9 Famous Hot Springs in BC
One of the many ways to experience British Columbia’s famed natural beauty and breathtaking sceneries is by going to one of the countless hot springs located all around the province. The mineral-rich waters of BC’s hot springs are famous for having healing and revitalizing powers.
While some of the hot springs in BC are tucked away in wild places, others are nearby and provide a variety of facilities like hot tubs, saunas, and spas.
Here Are the 9 Famous Hot Springs in BC
The hot springs in BC have something to offer everyone, whether they’re searching for a tranquil retreat or a distinctive outdoor activity. Check them out here!
1. Hot Springs Cove
Popular hot spring getaway Hot Springs Cove is situated in British Columbia’s Maquinna Provincial Park on Vancouver Island.
The hot springs are situated in a remote spot, encircled by natural coastal rainforest and rough coastline, and are only reachable by boat or aircraft.
The geothermal heat that fuels the natural hot springs at Hot Springs Cove cascades down into a succession of rock pools, offering guests a singular and tranquil hot spring experience.
Visitors must first go to Tofino, which is situated on the west coast of Vancouver Island, in order to reach Hot Springs Cove. Visitors can travel to the hot springs from Tofino by a beautiful boat trip or seaplane tour.
While in Hot Springs Cove, guests can unwind in the hot pools, tour the neighborhood’s rainforest, or cool down in the Pacific Ocean. Boat tours are also offered year-round by tour companies, rain or shine. The ride takes approximately 30- 40 minutes.
Despite the fact that the pools are rather tiny and may feel overcrowded if a large number of visitors arrive in one go, it is nevertheless a unique opportunity to explore the outdoors.
A wooden walkway surrounds the hot springs, allowing guests to stroll around the region safely and safeguarding the fragile habitat, making it one of the most famous hot springs in BC.
When you travel out from Hot Springs Cove, be sure to look out for creatures like whales as well as sea lions in the ocean, bald eagles in the sky, and black bears ambling along the shore.
2. Harrison Hot Springs
A popular hot spring resort, Harrison Hot Springs is situated about 90 minutes east of Vancouver in the little town of Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia.
More than a century ago, the hot springs have attracted tourists from all over the world who come to relax in the natural mineral-rich waters.
Five naturally heated mineral pools are located at the Harrison Hot Springs Resort. You may play the role of Goldilocks and wander around the pool to pool till you discover the one which feels absolutely great because they are all kept at subtly varying temperatures. A number of the pools are outside, others are within.
The main hot spring pool is outside and open all year long, allowing guests to take advantage of the hot water and breathtaking mountain views at any time.
The hot springs are situated in a contemporary spa that provides a number of services, such as massages, private hot tubs, and other spa treatments, making it one of the most famous hot springs in BC.
Harrison Hot Springs in BC is a well-liked vacation spot because of its location on Harrison Lake’s shoreline, in addition to the hot springs.
Outdoor recreation options available to visitors include hiking, boating, fishing, and swimming in the lake. The community also has a selection of lodging options, such as motels, resorts, and rental homes.
3. Liard River Hot Springs
Liard River Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located in British Columbia, Canada. With an average temperature of about 42°C (107°F), it is one of the biggest hot springs in Canada.
The Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park, which is a smaller section of the larger Muskwa-Kechika Management Area, is where the hot springs exist.
The enormous pool is situated smack dab in the heart of a gorgeous, emerald-green forest. It is the sort of idyllic location that a spa may make a valiant effort to imitate but fails to fully match.
Although the hot springs are available all year round, the winter is when the pools can be especially pleasurable because they provide a warm and comforting alternative to the chilly outside air.
As the downstream side is warmer than the upstream end, you may slowly swim your way along unless you locate the ideal location.
Also, there are camping options, hiking routes, and animal viewing opportunities at the Liard River Hot Springs Provincial Park. Many animals, such as black bears, moose, caribou, and bison, can be found in the area.
Make a reservation if you want to set up a camp in the park during the summer as it can become very crowded. Also, there is a small entrance fee for the park in the summer.
Reminders are given to visitors to the Liard River Hot Springs to respect nature and use proper safety when enjoying the hot springs.
It is advised that guests refrain from using soaps, shampoos, or lotions in the hot springs and not dunk their heads under the water.
4. Tsek Hot Springs
A natural hot spring named Tsek Hot Springs can be found in the wilds of northern British Columbia, Canada. Only a rough dirt road leads to the hot springs, which are located in the Tahltan First Nation’s ancestral area.
There are multiple hot pools at Tsek Hot Springs, with temperatures ranging from 38°C (100°F) to 42°C (108°F). Visitors can find quiet and serenity at the hot springs, which are encircled by an unspoiled forest. The Tahltan First Nation maintains the pools, which are accessible to the general public.
Visitors to Tsek Hot Springs can go trekking, fishing, and wildlife viewing in addition to relaxing in the hot pools. Many animals live in the area, including wolves, moose, caribou, and grizzly bears.
Visitors are advised to exercise proper caution when exploring the wilderness and always adhere to the Leave No Trace philosophy to reduce their environmental impact.
Tsek Hot Springs might not be ideal for all visitors due to its secluded location. The only ways to get to the hot springs are by 4×4 vehicles, hiking, or bicycling over the sometimes-rough road there.
Before starting their trip to Tsek Hot Springs, visitors are urged to verify the weather and road conditions.
Besides the hot springs, there are also some basic facilities including camping and portable restrooms.
Users of the campground are free to use the tubs however they choose, and outsiders can access them for an additional fee. Expect a pure wilderness experience with no frills.
No Wi-Fi, mobile phones, or spa-like facilities are available on-site, but you do have the chance to unplug and spend time in a stunning, spiritual area. That, in our opinion, is a fair trade-off.
5. Nakusp Hot Springs
Nakusp Hot Springs is a natural hot spring located in the Kootenay region of British Columbia, Canada. The Selkirk Mountains, where the hot springs are located, are stunning, and a well-kept road leads there.
The hot pools at Nakusp Hot Springs range in temperature from 35°C (95°F) to 42°C (108°F). Mineral water that has been naturally heated and is claimed to have therapeutic qualities is used in the pools, making it one of the most famous hot springs in BC.
Every one of the pools’ crystal-clear fresh water, which is infused with a calming mixture of chlorides, calcium, copper, as well as other minerals, is supplied by neighboring mineral springs. Because of how swiftly the water moves there, the pools entirely refresh their water every 30 minutes to 2 hours.
Beautiful views of the mountains and trees may be seen from the hot springs.
Visitors to Nakusp Hot Springs can go hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and relaxing in the hot springs. Many animals, including deer, elk, and black bears, can be found in the area. The hot springs offer a distinctive experience year-round and are open all seasons.
Campsites, RV sites, and cottages are just a few of the lodging options available at Nakusp Hot Springs. On-site amenities include a restaurant and a spa with massages and other services.
Nakusp Hot Springs offers calming pools along with restrooms, a spot to get a drink or a snack, as well as a playground.
Visitors of all ages can unwind and have fun in the hot springs, which are welcoming to families.
6. Fairmont Hot Springs
Fairmont Hot Springs features several hot pools with temperatures ranging from 35°C (95°F) to 40°C (104°F).
On-site hot springs with a pool-like design include a diving pool, a swimming pool, and a soaking pool.
They are all nourished by mineral-rich hot spring water that contains calcium bicarbonate, magnesium sulfate, calcium sulfate, and sodium sulfate.
Visitors to Fairmont Hot Springs can do skiing, biking, hiking, and golfing in addition to relaxing in the hot springs.
Many animals, including deer, elk, and black bears, can be found in the area. There are several different types of lodging available at the resort, including cabins, condos, and campsites.
In addition, there are several dining alternatives available in Fairmont Hot Springs, ranging from laid-back cafes to fancy eateries, making it one of the most famous hot springs in BC.
The hotel also has a spa with massages and other services. On-site stores and boutiques are also available, selling souvenirs and other goods.
For locals, the Fairmont Hot Springs Resort features both annual and seasonal pool passes, although guests can choose to purchase a single or multi-day ticket. The resort also offers a large swimming pool, a water slide, and a diving board.
The pool entrance is free for guests who reserve a room at the resort, and there is a separate hot springs pool that is only accessible to hotel guests. There is an RV camping on the property as well, and guests there receive a small discount.
7. Halcyon Hot Springs
Halcyon Hot Springs is a resort situated on the shores of Arrow Lake and is surrounded by the Monashee Mountains.
There are numerous outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and fishing, at the resort, which is situated in a stunning natural location, making it one of the most famous hot springs in BC.
A museum and a hot springs pool are just a couple of the attractions in the neighbouring town of Nakusp.
The resort does not have a hotel; rather, visitors rent cabins and cabins. There is no mobile phone service, therefore do not expect cell phone reception.
Nevertheless, you can get around this by using the hotel’s Wi-Fi network. Overall, it’s an excellent option for anyone wishing to relax from their busy lives.
The hot pool, which has an average temperature of 104℉, the warm pool, which has an average temperature of 99℉, and the cold plunge pool, which has an average temperature of 58℉, are all available for use all year long.
Moreover, there is a seasonal pool that is maintained at a comfortable 86℉.
Although it’s a really lovely means of experiencing them, you do not have to be a resort visitor in order to take advantage of the pools. Anyone else is welcome to use the pools for a single day by paying a charge.
8. Ainsworth Hot Springs
Ainsworth Hot Springs is a natural hot spring situated on the shores of Kootenay Lake, approximately 30 minutes north of the town of Nelson.
The unusual horseshoe-shaped cave at the hot springs, which is bordered with mineral deposits and filled with warm water, is what makes it famous. Guests can relax in the cave pool and benefit from the hot springs’ healing qualities.
Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort has a number of pools with varied temperatures, including an outdoor pool with a view of Kootenay Lake, in addition to the cave pool.
The resort has lodging options such as rooms, suites, and cabins in addition to having a spa.
The resort’s mineral-rich waters can be experienced in two distinct manners: in a natural cave with an average temperature of 108 ℉ or in a swimming pool with an average temperature of 96 ℉.
The water in the main pool totally changes over 4 times each day, whereas it does 6 times each day in the cave.
A nearby creek supplies the chilly plunge pool, which is also present. It is tremendously energizing to switch between the cold and hot pools, yet it also makes you feel completely relaxed.
The hot springs are available to visitors year-round, and they can either pay an entrance fee or use the facility as part of their hotel stay.
9. Keyhole Hot Springs
Keyhole Hot Springs is a natural hot spring situated near the Lillooet River, approximately 100 km north of the town of Pemberton.
A 10-kilometer hiking track that meanders through the woodland and alongside the river leads to the hot springs.
The trail has some steep sections and rocky terrain and is rated as moderate to challenging. Yet, the drive is definitely worth it because of the beautiful scenery and the hot springs.
Arriving at Keyhole Hot Springs in BC, guests can relax in the variously heated pools while taking in the natural splendor of the mountains and forest in the area. The pools are along the river and provide a tranquil and soothing atmosphere.
Visitors are asked to respect and preserve the environment because Keyhole Hot Springs in BC is situated in a secluded and beautiful natural location.
The hot springs are undeveloped, therefore visitors are required to take out all trash and adhere to the Leave No Trace philosophy.
Keep in mind that Keyhole Hot Springs is annually closed from April through the middle of November to aid in the recovery of the area’s grizzly bear habitat. Therefore, plan your trip during the winter or spring season.
In general, folks looking for a wilderness adventure frequent Keyhole Hot Springs and a peaceful soak in natural hot springs in BC.
Conclusion
There are a number of natural hot springs in BC that each provides tourists with a distinctive experience.
For those seeking leisure, scenic beauty, and outdoor recreation, Halcyon Hot Springs in the Kootenay region and Ainsworth Hot Springs on Kootenay Lake are well-liked vacation spots.
For those looking for a wilderness adventure, Keyhole Hot Springs in the Coast Mountains is a more out-of-the-way and challenging location.
Visitors can take advantage of the healing powers of the mineral-rich waters and the unspoiled beauty of British Columbia’s backcountry no matter which hot springs they choose to visit.
When taking in these natural treasures, visitors should respect and preserve the ecosystem.
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