Stanley Glacier

Stanley Glacier is an alpine basin with glacier views in Kootenay National Park, reached by a 10 km return hike that climbs 365 m. Give it a substantial walking day. The map pin marks Stanley Creek lookout in the basin. It is a visitor viewpoint; the route does not continue onto the glacier ice.

The first 4 km from the parking area are gently graded packed dirt. The final kilometre is rough, with the last 200 m on loose rock. Save time and energy for that upper stretch.

The route passes fire-swept lodgepole pine forest and wildflowers, crosses a turquoise river and goes by waterfalls before the glacier basin opens out. The approach has its own variety of forest, water and rock.

Stanley Glacier sits beyond the rocky basin, with high cliffs enclosing the view. The surrounding Burgess Shale is known for fossils of ancient sea life, including Cambroraster, an arthropod with a broad shell compared to the Millennium Falcon. Fossils, rocks and other natural or historic objects are protected; collecting them is illegal.

The basin opens into a broad mountain valley framed by steep cliffs, with Mount Whymper in the distance. From the basin lookout, frame Mount Whymper within the valley walls; a wide composition carries the scale of the place. The waterfalls and river are worthwhile subjects on the way up.

The parking area is 15 km south of Castle Junction on Highway 93 South. The regular trail is open to park visitors; the separate Parks Canada guided fossil hike requires advance reservations. Visitor reports about parking availability vary, so leave some flexibility at busy times.