Things to see and do Kootenay Rockies

The CPR line of railway was the cause of many accidents, due to the 4% slope on the west side of the Rocky mountains, inside the park. In 1909, in order to remedy the situation, Canadian Pacific built two tunnels with a total length of 1 859 m. Over 300 km of trails cross the park's territory, but the conditions of the park's access are often very difficult. As a result, some accesses, such as that to Takakkaw Falls, are often closed in winter and do not reopen until June. In Cree language, "takakkaw" means "wonderful", because of its 254 m falls. Mount Goodsir, 3 562 m, is the highest in the park. Another of its wonders is Emerald Lake, covered by ice most of the year. It really is worth the detour for its beautiful colour. Several marked walks are possible around the lake, including Emerald Lake Loop and Hamilton Falls. O'Hara Lake is another jewel of the park, to the point that its access is controlled. To reach it, you can walk (13 km) or take the car for it ($ 15 + $ 12 for reservation). Along 8,2 km long, the Yoho Glacier Moraine Trail arrives at the Twin Falls. The most courageous will continue on the Whaleback Trail and will be rewarded with a splendid view of the glaciers. Consider asking park employees the opening times of the bridge that gives access to the bridge.

One of the most popular attractions in the region is located south of Kootenay National Park, 3 hours from Calgary. After a long hike or a day of skiing, this is the ideal place to relax your muscles in warm natural water straight from the mountains. It is possible to buy a day pass allowing you to combine hiking and thermal bath as you wish. Hiking trails are available on site, including the one that provides access to Sinclair Canyon. Picnic tables are also available.

Different addresses in Golden, Castlegar, Cranbrook, Creston, Elkford…

The tourist centre provides free maps of the surrounding paths and trails. A few railways are now used for hiking, walking or cycling, such as the Burlington Northern Rails-to-Trails System. To the northeast of Nelson, you can discover the Kokanee Glacier Provincial Park.

Third largest river in North America in terms of flow. Stretching from British Columbia to the state of Oregon, the Columbia River Treaty was signed in 1964 between the Canadian and American governments to build dams to limit flooding. Among all the dams that control the Columbia River, one of the most powerful, located 8 km north of Revelstoke, can be visited. 175 m high and 470 m long, or how to feel tiny! Guided tours are available to learn more about the dam.