Stanley Glacier
moderate Castle Junction trail

Stanley Glacier

A fascinating hike through fire-regenerated forest into a hanging valley dominated by the Stanley Glacier.

๐Ÿ“ Distance 4.2 km one way
โฌ†๏ธ Elevation Gain 395 m
โฌ‡๏ธ Elevation Loss 0 m
โฑ๏ธ Time 3 hrs
๐Ÿ“… Season summer
๐Ÿ”๏ธ Difficulty Moderate

About This Trail

The Stanley Glacier trail crosses into the Kootenay National Park boundary and climbs through a striking landscape of fire-regenerated forest โ€” the result of a 1968 burn that created a natural laboratory of ecological renewal. The trail enters a dramatic hanging valley where the Stanley Glacier clings to massive rock walls above. Wildflowers carpet the regenerated slopes in summer, and the contrast between fire-scarred terrain and glacial ice provides a powerful lesson in natural forces.

Highlights

Stanley Glacier viewsFire-regenerated forestHanging valley landscape

Trailhead Information

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Starting Point

Kootenay NP, 13 km SW of Castle Junction on Hwy 93S

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Vehicle Required

This trail is not accessible by public transit. A personal vehicle or taxi is required.

Trail Location

Safety Tips

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Carry bear spray and know how to use it. Bears are active throughout Banff National Park.

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Check trail conditions on the Parks Canada website before heading out.

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Tell someone your hiking plan โ€” where you're going and when you expect to return.

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Bring layers. Mountain weather can change rapidly, even in summer.

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Carry at least 1 litre of water per person. There are no water stations on most trails.

Check Latest Trail Conditions

Always check the official Parks Canada page for current conditions, closures, and advisories before heading out.

View on Parks Canada โ†’