Yoho has several impressive waterfalls, but none are quite as grand as Takakkaw. A thundering torrent of water tumbles from its source in the nearby Daly Glacier over a sheer cliff face for 255m (836ft), making it the second-highest waterfall in Canada. The name comes from the Cree language, and roughly translates as ‘it is magnificent.’ The total base-to-top height of the falls is actually 384m (1259ft), but it is split into two tiers of freefall.
Takakkaw is equally impressive seen in rain or shine, and the noise at any time is quite deafening. The falls are reached via a snaking 13km (8-mile) spur road leading off Hwy 1; en route you’ll pass a couple of interesting viewpoints, including the Meeting of the Waters , where the Yoho and Kicking Horse Rivers join into one mighty torrent. The road is steep and traverses a couple of punishing sections of switchbacks that can be extremely challenging for nervous drivers, especially if you’re in an RV; be prepared to stop and let traffic pass when necessary.
At the end of the road, a trail leads for around 800m (0.5 miles) from the Takakkaw parking lot to the base of the falls. Looking back down the valley, you’ll also have a grand view of the surrounding mountains, including the Vice President, Michael Peak and Wapta Mountain.
