Glacial erosion has left fascinating patterns everywhere - cirques, moraines, hanging valleys, and more. Especially notable are deep cuts into the limestone at Rockwall and Marble Canyons . If you want the hottest and driest environment in the area, head south into the Columbia and Lower Kootenay Valleys and explore the forests. In the northern area around the Upper Kootenay and Vermilion Valleys , the summers are moderate and the winters severe. Some wetland communities have developed around ponds, beaver dams, and small lakes.
Wildlife is much in evidence.
Finally, on your rambles, you might justifiably feel a part of history. Archaeological evidence shows that the mountain passes and river valleys have been major trading routes for thousands of years for Natives, and pictographs near the hot springs suggest its role as a gathering place. Hudson's Bay Company traders also travelled through here. For some activities, arrangements must be made in advance. Backcountry hikers, campers, and mountaineers require a park use permit from a park officer to make overnight trips.