way through the lobby to candle-lit dinners. It was like Hogwarts met Win Butler's 'Tunnels' from the album Funeral—the perfect setting for a rustic-chic weekend away.

Equally thrilling was the discovery upon check-in that each room had its own fireplace and pre-cut firewood. After snagging a few drinks at the lounge, we headed to our room for some apropos snuggling by the fire.

Relaxing by the fire at Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC. Each cabin has its own fieldstone fireplace.

Spindrift on Micheal Peak, Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

Once daylight hit, we were champing at the bit for some outdoor activity. Many of the guests brought along their own skis or snowshoes, but we simply rented from the facility by the end of the lake. The air was crisp and sun shining as we headed out after couples and families across the frozen lake, excitedly-barking dog in tow (or more accurately, towing us). The trail was nicely packed despite the depth of the snow, and despite the other patrons it never felt crowded. In rapid order we attained that sense of calm one gets from time spent alone in nature.

Guests embark from the Lodge to snowshoe or ski, Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

Sunlight through the trees while snowshoeing, Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

A couple snowshoes in the distance, Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

Having fun cinching our parkas against the cold, Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

Long overdue for lunch, we headed back in waning sunlight with just enough time to grab a quick hot chocolate at the equipment-rental prior to sunset. Requisite pics snapped, and some butt-sliding down a hill later (who doesn’t want to act like a kid!), and we were hungry for dinner.

We’d made a reservation at the Mount Burgess Room earlier, and in hindsight I’m so glad we did. The casually-elegant dining room exudes warmth, and portions were plentiful. We split a locally-stocked charcuterie board to start (elk, bison, duck, and wild boar starred), before moving on to Alberta Ribeye and the Game Duo of elk striploin and braised-shoulder. Accompanying the meal, we had both Spanish and Okanagan wines from an enviable wine list. We capped things off with chocolate fondant cake, followed by port and scotch at the neighbouring Kicking Horse Lounge. The meal was so good, in fact, we returned the next day for breakfast. We both opted for the Mixed Grill because how often do you find elk sausage on a menu?

A bright red ski decorates awning on the equipment-rental lodge, Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

View of the pedestrian bridge at Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

Canoes bound up for winter, Emerald Lake Lodge, Emerald Lake Rd, Field, BC.

Perhaps our favourite part of the entire experience was the opportunity to fully unplug. With Wifi only in the main lodge, and limited (read: no) cell-reception throughout the hotel and surrounding area, you get the perk of having one another just to yourselves. The transformation in Adam's facial expression and posture over the weekend was remarkable—it's amazing how conditioned we've become to little beeps and vibrations. At night, it's just you, a hot toddy, book, and a fire; no T.V., no distractions. Great for some much needed down time!

With Valentine’s Day fast approaching, this year we have no set plans. What’s your idea of a nice Valentine’s Day? Staying in, or heading out and about?

Happy snuggling!

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