Kootenay National Park Travel Guide
Facts and practical information
Nestled in the heart of the British Columbia region in Canada, Kootenay National Park is a true gem for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. Spanning over 1,400 square kilometers, this national park offers a breathtaking landscape filled with rugged mountains, pristine forests, and crystal-clear lakes.
One of the highlights of Kootenay National Park is the stunning Rocky Mountains that dominate the skyline. Towering peaks, such as Mount Goodsir and Vermilion Peak, provide a dramatic backdrop for outdoor activities such as hiking and climbing. Whether you are a seasoned mountaineer or a beginner hiker, the park offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. Lace up your boots and embark on a journey through picturesque meadows, dense forests, and alpine valleys, where you might even spot some of the park's wildlife, including elk, bighorn sheep, and black bears.
For those seeking a more relaxed experience, Kootenay National Park offers several scenic drives that will take your breath away. The iconic Vermilion Pass, for example, offers panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys as you wind your way through the park. Be sure to stop at the iconic Marble Canyon, where the turquoise waters of the Kootenay River have carved a stunning gorge over thousands of years.
Nature lovers will also be captivated by the park's hot springs. The Radium Hot Springs, with its soothing mineral waters, provide the perfect opportunity to unwind and rejuvenate after a day of exploration. Immerse yourself in the warm pools and let the healing properties of the water relax your body and mind.
Kootenay National Park is not only a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, but it also offers a rich cultural heritage. The park is home to significant Indigenous sites, where you can learn about the history and traditions of the Ktunaxa Nation. Take a guided tour and gain a deeper understanding of the land's spiritual significance and the connection between the Indigenous people and the natural world.
Kootenay National Park Attractions - What to See and Explore
Kootenay National Park offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Numa Falls, Floe Lake, Mount Fay, Mount Selkirk. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.
Kootenay National Park – popular in the area (distance from the center)
In the vicinity of Kootenay National Park, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Moraine Lake (Banff National Park), Panorama Mountain Resort, Takakkaw Falls (Yoho National Park).
Best Time To Visit Kootenay National Park
Learn when is the best time to travel to Kootenay National Park weather-wise and what to expect in each season.
Best Ways to Experience the Park
Wildlife
AnimalsSee what popular animal species you can meet in this location.
Golden eagle
The golden eagle, a majestic bird of prey revered across the Northern Hemisphere, belongs to the Accipitridae family. These eagles are easily identified by their dark brown feathers accented with striking golden-brown patches on their necks.
Birds
Horned grebe
The horned grebe, also known as the Slavonian grebe, is a small waterbird belonging to the Podicipedidae family. It has two subspecies: P. a. auritus, found in the Palearctic region, and P. a. cornutus, which resides in North America.
Birds
Rusty blackbird
The rusty blackbird is a medium-sized bird, resembling grackles, that thrives in wet, forested environments. They breed in northern Canada and migrate to the United States for the winter. Unfortunately, their populations have plummeted significantly in recent years...
Birds
Brown (Grizzly) Bear
The brown bear, scientifically known as Ursus arctos, roams across Eurasia and North America. In North America, these majestic creatures are commonly referred to as grizzly bears. They are among the largest terrestrial carnivores, with only the polar bear rivaling...
Mammals
Coyote
The coyote, a native North American canine, is smaller than the gray wolf and is classified as "least concern" by the IUCN due to its widespread distribution and adaptability. There are 19 recognized subspecies of coyotes.
Mammals
British Columbia