Rockies · British Columbia
Kootenay National Park
From cactus to glacier in a single afternoon.
Province
British Columbia
Established
1920
Size
1,406 km²
Coordinates
50.85°, -116.05°
Family friendliness
Hidden gem
Photography
Overview
About Kootenay National Park
Kootenay was created to build Highway 93 south — and that road remains the spine of the park. Marble Canyon's slot walls, the Paint Pots' ochre ponds, and Radium Hot Springs make it a high-payoff stop on any Rockies loop.
Why visit
- Marble Canyon's narrow limestone slot
- The Paint Pots — Indigenous ochre quarries
- Radium Hot Springs (open year-round)
- Kindersley Pass and Stanley Glacier hikes
- Quieter and far less crowded than Banff
Things to do
Plan your days.
Stanley Glacier day hike
hiking
Redstreak Campground above Radium
camping
Radium Hot Springs soak
interpretive
Highway 93 scenic drive
scenic drive
Wildlife watching on the Kootenay Valley
wildlife
Camping
Camping in the park.
- Redstreak — full-service near Radium
- Marble Canyon — central, near the slot
- McLeod Meadows — quiet and shaded
Best time to visit
- Spring
- May–June: roads clear of snow, low elevation hikes accessible.
- Summer
- July–August: full season, hottest temperatures (often 30°C+).
- Fall
- September–October: comfortable temperatures and quiet trails.
- Winter
- November–March: hot springs remain open; backcountry skiing and ice climbing.
- Peak
- July.
- Shoulder
- June or September.
Wildlife
What you'll see.
Kootenay Valley Viewpoint at dusk; bighorn sheep often near Radium gates.
Common species
Mule deer · Bighorn sheep · Columbian ground squirrel
Signature species
Grizzly bear · Black bear · Mountain goat
Wildlife safety
Significant grizzly activity in summer — observe trail closures and travel in groups.
Nearby communities
Where to base yourself.
- Radium Hot Springs
- Invermere
- Castle Junction (Banff)
Nearby attractions
- Banff (east)
- Yoho (north)
- Columbia Valley wineries
Suggested itineraries
Pick a length.
weekend
Radium weekend
Hot springs, Marble Canyon, Stanley Glacier.
road trip
Banff–Radium loop
Cross the divide via Highway 93 South.
Frequently asked
Common questions about Kootenay National Park.
Can I camp in Kootenay National Park?+
Yes. Kootenay National Park operates Parks Canada campgrounds with a mix of frontcountry sites and, on most loops, oTENTik or backcountry options.
Do I need reservations to visit Kootenay National Park?+
Reservations are strongly recommended for summer weekends; a portion of sites may remain first-come, first-served.
Are dogs allowed?+
Yes — dogs are welcome on a leash (max 3 m) throughout the park, but must be supervised at all times and kept off closed trails and beaches with wildlife restrictions.
Is Kootenay National Park family friendly?+
Our family score is 8/10. Excellent for families — wide trails, interpretive programs and accessible viewpoints.
When is the best time to visit Kootenay National Park?+
June through September. Shoulder seasons reward visitors with fewer crowds and softer light, while winter opens its own set of opportunities (or, in the far north, closes road access entirely).
What wildlife can I see?+
Signature species include bighorn sheep, grizzly bears and mountain goats. Always keep at least 30 m from large mammals and 100 m from bears; carry bear spray on backcountry trails.
Can I bring an RV?+
Yes — designated loops accommodate RVs and trailers. Check site dimensions and service availability (electrical/water/sewer) when booking, as not every site offers full hookups.
How many days should I spend here?+
Two days as a Banff add-on; three for a full loop.
Nearby parks
