A historic B.C. village on Kootenay Lake has natural hot springs open year-round

Winter is the ideal time to soak in one of B.C.’s mineral hot springs, and Ainsworth Hot Springs is one of the best.

Known for its healing waters and nearby limestone caves, the historic village (formerly known as Ainsworth) sits on Kootenay Lake, offering visitors the chance to indulge in some quality R&R.

While the hot springs themselves are contained at Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, the pools are open for public use every day of the week.

The natural mineral pools are open year-round and feature a natural horseshoe cave you can explore before or after your dip.

The hot springs were first discovered by the Ktunaza First Nations, who embraced the hot mineral waters (nupika wu’u) for their rejuvenating properties. Today, the area is owned by Yaqan Nukiy, the Lower Kootenay Band of Creston, and the hot springs are a huge draw in the region.

Renovated in 2012 and expanded in 2019, the resort includes a large lounging pool and a stream-fed cold plunge, according to Nelson Kootenay Lake Tourism.

When are the hot springs open to the public?

The pools and natural cave are open to the public by reservation only from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, and on Mondays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

How much is admission?

Single entry for adults costs $18 per person, according to the resort’s website.

Note that registered hotel guests have complimentary access to the hot springs from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Looking for another winter adventure to tack onto your next visit? Just north of Ainsworth Hot Springs is Cody Caves Park, which features multiple ancient limestone caves that visitors can explore via guided tours during the spring, summer, and fall months.

Those who want to explore the area can head to Nelson (a 45-minute drive away) to check out some art galleries and heritage buildings unique to the communities surrounding Kootenay Lake.

How to get there: Drive eight hours from Vancouver to Ainsworth Hot Springs via Crowsnest Highway/BC-3 E.

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