From Calgary International Airport, travel south on Provincial 2 to Canadian 1 and head west toward Banff National Park. Once in Banff, follow directional signs to Provincial 93 and Kootenay National Park. The park road dissects the road southwesterly and ends at the Village of Radium Hot Springs. The distance from Calgary to Radium is approximately 160 miles.
The obvious and safest time to visit is in summer, but don't discount an autumn trip when the colors are vibrant, or a late-spring visit after the snow run-off and before the summer travel season. If you're intent on winter travel, prepare thoroughly and contact local park rangers.
There are abundant campground facilities. Dining and lodging accommodations are in nearby Revelstoke, Banff and Calgary.
Vermillion Pass not only borders the park and the provinces, but also crosses the Continental Divide before dropping down to the amazing and picturesque Marble Canyon. A visit to the nearby paint pots is a must. Springs discolor pools similar to those of Yellowstone.
Dining is available further south at Kootenay Parks Lodge Visitor Center. This is a great opportunity to admire the vistas more extensively. Momentarily pulling off the road is nice, but after a nice lunch, you can take time to relax for an hour or so and appreciate the surroundings. A deer or moose is likely to pass by.
Along the river, ascend over Sinclair Pass and stop to see an amazing view of the Kootenay Valley below. It's yet another place to stop and reflect.
