The journey to Radium Hot Springs, BC is almost as beautiful as the destination! If you’re travelling from the east, enjoy the ride by stopping to smell the roses along the way. Throughout the drive, find many spots to stop at including hikes, walks, and day-use areas. Check out our favourite spots to snap a great photo or stretch your legs along Highway 93 between Banff and Radium Hot Springs.
Stops are listed North – South. Remember to pick up your National Parks Pass for the duration of your time in Kootenay National Park. Without stops, Highway 93 between Banff and Radium Hot Springs takes approximately 1.5 hours to drive.
Continental Divide
At the border of British Columbia and Alberta, stand on the Continental Divide! This is the dividing point between the Pacific and Atlantic watersheds. The Continental Divide area is also home to the Fireweed Loops trails (ranging in length from 0.5 k.m. – 2 k.m.) to walk through the quiet, shaded forest. Interpretive signs along the shorter loop tell the story of regeneration after the wildfire of 1968.
Marble Canyon
Marble Canyon is an iconic stop in the Kootenay National Park. With bridges criss-crossing over the Tokkumm Creek, the bright blue waters in the canyon below are a great stop. Hikers can walk along the trail and bridges to Marble Canyon, or take a longer hike to the Paint Pots. At the end of the Marble Canyon trail, find the iconic Parks Canada red chairs to relax in and snap a photo.
Numa Falls
The Numa Falls rest area is a fantastic rest area in the Kootenay National Park. A quick jaunt from the parking area will lead to a spectacular bridge viewpoint of the Numa Falls. Truly stunning in any season, Numa Falls offers incredible views of the falls, as well as a picnic area and washrooms.
Paint Pots
The Paint Pots are a lovely short jaunt from the Highway 93. Experience the vibrant orange ochre pots. your hike to stretch between the Paint Pots and Marble Canyon for a 3 k.m. return loop!
Dolly Varden
Little ones in the car? Stop in at Dolly Varden on your drive for a break to play on the playground! The Dolly Varden rest area is a great spot to stretch the legs while road tripping through Kootenay National Park. Learn about wildlife overpasses and underpasses through the interpretive signage.
Dog Lake
The Dog Lake Trail is perfect for a quick walk or easy hike! 15 minutes down the trail will lead you to a suspension bridge crossing over the Kootenay River. A longer hike down the trail (2.5 k.m. total) will lead you to Dog Lake, a small mountain tarn nestled in the valley.
Kootenay Valley Viewpoint
The Kootenay Valley Viewpoint offers an amazing view of the Kootenay River Valley and surrounding mountains. Especially stunning to watch the sunrise or sunset, the Kootenay Valley Viewpoint is a great spot to take in the views just 10 minutes before reaching the Village of Radium!
Olive Lake
The aptly-named Olive Lake has stunning green waters and a short boardwalk encircling the lake. Take a look at the interpretive panels along the lake.
Note: the Spring season sees an annual closure of the Olive Lake area due to bears in the area. Winter closure in effect to allow ample space for snow removal.
Radium Hot Springs pools
The iconic Radium Hot Springs pools welcome visitors from all over the globe to soak in the naturally-heated waters. What better way to unwind after a road trip than by taking a relaxing soak? Open daily, the Radium Hot Springs pools are a must-do on any visit to the Village of Radium in any season.
Sinclair Canyon
The southern end of the Kootenay National Park has a dramatic exit! The Sinclair Canyon is the beautiful rockface entrance to the Village of Radium Hot Springs. Explore the Sinclair Canyon area by stopping at a viewpoint to take a photo, or hiking the Juniper-Sinclair Trail to get a birds-eye view of the Canyon, mountains, and Village.
Looking for more adventures in the Village of Radium Hot Springs? Check out our unlimited adventure, mountain trails, relaxation, and places to stay! There is something for everyone in the Village.