Kootenay National Park is open year-round for visitors, however the most popular time to visit is from June to September. If you decide to come during peak time, it is advisable to book your accommodations well in advance. All of the major roads are kept open all year, however some roads may close due to snow. Check weather conditions in advance.
You can reach Kootenay National Park by car, bus or plane. The nearest towns are Banff and Radium Hot Springs. By car, you can reach the park via the Trans-Canada Highway to the north. You can either exit at Castle Junction in Banff National Park (Highway 93) or Golden (Highway 95). From the south you can take either Highway 93 or 95. The nearest airports are in Vancouver and Calgary so you will have to arrange transport from there. By bus, you will have to get off at Radium Springs.
Park Canada has four campgrounds in Kootenay National Park, offering a total of 431 campsites. Please pay special attention to the differences among the sites as only the Redstreak Campground has hook-ups and only the Dolly Varden campsite is open during the winter. During the summer, it is important to make a reservation as the sites fill up. Checkout time for the campsites is 11 a.m. In order to have a fire, you must purchase a permit. Redstreak Campground also offers showers.
One of the most popular aspects of Kootenay National Park is its hiking trails. The park offers more than 120 miles of trails that range from easy to overnight excursions. The most popular places to visit in the park are the Continental Divide, Olive Lake, Marble Canyon and the Paint Pots. There also natural hot springs in nearby Radium Springs where guests can soak.
