This BC village is home to natural year-round hot springs with a stream-fed cold plunge

Another day, another charming BC village to visit this fall. The historic community of Ainsworth Hot Springs in the heart of the Selkirk Mountains is known far and wide for its magical year-round hot springs. And we’re here to remind you of all the reasons why!

With healing mineral waters that have been used by visitors for hundreds of years, the natural hot springs feature a 150-foot horseshoe cave, a large lounging pool, and a stream-fed cold plunge.

About the hot springs

The hot springs were first discovered by the Ktunaza First Nations, who embraced the hot mineral waters (nupika wu’u) for their healing and rejuvenating powers.

The hot springs themselves originate around Cody Caves, according to the resort. From here, the mineral water flows through fractures in the rock, increasing in temperature until it hits a lakeshore fault, which forces the water up.

Once the water emerges at the resort, the water sits around a toasty 42°C (108°F) for the horseshoe caves, and 35°C (96°F) for the main lounging pool.

Admission & info

The pools are open to the public five days a week by reservation only from 10 am to 7:30 pm Wednesdays through Sundays, and on Mondays from 10 am to 2 pm. Registered hotel guests have complimentary access to the hot springs from 8 am to 9 pm.

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

Looking to extend your visit? Consider going spelunking at the nearby Cody Caves just north of the hot springs. Here, visitors can explore multiple ancient limestone caves via guided tours through the fall season!

So there you have it, travellers! You don’t have to journey beyond BC for this natural wonder.

Happy exploring.

Ainsworth Hot Springs

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