If you’re visiting British Columbia and are looking for a National Park to visit that offers scenic drives, roadside stops, trails and a hot spring, I truly think you’d love Kootenay National Park.
Kootenay is full of a variety of adventures. There are long hikes like Floe Lake, there are backcountry options, and there are shorter day hike options.
Remember to reserve a pass online before visiting a park you plan on visiting!
TO NOTE: There is no cell service in Kootenay National Park. Have a map on hand and tell someone you trust where you’re going.
Scenic Driving
Kootenay National Park is known as the land of fire and ice. It is Canada’s tenth National Park. Even if you don’t make any stops, it’s worth driving through for the views!
When driving through, you’ll have the chance to see Kootenay River, Vermilion River, 71 named summits, and the Radium Hot Springs.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife when you’re here! You’re most likely to see bears, elk, deer, moose, bighorn sheep, wolves and cougars.
REMINDER: Do Not Approach or Feed Wildlife!
Short Hikes
There are a number of stops that won’t take you too long, but are certainly worth visiting!
Numa Falls
This can either be a roadside stop (0.6km walk) or a hike if you add the trail on to it. After arriving to the parking lot, follow the path along the river towards the bridge. From the bridge, you’ll have views of beautiful Numa Falls, Stanley Peak and the glacial pothole formations.
Length: 0.6km
Marble Canyon
Marble Canyon is a very popular spot to explore, and for good reason! It has lots of fences, bridges and a pretty easy trail so it’s also family friendly.
Marble Canyon was formed by a shallow tropical sea that used to cover the area. The hike has so much to look at that I don’t even know where to start! You’ll see vibrant blue water within the canyon, limestone, fossils, mountains, a waterfall and of course Tokkum creek.
Length: 1.4km
This hike will likely take you around 35minutes. There are a lot of things to look at here!
Paint Pots
Visiting the paint pots is quite the experience. It’s short, easy and family friendly.
Paint pots are acidic, cold water mineral springs that are vibrant in colour. These springs are the source of Ochre (orange clay) which was used by the Ktunaxa people to colour clothes, tipis, bodies, rocks and other things.
This hike will likely take you around 30minutes.
Length: 2km
*This area is sacred to the Ktunaxa people, please be respectful.
Rest Areas
Kootenay has some of the most breathtaking rest areas that I have ever seen. Some are merely for looking at the view, and others for having picnics, fishing, using the bathroom, or just to get out and admire the view.
My favourite rest stop in the park is Kootenay River Day Use Area. The views of the river, trees and mountains just leave me speechless. It’s also a great place to possibly see wildlife!
Kootenay Valley Viewpoint is a very popular lookout. It looks amongst the Mitchell and Vermilion mountain ranges. Why not stretch your legs with a view?
Fun Fact: The park got its name from the Kootenay River, which in turn was named for the Kutenai First Nations people.
Kootenay National Park is clearly a gem to British Columbia. It surrounds you with mountainous views, rivers, waterfalls, and so much more. I can’t wait to come back here!
What to Pack:
- Map
- Water/Food
- Hiking Boots (with sturdy ankle support)
- Camera
- First Aid Kit
Until next time,
Katie 🥾
yourmatiekatie 