Kootenay National Park

A land of ice and fire, Kootenay National Park is a place of contrasts, with valleys and canyons carved by glaciers and grasslands marked by fire. Take a scenic drive along its historic highway. Step out to experience ancient fossils and steamy hot springs.

Waterbody restrictions in effect

All waterbodies in Yoho and Kootenay national parks are closed to watercraft and angling until March 31, 2025.
This closure is necessary to protect vulnerable fish populations and sensitive ecosystems from aquatic invasive species. Protect park waters — respect all closures.
View the Restricted Activity Order to learn more.

Using recreational drones in Kootenay National Park is prohibited. Anyone caught operating a drone within park boundaries may result in law enforcement action and a fine of up to $25,000.

Camping

Immerse yourself in nature at a frontcountry or backcountry campground.

Trail conditions

Always check current trail conditions before setting out in the park.

People enjoying the hot springs

Radium Hot Springs

Spend a relaxing weekend in the Radium Hot Pools.

Burgess Shale guided fossil hike

Discover fossils over 500 million years old on a family-friendly adventure.

Safety and guidelines

You can reduce the impact of an unfortunate circumstance by being well informed and well prepared.

Fire information and updates

Do your part and stay informed! Your actions can help prevent unnecessary human-caused wildfires.

Visiting Kootenay National Park

Activities and experiences

Things to do, camping, hiking, trails, Burgess Shale fossils, guided hikes, backpacking, points of interest and Lake O'Hara.

Plan your visit

Maps and directions, visitor centre hours, park fees, local attractions, accommodation, facilities and services, fire information and visitor guidelines.

Camping and overnight accommodations

Types of accommodations, equipped camping, and nearby accommodations.

Fees

Cost of daily park admission, Parks Canada Discovery Pass, camping, backcountry permits, Burgess Shale guided hikes, Radium Hot Springs and fishing...

Safety and guidelines

Important bulletins, mountain safety, trail conditions, weather and avalanche conditions, bears and wildlife safety, camping, hiking and driving safety...

About Kootenay National Park

Indigenous connections

Culture and connections, working together, partners and cultural use.

Nature and science

Research and monitoring help protect Kootenay’s mammals and birds. We manage forest fires, restore habitat for species at risk and protect rare...

Culture

History, architecture and cultural landscape of Kootenay including Kootenae House National Historic Site, Floe Lake warden cabin and Radium Hot Springs.

Stewardship and management

Planning and management guiding documents, public consultations, information for businesses and residents, filmmakers, photographers and special events.

How to get here

Contact us

May to mid-October
Phone number: 250-347-9505
Email address: kootenayinfo-infokootenay@pc.gc.ca

Year-round
Phone number: 1-888-773-8888 toll free
Email address: information@pc.gc.ca

Hours of operation

The park is open year-round. Visitor services are available May to mid-October. 

Visitor Centre
Map

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More places to discover with Parks Canada

Yoho National Park

In the shadow of the Great Divide, Yoho’s towering rockwalls, spectacular waterfalls and soaring peaks reveal the secrets of ancient life, the power of ice and water and the stories of plants and animals that continue to evolve today.

Banff National Park

Founded in 1885, Banff is Canada’s first national park and part of the first national park system in the world. With its soaring peaks, azure lakes and abundant wildlife, this Rocky Mountain park attracts millions of visitors every year.

Jasper National Park

Abundant in natural beauty, wildlife, lakes, waterfalls and mountains, Jasper is a wild and wondrous place to visit year-round.

Rogers Pass National Historic Site

Discover the role Rogers Pass played in the transcontinental Canadian Pacific Railway. Follow an abandoned rail line to the ruins of a Victorian-era resort, where legendary Swiss mountain guides forged popular trails and climbing routes.

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