Kootenay National Park of Canada

Weather and Climate

Due to the geographic location of Kootenay National Park, climate and weather vary considerably from one part of the park to another, and from valley bottom to mountain top. This variety is reflected in the park's interpretive theme: "from cactus to glacier". At the south end of the park, in the Radium Hot Springs area, the climate is relatively warm and dry, while at the north end of the park, at Vermilion Pass, it is relatively cool and moist.

Located on the western edge of the Rockies, the park's climate is dominated by prevailing moist westerly winds from the Pacific Ocean. Occasionally, drier continental weather patterns extend over the region. Generally, summers are short and cool, with occasional hot spells, while winters are long and snowy. The high mountain ranges of the Continental Divide generally prevent winter arctic air from spilling over to the western side of the Rockies, though occasionally this does occur, bringing the park's coldest temperatures.

The semi arid climate in the Radium Hot Springs area is due to its relatively low elevation (900 m) and the "rain shadow" effect of the Purcell Mountains to the west. Pacific air rising over the Purcells cools and drops its moisture, so by the time it reaches the Columbia Valley it is relatively dry. Rising over the Rockies, the air cools once more and drops more moisture. Precipitation is heaviest along the Continental Divide, at the north end of the park.

Annual precipitation in Kootenay National Park ranges from less than 380 mm at lower elevations to over 1250 mm at higher elevations. In valley bottoms, average January highs are -7°C, while July highs average 22°C. Average temperatures decrease by about 0.5°C for every 100 m of elevation gain. Also, winds are generally stronger at higher elevations.

Weather in the Rockies can be unpredictable and may change dramatically in a short period of time.

• Check the local weather forecasts before heading out and be prepared for anything - conditions can change rapidly in the mountains, from minute to minute and from place to place. Generally, the higher you go, the colder and windier it gets.
• Take along clothing to protect yourself from wind, cold, rain or snow.
• Dress in layers; adjust as you go to prevent overcooling or overheating.
• Use sunglasses and sunscreen, even on overcast or cool days. Ultraviolet radiation is stronger at higher elevations. Reflection from snow or ice can damage your eyes.