Kootenay Marble Canyon
A breathtaking natural wonder in Kootenay National Park, featuring vibrant turquoise waters carving through a dramatic canyon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Kootenay Marble Canyon
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A breathtaking natural wonder in Kootenay National Park, featuring vibrant turquoise waters carving through a dramatic canyon.
"Visiting Marble Canyon today was absolutely awe-inspiring. It's a place where you can truly feel the power and persistence of water."
🎯 Do Both Numa & Marble
Quickly visit both Numa Falls and Marble Canyon; they're close and offer unique, short scenic detours.
👟 Easy & Family Friendly
The 1.6 km loop is an easy walk, perfect for families and even dog-friendly!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Turquoise Canyon Views
Along the canyon trail
Witness the vibrant, glacier-fed turquoise waters carving through the rock. A truly mesmerizing sight!
Cascading Waterfalls
Numa Falls viewpoint
Marvel at the powerful waterfalls, a testament to nature's persistent carving over time.
Scenic Bridges
Over the canyon
Cross multiple bridges offering unique perspectives of the canyon and its powerful river.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Quick Detour, Big Reward
Combine Your Stops
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Do Both Numa & Marble
Quickly visit both Numa Falls and Marble Canyon; they're close and offer unique, short scenic detours.
👟 Easy & Family Friendly
The 1.6 km loop is an easy walk, perfect for families and even dog-friendly!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking is limited, especially when tour buses arrive. Be patient or visit during off-peak hours.
📵 No Cell Service
Be prepared for no cell service in the area; download maps beforehand.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Do Both Numa & Marble
Quickly visit both Numa Falls and Marble Canyon; they're close and offer unique, short scenic detours.
👟 Easy & Family Friendly
The 1.6 km loop is an easy walk, perfect for families and even dog-friendly!
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking is limited, especially when tour buses arrive. Be patient or visit during off-peak hours.
📵 No Cell Service
Be prepared for no cell service in the area; download maps beforehand.
🧥 Dress for the Weather
Wear appropriate clothing and footwear for hiking, as conditions can change.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, vibrant turquoise waters and the dramatic canyon views, calling it a breathtaking and awe-inspiring natural wonder. The easy, family-friendly trail and its accessibility make it a highly recommended quick stop. However, some have noted issues with closed washrooms and potential parking challenges during peak times.
"The views from the trail were absolutely stunning. The snow-covered mountains, frozen waterfalls, rocks, and trees made for a breathtaking winter hike.
We were warned by several guides that the washroom at this trail had a horrible odor, so they advised us to use the one on the other trail instead. However, when we got here, it was completely closed. I’m unsure whether it was due to renovations or another reason, but having an entire washroom closed—especially knowing it’s a long drive to the trail—is unacceptable.
Aside from that, I truly enjoyed the hike and would love to visit again in the summer!"
Edwin ADOO
"Stopped in here today and it was closed but we managed to do a short walk up and the views we got to see were amazing. Can only imagine what the rest of the hike would look like. We managed to dip our fingers into the cold water. Lots of parking but during high season it could be an issue. As we were leaving a tour bus arrived with tourists."
Aline Desrosiers
"Very easy walk/hike. Keep walking the trail until you see falls. You will cross over multiple bridges (about 5) until you see the waterfalls. One of my favourite canyons. There are many info boards you can read to learn the history of the falls."
Sarah P
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Marble Canyon is located in Kootenay National Park, British Columbia, right off Highway 93. It's approximately a 40-minute drive from Banff Town and about a 2-hour drive from Calgary.
Yes, Marble Canyon is conveniently located about a 40-minute drive from Banff National Park, making it an easy stop on your journey.
Absolutely! Many visitors find it easy to do both Numa Falls and Marble Canyon in a few hours as they are both quick, scenic stops along Highway 93.
The drive along Highway 93 through Kootenay National Park is incredibly scenic, offering views of mountains, valleys, and the Kootenay River.
Public transport options are very limited for accessing Marble Canyon. It is best visited with a personal vehicle or as part of a guided tour.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, Kootenay Marble Canyon is within Kootenay National Park, which requires a Parks Canada Discovery Pass for entry. You can purchase passes online or at park gates.
Marble Canyon is accessible year-round during park hours. However, facilities like washrooms may have seasonal closures or maintenance.
There is no separate entrance fee for Marble Canyon itself, but you will need a valid Parks Canada Discovery Pass to enter Kootenay National Park.
Tickets are not required for Marble Canyon as it's a natural attraction within a national park. You just need your park pass.
While the trail is generally open, always check the Parks Canada website for any alerts or closures due to weather or maintenance. Dogs are permitted on leash.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The Marble Canyon trail is an easy 1.6 km loop with minimal elevation gain. It features several bridges crossing over the canyon, offering spectacular views of the turquoise water. +1
The hike itself is quite short, typically taking about 30 minutes round trip without stops. You can easily spend longer enjoying the views and taking photos.
Yes, Marble Canyon is very family-friendly! The easy trail and stunning scenery make it enjoyable for all ages, and it's also dog-friendly.
The water is a striking, vibrant turquoise blue, a result of glacial silt suspended in the water. It's one of the most captivating features of the canyon.
Restroom facilities are available, but they have been known to have issues with odor or closures. It's advisable to check their status or use facilities at nearby stops if possible.
📸 📸 Photography
The bridges offer fantastic vantage points for capturing the canyon's depth and the vibrant water. Look for angles that showcase the contrast between the rock and the blue hues.
Mornings often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for photography. Late afternoon can also offer beautiful golden hour light.
Drone usage is restricted in all Canadian National Parks, including Kootenay. Always check Parks Canada regulations before flying a drone.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the expansive canyon views. A polarizing filter can enhance the vibrant water colors.
The series of bridges over the canyon, the powerful waterfalls, and the unique turquoise water are the main photographic draws.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The dog-friendly aspect is a bonus for those traveling with furry companions. The vibrant turquoise water and the series of bridges are sure to capture children's imaginations. Remember to bring snacks and water, and be aware of the lack of cell service. 🚗 Day-Trippers from Banff
Combine it with a visit to Numa Falls for a well-rounded, quick exploration of Kootenay National Park's natural beauty. Just be mindful of parking and the lack of cell service. 🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Power of Water: Carving Marble Canyon
As you walk the trail, you'll cross multiple bridges, each offering a unique perspective on this natural phenomenon. The sound of the rushing water is a constant reminder of the forces at play. It's a powerful display of how even seemingly small, persistent forces can leave an indelible mark on the landscape.
This natural wonder isn't just a visual spectacle; it's an experience that highlights the enduring strength of nature. It's a place where you can truly feel the raw power of water and time working in harmony to shape our world.
Navigating Kootenay National Park: Tips for Your Visit
Connectivity is a significant consideration in this region. As noted by visitors, there is no cell service within much of the park, including at Marble Canyon. It's crucial to download offline maps and inform someone of your travel plans before you set out.
When planning your visit, remember that parking can become an issue, especially during peak season or when tour buses arrive. Arriving early in the morning or later in the afternoon can help you avoid the biggest crowds and secure a parking spot.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit