Who’s ready to soak in some natural hot springs in B.C. before winter’s end? The tiny village of Ainsworth Hot Springs is a bit of a drive from Vancouver, but the journey is well worth it if you’re craving some quality relaxation time.
The magical hot springs are situated in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains and are open year-round, with healing waters that have been used by visitors and local Indigenous communities for centuries.
They were first discovered by the Ktunaza First Nations, who embraced the healing and rejuvenating effects of the mineral waters (nupika wu’u) and the natural limestone caves that surround them.
Natural hot springs & limestone caves
Visitors today have the added bonuses of an adjacent 150-foot horseshoe cave, a large lounging pool, and a stream-fed cold plunge for a complete hot-and-cold-cycling experience.
According to the Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, the hot springs themselves originate around Cody Caves, where the mineral waters flow through fractures in the rock. As it flows, the water increases in temperature until it reaches a lakeshore fault, which forces the water up.
Those looking for ample caving opportunities can check out the nearby Cody Caves Provincial Park, which offers guided tours through multiple ancient limestone caves starting this spring.
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.
Hot springs admission & info
The pools are open to the public five days a week by reservation only from 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays through Sundays, and on Mondays from 10 am to 2 p.m. Registered hotel guests have complimentary access to the hot springs from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Single entry for adults costs $18 per person, according to the resort’s website.
Ainsworth Hot Springs
How to get there: Drive eight hours from Vancouver via the Crowsnest Highway/BC-3 E.
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