Twin Falls Tea House

Twin Falls Tea House stands near cascading waterfalls in Yoho Valley and was built with massive peeled logs and hand-split shingles. The structure has two stories with traditional timber framing and now serves as a protected national heritage building.

The house was built in the early 1900s by Canadian Pacific Railway as a rest station for travelers crossing the Canadian Rockies. After decades of serving visitors, it closed in 1953.

The building emerged as part of early mountain hospitality development in Canada, when railway companies built lodges in remote mountain settings. Its rustic log construction reflects how accommodations were built in isolated locations during that era.

The trail to the house covers about 8.5 kilometers (5.3 miles) from the Takakkaw Falls parking area through mountainous terrain, taking several hours to walk. Overnight stays are arranged through the Alpine Club of Canada and require advance planning.

The building operates without electricity or running water, relying on wood-burning stoves for heating and cooking. Firewood is delivered by helicopter, an unusual supply method that underscores the remoteness of the location.

Location: Columbia-Shuswap Regional District

Architectural style: rustic architecture

GPS coordinates: 51.54481,-116.53292

Latest update: December 13, 2025 11:41