Plan your visit
Kootenay National Park
The historic Highway 93 South runs through the centre of Kootenay National Park in British Columbia. It is the only major route through the park. Kootenay is accessible from the east via Highway 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) from Banff, AB (40 km) or Calgary, AB (167 km), or access via Highway 95 at Radium Hot Springs, BC. Full amenities are available in the village of Radium Hot Springs, just outside the park’s west entrance. Plan in advance as cell service is not available in the park.
Fees
Cost of daily park admission, Parks Canada Discovery Pass, camping, backcountry permits, Burgess Shale guided hikes, Radium Hot Springs and fishing...
Hours of operation
Kootenay National Park is open year round. The peak season is during July and August. Open dates for visitor centre, campgrounds and seasonal closures.
Pre-arrival checklist
Plan ahead for the best travel experience in Kootenay National Park. See our pre-arrival checklist, bonus tips and local recommendations for things to do.
Map and brochures
Download the visitor guide, trail guide with hiking maps, fishing guide, safety and wildlife information brochures for Kootenay National Park.
Stay
Book your overnight stay in advance. Choose a hotel, guesthouse or campground in the Columbia Valley, around Radium Hot Springs, and in the park.
How to get here
Discover how to get to Kootenay National Park by car or plane. Check out distances and road conditions before you start your road trip.
Facilities and Services
Radium Hot Springs is the closest town just outside the park. About the visitor centre, pool, restaurants, accommodation, accessibility, shopping and gas.
Fire information and updates
Stay informed about forest fires and wildfire management in Kootenay, including wildfire status, fire bans, prescribed fires and fire protection projects.
Construction projects
Current and upcoming road construction and improvement projects that may affect your visit to Kootenay National Park.
Visitor guidelines
Follow visitor guidelines and regulations when you visit Kootenay National Park. Learn about wildlife, nature, bear safety and find contact information.
How to get here
Location
Visitor Centre
7556 Main Street East
Radium Hot Springs BC V0A 1M0
Emergency phone: Kootenay Crossing,
43 km north of Radium Hot Springs.
Phone
1-250-347-9505
Directions
By car
Highway 93 South (also called the Banff-Windermere Highway) runs 94 km through the centre of the park. It is the only major route and can be accessed from Banff National Park to the east and Radium Hot Springs to the west. Vehicle rentals are available in Invermere, B.C. as well as in Banff and Lake Louise, Alberta.
By air
Calgary and Vancouver are the closest airports serviced by major national and international carriers. Connections may be made to Cranbrook, 145 km south of Radium Hot Springs, B.C. Airport shuttles from Calgary, Alberta are available to Lake Louise and Banff near the park's east entrance.
Services and amenities
Accommodation
Bus parking
Camping
Dogs on leash
Gift shop
Information
Lookout
Picnic area
Picnic shelter
Playground
Restrooms
Accessible services
Swimming pool
Safety and guidelines
Natural hazards are a part of the national park experience. Reduce the impact of an unfortunate circumstance by being well informed and prepared.
Camping
Whether you’re going frontcountry or backcountry camping, planning ahead is essential. A valid park pass and camping permit are required.
Kootenay National Park Visitor Guide (PDF 4.27 MB)
Download the comprehensive visitor guide as a PDF to explore what the park has to offer.
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