You’ll be driving through one of the most interesting stretches of the Canadian Rockies, where you can see deep canyons, colourful mineral pools, hanging glaciers, and wide valleys with wildlife. The route mixes easy roadside stops with short walks and viewpoints, giving you a clear view of how Kootenay National Park was shaped over time by fire, ice, and flowing water.

Tour Route

Your trip kicks off at the National Park gate just outside Banff, Alberta, then heads west onto Highway 93 South, easily one of the most beautiful drives in the Rockies. The drive wraps up near Radium, British Columbia, where you can choose to keep exploring, take a soak in the hot springs, or simply turn around and enjoy the same stunning scenery on the way back to Banff.

Major Landmarks

Continental Divide
Stanley Glacier
Marble Canyon
Paint Pots
Numa Falls
Floe Lake & the Rockwall region
Vermillion Crossing
Radium Hot Springs Pools

What You’ll See

The Kootenay Canyons to Glaciers route showcases the variety and beauty of Kootenay National Park in a way that’s easy to experience for everyone of all ages.

Expect a mix of:

Towering cliffs carved by ancient glaciers
Waterfalls and vibrant mineral springs
Deep limestone canyons
Subalpine forests recovering from historic wildfires
Expansive Rocky Mountain valley floors
Prime wildlife habitat, from bears to bighorn sheep

Iconic Highlights Along the Route

Boom Lake. A peaceful forested walk to an emerald lake framed by steep peaks.
Stanley Glacier. A stunning trail offering waterfalls, hanging ice, and a valley shaped by fire.
Marble Canyon. A dramatic series of deep, narrow chasms carved by the Tokumm Creek.
Paint Pots. Historic ochre-rich mineral pools used by Indigenous peoples.
Numa Falls. A powerful cascade just steps from the parking lot.
Floe Lake. One of the most photographed alpine lakes on the Rockwall.
Vermilion Crossing. A historic stop marking early travel and settlement routes.
Dog Lake. A peaceful forest trail ideal for wildlife spotting.
Olive Lake. A serene, crystal-clear pond surrounded by lush forest.

Things to Do Nearby

Short interpretive walks at Marble Canyon, Paint Pots, and Olive Lake
Longer hikes: Stanley Glacier, Boom Lake, Dog Lake, or the ambitious Floe Lake trail
Wildlife viewing opportunities, including grizzly and black bear sightings
Historical storytelling at Vermilion Crossing
Indigenous cultural interpretation at the Paint Pots and designated stops
Relaxing soaks at Radium Hot Springs Pools

Facilities

Day-use parking at Marble Canyon, Paint Pots, Numa Falls, Stanley Glacier, Boom Lake, Olive Lake, and Radium Hot Springs
Bathrooms at major trailheads including Marble Canyon, Paint Pots, Stanley Glacier, and Radium
Interpretive signs at Marble Canyon, Paint Pots, Vermilion Crossing, Dog Lake, and Olive Lake

Best Time to Visit

June through October provides the best access to trails and viewpoints, with:

Peak wildflowers in July near Boom Lake, Stanley Glacier, and subalpine meadows
Vivid fall colours in late September, especially in the valley burned by the 2003 wildfire
Ideal temperatures for exploring canyons and soaking in hot springs

Winter visits are possible but many trails are inaccessible and avalanche terrain is common. Highway viewpoints remain beautiful but require caution.

Travel Tips

Cell service doesn’t exist along Highway 93. Download music before leaving Banff.
Wildlife is abundant. Adhere to speed limits and signage throughout the year.
Many trails are found in avalanche or steep terrain areas. Check conditions before committing to longer hikes.
Layers are essential. Weather varies drastically from Banff to Radium valley floors.
Start early for the best lighting in Marble Canyon and to find parking at Stanley Glacier or Boom Lake.

Estimated Duration for the Full Loop

A scenic drive with no stops:
👉 1.5-2 hours

A relaxed driving tour with short walks:
👉 4–6 hours

With a major hike such as Stanley Glacier or Boom Lake:
👉 8–10 hours

With Floe Lake as the main hike:
👉 Dedicated trip or overnight