Kootenay's western entrance provides one of the most dramatic gateways to any of the national parks in Canada. The highway clings to a sheer cliff before snaking through a narrow gorge and running along an iron-red rock face where bighorn sheep are a frequent sight. Visitors driving this scenic highway will see dramatic landscapes as they travel the Golden Triangle or Hot Springs routes.
Wildfires and prescribed burns in the northern part of the park have left charred trees visible from the road, but nature's renewal is visible through stunning wildflower displays in the burn areas during the summer.
Extensive faults created two of the park's most significant features: the Radium Hot Springs and the Paint Pots. Located in the southern end of the park, Radium Hot Springs is a result of rainwater and runoff being vaporized deep underground. The steam returns to the surface and is condensed in these clear, odorless springs. First used by the Indigenous peoples in the area, the hot springs were later popularized by health buffs at the turn of the 20th century.
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At the opposite end of the park are the Paint Pots, cold springs with a spiritual significance to the region's inhabitants. These iron-rich mineral springs bubble up into small, emerald green pools before staining the surrounding earth red. The Siksika, Nakoda and Ktunaxa First Nations once used the bright bronze mud called ochre to decorate their homes and draw the rock paintings once visible near Sinclair Canyon.
Good grazing conditions bring herds of bighorn sheep. Bears, deer, mountain goats, mountain goats, elk and countless species of birds are commonly seen throughout the park.
General Information
The park is open year-round. Parks Canada's facilities, including three frontcountry campgrounds—Redstreak, Marble Canyon and McLeod Meadows—are open during the summer months, with Redstreak staying open the longest. Phone ahead to confirm the schedule.Kootenay provides a variety of trails ranging from easy hikes to multiday backcountry treks. In July and August, Parks Canada offers guided hikes to the recently discovered Burgess Shale Fossil Beds near Stanley Glacier. Hidden in the mountains near the continental divide, the Burgess Shale fossils continue to help scientists unravel the mystery of life on earth 505 million years ago. Fees range from $27.50-$55 and reservations are required; phone (877) 737-3783.
All backcountry campers must obtain a wilderness pass. Information about trails, park features and facilities can be obtained from the visitor center in the village of Radium Hot Springs from the Victoria Day weekend through Labour Day and at the park's west gate during the remainder of the year.
Nonmotorized watercraft are permitted on all lakes and rivers in the park.
ADMISSION
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PETS
PETS must be leashed at all times. Pets are permitted in the backcountry overnight.
ADDRESS
ADDRESS inquiries to the Superintendent, Kootenay National Park, 7556 Main St. E., Box 220, Radium Hot Springs, BC, Canada V0A 1M0; phone (250) 347-9505.
Points of Interest