EvanNestled in southeastern British Columbia, Kootenay National Park is a breathtaking slice of the Canadian Rockies. Located right next to Banff National Park, but much less crowded than Banff yet equally spectacular. It offers a remarkable fusion of dramatic canyons, emerald glacial rivers, hot springs, and vibrant alpine meadows.
Discovery Pass
Parks Canada Discovery Pass is compulsory visiting National Parks across Canada. You can purchase online beforehand, or purchase the pass when you visit National Parks at specific Park Gate.
You can be fined if you did not show your Discovery Pass or Day Pass when visiting Canadian National Parks.
How to Get to Kootenay National Park
Kootenay National Park follows the scenic Banff–Windermere Highway (Highway 93S), accessible from both Alberta and BC. If you’re coming from Banff, take Highway 93 southwest, which is just 45 minutes brings you to the park boundary.
Regular car travel is the easiest; cycling is also popular on summer weekends. The nearest major airport is Calgary (YYC), about a two-hour drive away.
How to Get Around Kootenay National Park
Kootenay features one main road, but it’s packed with stops. Having your own vehicle offers the most freedom, especially for reaching trailheads and hot springs. However, guided day tours from Banff or Calgary are available.
Things to Do in Kootenay National Park
Marvel at Marble Canyon
Trailhead: Marble Canyon Trailhead
Marble Canyon features narrow slot canyons carved by Tokumm Creek through limestone walls. The loop hike spans ~1.6 km with minimal elevation gain, crossing multiple bridges for dramatic canyon views. Bright turquoise water contrasts beautifully with the pale rock.
There are red chairs located at the canyon. As we are red chair collectors, we definitely went there and looked for it. We found the red chair, but we were not so sure about the scenic view from the red chair viewpoint.
Explore the Paint Pots
Trailhead: Paint Pots Trailhead
A short easy walk leads you to three ochre-red mineral springs rich in iron oxides. Historically used by Indigenous peoples, these “paint pots” offer vivid up-close views. The staining soil and vibrant pools are unusual in the Rockies and make for great photos.
The boardwalk ensures minimal habitat disruption and safe access. This trail is perfect for families and anyone seeking geological highlights without strenuous hiking.
Hike the Stanley Glacier Trail
Trailhead: Stanley Glacier Trailhead
This scenic ~8.4 km return hike takes you from subalpine forest to a glacier-fed basin. You’ll trek through areas recovering from past wildfires, interspersed with wildflower meadows. Near the end, a waterfall cascades into view before reaching the Stanley Glacier. It’s a moderate hike with significant elevation, but the reward of the glacial views is immense.
For fossil hunting and geology talks, Parks Canada offers guided hikes. We did not join the guided tour because it’s not open yet when we visited Kootenay. We spent some time at the trail hunting the fossil. It was so much fun! But remember it is not permitted to take any rocks away with you.
Stand on the Continental Divide
Google Maps: Continental Divide
At the north boundary, this short stop along Highway 93S marks where waters part to flow to the Pacific or Atlantic Oceans. This historic photo stop also illustrates the park’s standout location, straddling provincial borders and watersheds.
Bathe at Radium Hot Springs
Google Maps: Radium Hot Springs
Radium Hot Springs draws visitors with its soothing mineral pools. Once used by the Ktunaxa people, the pools remain a rejuvenating treat surrounded by dramatic canyon walls. Revel in the warm waters overlooking the Columbia Valley after a long hike or a scenic drive.
Drive Through Sinclair Canyon
At the southern end, the highway snakes through narrow Sinclair Canyon, which towering rock walls flank both sides as the Vermilion River rushes below.
You won’t be able to find Sinclair Canyon on Google Maps. After passing Radium Hot Springs, you will soon see a small parking area right before Sinclair Canyon.
Picnic at Vermilion Crossing
Google Maps: Vermilion Crossing
Named for its stunning Vermilion River views, this day-use area offers picnic tables and easy riverbank walks. It’s a serene place to relax with family, photograph reflections of peaks in the water, or watch wildlife like deer and birds near forested shores.
Stand Before Numa Falls
Trailhead: Numa Creek Trailhead
An easy paved walk leads to Numa Falls, where the Vermilion River tumbles over ancient rocks. The cool spray and thunderous sound provide a refreshing break, and benches behind the falls make it perfect for just watching or snapping images.
We even saw a rainbow clearly on Numa Falls!
Camp at Kootenay’s Campground
Several campgrounds are located in Kootenay National Park, including Redstreak, Marble Canyon, McLeod Meadows, Crook’s Meadows, and six other backcountry campgrounds. We went to Redstreak Campground and it was amazing! The campground includes everything you will need, even showers!
Backpack the Rockwall Trail
Trailhead: Paint Pots Trailhead
A legendary 54 km through hike from Floe Lake, this multi-day trekking adventure passes hanging glaciers, waterfalls, and alpine meadows. Backpackers can reserve several backcountry campgrounds and revel in the awe-inspiring alpine environment. Hikers should carry full gear and be prepared for sudden weather changes.
Visit Helmet Falls
Trailhead: Paint Pots Trailhead
Accessible from the Rockwall route, Helmet Falls plunges over 350 m and is one of BC’s tallest waterfalls. A strenuous side trail leads to a viewpoint, rewarding hikers with dramatic cascading alpine scenery and glacier ice formations.
Short Walk at Simpson River Trail
This interpretive trail offers interactive signage on forest ecology along a 1.5 km loop. Perfect for families, the trail educates about wildfire recovery, lightning impacts, and forest succession before opening into longer routes.
Swim or Canoe on the Kootenay River
Clear glacial waters along Highway 93 offer smooth paddling opportunities. Canoe or kayak rentals from Radium let you float quietly past forested banks. Bring a lunch and pull over at quiet coves to swim or picnic on the waterside.
Hike the Dog Lake Trail
An easy-to-moderate 7 km walk to a scenic lake with mountain reflections. The trail winds through valley meadows, which is great for spotting elk or deer. In summer, wildflowers burst atop grassy ridges.
Explore Kindersley–Sinclair Loop
Trailhead: Kindersley–Sinclair Loop Trailhead
This 20 km loop combines ridgeline views from Kindersley Trail with canyon perspectives through Sinclair. You can opt to hike sections or follow the route by mountain bike, enjoying alternating environments of dry grasslands and steep canyon walls.
Visit Kootenay Valley Viewpoint
Google Maps: Kootenay Valley Viewpoint
A scenic pullout above the park provides sweeping dawn views over the Vermilion River valley, colored peaks, and morning mist. Bring coffee and a camera—the soft sunrise light is ideal for photos.
Photograph Wildflowers along Highway 93
Especially in June and July, meadows along the highway burst with paintbrush, fireweed, and asters. Vibrant blooms backed by mountains create a riot of color, which is perfect for macro photography or just soaking in nature’s palette.
Places to Eat in Kootenay
Steamboat Lounge & Forage
Address: 7497 Main St W, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $$$
Steamboat Lounge & Forage is a warm, plant-filled retreat on Main Street offering a sophisticated yet cozy dining experience. The menu highlights sustainable, locally sourced ingredients with an emphasis on plant-forward small and large sharing plates. You’ll find organic wines, craft beers, inventive botanically infused cocktails, and a wide selection of low- to no-alcohol drinks.
Helna’s Stube
Address: 7547 Main St W, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $$
This charming downtown spot brings a taste of Austria to Radium. Helna’s Stube delivers authentic Austrian and Central European classics in a cozy, tastefully decorated room where elegance meets comfort.
Their menu regularly changes but always emphasizes quality—rich schnitzels, hearty strudels, and decadent desserts reflect their motto, “For the love of fine food.” It’s an inviting place for those craving a more refined dining experience.
Restaurant 8100 @ Radium
Address: 8100 Golf Course Rd, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $$
Situated on the Radium golf course, Restaurant 8100 blends contemporary design with comfort cuisine and great views. Minimalist decor, ambient lighting, and spacious seating create an elegant yet relaxed vibe, which is perfect after a round of golf or for a special evening.
The menu includes shareables like bruschetta and nachos, hearty entrees such as short ribs and poutine, and regular weeknight specials (think wings, prime rib, pasta nights). They also feature an indoor golf simulator, bar, and event space.
Snack Shack
Address: 7535 Main St W, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $
Perfect for a quick, satisfying bite downtown, the Snack Shack (also called The Snack Bar) is casual and convenient. It serves classics like Quebec-style poutine, fish & chips, and hot dogs, which are fresh, fast, and affordable. It’s the ideal stop if you’re exploring the village and need something tasty and uncomplicated on the go.
Best Time to Visit Kootenay
Summer: June to August
Peak season with warm days (15–25 °C), fully accessible trails, and vibrant wildflowers. Expect crowds at Marble Canyon and Stanley Glacier.
Fall: September to October
Fewer visitors, golden larch color, calm weather, great for photography and solitude.
Winter: November to April
Quieter time with snowshoeing and cross-country possibilities. Hot springs call after cold hikes. Many roads may be closed or icy.
Spring: May to June
Waterfalls roaring, wildlife active, but some trails muddy or remaining snow. Ideal for tramping solitude.
What to Wear and Bring When Visiting Kootenay？
Summer (June–August)
Lightweight moisture-wicking clothing (t-shirt, shorts, or hiking pants)
Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen for sun protection
Comfortable walking shoes or hiking shoes for nearby trails
A light jacket or fleece for cooler evenings
Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated
Winter (December–February)
Insulated winter jacket and layers (thermal base layer, sweater, fleece)
Hand and foot warmers for extra warmth
Sunglasses to reduce glare from the snow
Waterproof snow boots with good grip
Spring & Fall (March–May, September–November)
Layered clothing for unpredictable weather
Waterproof jacket for rain or snow
Regardless of the season, always bring a camera, map, bear spray, and backpack to carry essentials while exploring.
Places to Stay in Kootenay
Staying just outside the park gives easy access to amenities:
| Accommodation | Type | Amenities | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prestige Radium Hot Springs Resort | Resort | Indoor pool & hot tub, fitness centre, spa services, restaurant & lounge, business centre, board games & sports gear, coin laundry, EV chargers, dog‑friendly rooms. | $$-$$$ |
| Celadon Lodge | Lodge | Breakfast included, A/C, Wi‑Fi, kitchenettes, EV chargers, BBQ and picnic facilities, pet‑friendly rooms | $$ |
| Mountain Springs Motel | Motel | A/C, Wi‑Fi, kitchenettes, complimentary coffee, BBQ area, sundeck, gazebo, seasonal operation April–October | $ |
| Inn on Canyon | Inn | A/C, Wi‑Fi, flat-screen TVs, complimentary hot breakfast, BBQ access, hot spring towel borrowing, adults-only unless pre-arranged | $$ |
| Campgrounds in Kootenay National Park | Campgrounds | Frontcountry – drinking water, flush toilets, firepits used; Backcountry – tent pads, pit‑style toilets, bear caches, no cell/Wi‑Fi; all are unserviced | $ |
Prestige Radium Hot Springs Resort
Address: 7493 Main St W, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $$-$$$
Amenities: Indoor pool & hot tub, fitness centre, spa services, restaurant & lounge, business centre, board games & sports gear, coin laundry, EV chargers, dog‑friendly rooms.
Nestled at the crossroads of Highway 93 and 95, this recently-renovated mountain‑edge resort offers a welcoming retreat steps from Kootenay National Park and the famous Radium Hot Springs Pools. With 87 rooms ranging from studios to family suites, it blends panoramic backdrop views with a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. It’s ideal whether you’re unwinding after a day of hiking or just enjoying the scenery.
Celadon Lodge
Address: 5000, BC-93, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $$
Amenities: Breakfast included, A/C, Wi‑Fi, kitchenettes, EV chargers, BBQ and picnic facilities, pet‑friendly rooms
Situated centrally in Radium within the “Valley of a Thousand Peaks,” Celadon Lodge warmly embraces its scenic mountain setting. The property exudes a cozy, lodge‑style charm, with balconies in every unit offering views of grazing wildlife. Its intimate scale and pet‑friendly touches create a serene, personalized stay atmosphere, perfect for families, couples or groups.
Mountain Springs Motel
Address: 4870 Radium Blvd, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $
Amenities: A/C, Wi‑Fi, kitchenettes, complimentary coffee, BBQ area, sundeck, gazebo, seasonal operation April–October
Just off Radium Boulevard, this quiet two‑story motel blends simplicity with local charm. With only 14 non‑smoking units ranging from standard rooms to full kitchen suites, it exudes a friendly, down‑to‑earth vibe. Guests appreciate the gazebo surrounded by trees, casual social spaces, and an unhurried, welcoming atmosphere—ideal for families or solo travelers seeking a low‑key retreat.
Inn on Canyon
Address: 7557 Canyon Ave, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $$
Amenities: A/C, Wi‑Fi, flat-screen TVs, complimentary hot breakfast, BBQ access, hot spring towel borrowing, adults-only unless pre-arranged
Housed in a charming Victorian‑style country inn, Inn on Canyon offers an intimate, romantic ambience just a few blocks off the highway. Thoughtfully appointed cozy rooms and wrap-around verandah provide serene space to enjoy morning wildlife or village park views. The quiet elegance and attention to detail make it a sought-after spot for couples and quiet getaways.
Campgrounds in Kootenay National Park
Address: 7493 Main St W, Radium Hot Springs, BC V0A 1M0
Price Range: $
Amenities: Frontcountry – drinking water, flush toilets, firepits used;
Backcountry – tent pads, pit‑style toilets, bear caches, no cell/Wi‑Fi; all are unserviced
Kootenay National Park offers a spectrum of camping experiences: frontcountry sites like Marble Canyon and McLeod Meadows are easily accessible, offer flush toilets, hiking trailheads nearby, and fire pits with cooking grills—ideal for tenters and small RVs. Backcountry campgrounds at destinations such as Floe Lake or Helmet Falls require hiking in but deliver solitude, rustic tent platforms, wildlife proximity, and primitive facilities under a mountain backdrop.
Things to Know Before Visiting Kootenay
- Park pass required (daily or Discovery Annual Pass).
- Bear safety is essential, so carry spray and make noise.
- Cell service is minimal; plan offline with maps and emergency plans.
- Gas up before entering, there’s no fuel until Radium Hot Springs.
- Check seasonal closures via Parks Canada (e.g. Numa and Dolly Varden areas).
- Respect wildlife and trails, stay on boardwalks, pack out trash.
FAQs
Do I need a car?
Yes, it’s the easiest way to access the park’s trailheads and sites. Bikes are an option, but hills and distance may be a challenge.
Are there guided tours?
Yes, day tours from Calgary cover Marble Canyon, Stanley Glacier, and hot springs; Parks Canada guides lead glacier hikes.
Is there cell phone service?
Very limited, available mainly in Radium and park entrances. Download maps and plan accordingly.
Are dogs allowed?
Leashed dogs are allowed in campgrounds and roadsides, but not on trails or backcountry zones.
Can I camp in the backcountry?
Yes, but you need to get the permit. Popular spots include Floe Lake and Stanley Glacier areas, so book early.
Time for Adventure
