Twin Falls and Whaleback hike

From the parking lot at the end of the road, head north, walking through the Takakkaw Falls Campground. You will go through open areas and forest, along a wide path. You will occasionally come down towards the Yoho River, which gives wonderful views.

After 2.7mi you reach the Laughing Falls Backcountry Campground the path splits, you can go either way, however we prefer to go counter-clockwise for today’s route. Take the right path as it goes along Twin Falls Creek. In 1.4mi you reach another backcountry campground, this one Twin Falls Campground. From here it’s another 1.0mi uphill to Twin Falls Chalet. Stop here and enjoy a break.

Head uphill on the Whaleback trail and check out the Twin falls. Be careful when looking at Twin Falls. Accidents here are common, with fatalities occurring, often from people taking photos or getting close to the edge. We like to roam around and look at different viewpoints of the falls.

Go above the falls and cross Twin Falls Creek. You are now on the edge of the forest, coming out into the Alpine from time to time. We love the views here, especially the stunning colours. Continue hiking over Whaleback, this is the best part of the walk. Eventually you reach the down trail, a switchback that is slippery in rain and steep in places.

As you descend you come to an intersection with the Iceline Trail. Head left (east) continuing down hill through the forest. Soon you come to a junction with the path you initially started hiking on earlier. Turn right and head back on this path as you head to your car.