Walk along a remarkably narrow gorge flowing with water.
Find canyons, waterfalls, lakes, and glaciers that too often go overlooked.
Of the four national parks in the Canadian Rockies, Kootenay probably gets the least attention, but it doesn’t deserve to be overlooked. Despite having only one main road and relatively few trailheads, there are many miles of trail to be explored, reaching unspoiled and unique places in the mountains. While most park-goers concentrate on nearby Banff, Yoho, or Jasper, you can enjoy comparatively uncrowded––yet equally impressive––scenery in Kootenay. Here are some of the park’s best hikes for doing within a day, including something for hikers of all abilities.
Walk along a remarkably narrow gorge flowing with water.
Forest hike with scenic overlooks, leading to waterfalls hidden in a narrow gorge.
Family-friendly hike to a scenic lake, with chances at spotting wildlife.
A plethora of views and a backcountry feel, packed into a concise but challenging loop from the highway.
This out-and-back valley hike takes you through stands of young pine trees before opening up onto a massive moraine leading toward Stanley Glacier.
The southern terminus of the Rockwall trek, or an excellent overnight backpacking trip with a lakeside campground.