Kootenay National Park

Kootenay straddles the Continental Divide with red-rock canyons and natural hot springs at Radium, which maintain a 35°C temperature year-round—10% warmer than the average Canadian hot spring. It covers 1,406 square kilometers, yet sees far fewer visitors than Banff—40% less traffic annually—despite equally dramatic scenery. This makes Kootenay a quieter alternative to Yoho for those seeking thermal baths and geological surprises without the crowds. Its water chemistry is unique, with mineral content that outperforms the average park in therapeutic value.