Want to experience a burst of colors on your upcoming Kootenay National Park trip? Add the Paint Pots trail to your itinerary. Just as the name suggests, you will get to see vibrant water pools in rainbow hues. The water here has high iron content. As a result, it has stained the surrounding soil into a radiant ochre shade. Paint Pots stands out in all its brilliance against the extraordinary backdrop of a deep turquoise Vermillion River and bright green grass.
The best thing about Paint Pots is that it is a low difficulty journey but with excellent mountain views from all sides. The entire trail is 2km long back and forth, making it well suited for families having children and the elderly. Kindly respect the native Ktunaxa people for whom this area is highly scared.
Starting Out On Paint Pots Trail
Park your car right next to the Banff-Windermere Parkway and head out to Paint Pots. From here you will have to walk towards the Vermillion River and take the aesthetic pedestrian bridge for crossing the same. Take the path on the left once you are over the bridge. Going the other way will take you to Marble Canyon.
Crossing The Ochre Beds On Paint Pots Trail
You will first come across the Ochre Beds along the trail. Here you will see numerous orange colored pools shining against the green grasses. The soil looks brighter when wet. You can easily avoid the soggy segments courtesy of the multiple boards along the way. The local Ktunaxa people have been making red ochre paint from these ochre beds since ancient times. As you walk along the trail, you will see variations in colors ranging from yellow to orange, red and brown. On walking uphill you will reach the main spot. Bright red streams flow down from here towards the ochre beds below.
Heading Back To The Parking Spot
You can take the same route while coming back. But if you are up for a longer hike, then you can take a detour. For going on this trail, you will have to take the first turn on the right and follow the ochre paint pots connector trail. The best thing about this trail is that it is comparatively quieter and you might not encounter any other hiker on the way back. Get ready to be mesmerized by magnificent views during the last leg of the trail.
Quick Tips
- The Paint Pots are a geological wonder that you must visit in the Kootenay National Park.
- While you can take a brisk halt in this area, it’s advisable to relish a bit longer hike for enjoying this area to the fullest.
- Make sure to wear dark hued hiking shoes as the trail often gets muddy and the ochre soil might stain your footwear.
- You can bring your pawsome friend along if you keep them on a leash.
- During dry seasons, wheelchair users can access the trail.
- In rare occasions, you might encounter bears along the path. Hence, it’s advisable to follow park guidelines and travel in groups.
