How to get to Kootenay National Park
Kootenay National Park
The historic Highway 93 South runs 94 km through the center of Kootenay National Park, in British Columbia. It is the only major route through the park.
Plan your travel, as there are no fuel stations, food services, or public transportation in the park. The closest population and service centers are the village of Radium Hot Springs, B.C. and the town of Invermere, B.C., just outside the park’s south-west entrance. The town of Banff, AB is the closest full-service center to the north-east entrance.
There is no cellular or Wi-Fi service in Kootenay National Park. Emergency telephones are available in four locations and clearly marked on highway signage. These phones may be used 24/7, year-round and connect directly to Parks Canada Emergency Dispatch.
Directions:
By air
Calgary and Vancouver are the closest airports serviced by major national and international carriers. Connections may be made to Cranbrook, B.C., 145 km south of the village of Radium Hot Springs, B.C. Airport shuttles from Calgary, AB are available to Lake Louise, AB and Banff, AB near the park's north-east entrance.
By vehicle
Highway 93 South is maintained throughout the year. The maximum speed limit is 90 km/hr. Temporary closures may occur in the event of adverse weather conditions.
Road conditions can change quickly. Always check your route and the current road conditions prior to departure. For the most up-to-date road and weather reports, visit:
Drive BC Road Report | 511 Alberta Road Report | Weather Forecast
Kootenay National Park and Highway 93 South (also called the Banff-Windermere Highway) are accessed from:
- Town of Banff, AB to the east, through Banff National Park, in Alberta. Access Highway 93 South via Highway 1 (the Trans-Canada Highway) at Castle Junction. The town of Banff is located 41 km from Kootenay National Park's north-east entrance.
- Village of Radium Hot Springs, B.C. to the south, situated at the crossroads of highways 93 and 95. Located 2 km from Kootenay National Park's south-west entrance.
- Cranbrook, B.C. to the south, via Highway 93/95. Located 145 km from Kootenay National Park's south-west entrance.
- Golden, B.C. to the north and west, via Highway 95 and Highway 1. Travellers will travel through Yoho National Park, in B.C., and a portion of Banff National Park. Located 117 km from Kootenay National Park's north-east entrance.
Did you know? In 1923, driving the Banff-Windermere Highway (Highway 93 South) took an entire day in a Ford Model T. Today, you can legally drive Highway 93 South in less than 2 hours.
Kootenay Guided Audio Tour
Enjoy the Kootenay guided audio tour as you travel one of BC’s most scenic highways. Download the Parks Canada app from the App Store or Google Play.