Experience the sheer magnetism of Mother Nature’s grandeur, unfolding from snowy glacier-clad mountain peaks to serene ultramarine waters. We proudly present the Kootenays, a visual paradise beyond compare. Experience it, be moved by it, be inspired.
BURGESS SHALE
Dive into the mysteries of earth’s early life, preserved impeccably in the fossils of the Burgess Shale, esteemed at over half a billion years old. Unearthed first in 1909, these fascinating treasures take their moniker from the iconic Burgess Shale rock formation, named after Mount Burgess, nestled in the majestic Canadian Rockies in the heart of Yoho National Park.
The prestigious Burgess Shale fossils lay impressively imprinted in these mountains. Venture with Parks Canada on a guided expedition packed with this rare experience. Whether it’s the Walcott Quarry & Mount Stephen site in Yoho National Park or Stanley Glacier in Kootenay National Park, they offer an unforgettable exploration that satisfies every adventurer’s curiosity.
CODY CAVES PROVINCIAL PARK
Perched high in the Selkirk Mountains, Cody Caves Provincial Park is where nature unveils its true magnificence. The intricate cave system, housing an underground stream that flows over a kilometre through time-hardened limestone, is nothing short of breathtaking. Join them for a transformative exploration, guided by professional interpreters, showcasing an astounding labyrinth of stalactites, soda straws, waterfalls, and flowstone. Dive into the mystery and experience the spectacle firsthand.
INLAND TEMPERATE RAINFOREST
Welcome to Canada’s unexplored gem – the Inland Temperate Rainforest . A unique ecosystem spreading over an astounding 16 million hectares (40 million acres) and extending beyond 1,100 kilometres. Wander beneath the legacy of ancient cedar-hemlock, lose yourself amid diverse blankets of lush ferns and sprawling devil’s club. Discover the world of rare lichens and mosses that bring life to the rich soils. The renowned areas in the Kootenays, include the surrounding areas of Nelson/Kootenay Lake and Revelstoke.
KTUNAXA CREATION STORY – THE HOODOOS
ʔaknumuk̓, known as the Hoodoos – is a term that resonates deeply within Ktunaxa culture. According to the Ktunaxa Creation Story, these remarkable geological formations are scattered throughout the Kootenays are the remnants of Naⱡmuqȼin. He endured a fatal blow whilst standing upright during a grand chase, striking the ceiling of the sky. His monumental remnants now stand tall, embodying an enduring, powerful testament and proudly narrating the Ktunaxa people’s spiritual story.
LARCH TREES
Look no further than the majestic Kootenays for the finest specimens of Western and Alpine Larch, boasting higher concentrations than anywhere else. These proud members of the Larix genus are no ordinary trees. They cleverly combine the characteristics of coniferous trees, with needles and cones, and deciduous trees, dropping their foliage with the season’s change in autumn. As colder weather approaches and days shorten, these ingenious larches conserve their precious green chlorophyll molecules within the tree. What remains on display? A captivating array of yellow and golden-hued pigments in the needles, spreading brightness in the world. Undeniably, these larches are a testament to nature’s artistry and resourcefulness.
MINERAL HOT SPRINGS
Underneath the earth’s surface lies the phenomenon of hot springs. When rain and snow subtly seep into the earth’s surface becoming groundwater, they embark on a truly miraculous journey. Heated by magma, it is this heat is what creates the stunning hot springs we all love. We’re indeed lucky here in the southeast corner of BC, gifted with many delightful warm and hot mineral springs. We are home to six resort hot springs and over five untouched wilderness springs beckoning locals and travellers to enjoy the benefits of soaking in these rejuvenating mineral hot springs.
NATURAL BRIDGE
Discover the awe-inspiring Natural Bridge, a monumental natural rock formation arching over the serene flow of the Kicking Horse River. Located west of Field in Yoho National Park, marks the crossroads where tranquil waters originates, cascade through a stunning canyon only to merge with the mighty Amiskwi River.
From the Natural Bridge lookouts, you don’t merely observe the spectacle – you experience it from myriad perspectives, with each vantage point offering a fresh take on its magnificence. As you soak in the view, their interpretive displays will enrich your understanding of the scientific phenomena that shaped this wonder.
TAKAKKAW FALLS
Takakkaw Falls, in Yoho National Park, standing amongst the tallest waterfalls in all of Canada, showcases an astounding spectacle as it dramatically tumbles more than 250 metres from its rocky heights. The powerful cascades split into spectacular sprays of tiny droplets, creating an invigorating vista that exemplifies nature’s magic.
UNESCO – ROCKY MOUNTAIN PARKS
Visit the majestic beauty of the Canadian Rockies equally inspire us. Here, striking mountain landscapes meet glittering glaciers, serene lakes and breathtaking waterfalls. Get your adventure spirit ready, as it’s time to uncover the hidden gems scattered in four locations.
Hamber Provincial Park, a gem in one of the world’s most extensive protected regions. Discover the thrill of the wilderness in this remote location; its minimal facilities only add to its wild charm.
Within the superlative Rocky Mountains of southeastern British Columbia resides Kootenay National Park, a spectacular expanse spanning 1,406 square kilometres (543 sq. mi), home to extraordinary contrasts. Majestically rising summits and resplendent hanging glaciers converge with lush valleys, arid grasslands, and vibrant mineral pools on a display of nature’s grandeur.
Mount Assiniboine Provincial Park majestically rules the Southern Rockies with its impressive height of 3,618-m (11,870-ft). Proud to be protected over an immense expanse of 38,600 hectares (95,383 acres), it’s indeed the crowning glory of this legendary mountain range. Access to this BC Provincial Park, is via Alberta (Canmore or Kananaskis).
The grandeur that is Yoho National Park, with its expansive 1,313-square-kilometre landscape, is home to 28 sublime mountain peaks towering over 3,000 metres. Whether you’re an adventurous hiker, avid camper, or simply enjoy soaking up the sights, Yoho National Park offers unmatched natural beauty. Immerse yourself in one of the most captivating landscapes of the Canadian Rocky Mountains – truly the pinnacle of planetary wonder!
