Hot springs are those amazing natural phenomena that make you feel like you’re in a five-star spa, but you’re actually often in the middle of nowhere – and British Columbia has plenty of them.
Venturing to these surreal hot springs is the perfect winter activity – one of the few where you don’t have to freeze your butt.
With the steam around you and maybe even a little snow falling, this is the perfect relaxing time for a romantic getaway or a retreat with friends. If you don’t know where to look, however, these natural wonders can be difficult to locate.
Most of the time you are surrounded by beautiful greenery and nature, which only adds to the peacefulness of the experience.
Here are nine that you can do on a road trip this winter to warm up.
Be sure to check the hot springs websites before you go, as some are closing due to COVID-19 restrictions or road closures.
Sloquet hot springs
Price: $ 5 for the day, or $ 15 for a group of six campers.
Address: Sloquet Hot Springs, Fraser Valley C, BC
Why you need to go: These hot springs are less than four hours from Vancouver and are very reasonably priced. There are a few small pools and they are tucked away in the middle of nowhere making it feel like a total retreat.
Hot springs halfway
Price: Free year round for daytime use; $ 15 for camping from May to October only
Address: Halfway River Hot Springs, Central Kootenay K, BC
Why you need to go: In the winter, you’ll want to pack your snowshoes for the 11-kilometer trip along a forest service path. It is well worth it, however, for these breathtaking hot springs.
Pitt River Hot Springs
Price: $ 5 per night for parking
Address: FSR Pitt-Buklin, Fraser Valley F, BC
Why you must go: This magical place will literally melt all your worries away. Getting there requires a boat ride or 8 hours of canoe paddling, a 20 kilometer bike ride and a 30 foot vertical abseil, so only go if you’re prepared!
Lussier hot springs
Price: Free
Address: Lussier Hot Springs, Cranbrook, BC
Why you need to go: This hot spring is especially cool, as you can switch from ice cold water on one side to warm pool temperatures right after. Truly, nature’s spa. It’s also easy to access and free!
Harrison Thermal Pool
Price: Ranges per room and type of accommodation.
Address: 101 Hot Springs Road, Harrison Hot Springs, British Columbia
Why you must go: These hot springs are very popular because they are easily assessed and always very relaxing. There are several pools here, including a lap pool, all filled with amazing minerals.
The website also states that Michael Bublé has been there, so enough said. You can only use the pools if you are a resort guest, which means it might be time for a weekend getaway!
Before you go, check out our Responsible Travel Guide to be informed, be safe, be smart and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
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